The Forestry Producers Association shares the concern regarding the state of rural roads, which led the government to declare a national road emergency. Unfortunately, in recent days we have witnessed the Paysandú Municipality’s arbitrary stance toward the forestry sector regarding road use. The condition of roads and national highways is an issue that affects all agricultural production without exception and requires solutions that address everyone’s needs.

In 2023, the member companies of the Forestry Producers Association operating in Paysandú and the Paysandú Departmental Government agreed on a framework for collaboration to improve the coordination and monitoring of forestry transport activities, as well as the maintenance work already being carried out by the companies on rural roads. Specific agreements were also reached for improvements to certain sections of the main road corridors, with the necessary investment from the forestry companies. To date, the commitments made by the forestry companies have been fulfilled.

It is worth noting that, of the total road network in the department of Paysandú, less than 15% are used annually by forestry companies, which shows the importance of seeking a comprehensive solution for the entire agricultural sector.

We understand that the possible application of restrictive regulations without clear criteria and that would apply to a single productive sector would not solve the structural problems and would harm a thriving sector that generates thousands of permanent jobs, invests very important amounts in roads and is a decisive contribution to the country’s economy.

We hope the departmental government understands the potential impact of this regulation on the agroforestry production chain. We trust in dialogue and the search for solutions that provide predictability for everyone, and that we can continue working together for the development of the department and its people.