A Maze of Excuses in the Face of Crisis | Un laberinto de excusas frente a la crisis

Editorial, El Dia:

Bolivia is going through an economic storm that seems to have no end. The recent historic record of country risk, reaching 2,102 points, the highest in Latin America, is an alarming signal of the depth of the crisis Bolivians are facing.

This excessive increase occurs in a context of political and economic uncertainty, exacerbated by the false coup d’état that has shaken the national landscape. However, beyond the numbers, the concerning issue is how the government has been responding to this growing crisis with measures that, at best, have proven to be ineffective.

Despite the government’s attempts to present solutions to economic problems, such as joining Mercosur, diplomatic visits, and announcements of promising discoveries, the results have been disappointing. The lack of positive impact of these actions is not a mere coincidence; it is evidence that the measures adopted do not address the root causes of the economic crisis. The damage in the country surpasses any short-term action the government can take, evidencing a loss of credibility in its management capabilities.

The situation is even more severe when considering the diesel shortage, which has significantly affected the agricultural sector. The Confederation of Sugarcane Growers of Bolivia has warned about the imminent risk to the harvest and ethanol production due to the lack of fuel. The government’s inability to ensure the fuel supply and its inadequate response to this problem reflect a worrying lack of foresight and efficient management.

The impact of the crisis is also evident in the devaluation of the boliviano and the rise of the dollar in the black market, which already exceeds Bs 11. The disparity between the official exchange rate and the black market not only raises the cost of basic products but also highlights a severe misalignment in the government’s economic policies. Opponents warn that the situation could worsen further, with projections that the dollar could reach Bs 15 by the end of the year. This alarming scenario underscores the government’s inability to manage inflation and the scarcity of foreign currency.

Additionally, the recent measure by ASFI, which limits commissions for foreign currency transfers abroad, has created more problems than solutions. Economists warn that this regulation could exacerbate the shortage of dollars and other currencies, further hindering import operations and worsening shortages in various sectors.

The economic situation in Bolivia not only deteriorates each day, but the government seems more focused on finding excuses than effectively addressing the crisis. The lack of concrete measures and the continuous evasion of the true causes of the problem reflect an economic management that is not only ineffective but appears disoriented in its strategy to face one of the most severe crises the country has experienced in recent history. The public continues to wait for real answers and solutions, instead of empty promises and unsatisfactory explanations.

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