Who are the most influential Bolivians, according to Bloomberg Línea?

 Businessmen Marcelo Claure, Mario Anglarill Salvatierra, and Samuel Doria Medina stand out. The criteria considered include the ability to generate employment, investments that drive significant economic activities, and influence in diverse sectors.

Bolivian businessmen Marcelo Claure, Mario Anglarill Salvatierra, and Samuel Doria Medina stand out in Bloomberg Línea’s 2024 Ranking of the 500 Most Influential People in Latin America. With vast natural wealth and notable human talent, the selected leaders represent a clear example of how to harness the immense potential of the country.

Marcelo Claure is an investor and businessman, CEO, and founder of Claure Group, a global investment holding with approximately $4 billion under management in various sectors of the economy, such as technology, artificial intelligence, energy transition, lifestyle, and entertainment. Additionally, he owns Club Bolívar in Bolivia and co-owns Girona FC, a Spanish first-division soccer team. His career as an executive has numerous milestones: Claure founded Brightstar and turned it into the world’s largest wireless distribution and services company. In 2014, he sold Brightstar to SoftBank Group. He also led multinational companies like WeWork and SoftBank, among others.

Also on the list is Mario Anglarill Salvatierra, who, in 1976, along with his wife Maida, founded Sofía, a leading poultry company in the Bolivian market. Nearly five decades later, he still leads the company as the Chairman of the Board and works alongside his five children. Sofía has a team of more than 2,700 employees and generates approximately 27,000 indirect jobs nationwide. The Corporate Reputation Business Monitor (Merco), which evaluates the performance of companies and their leaders in 11 countries, publishes a list of the 100 best leaders in Bolivia each year: Anglarill Salvatierra was ranked number one in the Bolivian ranking on three occasions.

One of the investors who constantly bets on the country is Samuel Doria Medina Mejía. The businessman and politician earned a master’s degree in Public Finance from the London School of Economics and has since promoted numerous ventures in his country. For 27 years, he led the Bolivian Cement Society, the country’s main cement company, which he sold to Grupo Gloria in 2014 for $300 million. He is currently the president of the real estate and hotel holding Comversa S.A. One of his most notable recent projects is Green Tower, the tallest skyscraper in Bolivia, located in La Paz. One of the most important units of this holding is the Los Tajibos hotel division, which was integrated into Marriott International in 2022 through Tribute Portfolio, a collection of high-end independent hotels.

Thus, the 2024 edition of Bloomberg Línea’s 500 Most Influential People in Latin America and the Caribbean includes three Bolivians. These representatives come from the business, technology, industrial, and service sectors (hospitality and construction).

The ranking highlights that Latin America continues to establish itself as a key region in business, culture, art, and technology. These leaders have managed to position themselves globally in key sectors such as artificial intelligence, technological innovation, mass consumption, and the management of the region’s vast natural resources.

Brazil at the top

Brazil, the largest economy in Latin America, leads the list with 178 prominent names. Among them are figures such as Olympic medalist Rebeca Andrade, CEO of Microsoft Brazil Tania Consentino, and iFood founder Fabricio Bloise, who are international leaders in their respective sectors.

Likewise, Mexico ranks second with 125 influential profiles. Notable among them are Katya Echazarreta, the first Mexican woman to travel to space, and Héctor Ibarzabal, a prominent figure in the real estate sector.

Argentina contributes 59 names to this select list. Among the most prominent are Marcos Galperin, founder of MercadoLibre; Miguel Galuccio, a pioneer in the shale oil & gas industry in South America; and Lionel Scaloni, the World Cup-winning coach with the Argentine national team. Additionally, Pope Francis remains a figure of great global relevance.

This recognition reaffirms the international impact Latin America is having in multiple sectors, highlighting the role of its leaders in the region’s economic and social development.

Methodology: Selection of the 500 Most Influential

The selection of the 500 most influential people in Latin America is based on a thorough analysis conducted by the Bloomberg Línea editorial team. Criteria considered include the ability to generate employment, investments that drive significant economic activities, and influence in diverse sectors such as finance, art, science, and sports. The increasing representation of women leaders and underrepresented demographic groups is also valued.

The 'Evista' March Passes Vila Vila Amid Clashes

 Pro- and anti-Evo Morales factions clashed on the La Paz-Oruro highway, in the Vila Vila region. Despite this, the marchers managed to break through the resistance organized at the site.

In Vila Vila, groups who identified themselves as "self-convened" gathered, but the "Evistas" claimed that they were shock groups from the "Arcista" faction attempting to block the march, which had set out from Caracollo.

During the confrontation between the two sides, there were stone-throwing, fireworks detonations, and allegedly dynamite.

There were also fistfights. It was observed that the "Evistas" managed to capture some members of the opposing side and assaulted them. Injuries have been reported.

The Arcistas accused the Evistas of attempting to carry out a coup.

The march with Morales managed to get through that point amidst the tension. "They wanted to shoot him, but they couldn’t kill him; we passed," stated a leader close to the former president.

The march continues on its way toward the seat of government, where it is expected to arrive next week.

Assaults

From the Facebook account of "Evista" senator Luis Adolfo Flores, an attack on his convoy, which also included his colleague Guido Varela, was reported.

"The attackers intercepted the vehicle, forcefully broke the windows, and opened the doors; upon realizing who the occupants were, they violently attacked them," the account stated.

Drug Packages Found on a BoA Plane Bound for Spain

 The Special Airport Control Group (GECA) discovered several packages of cocaine hidden in a Boliviana de Aviación (BoA) plane destined for Madrid, Spain.

The information was confirmed by the Minister of Government, Eduardo Del Castillo, who shared photos of the operation carried out at the Viru Viru airport in Santa Cruz.

In a statement, BoA asserted that the packages were found inside the aircraft's cabin during the cleaning and security inspection process.

According to the Minister's report, six packages of cocaine were found in the aircraft's trash bin. During a thorough search of the plane, an additional six packages of drugs were discovered.

Del Castillo reported that 35 people who had contact with the cleaning staff and the aircraft have been arrested.

The investigation into this case is ongoing, and the arrested individuals are providing their statements.

Expocruz 2024 is 90% Complete with 31 Countries Confirmed

 Workers are busy with welding and carpentry tasks inside and outside the pavilions at the fairgrounds. Around 400 heads of cattle entered yesterday for judging.

The most important multisectoral fair in the country is putting the final touches on its latest edition. Preparations for Expocruz 2024 are 90% complete, and 31 international delegations have already confirmed their participation. Yesterday, more than 400 zebu cattle entered, competing in both contest and exhibition categories.

With just days until the start of Expocruz 2024, which will take place from September 20 to 29 in Santa Cruz, work at the fairgrounds is progressing under tight deadlines. During a tour by EL DEBER at the site, it was noted that workers are completing the final welding and painting of the pavilions, which will host national and foreign companies participating in the international showcase.

