Transport workers block Chilean highways over rising fuel costs

Large numbers of transport workers across Chile obstructed major roads and highways on Tuesday to demonstrate against increasing fuel prices. Drivers of lorries and buses initiated the protests by forming convoys to obstruct traffic on key transport routes.

The demonstrators are seeking relief from the rising cost of diesel, which they claim has been exacerbated by the war in Iran. The protest is being coordinated by the Fuerza del Norte trade union, which accounts for approximately 80% of the nation's lorry drivers, alongside the No+TAG civic movement.

Discussions between protest representatives and government officials ended without a resolution on Tuesday. A further meeting is anticipated to be held on Wednesday. Following the breakdown of talks, No+TAG spokesman Andrés Alarcón stated, "There is no point of agreement with the government that could offer any perspective to find solutions for everyone," and confirmed that "the strike continues".

Economy Minister Daniel Mas requested that dialogue continue, though he issued a warning that authorities would eventually be required to "clear the highways". He emphasised the negative impact on national exports and economic activity, adding, "we need to get the country moving again". President José Antonio Kast’s government has been dealing with public frustration regarding fuel costs for several months.

Industry organisations report that the average diesel price has climbed 74% since March. Juan Cornejo, president of the Association of Intercity Bus Owners, which represents 14 mid-sized firms, remarked, "we've reached our limit" and noted, "we've spent more than a month working with negative numbers."

Claudio Elguezabal, a 47-year-old lorry driver, participated in a demonstration near Santiago on Tuesday morning. He described the current economic conditions as unsustainable, stating, "Right now I'm not making any profit. Sometimes you even have to put in your own money to cover the client."