Economy and Finance Minister Alex Contreras on Tuesday affirmed that social conflicts resulted in S/4 billion (about US$1.12 billion) in economic losses in Peru, and their cost was three times that of the damage caused by Cyclone Yaku.
"The cost of social conflicts led to S/4 billion (about US$1.12 billion) in losses, which implies not only losses in the economic activity, which can be recovered, but also the loss of jobs, and shutdowns of companies," he said.
Contreras remarked that these losses have exceeded those of
Cyclone Yaku, whose latest estimates indicate that it caused damage worth S/1.3 billion (about US$365.6 million).
"The cost of social conflicts was equivalent to three Yaku-like cyclones, and that is a significant cost for the country, particularly in a context in which we intend to continue promoting the recovery," he said.
The minister stated that it is essential that protest rallies are held in strict compliance with the Constitution and peacefully.
"We have experienced a period of social conflicts, which has generated an impact. Every citizen has the right to protest, but while respecting others' right to work and produce," the high-ranking official affirmed.
"This Government is working hard on the country's recovery, and we expect a robust revival in the third and fourth quarters. To this end, social peace is fundamental," he added.
Today's event took place at the Government Palace in the Peruvian capital, Lima.
(END) CNA/JJN/RMB/MVB
Published: 7/18/2023