"We are about 90% to 95% complete (in both the external and internal areas of the pavilions). Exhibitors are also setting up their spaces. We are following the schedule to ensure everything is ready by the 20th, expecting over 460,000 visitors," said Óscar Castedo, Head of Marketing and Communications at Fexpocruz.

Expocruz is Bolivia’s most important multisectoral event, bringing together various industries over several days. The exhibition will feature sectors such as automotive, livestock, agriculture, and technology, among others.

So far, 31 international delegations and over 2,000 brands—both national and foreign—have confirmed their participation. These will be distributed across both the external and internal areas of the pavilions.

There is high anticipation for significant participation from exhibitors, entrepreneurs, and the general public, especially given the tense political and economic situation, exacerbated by a shortage of currency and fuel.

Ticket prices are Bs 50 for adults and Bs 25 for children, but there will be special days to encourage attendance. The first day of the fair, September 20, is dubbed Family Day, allowing two people to enter for the price of one adult ticket.

September 21 is Student Day, allowing students under 12 years old to enter for free.

Finally, on September 25 and 26, the "Entrepreneur’s Hour" will take place, during which entrepreneurs who have pre-registered on the website: www.fexpocruz.com.bo, can enter for free between 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM.

Online ticket sales are already available on the website or can be purchased directly on the day at the ticket offices at the fairgrounds.

Livestock and Business

Yesterday, with the arrival of more than 400 heads of cattle, including Nelore and Nelore Mocho breeds, among others, the preliminary events for Expocruz 2024 kicked off.

Fernando Baldelomar, General Manager of the Association of Zebu Breeders (Asocebú), announced that today the admission of cattle that will compete in contest and exhibition categories will continue.

"Expocruz will showcase around 1,000 animals, with the most important breed being the zebu, as we have over 700 specimens from 69 exhibitors," said Baldelomar, adding that there has been a 22% increase in the number of participating animals and a 15% rise in exhibitors.

He also noted that, in addition to the livestock on display and in competition, 13 auctions will be held to promote genetic improvement and foster business opportunities.

Regarding threats of road blockades in the country, driven by sectors aligned with former president Evo Morales ("evismo"), Baldelomar stated that these are mere threats.

"Expocruz is an economic driver for the country, and we are confident that these blockade threats won’t go beyond that. The entire Bolivian people will support Expocruz, as it injects much-needed foreign currency into the economy," he added.

Finally, the Business Roundtable, organized by Cainco as part of Expocruz, will take place from September 25 to 27.

Forest Fires: Bolivia Breathes Very Poor Air

 The air quality in the country is very poor this Friday, September 13, as reported by the Air Quality Monitoring Network. Only Tarija has an Air Quality Index (AQI) rated as poor.

The capital city with the worst air in the country is Cobija, with an AQI of 246. It is followed by La Paz (216) and Potosí (204). However, in Quillacollo (Cochabamba), which is not a capital city, the air quality is the worst in the country, at 288.

Santa Cruz registers an AQI of 185, while Trinidad is at 183; Cochabamba, 160; Oruro, 155; Sucre, 152.

Tarija presents poor air quality, at 135, yet it has the best AQI this Friday.

Recommendations for such cases of unhealthy air include minimizing outdoor exposure, using masks, and staying hydrated.

Forest fires have been affecting mainly the eastern part of Bolivia for weeks. On September 7, the government declared a national emergency, and this Thursday, the 12th, aerial operations were carried out to extinguish the fires in Santa Cruz.

Cloud seeding and the "Guardian" system were used. These are biodegradable containers dropped from the air that release their contents, creating a rain effect with great precision over the fires.

It is hoped that these operations will have an impact in areas where the fire continues to burn. On Thursday night, the government reported that the number of fires had decreased from 74 to 54 in the department of Santa Cruz.

Bolivians Drive Up Demand for Soles on the Border with Peru

 A report from Infobae explains that merchants prefer to use the Peruvian sol for their transactions. The dollar shortage has led even Peruvian exchange houses to limit operations with Bolivian pesos.

The shortage of dollars in Bolivia and the economic crisis is impacting not only the country but also beyond its borders. This is the case in Peru, where Bolivian merchants prefer to use Peruvian soles for their transactions, driving up the demand for this currency, according to a report from the digital newspaper Infobae.

The article explains that the current exchange rate in Desaguadero is one sol for Bs 2.70, which “makes the sol a more stable currency for daily commercial operations.”

“The Bolivian peso has dropped too much. Bolivians don’t want their money, they want more soles because their currency is very devalued,” said a seller interviewed by Canal N.

This preference is also affecting Peruvians, who claim that the sol is stable and “well-positioned,” whereas the Bolivian currency “is devalued.”

“As a result, Bolivian citizens have started to reduce their purchases due to the loss of value of their currency, which is also affecting the sales of Peruvian merchants in the area.”

Soles The report details that even in Bolivia there are difficulties in obtaining soles due to the demand. “No one wants to accept Bolivian pesos as a form of payment, exacerbating the problem. Citizens are, in turn, desperately seeking dollars to keep their businesses running and cover basic needs, but the lack of foreign currency is making the situation even worse.”

It also explains that Bolivians traveling to Peru face challenges when trying to exchange their money for soles or dollars, as it is difficult for Bolivian currency to be accepted in that country.

“The shortage of foreign currency has caused even Peruvian exchange houses to limit operations with Bolivian pesos. In some cases, they don’t even accept Bolivians, further complicating transactions for Bolivian visitors in Peru.”

The official exchange rate of the U.S. dollar in Bolivia is Bs 6.96 for sale and Bs 6.86 for purchase; however, its shortage has led to offers above Bs 10 in a parallel market. Since last year, Bolivia has been suffering from a lack of this currency. Despite the government's efforts, the shortage is affecting the business sector and the general population.

On Sunday, President Luis Arce explained that the shortage of foreign currency is due to the failure to safeguard the nationalization of hydrocarbons, the dependence on fuel imports, and the “blocked” loans in the Plurinational Legislative Assembly.

The firefighting brigades from Tiquipaya arrive in Chiquitania

 The firefighting brigades from Tiquipaya arrived tonight in Chiquitania, Santa Cruz, to help control the fires that are damaging this natural treasure.

The mayor of San José de Chiquitos, Marvin Barberí Céspedes, awaited their arrival around 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, September 11th.

Barberí made a video call to the mayor of Tiquipaya, Juan Pahuasi Argote, to thank him for the humanitarian support. The teams, after assisting with the fires in Tunari, departed around 4:00 a.m. on Wednesday. The brigades plan to stay for an initial period of 10 days.

“From Tiquipaya, we send you all our encouragement and best wishes for your safe return with positive results,” said the statement from the Tiquipaya Mayor's Office.

Communities and Sectors Affected by Fires Demand Repeal of Laws Promoting Burnings

 Bolivia Faces Alarming Destruction of Rural Areas and Forests Due to 'Chaqueo', Warns Jubileo Foundation

Bolivia is suffering from alarming destruction of its rural territories and forests, caused by the practice of 'chaqueo' (slash-and-burn farming), primarily driven by agricultural and livestock expansion, warned the Jubileo Foundation.

