Work is now underway on a new highway in Bolivia connecting Villa Tunari and San Ignacio de Moxos. The US$415 million highway is being built in phases with the first stage of the project linking Villa Tunari and Isinuta, while the second will connect Isinuta and Monte Grande del Apere. The third stage will connect Monte Grande del Apere and San Ignacio de Moxos and work on this last section commenced earlier. Funding for the project is being split between Bolivia and Brazil. A major part of the funding is coming from Brazil, which is providing $332 million. Highway investment and development is crucial to building landlocked Bolivia's economy, while the country provides an important trade route for neighbouring Brazil.
