After knowing the control measures Monomershe Superintendent of Societies, Billy Escobar, He spoke with EL TIEMPO about the National Government’s plans with this Venezuelan company, which has been of special interest for being the supplier of 80% of the country’s agricultural inputs.
In the interview, the official explained that this measure It is after the surveillance measure that the company came with: “(…) we have been monitoring it since before, it is not an issue now. On a quarterly basis, we monitor the company’s figures, its accounting, and above all, its debts. This monitoring led us to conclude that they were in a possible risk that implies that we have to make an approach like the one we just made.“.
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Likewise, mentioning that this would not affect the sales interest of Monómeros apart from the Venezuelan government, but that they would be taking risks in the business model.
Monomer Plant in Baranquilla
“Yes, there could be an eventual risk from the point of view of creditors, since they, for example, also import to sell products and produce inputs. These creditors have a significant debt burden, and that is where we want to guarantee that they are paid in the event of any eventual negotiation. What cannot happen is that a sale occurs without protecting the interests of other supplier companies.“he explained.
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And he added: “The other scenario is that of the workers. Because? Because we are talking about 600 direct workers – or in the plant – and 1,200 indirect workers. In addition, this company provides a key and fundamental service for the country’s agricultural sector, directly linked to food security.“.
Does Colombia seek to control Monómeros?
Billy Escobar mentioned that The National Government has no intention of controlling the company, and only seeks to be a partner.
“At the time the company was 50 and 50, but during the Álvaro Uribe government he sold the company to Hugo Chávez. So they were the owners of that. But that company, like any company, can be purchased by Colombians, of course.“said the Superintendent of Societies.
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He also mentioned that he is not aware of a possible purchase negotiation: “It would be irresponsible to talk about a possible negotiation because I do not know that subject.“.
Nariño House.
Regarding what is sought with the control measure against Monómeros, mentioned that the viability of the company is being advocated: “The improvement plan seeks to ensure that they can guarantee a cash flow that allows them to meet obligations and have liquidity. That is what the improvement plan is aimed at. That compliance with obligations is guaranteed, that liquidity is guaranteed for the continuity and viability of the company“.
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And he added: “It is a company that the National Government is committed to because of the public interest it has in it. The political ingredient must be removed because the emphasis is on the social. And we are in a superintendency that is committed to social issues. And that company, not just now, has always been fundamental for the agricultural sector“.
PORTFOLIO
*With information from EL TIEMPO – JUSTICIA
