Argentina’s Industrial Chief Distances UIA From Vice President’s Attack on Milei Government

Martín Rappallini has publicly separated Argentina’s leading industrial organization from a sharp attack on the government by one of its own senior officials.

Rappallini, president of the Argentine Industrial Union, said Guillermo Moretti had spoken either in a personal capacity or on behalf of the Santa Fe organization he represents. “But he is not speaking on behalf of the Argentine Industrial Union. It surprises me,” Rappallini said in an interview with LN+.

Moretti, the UIA’s fifth vice president and a representative of the Federation of Industries of Santa Fe, had described the industrial situation as “difficult.” He also criticised President Javier Milei and Economy Minister Luis Caputo, saying they did not know Argentina or understand industrial work.

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But he is not speaking on behalf of the Argentine Industrial Union. It surprises me.

Rappallini objected not only to the substance of the remarks but also to the way they were delivered. He said institutions should debate internally, reach consensus and then have the president express the organization’s position. “It cannot be that an hour before my speech, someone who is part of this organization goes out and makes these kinds of statements,” he said. “Institutionally, I think it is not appropriate.”

He also noted that the Industrial Union of Santa Fe had recently issued a statement calling for respect, making Moretti’s language particularly striking in his view. Rappallini said Moretti’s comments did not reflect the UIA’s institutional position, form or content.

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It cannot be that an hour before my speech, someone who is part of this organization goes out and makes these kinds of statements.