Bolivia's President Announces New Fuel Decree Ending Protests and Blockades

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AI Summary
Bolivian President Rodrigo Paz announced a new decree following negotiations with labor unions, which had led to protests and blockades over the controversial decree 5503 that removed fuel subsidies. The new decree aims to maintain the subsidy removal while addressing other contentious provisions that sparked unrest. Paz highlighted the economic benefits of the subsidy removal, which saved the government $10 million daily, but noted that the blockades cost the economy $20 million per day. The agreement reached with the Central Obrera Boliviana (COB) has led to the cessation of protests, allowing for a path forward to stabilize the economy and address social concerns.
Key Details: • New decree to be issued following negotiations with labor unions. • Decree 5503 was issued on December 17, leading to significant protests. • Fuel prices increased by 86% to 162% compared to previous subsidies. • Daily savings of $10 million from subsidy removal, but blockades cost $20 million daily. • Minimum wage increased from 2,750 to 3,300 bolivianos as part of the agreement.