| Bolivia deploys Soldiers |
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| World Affairs Talk | |
| Friday, 29 June 2007 | |
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Bolivia consumes around 1,036 tons of LPG a day, but its current daily production capacity is only 990 tons, which means Bolivia has to import LPG to meet its domestic needs. The actual supply gap was even bigger because energy smugglers are buying LPG at low prices in Bolivia and selling it at prices five or six times higher in neighboring countries that have stronger demand. Bolivia is the poorest country in South America. This has been attributed to high levels of corruption and the imperialist role of foreign powers in the country since the colonization. Since 1985, the government of Bolivia has implemented a far-reaching program of macroeconomic stabilization and structural reform aimed at maintaining price-stability, creating conditions for sustained growth, and alleviating scarcity. A major reform of the customs-service in recent years has significantly improved transparency in this area. The most important structural changes in the Bolivian economy have involved the capitalization of numerous public-sector enterprises. The government also sent soldiers to guard its biggest tin mine following appeals from miners who say they are scared of the recent looting. About 150 troops were deployed to guard entrances at the vast Huanuni mine, the scene of violent clashes last year when rival miners fought for control of its mineral riches. The mine in the Oruro region, some 160 miles (260 km) south of the country's administrative capital La Paz, produces about 10,000 tonnes of tin-in-concentrate per year. Share & Bookmark             |
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| Last Updated ( Friday, 29 June 2007 ) |
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