Bolivian Rice Smuggling Crisis: Prices Soar to Over $100

Smugglers Drive Up Rice Prices in Bolivia: Vice-Minister Warns of Border Crisis LA PAZ, Bolivia - The Bolivian government has sounded an alarm over the rising cost of essential goods, particularly rice and oil. Vice-Minister of Agricultural Development, Álvaro Mollinedo, revealed in a recent press conference that smugglers are exploiting the situation, selling Bolivian rice across the border for exorbitant prices. "Contraband sellers are inflating the price of rice to over \u0024100 on the parallel exchange rate at the border," Mollinedo stated. He further explained that the quintal of rice, which usually sells for around 500-600 Bolivianos domestically, is fetching \u0024100 in neighboring countries. This significant price difference is fueled by the black market exchange rate. The video shows stacks of rice bags labeled with the "Emapa" logo, indicating the involvement of the state-owned agricultural company. Mollinedo also highlighted the impact of speculation and hoarding on oil prices. He noted that prices have risen to as high as 150 Bolivianos per liter in some areas. "They take it out of the country and sell our oil," he said, expressing concern over the impact on Bolivian consumers. The government's efforts to address this issue are crucial to stabilizing prices and ensuring food security for Bolivian citizens. The situation underscores the challenges faced by Bolivia in managing its agricultural sector and combating cross-border smuggling.