Soybean producers claim that the suspension of domestic supply certificates affects small, medium and large producers.

The halt in the delivery of certificates of internal supply for soybean exports is causing concern among Bolivian producers, who say they could face economic losses of up to US$250 million.

Jaime Hernández, general manager of the Association of Oilseed and Wheat Producers of Bolivia (ANAPO), said that foreign sales stopped on January 1, seriously affecting farmers.

“This situation is causing serious economic damage to all producers, regardless of size. There is already a decrease in the price of soybeans in the local market, which is lower than the export price. We estimate that potential losses could exceed US$ 250 million,” said Hernández in an interview with Unitel.

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Anapo recalled that Supreme Decree 3,920, in force since 2019, guarantees the export of 60% of the national soybean production, subject to verification of domestic supply and fair prices.

However, the lack of issuance of the necessary certificates has paralyzed foreign sales, which has generated a unanimous complaint among producers who denounce a disincentive to production and accused it of being a measure that seeks to extort the sector.

"We ask the Government to comply with the regulations and issue certificates of domestic supply and fair price. Producers need to receive a correct price for their production, which is the opportunity price for export," explained the executive.

Hernández also mentioned that the leaders of the small producers will inform their members about the situation and will evaluate the actions to be taken in the coming days.

Meanwhile, the Government of Luis Arceno has made a statement on the matter, neither to justify the alleged veto on soybean exports nor to refute the claims of the production sector.