Bolivia to increase ethanol blend in gasoline to 18%

The Bolivian government, Yacimientos Petrolíferos Fiscales Bolivianos (YPFB), and representatives from the sugar and agro-industrial sectors have signed an agreement to increase the ethanol blend in gasoline. The plan involves a two-phase implementation: the mixture will rise to 15% starting November 1, 2026, and will automatically increase to 18% by April 1, 2027.

Minister of Hydrocarbons and Energies Marcelo Blanco stated the measure aims to strengthen energy sovereignty and reduce reliance on imported gasoline. YPFB President Sebastián Daroca noted that every liter of locally produced ethanol replaces a liter of imported gasoline, which also helps improve fuel octane levels.

The agreement is expected to stimulate domestic production, attract investment to the sugarcane sector, and generate employment through the coordination of the energy and agro-industrial sectors. YPFB and sugar mills are required to formalize supply contracts by October 30 of this year.