This cartoon appeared in El Diario (8/11/2011). It shows Health Minister taking care of an ill government, in front of the bed you can read “Exertion Weaknesses, Narcotraffick, Corruption, Contraband”

La Razon reports official data, as of May 2011 the non-traditional exports (manufactures) dropped by 21% in value and by 39% in volume; while traditional (raw materials) went up by 30% in value, although they went down by 4% in volume.

http://www.la-razon.com/version.php?ArticleId=135373&EditionId=2617

So, we are receiving more from non-value-added exports because international prices are up, not because of our own increased production, in fact we are 4% less in volume. If a country intends to overcome poverty, it needs to add value to raw materials; it helps employment, and generates industry. Unfortunately, we are selling less, thus producing less, so unemployment or underemployment figures are growing. While all other illegal activities are booming, leaving no economic resources for citizenship security, ownership rights, and better basic infrastructure.

An additional serious issue not reflected above is how inflation is rising and provoking higher food prices. This cartoon appeared in El Diario on August 10, 2011. You see a smiling Finance Minister and the rest of the worried population trying to catch food items.