Contrary to claims on platforms like TikTok and Facebook, Puno, Peru—bordering Bolivia—did not experience fuel deficits. Local sources and official checks confirmed normal operation of fuel stations with no unusual queues or supply interruptions. The misinformation circulated stemmed largely from videos originating in Pucallpa, Ucayali, located in Peru’s Amazon region and distant from the Bolivian border. Pucallpa faced a temporary and localized gasoline shortage linked to Petroperú’s internal payment arrears and a transport strike beginning December 16, predating Bolivia’s subsidy removal on December 17. This disruption gradually subsided after agreements with transporters restored deliveries.
Market analysts emphasize the separation of geopolitical contexts: Bolivia’s subsidy repeal responds to fiscal sustainability needs and aims to discourage illegal fuel cross-border flows, while Peru confronts operational challenges within its state refinery system. The Peruvian government is advancing a restructuring plan for Petroperú to address severe financial and operational inefficiencies, which have triggered wider concerns including potential multi-billion dollar losses and social repercussions.
Overall, Bolivia’s subsidy removal marks a major policy shift with potential long-term stabilization effects on hydrocarbon markets, while Peru’s fuel distribution issues remain domestically driven. Cross-border fuel supply chains at the Bolivia-Peru frontier show resilience despite regional economic adjustments.
This article was curated and published as part of our South American energy market coverage.
