Argentina Senate suspends session over biofuels reform impasse

The Argentine Senate has suspended its scheduled session due to a lack of consensus regarding a proposed reform to the biofuels regulatory framework. The legislative impasse stems from a divide between provinces producing bioethanol and those producing biodiesel, as well as concerns from regional SMEs. Small and medium-sized biodiesel producers warn that the current draft could lead to the closure of up to ten plants within a year because it lacks specific protections for companies located far from major ports, potentially leaving them unable to compete with large oilseed giants.

Despite the setback, various agro-industrial chambers have urged the Senate to expedite the bill, arguing it is essential for economic, energy, and environmental development. The proposed law aims to increase mandatory blending requirements for biofuels in gasoline and diesel, promote decarbonization, and provide greater market predictability.

In separate legislative news, the province of Río Negro has passed new laws to modernize its regulatory landscape. This includes a new law to regulate the slaughter and commercialization of meat products to strengthen sanitary standards, and the creation of the Regulatory Entity for Services and Concessions (ERSeC) to oversee electricity, water, and sewage services.