Uruguay and Bolivia face economic strain from port strikes and fuel subsidy cuts

Uruguay and Bolivia are facing significant economic disruptions due to labor strikes and fuel policy changes.

In Uruguay, a 24-hour national port strike led by the Sindicato Único Portuario y Ramas Afines (Supra) has affected the Port of Montevideo and other terminals. The strike follows government decisions to establish minimum services at the Terminal Cuenca del Plata. Business chambers warn the situation is ‘insustainable,’ noting that interruptions have affected approximately 70% of container movements and could result in losses near US$1 million per day. The crisis has led to shortages of essential supplies and increased operational costs.

In Bolivia, the removal of diesel subsidies via Decree 5716 has triggered widespread unrest. Transport unions and teachers have expressed categorical rejection of the measure, with transport leaders in Tarija considering fare increases of up to 83% to offset rising costs. While some agreements were reached with transport sectors in Santa Cruz to avoid immediate strikes, other regions have announced road blockades and national marches to protest the economic impact on workers and food security.