"We are fighting against economic sabotage and kidnapping, and against external inflationary pressures that affect the pockets of Bolivians," reads a publication from the Ministry of Economy.

The Ministry of Economy, through a post on its social media, recalled that this State portfolio employs eight measures to “protect the economy of the Bolivian people” in the face of the current situation the country is going through.

"We are protecting the pockets of Bolivians by implementing eight measures to mitigate the rise in prices," reads the statement shared by the entity on Monday.

The measures include subsidies for fuel and food such as wheat, corn and rice, so that they can be purchased at cheaper prices.

There are also fairs organised by the Food Production Support Company (EMAPA), “price and fair weight control in supply centres”, the fight against “smuggling, profiteering and speculation” and “greater control at the borders”.

These measures are contrary to the arguments of the so-called “March to Save Bolivia” of the Movimiento Al Socialismo (MAS) in the state, which, according to the government, provokes rumors of shortages, to which the population reacts with an over-demand for products, which generates price increases and speculation.

Production

Other provisions adopted by the Ministry of Economy relate to production: “irrigation and technical development programs” and “programs to support and promote production.”

The Government believes that the productive sector will enable a better response to the economic situation, generating foreign currency and reducing imports.

"We are fighting against economic sabotage and kidnapping, and against external inflationary pressures that affect the pockets of Bolivians," the statement added.

According to the Government, the country's lack of foreign currency is due to the non-approval of external financing credits by the Legislative Assembly.

To date, there are 13 projects awaiting approval by legislators, for an amount exceeding US$ 1 billion.

The government also insists that Bolivia has had the lowest inflation rate in the last four years compared to other countries in the region.