*Bolivia’s economy & finance minister, Marcelo Montenegro, has announced a loosening of export restrictions as part of efforts to build up the country’s low international reserves. Speaking following a meeting with private sector representatives, Montenegro said that “products are being freed for export which previously needed a long certification process” aimed at ensuring that there was an adequate supply at fair prices on the domestic market. He did not specify which products will be targeted for the lifting of export restrictions. Montenegro also announced nine other measures to address shortages of US dollars, including the issuing of dollar bonds by the central bank and the promotion of private investment in biofuel production.