Bolivia authorizes pipeline fuel transport from Cochabamba to Santa Cruz

Bolivia's National Hydrocarbons Agency (ANH) has granted authorization for the crucial transport of liquid fuels through pipelines, connecting Cochabamba to the eastern hub of Santa Cruz. This decision is set to bolster the fuel supply chain in the country's eastern regions.

The ANH's administrative resolution permits YPFB Transporte S.A. to operate the "Sistema de Oleoductos Mercado Interno" concession for transporting imported liquids. Initially, the pipeline system will handle up to 8,000 barrels of liquid hydrocarbons daily. This volume translates to approximately 1.27 million liters, destined for the Santa Cruz Terminal at the Palmasola Liquid Hydrocarbons Storage Plant.

The transported fuels include diesel oil destined for the eastern market and imported crude oil bound for the Guillermo Elder Bell Refinery. The refinery's output serves the fuel needs of Santa Cruz, Chuquisaca, and Potosí departments, thereby reinforcing the availability of fuel for the domestic market.

Statistics indicate that the volumes moved under this new authorization could meet around 47% of Santa Cruz de la Sierra's daily diesel oil demand, provided sufficient quantities are available for pipeline transport. This initiative is a significant step toward ensuring energy security and consistent fuel availability in a key economic region of Bolivia.