Labour and employment in Bolivia

Carrasco Firma de Abogados

In the labour law field, Carrasco Firma de Abogados offers a full range of services, from preventative measures to dispute resolution. It also specialises in human resources and social security issues, and provides advice on the establishment and operation of occupational health and safety committees. The group offers assistance in the preparation of employment contracts and appeals, and advises on terminations and treatment of national and foreign personnel. Pablo Carrasco is a renowned practitioner in labour law, and leads the team alongside employment experts Boris Bustillos, Jaime Torrico and Rubén Zabaleta.

Responsables de la pratique:

Pablo Carrasco


Principaux dossiers


Moreno Baldivieso Estudio De Abogados

Moreno Baldivieso Estudio De Abogados acts as advisor to foreign embassies and international organisations on compliance with Bolivia’s labour regulations. With decades of experience in the field, the practice is well equipped to manage complex employment disputes, and provides clients with strategic advice. René Claure leads the team in La Paz, with a successful track record in negotiating terminations, internal investigations and advising on compliance. Practice co-head Paul Aramayo leads the team in Santa Cruz, and is an expert in matters related to disciplinary procedures, and in representing clients in cases of whistleblowing, unfair dismissal and discrimination. Natalio Zegarra is counsel at the firm, specialising in labour law and social security. At the senior associate level, Noelia Sanjinés provides employment advice to embassies in Bolivia, while Lilian Rodríguez assists companies during the hire, negotiation, dismissal and evaluation of personnel.

Responsables de la pratique:

Rene Claure; Paul Aramayo


Principaux clients

Embassy of the United States of America


Cervecería Boliviana Nacional (AB Inveb)


Latin American Development Bank (CAF)


Delegation of the European Union in Bolivia – EEAS


Korean Embassy in La Paz


Banco Do Brasil


Club Bolívar


Colombina


Industrias de Aceite


ENERFLEX


Principaux dossiers


  • Managing the legal transfer of Club Bolívar’s workforce to newly formed entities Bolívar 1925 and Kudret Desarrolladora Inmobiliaria.
  • Advising on Enerflex’s acquisition of Exterran, ensuring a seamless employment transition in Bolivia.
     
  • Defending Banco in over 20 labour litigations amid its liquidation, securing early resolutions through strategic conciliation.

PPO Indacochea

The multifaceted labour practice at PPO Indacochea has specialist expertise in areas including expat immigration, payroll, HR management, workforce reductions, salary adjustments and restructurings, as well as maintaining its own investigation unit that handles harassment claims. The team advises on compliance with labour legislation, assists with labour inspections and audits, as well as drafting policies, codes and employment manuals; it also represents national and multinational companies in collective bargaining processes, administrative proceedings and labour litigation. Alejandro Pemintel is an experienced negotiator who advises clients on interactions with trade unions and providing representation in judicial litigation and constitutional proceedings. Andere Indacochea is an expert in employment and social security legislation who advises on labour restructurings, dismissals and trade union matters; she also has an impressive track record in both individual and collective disputes, handling labour claims, conciliations and litigation. Practice director Rodrigo Montellano excels in the prevention and resolution of individual and collective labour disputes related to dismissals, collective bargaining and workplace harassment; while fellow director Fernando Escobar has experience before the Supreme Court of Justice and the Constitutional Tribunal and focuses his practice on appeals and last instance remedies. At senior associate level, Meliza Aliaga has expertise in labour restructuring processes; Jeannine Lozada focuses on compliance with social and labour regulations and additionally advises on wage cuts, job eliminations or alterations and employer replacements; Luis Enrique Pérez specialises in labour processes initiated by former employees, contractors and unionised workers; and Luz Marina Iriarte is active in labour termination and reorganisation processes. Intermediate Jorge Nazrala is also noted.

Responsables de la pratique:

Alejandro Pemintel; Rodrigo Montellano


Les références

‘Their teamwork in tackling a topic, presenting the guidelines to follow, and their pursuit of results.’

‘Knowledge, willingness and kindness.’

Their responsiveness and prompt attention to our needs are truly outstanding. Alejandro Pemintel and Rodrigo Montellano consistently demonstrate a high level of professionalism and ethical conduct when providing us with legal advice.

Principaux clients

Nestlé Bolivia


Minera San Cristóbal


Unilever Andina Bolivia


AXS Bolivia


Fopeca Sucursal Bolivia


Vidrio Lux (Owen Illinois)


Avícola Rolon


Granja Avícola Integral Sofía


Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu


Tecnofarma


Principaux dossiers


  • Advising FOPECA in a collective labour lawsuit initiated by more than 100 former employees.
  • Advising and supporting Astara Ovando in the planning and execution of a restructuring process which consisted of the dismissal of 60 employees.
  • Advising and supporting a client in all labour and social security matters, including labour union matters, social security coverage and efficiency of social labour costs.

