UPI reports that Uruguay’s river transport export links are being put at risk because of Argentine delays that critics say are mired in corruption and business rivalries.
Uruguay depends on river transport to access export markets but the Latin American country also needs to keep the waterways dredged regularly.
In recent months Uruguay’s trade is being hampered by delays in the dredging of the Plate River canal waters.
At issue is the overdue dredging of the Martina Marcia canal on the Plate. Uruguayan media sources accused a Dutch company responsible for the dredging of being too close to Argentine officials.
Argentina responded by demanding a joint audit of the River Plate Administrative Commission but Uruguayan officials said the audit would delay further work to clear the canal and obstruct river transport for Uruguay’s export trade.
[mappress]
Dredging Today Staff, May 16, 2012;