Argentine President touts tax hikes to curb food inflation, lacks Congress support

FILE PHOTO: Argentinian President Alberto Fernandez speaks during a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron (not pictured) at the Elysee Palace in Paris, France, May 13, 2022. Mohammed Badra/Pool via REUTERS

BUENOS AIRES (Reuters) - Argentine President Alberto Fernandez said on Friday that higher food export tariffs would help curb rising food prices, but admitted that he lacked support in Congress to push through legislation to raise levies in the major grains producer.

The South American country, the top global exporter of processed soy and the No. 2 for corn, is battling raging inflation heading towards 60%, which has forced the government to seek ways to bolster domestic supply and rein in prices.