Chilean Producers Worried About Rural Safety and Health

Aproleche Biobío raises concerns about rural crime, relaxed traceability, and low prices despite increased milk reception. The Biobío's Milk Producers Association voiced their concerns over the insecurity in rural zones and laxity in livestock health control, both of which threaten the stability of the dairy activity in the region.

The guild highlighted a historical increase in milk reception, growing from 16.9 to 28.4 million liters in the season. However, the prices producers receive remain below 2022 levels, casting doubt on the sector's profitability.

Juan Pablo Aruta, Aproleche's vice president, stated it is crucial to reinforce traceability and consolidate brucellosis-free zones. He called for further coordination between the Agricultural and Livestock Service (SAG) and producers to reinforce animal health.

Simultaneously, they reported a rise in rural crimes, from thefts to security issues directly affecting production. They demand enhanced police presence and coordination with prosecutors and identification systems.

Despite the growth in volume, producers fear that the combination of low prices and sanitary and rural insecurity could eventually discourage production if urgent measures aren't implemented.