Bolivian Food Vendor's Tears Reflect Nation's Economic Hardship

Rising Food Prices Bring Tears to Bolivian Food Vendor El Alto, Bolivia – Doña Charito, a longtime food vendor in El Alto's bustling Mercado Ciudad Satélite, fought back tears as she described the crippling impact of rising food prices on her family. "The oil is in the clouds!" she exclaimed, her voice choked with emotion. "It's so expensive; I argue with the butcher every day." Doña Charito's story is not unique. Many vendors in the market reported significantly reduced sales. A lunch that once cost 10 Bolivianos now sells for 14, reflecting the broader economic crisis affecting the country. Another vendor, Adela, simply stated, "Things are very expensive; they've gone up too much." The report by Red Uno highlights the plight of ordinary Bolivians struggling with inflation. Doña Charito's children, despite their professional backgrounds, are forced to take on additional work to support their families. Her story serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of economic instability.