Bolivia's draft law to nationalize undocumented vehicles triggers transport and diplomatic backlash

Bolivia's lower house is debating a bill to nationalize undocumented vehicles, known locally as “chutos,” a measure that would legalise the one‑time regularisation of illegal imports first attempted in 2011. Transport unions in the city of Oruro rejected the proposal, warning that it would raise demand for gasoline and diesel, aggravate existing fuel shortages and add congestion to an already saturated vehicle fleet.

In Chile, legislators from the Antofagasta region condemned the bill, noting that many of the targeted vehicles are believed to be stolen from Chile and smuggled across the northern borders. Deputy Marcela Hernando labelled the initiative a “sinvergüenza” and urged the Chilean foreign ministry to issue a formal protest. The Chilean deputies also called for stronger border controls and harsher penalties for cross‑border car‑theft networks.

Both sides argue the law would fail to address transport sector challenges and could encourage organized crime, prompting calls for diplomatic engagement between Bolivia and Chile.