Carirubana transporters consider halting subsidized fuel amid dollar surge

Transport operators in Carirubana, Venezuela, say the rapid rise of the official dollar exchange rate—now over 700 bolívares—has made the subsidised fuel scheme financially unsustainable. Representative Emidio Di Lorito warned that the sector may stop refuelling at the Elevado de las Margaritas station to avoid operating at a loss.

The groups have asked municipal transport authorities to meet and seek a viable solution, stressing that they have already frozen passenger fares since early July as a solidarity measure after recent earthquakes. Di Lorito said, "Se ve del mal gusto que yo reciba un combustible que es del pueblo, para después no trabajar," emphasizing the dilemma of receiving public fuel while facing mounting costs. The transport unions are not calling for a strike, but are evaluating the suspension of subsidised fuel to preserve the service.

The move highlights the broader strain on Venezuela’s transport sector caused by currency volatility and the government's subsidy policies.