Dentons Guevara & Gutierrez

Dentons Guevara & Gutierrez is active in the labour and employment market, acting for a stellar client list including oil and gas, mining and pharmaceutical companies as well as foreign embassies. The firm is regularly called upon to resolve social security and occupational welfare issues, as well as employee dismissals and transfers, new employment contracts and policies, and labour audits. In addition to this, it is able to provide ongoing labour advice such as hiring strategies and restructuring operations. The team benefits from the experience of Primitivo Gutiérrez, who has in-depth knowledge of arbitration, union issues and conflict prevention. He leads the practice with senior associate Luis Gutiérrez, who brings expertise in corporate matters, litigation and social security law. Vannia Busch stands out for preventive labour risk management, and Ana Lora is an experienced arbitrator and litigator.

Responsables de la pratique:

Primitivo Gutiérrez


Les références

‘Extensive experience in labour dispute resolution and litigation with senior management, extensive knowledge of complex labour laws, prompt response to labour-related inquiries, and innovative conflict resolution proposals.’

‘Their knowledge and experience in judicial labour processes is by far the best in the market.’

Principaux clients

Occidental Petroleum Corporation (Oxy)


Ferrostaal Graphics (Kodak)


Embassy Of The Kingdom Of Netherlands In Perú And Bolivia


World Wildlife Fund (WWF)


Pepsico


Repsol E&P Bolivia


Alicorp


Mathiesen Group


Siemens


American Airlines


Principaux dossiers


  • Assisting OXY on the restructuring of its operations, mainly in terms of payment alternatives for its workers.
  • Assisting WWF on several important issues, including new employment contracts which were developed for all WWF employees, and new policies for the organisation.
  • Defending Pepsico in a million-dollar audit process followed by a government entity that collects social security contributions.

Gumucio & Abogados

Gumucio & Abogados focuses on providing proactive guidance on labour issues. It is well equipped to represent clients in complex labour disputes and administrative appeals, and has a successful track record for managing union negotiations and terminations. There is a focus on social security law, where the firm has experience defending clients in matters related to sickness, death, disability and long-term insurance claims. Daniel Gumucio leads the team, specialising in high-stakes disputes, workforce compliance and labour engineering. Practice co-head Karina Jordán is a skilled negotiator and has a successful track record handling complex union-related issues. She also demonstrates expertise in social security matters, workforce restructuring and labour audits.

Responsables de la pratique:

Daniel Gumucio; Karina Jordan


Les références

‘Their unwavering willingness to make you feel like a special and unique client in their services undoubtedly makes them the best firm we’ve had. It’s worth highlighting the ease of service provided not only in their offices but also with assistance at our facilities.’

‘The patience they show in explaining work-related cases to us, plus their constant concern for the company and protecting us from any difficulties or new developments that arise with the Ministry of Labour and Social Security (MTEPS).’

‘What sets Gumucio’s lawyers apart is their preventive approach. They ensure we comply with all labour regulations, so that we are protected in the event of any contingency. Daniel Gumucio and Karina Jordán are distinguished labour lawyers, and their advice gives us peace of mind. Furthermore, Alejandra Tarima is always attentive to our needs, ready to answer any questions and manage daily contingencies. This way, the company is never alone, as it always has the support of the firm and its legal team.’

Principaux clients

BMW Bolivia


Honda Bolivia


Kawasaki Bolivia


KTM Bolivia


TotalEnergies EP Bolivie


Repsol Bolivia


PR Marriott Drilling


Newrest Bolivia Soporte


Ajinomoto del Perú


Mediaproducción Bolivia


Heidelberg Bolivia


Iglesia Bautista Internacional


AJ Vierci Bolivia


Empresa de Servicios Secwrapbol


YPFB Andina


Frigorífico BFC


Granja Avícola Sofia


Cotas


Empacar


Red Uno de Bolivia


Industrial Forestal Cimal IMR


Cerámica Gladymar


Famosa Bolivia


Makro Parque


Nitro Grupo de Seguridad


Importaciones y Representaciones Retail Bolivia


Jugos Bolivianos


Compañía de Alimentos Avesca


Cerámica Norte


Pollos Kiky


Pizza Río


IC Norte


Alca Group


Servicios de Limpieza SER BEN


Tienda Amiga ER


Makro Fidalga


Telchi


Embotelladora de Refrescos Internacionales POP


Exomad


Indusfranco


Isolcruz


Colegio Santo Tomás


Micro Agro


Bolivian Tractor


City Group


Casa de Cambio Alemán Transatlántico


Principaux dossiers


  • Advising Frigorífico BFC on the successful de-articulation of its union by securing the total revocation of its board’s recognition, which had been improperly granted by the Ministry of Labour without fulfilling the necessary legal requirements.
  • Advising SECWRAPBOL on a Social Benefits Payment Claim, addressed by someone who worked for another company based in Paraguay but with common shareholders, managing to reduce the amount in 85%.
  • Advising IC Norte on a Social Benefits Claim addressed to one of the shareholders.

