Bolivian Tanker Truck Drivers Strike Over Fuel Prices, Exchange Rate Crisis

Tanker Truck Drivers in Bolivia Protest Fuel Prices, Exchange Rate Impact La Paz, Bolivia – Tanker truck drivers in Bolivia are staging a protest over rising fuel costs, exacerbated by the impact of the parallel dollar exchange rate on their operating expenses. The strike, which began on May 22nd, has caused fuel shortages in several regions of the country. The Federation of Fuel Transport Companies (Fedeci) is leading the protest. "The parallel dollar exchange rate is significantly affecting our operating costs," stated Maykol Montaño, president of Fedeci, in an interview with Red Uno. "We are demanding a leveling of freight rates to reflect the current exchange rate." He added that 44 companies are currently operating under contracts with YPFB and that they see no reason for the government not to meet their demands. The video shows images of long lines of tanker trucks parked along the roadsides, highlighting the scale of the protest. The drivers are seeking a meeting with YPFB to negotiate a solution that addresses their concerns. The government has responded by inviting Fedeci to a meeting in La Paz on Saturday, May 23rd, to discuss the issue. While the outcome of the meeting remains uncertain, the protest underscores the challenges faced by transportation companies in Bolivia due to economic volatility.