A court in Mar del Plata annulled a controversial tax imposed on agricultural producers in Azul, Argentina, sparking significant discontent among the local farming community.
The Administrative Appeals Chamber in Mar del Plata has declared the complete nullity of the "Tax for Essential Services" imposed by the Municipality of Azul on agricultural producers. This tax, initiated by local mayor Nelson Sombra of the Justicialist Party, required payment equivalent to one liter of diesel fuel per hectare per month. The imposition of this tax has led to substantial unrest in the district since early 2024.
The decision comes following an appeal from farmers, represented by Alicia Graciela Carrizo and others, who contested the legitimacy of the tax. The appellate court granted their appeal and overturned the initial ruling, which had upheld the tax. This legal victory for the producers is seen as a significant blow to local government authority and policy aimed at taxing the agricultural sector during difficult economic times.
The annulment of this tax not only alleviates financial pressure on farmers but also underscores the tensions between local government and agricultural stakeholders. This case reflects broader issues in Argentina regarding agricultural taxation and its impact on local economies, particularly in rural areas where farming is a primary livelihood.
