Following nearly 14 hours of talks in La Paz, the Bolivian government and representatives of the heavy trucker sector reached an agreement, averting the threat of roadblocks planned for Thursday.

Leader of Truck Drivers Confirms Suspension: Héctor Mercado, leader of the truck drivers, announced the suspension of mobilization threats. He highlighted reaching “good agreements on tax matters” and reassured the public that roadblocks won’t start on Thursday.

Separate Deal Reached, Roadblock Lifted in Sipe Sipe: In a positive development, another agreement was reached in recent hours, resolving a separate conflict. Minister of Environment and Water Alan Lisperguer signed a deal with leaders of social organizations in Sipe Sipe (Cochabamba). This agreement led to the lifting of the roadblock on the Cochabamba-Oruro Highway (Ruta Nacional 4) that had been maintained by local residents.

Previous Threats and Demands: It’s important to note that this is not the first time the heavy transport sector has threatened blockades. On June 16th, they temporarily suspended similar actions after a meeting with President Luis Arce, but no concrete agreements were reached at that time.

Truck Drivers’ Concerns: Their demands included the resignation of Public Works Minister Édgar Montaño, solutions to address the economic situation (dollar shortage and fuel shortage and lines), and measures against alleged abuses by Customs, the Tax Authority, and the National Directorate for the Prevention and Investigation of Vehicle Theft (Diprove).