Rodrigo Paz Advocates for Bolivian Producers Amidst Financial Crisis and EMAPA Corruption Allegations

SANTA CRUZ, BOLIVIA – Rodrigo Paz, a presidential candidate representing the Christian Democratic Party (PDC), has voiced strong concerns regarding the financial plight of small and medium-sized producers in Bolivia. Speaking on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, Paz highlighted the severe impact of the current financial crisis and the volatile dollar exchange rate on these producers, particularly in Eastern Bolivia. Paz stated that producers, who once had several months to pay for supplies, now face immediate payment demands due to the fluctuating dollar. This situation forces them to pay more Bolivianos for imported products, exacerbating their debt burden. He criticized the current financial system, asserting that it fails to adequately support producers, and accused the state-owned company EMAPA of corruption, alleging that it purchases products at high prices but delays payments to producers. Despite not receiving an invitation to the CAO (Chamber of Agriculture of the East) forum, Paz affirmed his commitment to representing the more than 35,000 small and medium producers in the region. He announced his intention to submit a seven-point declaration, including potential solutions, to the CAO. Paz emphasized that while large producers are important, the production process in Bolivia cannot subsist without the vital contributions of small and medium-sized producers, whose concerns must be addressed by relevant institutions.