Border authorities crack down on fuel smuggling between Bolivia and Argentina

Authorities in Bolivia and Argentina are addressing the illegal diversion of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) and other goods across the border between Villazón, Bermejo, and La Quiaca.

In Bolivia, the National Hydrocarbons Agency (ANH) announced reinforced controls to prevent the irregular exit of LPG. Luis Antezana, the ANH official for Potosí, stated that coordinated operations involving the police, military, and municipal authorities will be conducted to stop fuel intended for the Bolivian market from being smuggled into Argentina. Reports indicate that diverted Bolivian gas cylinders are being sold in La Quiaca for up to 80 Bolivian pesos.

In Argentina, Adrián Zigarán, the intervener for Aguas Blancas, criticized the lack of border control, alleging that Bolivian nationals cross the river to purchase fuel in containers without oversight. Zigarán claimed the town has become a dumping ground for unwanted goods from Bermejo and expressed concerns regarding the smuggling of illegal merchandise and cocaine, calling for urgent intervention from the Argentine national government to protect sovereignty.