Argentine farmers block exports of grain and meat

The farmers said they would not take their goods to market between 28 May and 2 June and would block roads.

"The farmers' commission has resolved to call on all growers in the country to resume protest measures," said the Argentine Rural Confederation.

Argentina raised export taxes in March, prompting national strikes.

For two months, farmers have been unable to reach any agreement with the government.

Farmers started protesting after the government imposed higher taxes on soybean exports from 35% to 45% and placed new taxes on other farm exports, including wheat.

President Cristina Fernandez argues that the increases are necessary for better wealth distribution. But the farmers say they are being unfairly taxed and making a living is proving increasingly difficult.

The government recently issued a statement saying: "It's surprising to see the virulence of this savage and interminable lock-out."

Farmers "boast of causing shortages and don't care about making the food that Argentine families need for their tables more expensive," it added.