LIMA, Peru — The Peruvian government has officially launched a market sounding process for two major railway projects in the southern region, with a combined estimated investment of US$5.37 billion. This initiative, announced by the Ministry of Transport and Communications (MTC), aims to strengthen mining logistics, boost tourism, and enhance territorial connectivity through the “PPP 5.0” public-private partnership model.
The Projects
The MTC has identified two core corridors that are central to the nation’s strategy to improve export competitiveness and regional mobility:
- Imata–Espinar–Cotabambas Railway: This 405-kilometer line represents the bulk of the investment, with a budget of approximately US$4.52 billion. It is designed to create a vital logistics corridor connecting the regions of Arequipa, Cusco, and Apurímac with the Port Terminal of Matarani, significantly accelerating the transport of mining production to international markets.
- Chinchero–Cusco Railway: With an estimated budget of US$853 million, this project will link the future Chinchero International Airport with the city of Cusco. The line is expected to benefit over 1.37 million people, optimizing mobility for both local residents and the thousands of tourists visiting the historic former Inca capital.
Strengthening Peru’s Logistics Hub
“Peru is committed to railway development as a state policy,” stated Vice Minister of Transport Juan del Carmen Haro. By leveraging the PPP 5.0 framework, the government seeks to foster transparency and efficiency, inviting private partners to participate in long-term infrastructure construction, operation, and maintenance.
These rail developments are expected to:
- Boost Mining Exports: By providing a reliable, high-capacity transport link from the Andes to Pacific ports.
- Drive Tourism: By improving connectivity to one of the world’s most visited cultural hubs.
- Foster Integration: By bridging the infrastructure gap between the southern regions and the rest of the country.
Strategic Context
This announcement comes as part of a broader, ambitious national railway portfolio promoted by PROINVERSIÓN, worth over US$20 billion. As Peru moves to consolidate its position as a key logistics hub in Latin America, these projects join a growing list of high-impact tenders, including the Lima–Ica Railway and the modernization of existing regional lines.
The market sounding phase is a critical step in gauging private sector interest and refining the technical and financial parameters of the concessions before the formal bidding process begins.
For stakeholders and investors interested in the technical documentation and upcoming project timelines, further information can be found via the official PROINVERSIÓN portal.