Argentina has started exporting natural gas to Brazil through Bolivia for the first time. This transition follows a three-way agreement and utilizes YPFB’s infrastructure. The Brazil-Bolivia Gas Pipeline aims to increase its capacity over five years to meet industrial demands. Meanwhile, Bolivia’s fuel supply has stabilized, assuaging concerns over shortages.
Argentina has commenced the exportation of natural gas to Brazil, utilizing the infrastructure of Yacimientos Petrolíferos Fiscales Bolivianos (YPFB). This milestone, reported on Tuesday, follows a three-way agreement established in late 2024. Gas from TotalEnergies’ Vaca Muerta field in Neuquén is transmitted through Argentina’s TGN and TGS pipelines to Salta, and subsequently via Bolivia’s YPFB network, including the Madrejones pipeline to Brazil.
The Brazil-Bolivia Gas Pipeline (Gasbol) currently has a capacity of 30 million cubic meters per day but is presently operating at only 10 million. However, plans are in place to increase this capacity over five years to accommodate Brazil’s industrial demands. This transition allows Bolivia to shift from exporting to leasing its pipeline utilization and reinforces its significance as a key energy conduit in the region.
This agreement marks a significant revitalization of Argentina’s energy sector, suggesting potential future investments in hydrocarbons. Initial gas shipments from Argentina to Brazil are set at 2 million cubic meters per day. Furthermore, YPFB President Armin Dorgathen announced that Bolivia’s fuel supply, particularly gasoline and diesel in major cities such as Santa Cruz, La Paz, and Cochabamba, has been stabilized, contributing to reduced lines at gas stations.
YPFB currently distributes over 7.7 million liters of diesel and 8 million liters of gasoline daily, with additional shipments reaching the Chilean port of Arica. Dorgathen took the opportunity to dispel rumors regarding his alleged fleeing from Bolivia or any overcharging related to fuel imports, asserting that prices are consistent with international benchmarks. Dorgathen highlighted that gas not exported to Argentina will now be directed to Brazil, where it is more competitively priced and in higher demand.
In Bolivia’s central cities, the stabilization of the fuel supply has progressed significantly. Dorgathen noted, “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 further elaborated on the arrival of additional shipments at the port of Arica and dismissed speculation about his departure from Bolivia, affirming his ongoing commitment to the country’s energy sector.
The recent export of natural gas from Argentina to Brazil through Bolivia marks a pivotal move in enhancing energy cooperation within the region. With plans to increase the capacity of the Brazil-Bolivia Gas Pipeline and stabilize fuel supplies in major Bolivian cities, this partnership underscores the growth potential in South America’s energy resources. Continuous dialogue regarding regional energy pricing will further clarify market dynamics and improve supply chains.
Original Source: en.mercopress.com
