Hidrovía waterway embroiled in Argentine scandal and regional conference

Argentina’s Economy Minister Luis Caputo has become the focal point of a controversy surrounding the concession of the Paraná‑Paraguay waterway (Hidrovía). Critics allege the tender was designed to favour a private consortium that includes the Belgian firm Jan De Nuly, Servimagnus, Grupo Neuss and other local partners, claiming a 13.5% reduction in logistics costs while lacking transparent competition.

At the same time, Bolivia is set to take part in an international congress on the Hidrovía organized by Wista Uruguay and Altamar News, bringing together representatives from Uruguay, Argentina, Paraguay and Brazil. The August meeting will discuss governance, infrastructure investment, dredging, safety and sustainability under the “Hidrovía 360” initiative, featuring panels with the Bolivian port Jennefer and regional bodies such as CAFYM and CENNAVE.