Differences between the Two Initiatives: What We Can Do and PSPV. The influence of businessman Juan Roig and Mercadona in the distribution chain is growing every day, shaping the debate about food policy. Yet neither side is eager to bend its criteria. The ongoing food basket crisis has sparked contrasting public speeches from Generalitat president Ximo Puig and second vice president Héctor Illueca in recent days, highlighting a clear distance between the two political camps. Both sides have accepted a new edition of the Renhata Plan, presenting it in Palau during brief, action-filled interventions. Twenty minutes of showy moves without a shared, clear explanation.
Luis Planas: The words used about Juan Roig were misread, perhaps
In the aftermath, Héctor Illueca described the debate as diligent and calm, focused on how to reach the greatest possible consensus on measures to address food prices. He noted that there were divergent views, but emphasized that at the heart of the matter was addressing an unlawful proposal seen in the Valencian Courts. He also assessed Unides Podem’s initiative, signaling openness to a confrontation with clear flexibility. This time Illueca did not directly target Mercadona, but continued backing the purple coalition’s ideas, such as curbing price increases or taxing extraordinary profits of large food distributors and major supermarkets. He found the proposals reasonable, yet suggested that the central government holds the best chance of turning them into action.
Inflation and the role of large firms
Illueca pressed for scrutiny of the margins within the regional market, arguing that corporate interests should not trigger hyperinflation that undermines the financial security of many families.
The response from President Puig followed a few hours later. In an interview with COPE, Puig stated that a price problem exists in food and other areas and acknowledged an inflation trend. He cautioned against blaming inflation on a single chain and highlighted the efficient functioning of distribution networks in the country. He singled out Juan Roig as a businessman who contributes to the Valencian community through his financial support, sports sponsorships, and cultural initiatives.
Puig pushes back on Illueca after his comments about Juan Roig
The chief executive labelled the personal critique of Mercadona’s owner as unfair. Puig urged a focus on strengthening the producer’s role and recalled the approval of the Food Chain Act.
Thus far, the responses and counter-responses may escalate into a parliamentary split, as the Combined We Can alignment has shown divided voting patterns in Cortes. The alliance already enjoys some support for its stance, while the broader loyalty of the coalition remains to be tested. It will not be the first time such divisions surface, but the clarity of identity within the groups will inevitably shape the political dynamics ahead.