Argentina has commenced natural gas exports to Brazil via Bolivia, utilizing YPFB infrastructure. This agreement enhances Bolivia’s role as an energy link while stabilizing fuel supplies in major Bolivian cities. Initial gas shipment begins at 2 million cubic meters daily, with a planned increase to meet industrial needs in Brazil. YPFB refutes rumors of discrepancies in fuel pricing and supply management.
Argentina has initiated its first exports of natural gas to Brazil via the Bolivian infrastructure managed by Yacimientos Petrolíferos Fiscales Bolivianos (YPFB). TotalEnergies facilitated these gas sales originating from the Vaca Muerta field in Neuquén, which were transported through Argentina’s TGN and TGS pipelines to Salta, and subsequently through YPFB’s network, including the Madrejones pipeline, to Brazil under a tri-partite agreement concluded in late 2024.
The Brazil-Bolivia Gas Pipeline (Gasbol), which possesses a capacity of 30 million cubic meters per day, is presently operating at only 10 million cubic meters daily. However, it is set to expand its capacity to meet Brazil’s industrial demand over the next five years. This strategy signifies Bolivia’s transition from being an exporter to leasing its pipelines, enhancing its role as a crucial energy conduit in the Southern Cone region.
Argentina’s gas exports are anticipated to spark a reactivation of its energy sector, paving the way for future investments. The initial shipment volume is set at 2 million cubic meters per day. In conjunction with these developments, YPFB President Armin Dorgathen declared that gasoline and diesel supplies in Bolivia’s major cities—Santa Cruz, La Paz, and Cochabamba—have been stabilized, which has lessened wait times at fuel stations.
YPFB currently distributes in excess of 7.7 million liters of diesel and 8 million liters of gasoline daily, with additional supplies arriving at the Chilean port of Arica. Dorgathen refuted rumors regarding his departure from the country and allegations of overcharging for fuel imports, affirming that prices conform to international standards and dismissing such charges as unfounded.
He also defended Bolivia’s fuel subsidy, mentioning an upcoming forum aimed at clarifying regional fuel pricing. Dorgathen indicated that gas not directed to Argentina is being routed to Brazil, where demand and prices are reportedly more favorable. He remarked on the normalization of fuel supply in the cities along Bolivia’s axis, stating remarkable reductions in queuing for gasoline, from 100 vehicles to merely 30 in Santa Cruz and La Paz.
Additionally, he noted the arrival of two further ships at Arica, with five already docked for unloading. Dorgathen emphatically denied speculation of his fleeing to other countries, reaffirming the commitment to providing comprehensive data regarding fuel imports, freight, and market dynamics in Bolivia.
In summary, Argentina’s exportation of natural gas to Brazil via Bolivia marks a significant milestone in regional energy collaboration, designed to bolster industrial demand and stabilize supply. YPFB’s ongoing efforts to manage fuel distributions have positively impacted urban areas in Bolivia. This venture not only benefits Argentina and Brazil but reinforces Bolivia’s strategic role in regional energy avenues. The developments indicate a promising trajectory for future investments in hydrocarbon resources across these nations.
Original Source: en.mercopress.com
