A. M. 
Authorities from the Ministerio de Agricultura y Ganadería de El Salvador (MAG) have identified cases in which intermediaries, popularly known as “coyotes,” were buying quintals of corn from farmers for around US$18 and then attempting to sell them for up to US$29, creating a speculative margin that directly impacts the price of this staple grain for consumers.
The statement was made by the Vice Minister of Agriculture, Óscar Domínguez, who explained that these practices were detected mainly in the departments of Ahuachapán and Sonsonate, areas where intermediaries were reportedly offering low prices to producers and then trying to sell the grain at significantly higher prices on the market.
According to the official, this price difference constitutes a speculative practice that harms both farmers and end consumers.
Monitoring of warehouses and businesses
In response to this situation, the Government has intensified its monitoring of warehouses, companies, and businesses that sell staple grains, as part of a coordinated effort between the Ministerio de Agricultura and the Defensoria del Consumidor.
The objective of these inspections is to verify sales prices, storage conditions, and product availability, to prevent hoarding or unjustified increases in the price of corn.
Authorities indicated that the monitoring is ongoing and aims to ensure that the market operates under conditions of fair competition and transparency.
Guaranteed supply
The Ministerio de Agricultura reported that there is currently a sufficient supply of corn in the country, thanks to a combination of domestic production and grain imports.
According to Vice Minister Domínguez, a new shipment of imported corn recently arrived, which will strengthen the market supply and maintain price stability.
In addition, the government is releasing thousands of quintals of domestically produced corn, seeking to increase product availability and generate greater competition in the market.
Regulated price sales points
As part of the measures to protect consumers, authorities have also established sales points for corn at fair prices in markets and plazas where basic grains are sold.
These spaces allow the public to purchase the product at an affordable price, avoiding the intermediaries who usually drive-up costs.
Authorities have also detected attempts by some intermediaries to buy large quantities of corn at these sales points to resell it later at a higher price, a practice that is being monitored to prevent market distortions.
Warning against speculation
Vice Minister Domínguez warned that the government will not allow speculative practices that harm the public’s finances, especially when it comes to essential products like corn.
Authorities reiterated that they will continue monitoring storage facilities and businesses, as well as tracking intermediaries who attempt to manipulate the price of the grain.
According to the official, those who engage in speculation or hoarding will face the consequences established by current legislation.
The actions implemented by the authorities aim to guarantee fair prices for consumers and equitable conditions for producers, preventing intermediaries from obtaining excessive profits through market manipulation.
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