Villa Montes biofuel plant faces scrutiny amid operational delays

A regional audit has placed the macororó oil extraction and additive plant in Villa Montes under scrutiny. The project, intended to process raw materials like macororó and jatropha for biodiesel production, is currently facing operational challenges and questions regarding its progress.

While the construction company reports approximately 99% physical progress and 70% financial execution, the plant remains paralyzed. There is an ongoing controversy regarding unpaid debts to the contractor, estimated at approximately Bs 20 million. The project was originally part of a national strategy to industrialize raw materials and reduce fuel imports, with initial investments reported between Bs 65 million and Bs 81.4 million.