Argentina has begun exporting natural gas to Brazil via Bolivia’s YPFB network. The Gasbol pipeline is set to increase capacity to meet Brazil’s industrial demands. YPFB President announced improved fuel supply situations in Bolivia while addressing pricing concerns. This collaboration may bolster future energy investments in the region.
Argentina has initiated its first exports of natural gas to Brazil, utilizing the infrastructure managed by Yacimientos Petrolíferos Fiscales Bolivianos (YPFB), as reported on Tuesday. The gas, supplied by TotalEnergies from the Vaca Muerta field in Neuquén, travels through Argentinian pipelines TGN and TGS to Salta, then enters Bolivia’s YPFB network, including the Madrejones pipeline, before finally reaching Brazil. This export process is enabled by a tri-partite agreement signed in late 2024.
The Brazil-Bolivia Gas Pipeline, known as Gasbol, currently has a throughput of 10 million cubic meters per day, but it is set to increase capacity to 30 million cubic meters over five years to better serve Brazil’s industrial needs. This shift in pipeline use will generate revenue for Bolivia while reinforcing its status as a vital energy corridor in the Southern Cone region.
The agreement marks a reactivation of Argentina’s energy sector and heralds future investments in hydrocarbons. Initially, the gas exports will amount to 2 million cubic meters daily. Meanwhile, YPFB’s President Armin Dorgathen reported improvements in fuel supply across Bolivia’s major cities like Santa Cruz, La Paz, and Cochabamba, reducing waiting times at fuel stations. YPFB is now distributing over 7.7 million liters of diesel and 8 million liters of gasoline daily, with additional shipments expected at the Chilean port of Arica.
Addressing concerns regarding fuel pricing and supply, Dorgathen refuted rumors of overcharging for fuel imports or intentions of leaving Bolivia. He stated that fuel prices are consistent with international standards and outlined plans for a forum to discuss regional fuel pricing comprehensively. Furthermore, he noted that gas previously exported to Argentina will now be redirected to Brazil, where demand is higher and prices are more favorable.
In the Bolivian cities of Santa Cruz, La Paz, and Cochabamba, fuel supply has been stabilized. Dorgathen commented, “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 also mentioned the ongoing arrival of additional shipments into Arica, reinforcing the smooth operation of fuel distribution in Bolivia. Notably, he dismissed rumors of fleeing to other countries as entirely false.
Argentina has commenced natural gas exports to Brazil via Bolivia, enhancing energy collaborations within the region. The Gasbol pipeline aims to increase capacity within five years to meet rising demands. With YPFB stabilizing fuel supplies in Bolivian cities and addressing pricing concerns, this initiative potentially signals robust future investments in energy for both Argentina and Bolivia. Overall, regional dynamics point towards a strengthened energy partnership in South America.
Original Source: en.mercopress.com
