Peru's 2,500km Interoceánica Sur highway has generated economic benefits of over US$3bn for the country, according to transport regulator Ositran president Juan Carlos Zevallos.

"The second and third stretches alone have created 10,000 jobs and 30,000 indirect jobs. On top of that is the business generated in surrounding areas, possibly totaling over US$3bn," Zevallos was quoted as saying by state news agency Andina.

The highway's 300km second stretch connects towns Urcos and Inambari in Madre de Dios district, while the third stretch spans 403km connecting Iñapari and Inambari.

The Interoceanica Sur highway, also known as IIRSA Sur, includes stretches in regions Madre de Dios, Cuzco, Apurímac, Ayacucho, Puno, Arequipa, Moquegua and Tacna. The route is operated by concessionaire Interoceánica Sur (Conrisa), led by Odebrecht Perú.

Planned investments in Peru's infrastructure sector could reach US$6bn in the next five years, according to Zevallos.

Future initiatives include eight port projects, the second stage of work on the Bayóvar-Cajamarca electric train and the Panamericana highway from Ica to the southern border in Tacna.