Bufete Aguirre, Quintanilla, Soria & Nishizawa Sociedad Civil – (BAQSN)

Bufete Aguirre, Quintanilla, Soria & Nishizawa Sociedad Civil – (BAQSN) excels in supporting its clients in administrative and judicial conflicts, and in providing advice on compliance with Bolivian labour regulations and obligations. The firm is well placed to advise on conflict prevention, workforce terminations and drafting labour agreements. Practice co-head Mauricio Torrico is experienced in labour and social security law, negotiating issues between workers and employers, and advising non-profit organisations. He leads the team alongside Carolina Aguirre, who brings significant corporate expertise and has assisted clients with labour restructurings. Gonzalo Prudencio is a valuable member of the team, and advises on day-to-day labour and social security matters.

Responsables de la pratique:

Carolina Aguirre; Mauricio Torrico


Principaux clients

Tetra Pak


MSI Reproductive Choices (Marie Stopes International)


Childfund


Latam Airlines


Thales Group


Thayne Bolivia


Laboratorios Maverbolivia


Centro Agropecuario Integral Red Surcos Bolivia


Principaux dossiers


  • Advising on labour and social security matters for MSI Reproductive Choices, and drafting labour contracts, employee terminations and adaptation of corporate policies.
  • Advising on tax and social security matters for Tetra Pak.
  • Reporting and drafting of labour agreements, and restructuring labour relationships for Laboratorios MaverBolivia.

FERRERE

Ferrere advises on a wide range of labour and employment matters, including employment agreements, labour conflict prevention and regulatory compliance. The practice also specialises in immigration, social security matters and labour litigation. It assists clients with corporate restructuring, addressing complex issues such as mass terminations and policies to control labour costs. Raised ot the partnership in September 2024, 'excellent' practice head Pablo Heredia has 'extensive experience in labour and restructuring consulting' as well as individual and collective negotiations; he also represents clients in complex labour disputes. Senor associate Christian Vargas  leads on social benefits proceedings, and advises companies on the implementation of internal policies and labour compliance frameworks as part of a wider practice that takes in agrbusiness, arbitration, litigation and labour matters. Former associate Daniel Antequera left the firm in January 2025.

Responsables de la pratique:

Pablo Heredia


Les références

‘Pablo Heredia is an excellent lawyer, with extensive experience in labour and restructuring consulting.’

‘The labour team, led by Pablo Heredia and joined by Erick Vargas and Tamara Monroy, demonstrated their ability to resolve conflicts with labour regulations, enabling the company to complete a complex process with a high percentage of positive results and without inconveniences for employees and the company.’

‘It’s important to highlight the comprehensive and personalised approach they provide to us as clients, through their diverse experience, in addition to their up-to-date knowledge of the latest trends. We also highlight their clear and consistent communication. Compared to other firms, they stand out for their adaptability and proactive approach.’

Principaux clients

Avianca


BASF Bolivia


Cargill Bolivia


Cruzimex Comercio Exterior y Distribución


Corteva Agrisciences


Productos Animales – PRO ANI


Incontrol


Distribuidora Cummins


Constructora Gonzáles


Grupo Empresarial “Vaca Morena”


Pure Travel Bolivia


HH Global


Industrias Pacheco


Schlumberger Surenco


The Mare Group


Plasticaucho Bolivia


The Fini Company


Inforfactory – UNIR


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Cruzimex on three labour disputes concerning the collection of social benefits initiated by former employees.
  • Provided strategic advisory services to The Mare Group in Bolivia regarding labour restructuring efforts in the cities of La Paz and Cochabamba.
  • Provided comprehensive legal counsel to Plasticaucho throughout the entire process of closing the company’s business operations in Bolivia.

Reinicke Ostria - Estudio de Abogados S.R.L

Reinicke Ostria - Estudio de Abogados S.R.L advises both employers and employees on labour and employment issues, with a successful track record defending employees in cases of unlawful dismissal, and employers in contentious-administrative lawsuits. Additionally, clients call on the firm for advice on reducing labour costs, organisational restructuring and audits. Practice head Enrique Reinicke Ostria specialises in matters related to labour reinstatement and recognition of employees’ labour rights, such as retirement and disability. He has also assisted companies in staff dismissals and union disaffirmations.

