Former deputy Alejandro “Topo” Rodríguez has issued a statement defending the integrity of the Trust Fund for discounts on gas rates, highlighting a financial surplus that could exceed 80 billion pesos this year.
Rodríguez, director of the Federal Consensus Institute, expressed:“The Trust Fund for the discount of gas rates does not require a single peso from the National Budget or the Treasury. It is financed entirely with contributions from users and has demonstrated a considerable surplus in recent years.”
Rodríguez pointed out that, according to official data, The fund recorded a positive balance of 39,213.3 million pesos at the end of 2023, quadrupling the figure from the previous year. He also made reference to the legislative debate, where the Government of President Javier Milei has tried to eliminate ‘Cold Zone’ discounts without success:
“Although some criticize the discounts arguing an impact on the fiscal deficit, the reality is that these benefits are crucial for our communities. Maintaining the Fund is a fair and sustainable public policy.”
The former deputy concluded that the Federal Consensus Institute projects that the fund’s surplus in 2024 could reach 80,000 million pesos, highlighting its importance in maintaining affordable rates for Argentine households.
