Santa Cruz, Bolivia: Governor Proposes 50/50 Revenue Share, Deputy Flags State Firm Spending

Governor Velasco announced that a 50/50 revenue‑sharing model will be included in the 2027 General State Budget, aiming to overhaul Bolivia’s public‑resource distribution. The plan would expand the pool of taxes subject to co‑participation, add import‑related levies and transfer new competencies – such as prison and airport management – to departmental and municipal authorities, potentially doubling some municipal incomes. Velasco said Santa Cruz will present a unified proposal to the August 5 meeting, backed by local universities, the municipal government and other regional bodies.

Deputy Carlos Godoy criticised the provincial government’s use of public money in the state‑owned company Santa Cruz Puede SAU, which recently signed a contract to build a feed‑plant. Godoy warned of a lack of transparency, insufficient legislative oversight and ongoing expenditures from the provincial treasury, calling for audits by the Chamber of Deputies and the Court of Accounts.