Bolivia's diesel shortage fuels sharp rise in chicken prices

A six‑month extension of fuel subsidies has not eased Bolivia’s diesel shortage, leaving farms unable to transport feed, move birds and run machinery. Poultry producers warn that without diesel, chick‑rearing could fall by up to 40 % and overall national output may sharply decline. The shortage also hampers rice and sugarcane harvests, with losses estimated at tens of millions of dollars and a reduced planting area for the next season.

In Cochabamba, the diesel crunch has translated into a rapid increase in chicken prices. Within 48 hours, the price per kilogram rose from 11 bolivianos on Saturday to between 15 and 19 bolivianos on Monday. Vendors attribute the jump to directives from distributors following producer meetings in Santa Cruz. The higher cost has cut sales volumes at local markets, squeezing household budgets and prompting concerns over food affordability.

Industry representatives stress that each day without diesel reduces production, export earnings and foreign‑exchange inflows, while raising the risk of food shortages.