Bolivian public transport vehicle renewal initiatives

The Bolivian government has introduced legislative measures to modernize the public transport sector through vehicle renewal and financing.

In late September, the government promulgated Supreme Decree 5726, establishing the National PATRIA Vehicle Renewal Program. Managed by the PATRIA Vehicle Renewal Executing Entity (EERV PATRIA) under the Ministry of Public Works, Services, and Housing, the initiative provides financing for vehicle purchases. The program also oversees GNV conversion, equipment maintenance, and the transformation of diesel vehicles to GNV. Funding is sourced from various funds, including the GNV Vehicle Conversion Fund and the GNV Cylinder Requalification and Replacement Fund, alongside potential treasury resources and credits.

Following this, Supreme Decree 5739 was approved to provide productive credit specifically for individuals and legal entities in the public motor transport service. This credit can be used for acquiring or replacing vehicles, performing comprehensive repairs, upgrading units, or purchasing engines and equipment. To prevent misuse, the decree excludes financing for private-use vehicles. The Financial System Supervision Authority (ASFI) is responsible for issuing the regulations required to implement these credits.