General Strike cancelled

On 30 July 2008 the General Union for Ivorian Workers (UGTCI) canceled a general strike planned for 31 July. Worker representatives stated that they suspended the strike in an effort to continue productive negotiations regarding the rising cost of living expenses and the growing food crisis in the country. Negotiations have been ongoing since a weeklong labor and transport strike paralyzed Abidjan, the commercial capital, on 14-21 July. The strikes were held in response to increased fuel prices and expected increases in food prices.