The Imesi discount on fuel is back in the news in Uruguay. Economy Minister Gabriel Oddone informed coastal mayors that the benefit, which had previously been reduced from 40% to 32%, will be raised again to 35%. The measure responds to pressure from departmental authorities and complaints from residents along the border with Argentina, where the price difference between gasoline and diesel directly impacts the local economy.
1. What is the Imesi discount on fuels?
The Imesi discount on fuel is a tool intended to balance prices in border areas. In Uruguay, the Specific Internal Tax (Imesi) heavily impacts the final price of gasoline. Without this reduction, filling up in cities like Salto or Paysandú would be much more expensive than crossing into Concordia or Colón, where prices are lower.
2. How it affects the border with Argentina
The price difference has always generated a constant flow of Uruguayans crossing to refuel on the other side. This impacts local service stations and reduces tax revenue. The Imesi discount on fuel seeks to stem this drain and maintain a degree of competitiveness on the coast.
3. The claim of the mayors of the western coast
Departmental chiefs Nicolás Olivera (Paysandú), Carlos Albisu (Salto), and Guillermo Levratto (Río Negro) demanded that the benefit be returned to 40%. They pointed out that the reduction to 32% further complicated the situation for local stations, which had lost customers to Argentina. Oddone responded that the government would bring the discount back to 35%, though not to the previous level.
4. 5 striking keys to the new adjustment
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The profit rises from 32% to 35%, without reaching 40%.
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The measure would come into effect on September 1.
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It will cover border stations with Argentina.
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It arises from the negotiations between the Ministry of Economy and mayors.
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It aims to reduce the flight of consumers to the neighboring country.
5. Opposition opinion and local reactions
The opposition had harshly criticized the previous reduction, accusing the government of harming the border economy. Merchants and gas stations celebrated the 35% increase, although many insist it is not enough.
6. Estimated date and application of the measure
Although there is no signed resolution, official sources indicated that the increase in the Imesi discount on fuel will be implemented starting September 1. It will be closely monitored by the Ministry of Economy.
7. Expected impact on the border economy
The adjustment may bring relief to service stations and industry workers. However, the gap with Argentina will remain wide as long as low prices persist on the other side of the river.
8. Conclusion and open debate
The Imesi discount on fuel remains a central tool in Uruguay's border policy. The new adjustment seeks to mitigate consumer flight, although it does not fully resolve the gap with Argentina.
👉 And you, do you think this 35% increase will be enough to stop Uruguayans from crossing into Argentina to fill up with gas?
