VOICED : El duro inicio de ano de los venezolanos por crisis economica

Luis Briseño, a 70-year-old entrepreneur, opened a small factory in Caracas 25 years ago. Despite building his wealth through it, he now considers closing due to economic difficulties. The 40% minimum wage increase by President Nicolás Maduro complicates matters. Briseño faces critical months ahead due to a lack of supplies, hyperinflation projected at 2,350% by the IMF in 2018, and two of his three employees planning to emigrate. The minimum wage, adjusted six times in 2017, is worth $238 officially but only $6 on the black market. Inflation limits basic purchases to 30 eggs, a kilo of meat, sugar, and onions. Venezuelan universities report poverty at 30.2% and extreme poverty at 51.5% in 2016, while the government reports lower figures.

What is one of the main reasons Luis Briseño is considering closing his factory?

• The increase in minimum wage

• A new competitor in the market

• A decrease in demand for his products

• A natural disaster affecting production

What is a significant challenge Briseño's business faces in the coming months?

• A new tax policy

• Lack of raw materials and hyperinflation

• Increased competition from international markets

• Changes in consumer preferences

What is the predicted hyperinflation rate for Venezuela in 2018 according to the IMF?

• 4,500%

• 1,500%

• 2,350%

• 3,000%

How many times was the minimum wage adjusted in Venezuela in 2017?

• Five times

• Four times

• Three times

• Six times

What can the basic income buy due to inflation?

• A month's worth of groceries

• A week's worth of groceries

• Luxury items

• Limited groceries like 30 eggs, a kilo of meat, sugar, and onions