The extractivist model, supported by policies and laws that prioritize short-term growth, is putting the environmental balance, the health of our communities, and the future of coming generations at serious risk, concluded residents and producers from the national Amazon region.

During the meeting, communities from Beni and other affected regions of the country demanded that national and departmental authorities repeal laws and other related regulations “that encourage the practice of 'chaqueo', an activity causing massive forest destruction, air and water source pollution, the displacement of peoples and communities, and the acceleration of climate change.”

The Jubileo Foundation pointed out that laws such as Law 741 and others that promote the use of fire for agricultural expansion have facilitated these destructive practices.

“It is urgent that authorities take responsibility and repeal these laws that continue to damage the environment and endanger the health and well-being of Bolivians,” they emphasized.

The consequences of these fires are devastating: air pollution has reached critical levels. The destruction of forests not only irreversibly threatens and reduces biodiversity but also worsens climate change, contributing to rising temperatures, prolonged droughts, and other extreme weather events affecting the country, they stressed.

Demanded Measures

The communities affected by the fires indicated six key points that must be addressed to prevent fires from becoming a chronic issue in the country. The demands include:

    Declaration of a national disaster.

    Immediate repeal of laws and other related regulations that promote 'chaqueo' and burnings in rural areas.

    Implementation of sustainable policies that promote fire-free agricultural practices that respect the environment.

    Immediate and effective action by national and departmental authorities to protect ecosystems and affected communities.

    Compensation for communities affected by the loss of their natural resources and the health damage caused by air pollution.

    Establishment of legal and reparative responsibilities for the destruction of ecosystems and the impact on peoples and communities.

Jubileo noted that if immediate measures are not taken, the destruction of forests and lands will be irreversible. Communities in Beni and other regions of the country, which depend directly on the land for their livelihoods, face an uncertain future where environmental degradation translates into poverty, forced migration, and a loss of quality of life.

“The long-term effects of these fires will resonate throughout Bolivia, endangering the country’s food security and ecological stability,” the institution emphasized.

For Lithium: Accidental Partnership Contract Signed with Uranium One; Arce Urges Assembly to Speed Up Approval

 Luis Arce, the president of the country, announced the signing of an accidental partnership contract for the development of a direct lithium extraction (DLE) plant in the Salar de Uyuni with the Russian company Uranium One Group.

The head of state urged the Legislative Assembly to expedite the approval of this contract.

"Once approved, the investments will be secured, and the commitment to produce 14,000 tons of lithium carbonate in 30 months will be fulfilled," Arce stated.

The president emphasized that lithium industrialization will benefit both Potosí and the country as a whole.

On December 13, 2023, Uranium One Group signed an agreement with Bolivian Lithium Deposits (YLB) to invest $450 million in the establishment of a semi-industrial-scale pilot plant using DLE technology in Salar de Uyuni, Potosí, with a production capacity of up to 14,000 tons per year.

The agreement is valid for two years and will allow production to generate foreign currency in the medium term, along with technical studies aimed at projecting an industrial plant with greater production capacity.

The implementation of this contract depends on the approval of the Legislative Assembly, Arce reiterated.

Announcement of Chinese Lithium Firm’s Arrival Amid YLB's Turmoil

 Citic Gouan is set to sign a contract with the Bolivian state company, which must be approved by the Plurinational Legislative Assembly. Concerns arise over constant changes in YLB and the lack of state vision.

Sources close to the Bolivian Lithium Deposits company (YLB) have announced the arrival of a large delegation from China’s Citic Gouan, which has reportedly given the green light to a feasibility study for the installation of a direct lithium extraction (DLE) industrial plant in northern Salar de Uyuni.

The announcement comes amid the unexpected replacement of YLB’s president, Karla Calderón, by Omar Alarcón on September 2, making him the eighth president of the state company in seven years, during which time there have been controversial management issues related to the government’s largest industrialization effort under Luis Arce’s administration.

Some analysts have described Calderón’s term as “the most productive” compared to previous executives, pointing to her efforts in denouncing irregularities, trying to realign the lithium carbonate production project, and negotiating with Citic Gouan.

Lithium economy expert Óscar Vargas expressed surprise over Calderón’s replacement, particularly because the contract with the Chinese company would be historic for the country. “A few weeks ago, she certified Citic Gouan’s feasibility studies, which feature a very novel liquid membrane technology that doesn’t exist anywhere else in the world and will be used for the first time,” he said.

According to Vargas, this technology will allow for the production of 24,000 tons of lithium through selective lithium-ion membranes, representing cutting-edge nanotechnology that China will transfer to Bolivia via patents and intellectual property rights.

“Bolivia’s lithium has 17 times more magnesium than lithium, making extraction expensive due to the lack of suitable technology. Even the pool technologies have taken 12 years to develop. Citic Gouan has experience with these selective membranes since it has four projects in China,” he added.

He further explained that the technology is based on liquid membrane electrodialysis, which recovers lithium from brines with a high magnesium-lithium ratio. “However, this contract still needs to be approved by the Legislative Assembly, as there is currently only an agreement,” Vargas clarified.

Chain of Setbacks Gonzalo Mondaca, associate researcher at Bolivia’s Documentation and Information Center (Cedib), highlighted that the constant changes in YLB’s leadership reveal the weaknesses in the conception of the lithium industrialization project, as so far only exploitation exists.

He cited the example of the first executive manager, Juan Carlos Montenegro (who passed away on April 24), who worked under the former Mining Minister and National Manager of Evaporitic Resources, Alberto Echazú, who was accused and arrested for causing Bs 425 million in financial damage. Echazú disbanded the Scientific Committee formed in 2008, which had developed technology adapted to the Uyuni salt flats that had “some viability.”

“Echazú did manage to build the potassium chloride plant and nearly completed the pilot phase, which was finished by Montenegro. We had pilot plants for potassium chloride, lithium carbonate, cathode materials, and batteries. By 2017, Bolivia was a leader in Latin America in lithium industrialization development, but it stopped there,” Mondaca said.

He emphasized that Montenegro was instrumental in the creation of YLB, freeing lithium from the bureaucracy of the Bolivian Mining Corporation (Comibol) and establishing a partnership with the German company ACI Systems, which failed due to a lack of social consultation with groups like the Potosí Civic Committee (Compcipo).

“After Montenegro, all managers have had smaller roles without a long-term vision. Engineer Calderón, like Montenegro, had more experience in chemistry and chemical processes. But she also faced many challenges, and now she’s being replaced, something likely tied to changes in the trusted personnel of former minister Franklin Molina,” Mondaca concluded.

The Fexco 2024 concludes by breaking records in visits and economic activity.

 The International Fair and Exhibition of Cochabamba (Fexco) concluded yesterday after 11 days of constant and intense activity. Preliminary figures indicate that all records established in previous events were broken. Companies made offers and promotions for the closing.

Alberto Arze, General Manager of Fexco, described the largest business event in the department as successful. Although the official and final report is still pending, as of yesterday at noon, the following numbers were recorded: 370,000 visitors, 1,500 exhibitors, and $175 million in economic activity.

