Tarija Farmers Clash With Government Over Diesel Price Decree

Tarija's agricultural sector is pushing back against a new government decree that sets a reference price of 18 Bolivian bolivianos per liter for diesel for large consumers, eliminating state subsidies. The Chamber of Agriculture of Tarija (CAT) argues this will significantly impact producers, from small fruit farmers to larger agricultural operations in the Gran Chaco region.

Esteban Miranda, CAT's general manager, stated that while the decree might curb corruption and fuel smuggling, it will harm productive sectors that rely on diesel for essential tasks like fumigating crops. He warned that the increased cost of diesel would inevitably lead to higher prices for agricultural products, ultimately affecting consumers.

To mitigate these effects, CAT plans to explore mechanisms for direct sales from producers to consumers. Meanwhile, transport leaders are skeptical about the decree's impact on diesel supply. Juan Carlos Borda, a leader in the heavy transport union, questioned whether the price increase would solve the underlying issue of fuel scarcity. "I don't know if it's the solution because the problem is that there is no fuel in the country, and if there isn't, we remain in the same situation," he declared.

The business community in Tarija has yet to issue a formal statement on the decree, which maintains subsidized prices for regular transport and private individuals. However, former MAS deputy and current producer Luis Alfaro echoed concerns that the price hike for large consumers would translate into increased costs for essential goods and food.