To alleviate a severe fuel shortage, Bolivia’s government is reducing in-person schooling, cutting bureaucrat lunch breaks, and limiting the use of state vehicles, as announced by President Luis Arce. These measures come amid rising inflation and a fiscal deficit, with protests affecting fuel deliveries. The agricultural sector will be prioritized, and military controls against smuggling will be increased.
In an effort to address a significant fuel shortage, the Bolivian government, led by President Luis Arce, has announced a series of drastic measures. These include eliminating lunch breaks for government employees, reducing in-person schooling, and halving the use of state vehicles. This initiative is part of a broader plan aimed at responding to a situation that has led to widespread protests and roadblocks affecting fuel deliveries.
Since 2023, Bolivia’s economy has faced challenges as the nation has reduced fuel imports, which are sold domestically at subsidized rates. The country has been grappling with diminishing revenues from natural gas, its primary foreign currency source until 2020. “Bolivia is not bankrupt… it has an economy that continues to generate public investment,” President Arce stated during a televised address.
The government’s strategy will prioritize the agricultural sector for fuel distribution. Additionally, measures are being implemented to enhance military checks against fuel smuggling. Work hours for public servants will be adjusted to 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM without a break, to mitigate traffic congestion during lunch hours.
Amid these measures, Bolivia faces a challenging economic landscape; inflation is at a 16-year high and the country is managing a growing fiscal deficit. “The problem our country faces today is very simple, it is the lack of temporary dollar liquidity,” President Arce articulated, emphasizing the immediate need for solutions.
Political tensions persist as President Arce has not confirmed his plans for reelection in August, while former leader Evo Morales seeks to return to power, despite constitutional limitations. Morales faces serious legal accusations, complicating the political climate in Bolivia.
In summary, Bolivia has initiated significant measures to combat a pressing fuel shortage and stabilize its economy. The government has focused on reducing vehicle usage, adjusting working hours, and prioritizing the agricultural sector in fuel distribution. As the country grapples with high inflation and a fiscal deficit, President Arce’s administration emphasizes the need for strategic adjustments and military oversight in combating smuggling. The political landscape remains tense with upcoming elections and ongoing legal challenges faced by former leaders.
Original Source: business.inquirer.net