"Our visitor target was surpassed, the doors will be closed from 9:00 p.m. today (yesterday) so that we can carry out the draw for a vehicle and a motorcycle. All the objectives set out were achieved as planned, both in the number of exhibitors and visitors. This was the Fexco of records," said Arze.

According to Arze, the population responded to the investments made, which will serve for the improvement of Cochabamba. "Great investments, effort, and the unity of all, that was Fexco," he added.

"The business round reached $90 million, a total success. All the figures we set for ourselves have been surpassed, and also the challenges we set for ourselves such as logistics, avoiding queues, we had a large number of people, but not the queues like last year," he noted.

He highlighted that the concerts had massive attendance, but with a lot of security, which was the objective of each social event.

Closing offers

Whole families came to Fexco to participate in the last day of the fair where a variety of offers and promotions were made.

Clothing, food products, and medicinal products were displayed at each booth so that visitors could take advantage of the promotions.

The beauty of the hostesses and the convincing power of the exhibitors did not allow anyone to leave empty-handed.

Families showed their satisfaction and look forward to innovations for the following year.

Fexco 2025

The General Manager of Fexco indicated that they will be attentive to the tender called by the Municipal Autonomous Government of Cochabamba for long-term administration.

"The contract we have as the Chamber of Industry, Commerce, and Services of Cochabamba (ICAM) ends on June 30, and we will be ready to present ourselves for the tender and God willing to take charge of the administration in the coming years," he stated.

Three individuals have been apprehended in the case of the lithium pools, according to the Prosecutor's Office.

 So far, three individuals have been apprehended in the investigation into the industrial evaporation pools of Bolivian Lithium Deposits (YLB), reported Cesar Siles, the Attorney General of the State, on Tuesday.

"Not only is Mr. Luis Arberto Echazú (former Minister of Mining and former national manager of Evaporitic Resources) apprehended, but three individuals have been apprehended so far in this investigation," he said.

On April 18, the executive president of YLB, Karla Calderón, filed a formal complaint with the Public Ministry for the alleged commission of crimes including damaging contracts to the state, breach of duties, uneconomic conduct, and breach of contracts due to an alleged economic damage of more than Bs 425 million.

The Prosecutor's Office decided to participate in this criminal process, according to Siles, due to the "serious economic damage to the state" and because they are "serious acts of corruption."

He pointed out that, in general terms, three incidents are being investigated: poorly elaborated or designed technical specifications, poorly executed supervision or oversight of contract execution, and the lack of maintenance on the 18 pools.

He added that a commission of three prosecutors is now investigating the case after a complaint with at least 4,020 attached pages was admitted.

He confirmed that there are 12 suspects in this investigative process and that arrest warrants have already been issued against all of them.

According to Siles, through requests made to the Immigration Department, it was established that "they all have significant and recent migratory flow," representing a flight risk, and furthermore, none of them, at least at this moment, has a stable or fixed job.

Evo Morales confesses that before they paid him first-class tickets and now they send him private planes.

Evo returned from Venezuela and didn't hold back. First, he described it as a racist act to criticize him for traveling on private flights, like his colleague Loza going to see a Real Madrid match, and then he attacked a minister.

Former president Evo Morales described it as an act of racism to question him for traveling on private planes, and admitted that he receives invitations from left-wing governments that used to send him in business class alongside "old men and women full of rings" and now they put him on fully paid private planes, "to safeguard his security."

"I deeply regret those questions about why Evo travels on a private plane. I want the Bolivian population to know that my first invitation to Europe was in 1989, all expenses paid. Then I had many others, as a leader I traveled to four continents, all expenses paid. Once the Government of Portugal invited me to a three-day conference and in the end the organizing team gave me 600 dollars as an allowance. I was scared, I didn't want to receive it. I got scared. They insisted. I brought that money and accounted for it to the special federation of workers of the Tropic of Cochabamba," said Evo Morales this Sunday.

He admitted that for subsequent invitations "they sent business class tickets, there only old men and women full of rings and jewelry traveled. As time goes by, now the former president receives invitations and they send him private planes. I ask Venezuela, Argentina, Mexico, Paraguay, Brazil or Peru, how much do they pay? And they respond to me that they send a plane for security reasons."

Therefore, he clarified that these comments against him have a "racist" tint. "Leonardo Loza (MAS Senator and coca grower like him) goes to see a match in Europe and a scandal is created. Racism, racism, racism. They pay me private planes, and another scandal."

As retaliation, the former president sent a message and asked the Minister of Public Works, Édgar Montaño, former deputy: "If he is honest, let him say it. Two years ago, at around 6:00 in the morning in the La Coronilla area, he only arrived in his car, his former driver whom they fired, let him publicly say how much money he received. If he is honest, he knows. That driver will speak out, anytime he will tell the truth. Hopefully they don't repress him, the minister knows what we are talking about."

He demanded Minister Montaño to execute the guarantee bonds for the execution of sections in the Tropic of Cochabamba, and he went on: "because that has a cost. He said that we need to investigate, let's investigate, but thoroughly."

He then insisted that he feels like a victim of a racist act. "How can an indigenous person travel on a private plane, how can an indigenous person go to see a match in Europe. Pure racism. I have two trips, one to Brazil and one to Paraguay, and for both they will send private planes," he asserted. "Once they refused to sell jet fuel to a plane, dogs everywhere, you can't imagine the telephone argument I had."

He also complained about entering with his passport, "On Saturday I got angry, and mind you, I have a diplomatic document, but still I told them to check, they got scared. I realized that a guy was taking a picture of me, I also took one of him. I commented on this at a meeting outside the country and former Ecuadorian president Rafael Correa told me that they shouldn't control me because I am a former president. They don't understand what's going on in Bolivia."

Regarding the meeting in Caracas, Morales recounted that "there were (representatives from) more than 60 countries, people convinced in this anti-capitalist and anti-imperialist struggle. Commander Nicolás Maduro, following in the footsteps of Hugo Chávez and consolidating the revolution in Venezuela. He reported that we must continue resisting, between last year and this year there were five assassination attempts, interventionism by the US, I was impressed."

The government prepares a photography and TikTok contest among census takers to reward their experience.

 This Sunday, the Minister of Planning, Sergio Cusicanqui, shared some good news. In the upcoming days, a photography and TikTok contest will be launched aimed at volunteer census takers. "We will recognize and reward the most creative works that reflect the work done during the census day," he said.

"Our deep gratitude and pride towards the hundreds of thousands of volunteer census takers who traveled throughout the country to collect important information for our development and future," he expressed, and his words were also reflected in the bulletin that the Vice Ministry of Communication began to circulate.

The commitment of our census takers has been recognized by the entire Bolivian people, and we want to hear about your experiences and anecdotes from the census day. Therefore, we will launch a contest in which you can share your experiences through photographs or TikToks. This is what the preview of the invitation says, as soon the channels through which to send the photos and videos will be announced.

