The Ministry of Transportation launched an invitation to national and international bidders to participate in the bidding for the La Dorada (Caldas) - Chiriguaná (Cesar) railway corridor PPP project in Colombia.

This initiative, which will have a term of 10 years, aims at the construction, rehabilitation, improvement, maintenance and operation of the railway corridor, which is 526 km long, crossing 25 municipalities in five departments: Caldas, Antioquia, Santander, Norte de Santander and Cesar. Additionally, the connection with the northern section concessioned by Ferrocarriles del Norte de Colombia - Fenoco SA will be allowed. The project has a total investment of US$3.4 billion and is expected to enhance the country's competitiveness and logistics efficiency. Additionally, it aims to lower freight transportation costs by up to 20% and reduce annual CO2 emissions by 37,000 tons.

Both national and international companies are invited to take part in the bidding process, provided they meet the requirements. This ensures a diverse pool of bidders and maintains transparency throughout the process. Currently, 43 companies have expressed interest. The bidding process will close on February 7, 2025, with the award hearing set for April 3, 2025.