Responsables de la pratique:

Enrique Reinicke


Les références

‘Ready to answer any questions or dispel doubts.’

‘Specialised personnel in any legal matter you need.’

‘Overall the team is extremely qualified to take on any case, I am constantly impressed by their level of professionalism and transparency.’

Principaux clients

Farmaelias


Biofarma


Centro Médico “San Alberto”


Institución Promotora De Educación De Adultos En Alfabetización Y Literatura Cristiana En Bolivia “Alfalit”


Estación De Servicio Loreto


Spiedos El Granero


Cerámica Rio Grande


Campero


Principaux dossiers


Serrate Paz y Asociados

The labour practice at Serrate Paz y Asociados provides specialist advice on workforce restructuring, regulatory compliance and risk management, as well as assisting in labour litigation. It has also demonstrated an ability to support clients with corporate social responsibility programmes, and in ensuring compliance with labour audits and inspections. Leading the team is Carola Constanza Serrate Tarabillo, who has extensive experience in restructurings, union relations, work organisation systems, and both collective and individual labour lawsuit processes. She also has a successful track record in advising on layoffs and labour contingencies.

Responsables de la pratique:

Carola Constanza Serrate Tarabillo


Principaux dossiers


Würth Bedoya Costa Du Rels Abogados

Würth Bedoya Costa Du Rels Abogados advises on a range of labour issues, including restructuring, union matters and social security. The firm also has extensive experience representing clients in complex judicial and constitutional processes, as well as administrative procedures such as labour audits. Led by Karla Würth, the team has strong regulatory knowledge. Carla Saracho is an expert in labour and administrative proceedings, with a successful track record in collective bargaining.

Principaux dossiers


C.R. & F. Rojas – Abogados

Representing clients in high-stakes employment cases is a core focus for the labour team at C.R. & F. Rojas – Abogados, which has a successful track record in disputes both in and out of court. The firm integrates labour advisory with corporate governance and compliance, and demonstrates expertise in workforce reorganisation and contract structuring. Sandra Salinas leads the team with Antonio Sanjinés, who is knowledgeable in labour and social security issues.

Responsables de la pratique:

Antonio Sanjinés; Sandra Salinas


Principaux dossiers


Orienta Legal

Labour litigation, compliance audits and business reorganisation processes are among the specialisms of the labour and employment team at recently established firm Orienta Legal. The group also demonstrates expertise in advising companies on labour risk prevention, strategic planning and human resources matters. Ximena Pereira leads the team, with extensive experience representing local and international clients in labour disputes and collective bargaining. She has also negotiated union demands for major Bolivian companies, representing clients before the Ministry of Labour. Practice co-head Daniela Soliz specialises in employment relations, workforce restructuring and compliance with labour regulations.

Responsables de la pratique:

Ximena Pereira; Daniela Soliz


Principaux clients

Landicorp Inversiones


Mainter


Rodaria


Gran Alimento


Tstore


Curtiembre Vis Kuljis


Continental Servicios Petroleros


Import Export Salvatierra


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Curtiembre Vis Kuljis on the negotiation of a union demand document, its resolution, negotiation process, and communication management.
  • Advising Urrutibehety on the defence strategy for a reinstatement process that concluded favourably for the client after three judicial instances.
  • Advised TRANSBERCAM on the withdrawal of a partner and employee, which involved a corporate, labour and procedural negotiation to reach a successful conclusion for the client.

Villegas Aldazosa & Asociados Soc. Civ.

Working together with the firm's corporate team, the labour and employment department at Villegas Aldazosa & Asociados Soc. Civ. advises on a range of matters such as employment restructuring, labour conflicts and large-scale dismissals. The firm regularly performs due diligences for its clients, and negotiates, drafts and reviews labour agreements. Practice co-head Gabriel Villegas Aldazosa represents clients from a range of sectors, covering agroindustry, pharmaceutical and transportation, among others. He leads the team with Sergio Dávila Corrales, who advises companies on compliance with Bolivia’s labour regulations. Senior associate Maria Nydia Gantier is also very active in the department's mandates.

Responsables de la pratique:

Gabriel Villegas Aldazosa; Sergio Davila Corrales


Principaux clients

Swiftdrive (Indrive Bolivia)


Fundación Amigos De La Naturaleza (Fan)


Agropartners


Droguería Inti


Prh Bolivia


Belia Bolivia


Imbex


Principaux dossiers


  • Conducted due diligence for FAN, ensuring compliance and operational improvements.
  • Assisted INTI, Bolivia’s largest pharmaceutical company, in a strict Labor Ministry inspection, which the company passed.
  • Advised BELIA – Yanbal Group company on reducing staff, ensuring compliance in restrictive environments.