"We invite you to be part of this exciting contest that will allow us to learn the story of each of our heroes," concludes the suggestive preview of the call.

Evo accuses that among the weaponry delivered by Del Castillo for the fight against drug trafficking there were telescopic sights and suppressors.

 Former President Evo Morales, during his program on Radio Kawsachun Coca, once again lashed out against the Minister of Government, Eduardo Del Castillo, referring to the recent delivery of equipment for the fight against drug trafficking that he provided to the Felcn in Cochabamba. He claimed that members of the national police, as well as the Armed Forces, revealed to him that among the weaponry there were telescopic sights and suppressors.

"That's for killing. When they shoot, it won't be heard because of the suppressors. On the other hand, the police tell us that we don't need weaponry, what we need are vehicles, patrols (...) So, that raises a lot of suspicion," he accused bluntly.

And the accusations continued: "I don't know if the minister is really sick, because a healthy, honest, responsible person for the nation speaks the truth. Bolivia is a transit point for cocaine, there are airstrips on the border with Peru. The people of Beni know this, the government knows this. Who controls the airstrips in the department of Beni?" he asked.

Hoping not to be mistaken, he stated that never, in the 14 years he was in government, had there been news of so many tons of cocaine from Bolivia, bound for Europe. "But now so many (tons) appear, I repeat once again, that there is no control at the border with Peru. Planes come in, go out, some crash, nobody reports," he accused.

Finally, he complained about the stigmatization, because now in matters of drug trafficking everything is against the Tropics, "as in neoliberal times, we only lack the return of the United States military base." Finally, for the former president and coca leader, the DEA continues to operate in our country. "USAID has officially returned with Áñez (former President Jeanine Áñez), and now with Lucho, USAID continues. That's also a way of how the government of Luis Arce has shifted to the right," he fired.

Background

Last Thursday, the Minister of Government delivered a fleet of aircraft and equipment to the Special Force for the Fight Against Drug Trafficking (Felcn) in the municipality of Chimoré, with the aim of strengthening the anti-drug fight in the Cochabamba Tropics region.

However, the equipment delivery was harshly criticized by Senator Leonardo Loza from the 'Evoist' wing of the Movement Towards Socialism (MAS) and coca grower from the Cochabamba Tropics region, who considered it a "provocation" to the region, a stronghold of former President Evo Morales.

"Some comrades were telling us that this seems like a provocation to the region," Loza said, as quoted by Los Tiempos newspaper.

The senator assured that the Felcn personnel themselves informed him that they do not need weapons, but rather their greatest need is to have air and land transportation means.

BoA announces suspension of domestic flights and special measures for the census

 Boliviana de Aviación (BoA) announced on the morning of Thursday, March 21, that domestic air operations will be suspended on Saturday, March 23, the day of the 2024 Population and Housing Census. Only international flights and domestic connecting flights will be maintained. This measure is taken in compliance with Supreme Decree No. 4546, which declares the census a national priority.

Ronald Casso, general manager of BoA, explained that the suspension is due to the current regulations for the census. "We will have limited operations. We will fly on the central axis to connect passengers arriving on international flights or those who need to depart on international flights during that day," he explained at a press conference.

Flights from Cochabamba and La Paz to Santa Cruz

Regarding the connecting flights scheduled for this Saturday, at the three airports in the central axis, Casso reported that a flight will depart from Cochabamba to Santa Cruz at 7:10 in the morning with passengers who need to travel to Buenos Aires, Sao Paulo, and Asuncion. At noon, an international flight will depart for Guarulhos (Sao Paulo).

For the late afternoon, flights are scheduled from Cochabamba and La Paz to Santa Cruz with passengers whose final destination is Buenos Aires, Lima, Miami, and Madrid.

The early hours of March 23 will see passengers arriving in Santa Cruz from Lima and Madrid. Flights from Air Europa, Copa Airlines, and Avianca will also be received, which connect with BoA flights to other cities.

Only passengers with final destinations of Cochabamba and La Paz will be transported. International passengers connecting to other cities in the country will be transported the day after the census. They will be provided transportation to hotels and their flights will be rescheduled at no cost.

Census of BoA staff at airports

In coordination with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGAC) and the National Institute of Statistics (INE), BoA has organized the necessary logistics to census airline staff working at airports on census day.

There will be 40 people working at each airport in the central axis, divided into two shifts (morning and afternoon). They will be censused at the airport early in the morning.

Authorized transportation in the central axis

For passengers traveling this Saturday, transport companies operating at the three airports have been enabled.

•    Viru Viru Airport (Santa Cruz): Association of Microbus Transporters 135 Viru Viru / Phone: 760-90027
•   Jorge Wilstermann Airport (Cochabamba): B-U Microbus Line / Phone: 4-477734923
•   El Alto Airport (La Paz): Contrastar Union / Phone: 732-17668

There will be no commercial activity at the airports.

Passengers are advised to make provisions for food during waiting times at the airports.

Normal flights on Sunday

Domestic and international flights will resume on Sunday, March 24, at the end of the good government decree. The official BoA website displays schedules for all available routes.

European Union contradicts Del Castillo: their cooperation with Bolivia in the fight against drug trafficking does not include the purchase of weapons.

 Through a statement issued this Thursday, the European Union expressed: "(...) We emphasize that none of the components of the cooperation program with Bolivia includes or can be used for the purchase of weaponry."

This contradicts what the Minister of Government, Eduardo Del Castillo, stated during the delivery of weaponry and equipment to combat drug trafficking to the Special Force for the Fight Against Drug Trafficking.

"We have found a strategic partner to fight drug trafficking internationally, which is the European Union, and thanks to this economic support, we have been able to purchase more than 500 weapons; we have been able to upgrade 2 (helicopters) UH, now they are 2 super way; we have already launched 3 Super Puma, one (airplane) C-130, 4 (aircraft) Cessna (...)", Del Castillo declared this Thursday.

Meanwhile, in a press release from that government department, it is detailed: "The weaponry was acquired with the support of the European Union and required an approximate investment of 20 million bolivianos."

On the other hand, the European Union, in the statement issued this Thursday, published the scope of its cooperation program with Bolivia.

"The European Union wishes to remind the public that its cooperation program to combat organized crime and controlled substances in Bolivia aims to strengthen Bolivian anti-drug policies and reduce the supply and demand for illegal drugs within the framework of comprehensive development with coca," reads the first paragraph of the document.

It also clarifies that this program "is the result of a strategy aligned between the priorities of the Bolivian government and those of the EU."

Ministry of Government rectifies

On Thursday night, hours after Del Castillo's statements, the Ministry of Government issued a statement rectifying the minister's assertion. Clarifying that European support was intended for the acquisition of technological equipment, without mentioning the purchase of weapons as mentioned earlier.

