Bolivia Intensifies Fight Against Fuel Smuggling

Bolivia Steps Up Fuel Smuggling Controls: National Agency of Hydrocarbons and Police Intensify Checkpoints Nationwide LA PAZ, BOLIVIA – June 6, 2025 – The National Agency of Hydrocarbons (ANH) and the Bolivian police have launched a joint operation to crack down on fuel smuggling, increasing controls at checkpoints across the country. The operation aims to prevent shortages and ensure a stable supply of fuel for the domestic market. "The ANH and the police are working together to implement 21 control points across the country," stated an ANH official in an interview featured in a recent Bolivia TV report. "This inter-institutional effort is crucial to combat fuel smuggling and protect our national resources." A recent seizure of a truck carrying 6,000 liters of fuel without authorization in La Asunta region demonstrates the effectiveness of these heightened controls. The driver lacked the necessary permits for transporting such a large quantity of fuel. This incident highlights the scale of the problem and the government's determination to address it. The ANH has implemented monthly limits on fuel transportation, allowing only 120 liters without special authorization. These measures aim to prevent illegal fuel trafficking and ensure fair distribution of fuel resources across the country. The ongoing collaboration between the ANH and the police is expected to continue to disrupt smuggling operations and maintain a stable fuel supply for Bolivian citizens.