AVN.- Four million tons of products were distributed through open-air markets carried out by the public network of markets MERCAL during 2013, informed Food minister Felix Osorio last Monday.
Speaking to a local TV station, minister Osorio detailed that over 48,000 people work in this social program.
"MERCAL spearheads Mission Food. It was created by commander (Hugo) Chavez in 2003," Osorio recalled.
Likewise, he informed that 88,000 Christmas markets were carried out this year, in which were sold about 400,000 tons of food.
The social program was created in 2003 by then president Hugo Chavez to foster a food policy in matters of production, distribution, as well as logistically and operationally.
Against corruption
Concerning the Government's battle against corruption and hoarding of food, minister Felix Osorio reported that 717 cases are being investigated in tribunals due to smuggling and traffic of this item.
"Those who unfortunately are involved in those irregular situations, the law will be enforced. They have to assume their responsibility," Osorio said.
