Bolivia blockades cripple trade, trap thousands of drivers and cost billions

Blockades imposed by groups demanding the resignation of President Rodrigo Paz have persisted for more than 40 days across five of Bolivia's nine departments. Over 5,000 heavy‑truck drivers have been stranded on routes such as the Sayari road between Cochabamba and Oruro, lacking food, medicine and basic services. Humanitarian caravans from the Red Cross, Caritas and the Defensoría del Pueblo have delivered aid to about 600 drivers, while many remain in desperate conditions.

The transport disruption has devastated the economy. The Cámara Nacional de Industrias reports cumulative losses of roughly $2.8 billion, about 5.5 % of GDP, with daily losses estimated at $60 million. Port congestion at Arica (Chile) has risen to 120 % capacity, forcing a suspension of container de‑consolidation and adding about $100 per container per day in storage fees. Exporters cite losses of $883 million as shipments of minerals, agro‑products and manufactured goods are delayed.

The government says some blockage points have been cleared – 68 cuts remain versus 93 a week earlier – but major hubs in La Paz, Cochabamba and Potosí stay blocked. Sector leaders have issued ultimatums, giving the government 48‑72 hours to lift the blockades or face further action. The crisis continues to threaten livelihoods, fuel shortages and social stability across Bolivia.