Buenos Aires officials unite to block removal of Argentina's 'Zona Fría' gas subsidy

Local officials from Buenos Aires Province, including councilors, deputies and mayors, met at the provincial legislature to coordinate a campaign against a national bill that would repeal the "Zona Fría" gas subsidy. The subsidy currently provides a 30‑50% discount on gas bills for residents in 94 municipalities across the province and would also affect users in Córdoba, Santa Fe, San Luis, Mendoza, the northern region and Patagonia.

The officials aim to pressure national senators before the bill reaches a full Senate debate, noting that no date has been set for the vote. They have gathered more than 3,000 signatures from residents opposing the repeal and plan a joint regional effort to convince senators to protect the benefit.

If the subsidy is removed, thousands of households could see a sharp rise in gas costs, prompting widespread local opposition.