Western Quinoa Demand Raises Prices In Bolivia

Western Quinoa Demand Raises Prices In Bolivia - Business Insider
The upshot of the demand for quinoa on the larger market is that the price in Bolivia (one of the few countries where it will grow) is higher than the population can afford. What does it mean when we can not afford what is produced here? By the way, quinoa only grows in a certain range of altitude and seasonal moisture; that is why it is limited in its production.
Some time ago I saw a similar effect when other grain prices (wheat, corn) went up partly due to the artificial demand due to mandated consumption of ethanol. When the price of a loaf of bread in the USA goes up 20-30% (even if only temporarily) we shrug our shoulders and buy it. Because the incremental cost increase is still far below what most families can afford. But in developing countries where BREAD is a staple, an increase of that magnitude would take bread off the table.
Blame it on "globalization" "capitalism" or whatever. When the global demand for basic grains, or in this case more exotic grains goes up, there is a limit where the local population simply can't afford it. Bolivia is sometimes criticized for imposing price controls or export controls to maintain prices. Not very market friendly, eh? But without a means to control the cost of basic staples, these foods will literally not be available here.