Barter activity explodes across Venezuela as failed socialist economic policies leave entire nation on verge of economic collapse
by: Jennifer Lea Reynolds
NaturalNews.com
Sunday, December 06, 2015
While most people think of Facebook and Twitter as a way to share photos and exchange comments for fun and news-sharing reasons, residents in Venezuela are turning to social media for something entirely different – and it’s saddening. There, it’s not uncommon for people to barter for the likes of infant formula, medication, batteries and diapers.
The unfortunate situation isn’t just a phase, either.
It’s a reflection of the dire economic situation in the country, where failed policies have put the area on the edge of financial collapse. The bottom line is that Venezuela gets about 70 percent of its goods from abroad, however, the area’s fast-falling oil prices have prevented the government there from importing. As a result, the economy has shifted to a culture where a black market lifestyle is the norm, and people can expect items to cost upwards of three times their original price.(1)
To escape the corruption and avoid such absurdity, the people have been left with no other choice but to barter on a daily basis. In some instances, people have actually created Facebook swapping sites in which goods can be exchanged. Yannilay Liendo is one such person; she’s a 16-year-old who created Super Anti-Bachaqueo Truekes, which essentially translates to “Super Anti-Gouger Swap,” where more than 1,000 members remain active.(1)
What it’s come down to: social media swapping sites and businessmen clamoring for tampons
The Rest…HERE
