Bolivian agriculture group slams 'improvised' diesel price decree

The Bolivian Chamber of Agriculture (CAO) has strongly criticized Supreme Decree 5676, which sets the price of diesel fuel at 18 Bolivianos per liter. CAO President Klaus Frerking described the decree as "improvised and discriminatory" against the agricultural sector that feeds the nation.

Frerking specifically objected to a provision requiring tractors and harvesters to go to fuel stations, calling it a "complete obstacle." He refuted claims by authorities that the decree was socialized with the sector, stating that if genuine consultation had occurred, producers would not be demanding its modification or elimination.

As alternatives, Frerking proposed clear rules for the sector, including allowing private companies to import fuel and eliminating value-added tax (IVA) or transaction tax (IT) on fuel. He also called for the removal of other barriers that increase production costs.

The CAO president warned that these rising production costs will inevitably be passed on to consumers, affecting the prices of essential foods such as chicken, pork, sugar, and milk. He urged a clear vision for the country, also calling for measures related to biotechnology, export liberalization, and legal security for producers.

Frerking announced that the CAO will convene an extraordinary congress soon, where producers and provincial representatives will decide on the sector's response to the new measures. He recalled that the agricultural sector has faced years of restrictions, some of which he believes still persist.