Uruguay tries to hang on to its buzz

When Uruguay became the first country to legalise cannabis two years ago under the leadership of the eccentric former guerrilla, José “Pepe” Mujica, the world took notice of this tiny republic that was once just another province of what is today Argentina.

Long known as the Switzerland of South America and as a reliable centre for offshore banking, Uruguay’s sober reputation as the most stable democracy in a region better known for its extravagance and volatility was shaken up by Mr Mujica, whose nonconformism and outlandish remarks frequently raised eyebrows.

But the sandal-wearing ex-president’s more moderate successor, the 75-year-old Tabaré Vázquez, a silver-haired oncologist from the same Broad Front coalition who returned to power in March after first leading the leftist alliance to an electoral victory in 2005, is going back to basics as Uruguay braces for the end of the boom in commodity prices.

“Vázquez is going to lead...

Rate this article: 
Region: 

This marijuana news is brought to you by 420 Intel. For the latest breaking cannabis industry news, subscribe to the 420 Intel newsletter. If you'd like to promote your product or service in this area after every article, contact us.


URL: 
http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/9dd810fc-3777-11e5-b05b-b01debd57852.html