"In relation to the recent statements by the European Union that: "none of the components of the cooperation program to Bolivia includes or can be used for the purchase of weaponry," it is important to clarify the following:

    It is important to detail that the weaponry presented today in Chimoré was acquired with own resources from the monetization carried out by Dircabi with assets seized from drug trafficking. The resources for the maintenance and repair of the aircraft come from the TGN, and finally, the resources from the European Union were used for the acquisition of technological equipment such as: night vision goggles, portable equipment for the identification of controlled substances (mass spectrometer equipment, FTIR and RAMAN analysis equipment, RAMAN analyzer equipment).

    With this clarified, we express from the Bolivian Government our firm interest in continuing to work with our strategic partners in the fight against drug trafficking.

Census: They report "herding" people to "inflate" the population of other municipalities

 The councilor of the Democratic Party, Manuel "Mamen" Saavedra, denounced that some municipalities in the country are providing buses to "herd" people who live and work in the city of Santa Cruz, with the purpose of "inflating" the population numbers of their municipalities.

On Thursday night, Mamen arrived at the Bimodal Terminal and spoke with some people who were about to be transported to the municipality of Monteagudo, in the department of Chuquisaca, to be counted in the census on Saturday, March 23.

Some individuals stated that the Municipality of Monteagudo offered them free transportation (round trip) by bus in exchange for being counted in the municipality of Chuquisaca.

Offer on social media

On the social media accounts of that Municipality, a post shows the call for those born in Monteagudo to go there to be counted in the census.

"Unfortunately, there is herding of people two days before the census. They are taking citizens to other municipalities to be counted there, inflating their numbers and taking away numbers from our municipality," said Councilor Saavedra.

Mamen questioned other municipalities in the country for "promoting herding" causing harm to the municipality of Santa Cruz de la Sierra, by reducing its economic resources for health and education.

"The census is for receiving health, education, and employment, and the worst part is that this is being promoted by municipal governments because they are offering free transportation on their official pages for people to be counted there. They are inflating their numbers to receive more income, to the detriment of other municipalities," he lamented.

The councilor from Santa Cruz has doubts about the financing of transportation for these individuals. "The question is who pays for these fleets, are they using public resources, or are they paying out of their own pockets. The fact is they are doing things they shouldn't. And what will happen when these people get sick, where will they turn to? Here, because here they live and work," said Mamen.

The councilor displayed printed images of the municipalities of Monteagudo, Culpina, Padilla, Huacareta, and San Lucas, which supposedly are offering free transportation for people to be counted in those places.

This situation can be verified through the social media pages of some of these municipalities. For example, in Culpina.

This happens in the case of San Pablo de Huacareta:

In the municipality of San Lucas, they offer to transport the natives of that locality who live in Tarija.

Movement at the Bimodal Terminal

On the other hand, from early hours this Thursday in Santa Cruz, there was also a significant movement of people at the Bimodal Terminal, even transport company workers admitted that there was an increase in the demand for tickets to travel within the country.

What are the six must-visit tourist destinations in Bolivia?

 From the mountains and the highlands to the plains and the Amazon, Bolivia is full of spectacular views, archaeological treasures, and a millennia-old culture that attracts thousands of foreign and domestic tourists.

According to Javier Rivera, director of the Hotel Management and Tourism program at Franz Tamayo University, Unifranz, Bolivia has an unparalleled and unique tourism potential in the world.

"Regardless of the type of tourist, people who come to Bolivia usually seek two types of experiences. On one hand, the natural beauty of sites they won't find elsewhere, such as the Salar de Uyuni or Madidi, and on the other hand, they seek cultural tourism. In this sense, they try to connect with local cultures, learn from them, see their production processes, see all the knowledge acquired through generations, and that is seen through their culture. Everything that stands out, such as the beauty of the salt flat, the exuberance of Madidi, or the experience of living in a high-altitude city like La Paz, are the triggers that catch the attention of those who are encouraged to visit Bolivia," says the expert.

Enrique Saravia, president of the Bolivian Receptive Tourism Association, indicates that it is a priority for the country to promote our main destinations in international markets with the aim of attracting international tourists and generating greater foreign exchange income for the country.

"We have to develop joint promotion policies and attract tourists to come to Bolivia and return," he adds.

The unmissable destinations

Saravia indicates that there are countless tourist destinations in the country, which cater to different types of tourists, but in his opinion, six stand out above the rest.

Salar de Uyuni and the colored lagoons

"Starting the journey, the Salar de Uyuni, one of our flagship destinations, is at the top of the list, with its otherworldly landscape, starry nights, walks through the salt desert, and its beautiful hotels," he says.

The Salar de Uyuni is the highest and largest salt flat in the world. Its extension is approximately 12,000 km2. Additionally, it is the largest lithium reserve on the continent.

During the rainy season, water remains on the surface of the Salar and produces a reflection like that of a mirror. Many tourists visit it just to appreciate this landscape since the horizon is lost in the reflection, the sky merges with it, and it seems to float in the clouds.

The "mirror effect" of the salt flat allows for the creation of 360° videos and incredible photographs. In addition to the sensation of truly floating between the sky and the earth. During the dry season, the magnificence of the landscape is ideal for perspective photos.

On the other hand, the colored lagoons, so named for the different shades they present due to the minerals they contain, offer impressive landscapes and a large amount of native bird fauna that visit them.

Samaipata Fortress

With its warm climate and hospitable people, Samaipata has won the hearts of international tourists who arrive every year in the municipality located in the department of Santa Cruz to visit its greatest attraction, "The Fortress," a carved rock dating back more than 2 thousand years, declared by UNESCO as a Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Samaipata is also a meeting place of many cultures where the Morning Star is celebrated, which for the Guarani culture signifies the beginning of a new dawn renewing hopes and the light that guides them to the "land without evil."

Saravia points out that this destination is a great natural refuge for people seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

The Royal Range

"The snow-capped mountains of the Royal Range offer tourists not only spectacular views but also the unique opportunity to climb some of the most beautiful peaks of the Andes," expresses the president of Abatur.

The Royal Range, located in the department of La Paz, rises as a natural barrier between the Andes and the Amazon, a place full of magic and culture. From its foothills, the water flows that feeds the Amazon forests and the highlands.

With snowy peaks ranging from 5,500 meters to 6,500 meters above sea level, they form a mountain range of 600 snow-capped peaks that occur in an approximate length of 200 kilometers. They divide the highlands at 4,000 meters above sea level and the Amazon region at 500 meters.

The different summits of the mountain range challenge the practice of mountaineering, offering the opportunity to engage in rock and ice climbing, ascents, walks along pre-Hispanic roads, ski touring, alpine skiing (5,100 to 5,300 meters), trekking, and mountain biking (Zongo), as well as experiencing feelings of deep peace and serenity while admiring the waters of its lagoons with truly fascinating scenery and landscapes.

The Takesi Trail

This pre-Columbian trail, which starts at the foothills of the mountain range and reaches the town of Yanacachi in the Yungas of La Paz, is part of the Inca Trail or Qhapac Ñan, a network of paths that stretches from Ecuador in the north to Argentina and Chile in the south.

