Bolivian authorities investigate corruption in Tarija and YLB lithium project

Authorities in Bolivia have uncovered potential corruption and financial irregularities in two separate sectors. In Tarija, Governor María René Soruco announced that an audit of the legal entities department has detected possible acts of corruption. The administration is conducting these reviews to identify irregularities and reduce bureaucratic hurdles for citizens and entrepreneurs, while also working toward the digitalization of licensing processes.

Separately, the State Attorney General's Office, in collaboration with Yacimientos de Litio Bolivianos (YLB), identified anomalies in a project valued at over $24.3 million. Attorney General Hugo César León La Faye reported that the project is currently non-functional and cited irregularities such as the modification of evaluation criteria after proposals were opened, unsupported scoring, and a lack of budgetary certification. The findings, which suggest the possible misappropriation or diversion of public funds, will be referred to the Public Ministry to determine individual criminal responsibilities.