A shortage of tampons in Argentina in the past two weeks has turned demand for one of the most personal hygiene products into a public debate over what has emptied store shelves of the product.
Government officials and product importers tossed blame at one another, with Argentina insinuating that businesses are trying to drive up prices. Stores that normally stock tampons have been stripped bare in some coastal areas where tourists flock during South America's summer months.
Cabinet chief Jorge Capitanich said there were no special restrictions on importing tampons, which he called "sensitive products," and blamed the shortage on a commercial "strategy" by importers. But Miguel Ponce, head of the Chamber of Importers, blamed government regulations.
He said authorities have been slow to issue import permits for several products. Also, some companies have had trouble getting access to foreign currency, he said.
Argentina has tightened its already strict control on foreign currencies to curb inflation and capital flight. The government hopes that by restricting currency exchanges it will protect reserves at home needed to pay off debts. That has often made it hard for importers to get funds they need to buy products abroad.
The restrictions on imports, combined with high inflation have led to shortages of pharmaceutical products in recent years, like needles and latex gloves.