"Through this trail, you can see the change in microclimates from the highlands, through the mountain range, to the Yungas valleys, in a trekking experience full of beautiful landscapes and culture, as the stones you walk on have been there for hundreds of years, placed by the cultures that preceded us," adds Saravia.

Madidi and the Amazon

Madidi is the richest natural reserve and protected area in the world, expressed in the diversity of ecosystems and species of flora and fauna. It contains 12 major vegetation formations, the best example of pristine savannas, and the most extensive and best-preserved mountain forests in Bolivia.

So far, 193 families and 8,244 species of vascular plants have been identified in the area, representing around 60% of Bolivia's flora. Of these species, 110 are new to Bolivia and 93 are endemic. Madidi also hosts a diversity of animals, confirming the presence of 1,466 species of vertebrates. It is estimated that, as scientific information about the region increases, the number of vertebrates could exceed 2,000 species.

On the other hand, it is an area of great cultural diversity, inhabited by various cultural groups speaking Tacana languages: Toromonas, Araonas, Ixiamas, Tacanas, Cavinas, Esse Ejjas, Uchupiamonas, Eparamonas, and Pamainos. Communities of Leco origin also shared the territory.

Toro Toro

Located in the department of Potosí, the Toro Toro National Park is a place frozen in time, marked by the footprints left by dinosaurs that roamed its lands millions of years ago.

Its canyon, El Vergel, the Umajalanta Cave, and the City of Itas are other attractions offered by this destination, which is also a global point for birdwatching and ecotourism in the country.

Other destinations

"We have enormous potential in the country, where culture and nature are our main attractions: natural reserves, archaeological sites, cities full of culture are our offering," explains Rolando Mendoza, member of the Tourism Board and director of the Hotel Chamber of La Paz.

Mendoza indicates that every town, municipality, and community has unparalleled tourism potential, and every day new destinations are discovered. However, the expert highlights some such as La Chiquitanía in Santa Cruz, the Valle de Los Cintis in Chuquisaca, and the Amazon rivers in the departments of Beni and Pando.

"We have thousands of attractions, and every day we discover many more. What we lack is working on those products to add value to them, provide easy access, service conditions; these are very easy things that boil down to a positive attitude change and joint work," he expresses.

Disqualified Applicants Resist and Prepare for Mass Appeals

 A total of 715 professionals submitted their documents over the course of 20 days during the candidate registration phase for judges of the Judicial Branch and its four bodies. On Friday, the review of requirements concluded, and the balance of approved and disqualified candidates is at its limit, with 47% qualified and 53% disqualified. The majority of professionals who were excluded are preparing for appeals, which will begin this Monday.

"I was reviewing the list of disqualified candidates, and unfortunately, those listed as qualified are judges and candidates from La Paz. It seems that more importance is given to males; I would even say there is a regional criterion because when looking at the list, there are more disqualifications in the eastern region and not so much in the west," stated Vivian Torrez Saavedra, one of the four female professionals who applied for the Plurinational Constitutional Court (PCC) from Santa Cruz, all of whom were disqualified.

The application process began on February 20, with the last day for submissions being March 10. The following day, the review of the files commenced, concluding on Friday. Now, the phase of appeals begins.

According to the data from the Citizen Oversight, Santa Cruz submitted 17 applicants, of which only two qualified; Beni submitted 12, and two qualified; Pando had 10 professionals apply, with four qualifying, all of them males. Conversely, 36 professionals applied from La Paz, mostly judges, and 8 women and 19 men were qualified, making it the region with the most representation.

Requirement

"To have a minimum of eight (8) years of experience in performing functions in public or private institutions, or in the freelance practice of the profession, related to Constitutional Law, Administrative Law, or Human Rights," states the specific fourth requirement, which was the main barrier for 44% of the candidates for the PCC.

Juan José Subieta Claros is another professional who was disqualified for not meeting this requirement. However, he remains undeterred, stating that he has not only 8 years but 19 years of experience in constitutional law. Like him, other professionals aiming for the Supreme Tribunal of Justice (STJ), the Agro-environmental Tribunal, or the Council of Magistrates will also fight to remain in the pre-selection process.

"They might tell me that I lack experience in corporate law, which I accept, but they cannot tell me that I lack experience in the constitutional area; that would be dishonest, and if they ultimately deny it to me, so be it. One has a clear conscience," said Subieta.

Freddy Durán Montero, a lawyer who applied for the PCC from Santa Cruz, had his application erroneously listed for the Supreme Tribunal of Justice (STJ), which was clarified during the session. However, he was also disqualified for failing to meet the fourth specific requirement. He stated that he has the weekend to decide whether he will appeal his disqualification.

Timelines

Disqualifications are a part of the process that determines the permanence or removal of a candidate because starting Monday, the period for disqualified candidates to appeal and potentially be reinstated begins. At the same time, a period for public or assembly-driven appeals against candidates they believe should not be in the process also begins.

"Any individual or collective person, including Assembly Members of the Chamber of Deputies and Senators, may challenge the applicants, with grounds and attaching suitable evidence, within the established period, which must be notified to the challenged applicant by electronic means (email or WhatsApp)," states article 29 of Law 1549, which regulates these judicial elections.

Candidates have five days to appeal their disqualification, and the respective commission has five days to resolve the observation from the receipt of the appeal. Simultaneously, the public can submit appeals against any of the 351 qualified candidates, whose names will be published on Saturday and Sunday. Those who are appealed against can also request a review of the appeal and present counterarguments, initiating another five-day period to resolve the case. Thus, a total of 20 calendar days will be consumed, leading up to April 7 when the evaluation period will begin.

The Figures

"I understand that my colleague and I are the ones who have met the requirements established by law, the minimum and specific requirements, which is why we are surely at this stage," said Douglas Sahagun Daza, one of the two candidates from Santa Cruz qualified for the PCC.

The PCC and the STJ have departmental representation, so professionals must register for the region they belong to. There are 18 magistrates for each body, 9 titular and 9 alternate. The Law stipulates that the Assembly must send a minimum of 36 candidates for each body, i.e., 72 candidates for the PCC and STJ.

Until 2017, female and indigenous-origin professionals' participation was always an issue. That year, the MAS modified the Law and established that if a region has a participation deficit, it can be supplemented with professionals from other regions.

"Exceptionally, in the absence of an indigenous-origin peasant representative, or if gender equity is not achieved, the candidate with the next best qualification, who is indigenous-origin peasant or a woman, as appropriate, will be enabled from the total number of candidates at the national level," states article 37 of Law 1549.

It was for this reason that parliamentarians did not even debate the possibility of expanding the registration of applications. Assembly Members hope that during this appeal period, the number of female and indigenous peasant participants will increase.

The Self-Extended

The current magistrates who self-extended their terms in office did not hesitate to reapply as candidates. Seven men and six women who are part of or have been part of the STJ, PCC, Agro-environmental Tribunal, or Council of Magistrates are running for other positions.

