Argentina has commenced natural gas exports to Brazil via YPFB, using Bolivia’s infrastructure. Initial shipments are set at 2 million cubic meters daily. The Brazil-Bolivia Gas Pipeline plans to increase capacity to meet Brazil’s industrial demand. YPFB disclosed stabilized fuel supplies in Bolivia’s major cities and addressed pricing concerns.
Argentina has commenced natural gas exports to Brazil for the first time through the Bolivian infrastructure managed by Yacimientos Petrolíferos Fiscales Bolivianos (YPFB). The gas, sourced from the Vaca Muerta field in Neuquén province, is transported via Argentina’s TGN and TGS pipelines into Salta, and then through the YPFB network, including the Madrejones pipeline, to Brazil, under a three-way agreement established in late 2024.
The Brazil-Bolivia Gas Pipeline (Gasbol), capable of handling 30 million cubic meters per day, is currently operating at 10 million. However, plans are in place to ramp up its capacity over five years to meet Brazil’s escalating industrial demands. This shift in strategy also reflects Bolivia’s transition from gas exports to leasing pipeline infrastructures, consequently generating income and bolstering its role as a vital energy provider in the Southern Cone.
This agreement has revitalized Argentina’s energy sector, paving the way for future investments in hydrocarbons. Initial shipments are projected at 2 million cubic meters per day, highlighting the significance of this operational development in the region.
Additionally, YPFB President Armin Dorgathen announced that the fuel supply, including gasoline and diesel, has stabilized in Bolivia’s major cities such as Santa Cruz, La Paz, and Cochabamba, which has resulted in reduced waiting times at fuel stations. The company currently distributes over 7.7 million liters of diesel and 8 million liters of gasoline daily, with recent shipments arriving at the Chilean port of Arica.
Dorgathen refuted rumors regarding his potential exit from the country or accusations of overcharging for fuel imports, asserting that pricing aligns with international benchmarks. He also defended Bolivia’s fuel subsidy and indicated plans for a forum to clarify regional fuel pricing. He mentioned that gas previously earmarked for export to Argentina will now be directed to Brazil, where demand and pricing conditions are more favorable.
In the urban areas that encompass Santa Cruz de la Sierra, La Paz, and Cochabamba, the fuel supply situation has markedly improved. Dorgathen observed, “In Santa Cruz and La Paz, the queues to fill up gasoline have practically disappeared, which shows that we are managing to stabilize the supply.” He added that, “We have gone from having 100 vehicles in line to only 30.” Furthermore, he reported the arrival of additional shipments and addressed baseless rumors regarding his role, emphasizing continued commitment to operations in Bolivia and clarity in data concerning imports and the market dynamics.
Argentina’s initiation of natural gas exports to Brazil via Bolivia marks a significant shift in the energy landscape of South America, with the potential for increased capacity in the Brazil-Bolivia Gas Pipeline. The developments support Argentina’s energy revitalization while bolstering Bolivia’s economic strategy through pipeline leasing. Furthermore, assurances from YPFB management regarding fuel stabilization reflect a positive trend in regional supply dynamics.
Original Source: en.mercopress.com
