Arica Port Shutdown: High Tides Block Bolivia's Fuel Supply

Arica Port Halted: High Tides Delay Fuel Deliveries to Bolivia High tides exceeding two meters have brought operations to a standstill at the Sica Sica port in Arica, Chile. This disruption is impacting fuel shipments to Bolivia, with five vessels carrying gasoline and diesel currently unable to unload. YPFB, the Bolivian state-owned oil and gas company, has announced that they expect unloading to resume between May 28th and 29th, pending weather conditions. "According to maritime authority forecasts, we expect a window of opportunity around May 28th or 29th to allow at least one ship to dock," stated Jhony Chuguima, YPFB's Sectoral Manager of Oil Pipeline Transport, in an interview with BOLIVIA TV. The impact extends beyond the immediate logistical challenges. Local guide Juan Sobarzo Zepeda highlighted the effect on the Arica fishing community, explaining that the high tides prevent smaller boats from operating safely. "With so much movement, the pipeline could detach and cause further problems," he added. While the delay causes concern for Bolivia's fuel supply, the forecast suggests a resolution is near, minimizing long-term disruptions.