What is the current status of Bolivia's $1.9 billion IMF program, and what key approvals are still pending?

The $1.9 billion IMF program was reached on July 29 but still requires approval from both Bolivia's Congress and the IMF's Executive Board. It would be Bolivia's first multi-year arrangement with the IMF since 2006 and could unlock an additional $5 billion in financing from other multilateral lenders.

Why are civic groups, unions, and business leaders in Bolivia opposing the IMF deal, and what specific economic issue are they linking to it?

Opposition is growing because civic groups, unions, and business leaders increasingly link fuel shortages and diesel subsidy cuts to reforms they believe are tied to the IMF financing agreement—even though the government has not publicly disclosed details of the package and the deal remains unapproved. In Santa Cruz, civic leaders accuse the government of using the IMF agreement to justify subsidy cuts prematurely, citing contradictory statements like Presidential Minister Fernando Aramayo’s initial description of a diesel pricing measure as an IMF 'condition' before retracting it.

Bolivia IMF Deal Faces Growing Resistance Amid Fuel Crisis

Sep 3, 2026

Bolivian civic groups oppose an IMF program linked to diesel subsidy cuts, citing fuel shortages impacting industry and agriculture. Protests in Santa Cruz increase pressure on President Paz's administration amid currency market volatility.

reuters

2026-09-03

Bolivia IMF Deal Faces Growing Resistance Amid Fuel Crisis

Bolivia IMF Deal Faces Growing Resistance Amid Fuel Crisis

FAQ