Bolivian Presidential Candidates Debate Solutions to Diesel Shortage at Agropecuario Forum

La Paz, Bolivia – Presidential candidates convened at the "Primer Foro Agropecuario" to address Bolivia's ongoing diesel shortage, a critical issue impacting the nation's economy and agricultural sector. During the forum, candidates presented their proposals for resolving the fuel crisis, which has led to significant challenges for producers and citizens alike.One candidate emphasized the need to "suspend immediately the subsidy" on fuel, asserting that this measure would significantly reduce the fiscal deficit. He stated, "The five years that we are in government, gasoline and diesel will be at five Bolivianos," suggesting a fixed, lower price after subsidy removal. He also highlighted that a substantial portion of diesel is smuggled to neighboring countries, where prices are considerably higher, indicating an illicit trade problem.Another participant underscored the unsustainability of the current subsidy system, stating, "Our economy cannot bear this subsidy anymore." He noted that the lack of diesel and gasoline is "very, very complicated" for production, tractors, and harvests. His proposal included "eliminating the subsidy, liberalizing imports," which he believes will ensure the "availability of fuels." He added, "The most expensive is what is not available."A third candidate focused on the broader economic implications, asserting that a primary mission of the next government would be to "crush inflation," which he described as "eating people's pockets." He argued against simultaneously seeking international financing and lowering spending while also fueling inflation through subsidies. He also pointed out that the current system allows for corruption, stating that "these gentlemen are so creative that from every need, they turn it into an opportunity to steal." He criticized both overpaying for imports and the illegal re-export of subsidized fuel, calling for an end to such practices. He clarified that the diesel subsidy would be eliminated, while the gasoline subsidy would remain initially to combat inflation.The candidates' discussions highlighted the complex interplay between fuel subsidies, inflation, smuggling, and national economic stability, offering diverse approaches to a pressing national concern.