"From an ethical point of view, why would the application be contradictory? Because I have complied with everything, I have not been irresponsible or incapable; we are presenting ourselves in compliance with the law, the Law allows us to," said Olvis Eguez Oliva, a self-extended STJ member who was disqualified. He had applied to be a magistrate for the PCC but did not have the 8 years of experience in constitutional law required by the fourth specific requirement.

Edwin Aguayo Arando, Ponciano Ruiz Quispe, or Ángela Sánchez Panozo also faced the same fate; they were disqualified.

25% Ethanol Blend Will Not Be Implemented in 2024

 On March 14, the Executive Branch approved Supreme Decree 5135 to gradually replace the importation of inputs, additives, and diesel oil, through blends of biodiesel and anhydrous alcohol with fossil-based fuels up to 25%. The measure will not be implemented immediately, at least not until 2024.

During an interview with the program ¡Qué Semana! on EL DEBER Radio yesterday, the president of YPFB, Armin Dorgathen, announced that the implementation of the measure will have to await the results of independent studies to be carried out by universities, in coordination with vehicle brands and importers.

"I don't estimate that this year we will even reach blending 25% (of alcohol) into gasoline. It will increase based on how gasoline reacts in each of the different regions of the country and the studies being conducted," the executive said.

The announcement of the 25% increase in alcohol in gasoline caused various reactions throughout the country, especially among owners of new vehicles, who mentioned that the purchase warranty could be voided by loading ethanol above the manufacturer's allowed limit. In other sectors, such as transporters, the measure was labeled as a "disguised gasoline price hike."

"It's not about raising it to 25% tomorrow, first we have to regulate, we have to have studies to make this decision. So, what we are going to do is, with institutions external to YPFB, conduct studies to see how much ethanol can be raised in gasoline," Dorgathen explained, using countries like Paraguay as an example, where gasolines contain up to 27% ethanol content, and its vehicle fleet is similar to Bolivia's.

Decree 5135 includes a transitional provision establishing a period of sixty (60) calendar days for the Ministry of Hydrocarbons and Energy to regulate the quality, safety, transportation, storage, and pricing methodology for the commercialization of fossil-based fuels, diesel oil, and gasoline that will be blended with plant-based additives.

Subsequently, the National Hydrocarbons Agency (ANH) will be responsible for determining the technical, economic, and regulatory specifications for blending these additives within thirty (30) calendar days after the issuance of the corresponding regulations.

Types of Gasoline

Dorgathen explained that currently, the national fuel market offers three types of gasoline: Special (85 octane), 'Ethanol' (92 octane), and Premium (95 octane). He clarified that for the implementation of the latter, a regulatory change had to be made to allow the importation of high-octane gasolines through new import points. He also noted that the new Premium gasoline is of higher quality than the previous one and has already captured 7% of gasoline consumers' preferences.

The 13 things you should know about Census Day for Population and Housing

 Six days before the Population and Housing Census, the National Institute of Statistics (INE) has all logistics, personnel, and materials ready to carry out this activity in Bolivia after 12 years.

The census is a statistical procedure that allows for the collection, compilation, evaluation, analysis, publication, and dissemination of characteristics of households and demographic, economic, and social data related to all inhabitants of Bolivia.

On census day, circulation and all economic and commercial activities are prohibited; only census takers and individuals authorized by the INE will be allowed to move.

The information obtained in the census will be used in the planning of public policies and by the Electoral Body for the redistribution of seats and redesign of electoral districts.

The 13 things to know about census day are as follows:

    Organization

INE has over 820,000 volunteer census takers nationwide, along with 4,813 zone chiefs, 268 block chiefs, 1,799 dispersed area chiefs, and 381 census work unit chiefs.

Zone chiefs will open the 6,612 operation centers across the country at 6:00. Half an hour later, they will organize the distribution of census boxes, which will be delivered to sector supervisors until 7:00. INE distributed 90,051 census boxes in the nine departments with bags containing a board, segment map, C-1 and C-2 forms, census questionnaires, a pencil case with pencil, eraser, and sharpener, the census taker's credential, and stickers with the legend "Censused Residence."

    Census Takers

Census takers are prohibited from entering homes; the interview will take place at the door of the residence or apartment, in the case of condominiums.

Census takers will carry credentials with a QR code to confirm that they are enumerators.

Each urban census taker will enumerate 10 households, and in rural or dispersed areas, 30 to 35 dwellings, but within a three-day period.

Volunteers will visit over 5.8 million households nationwide.

Once the interview in each residence is completed, the census agent will place the "Censused Residence" sticker on the door.

    Good Governance Order

Departamental autonomous governments issued respective good governance orders; most prohibit circulation from 00:00 to 23:50 on Saturday and the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages from 00:00 on Friday until 23:59 on Saturday, along with other prohibitions such as carrying weapons or dangerous objects.

    Schedule

Citizens should expect census takers from 8:00 in the morning until 19:30 and must provide accurate information for proper form completion.

    Those Enumerated

All members of the family should be present during form completion, including household dependents.

Only individuals with a special permit issued by the National Institute of Statistics (INE) will be allowed to circulate.

Once enumerated, individuals cannot leave their homes until 23:59 on the same day.

Additionally, they must keep their pets indoors to avoid incidents with volunteer census takers.

    Census Form

The census form includes 59 questions to be answered by the head of the household.

The average completion time for the questionnaire is 40 minutes.

The form must be completed in pencil because during the interview, the volunteer may make an error or the respondent may give an incorrect answer, and the error can be corrected.

The census form for the National Population and Housing Census of March 23, 2024, contains seven chapters and 59 questions, 10 more than in the 2012 process. The seven chapters relate to housing location, housing type, housing characteristics, migration, mortality, person listing, and characteristics of each person.

    Restrictions

On March 23, the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages will be prohibited.

From 00:00 on Saturday, March 23, the movement of people and vehicles without the respective authorization will be prohibited.

Interdepartmental travel will be limited one day before the census. The police and terminal administrators must enforce this provision, considering that from 00:00 on March 23, no one can be on the streets or engaged in any activity.

On March 23, Census Day 2024, international borders will be closed, and there will be no land, rail, lake, river, or air transport services.

Bus terminals will suspend departures on Friday, March 22, according to the travel time to their destinations, which must be before midnight.

Only international flights will be operated at airports.

    Sanctions

The National Institute of Statistics and the Police coordinated that among the penalties applied to individuals who violate the good governance order is an eight-hour arrest.

Both police officers and the Armed Forces will be responsible for enforcing the provisions on census day.

Police officers will be on duty and enumerated one day before so that on census day, March 23, they can carry out control and security operations.

    Application

The National Institute of Statistics will provide an application for census takers and supervisors. It is an emergency button to report dangerous situations or risks during census day.

    Media

Between four and five press conferences will be held during census day to show the progress of the process. Journalists must have INE accreditation and respective permits for circulation.

    Collective Residences

Hospitals, military units, etc., will be considered collective residences for form completion. In red zones, census takers will have police accompaniment.

    Absentees

People who are traveling will be enumerated wherever they are.

    School

School classes will be suspended on Friday, March 22, in urban areas and only on Monday, March 25, in rural areas.