"A railway to connect the Peruvian Amazon and transform its economy."

The productive potential of the Peruvian Amazon has long been a topic of interest, but also of frustration. In a context where many believe that this vast region lacks the necessary resources to justify significant investment in infrastructure, the case of Brazil stands out as a clear example that development is possible with proper planning. In particular, the construction of a railway connecting the jungle to the coast could radically change the economic dynamics of the Peruvian Amazon, giving it immeasurable value. Brazil has managed to transform its Amazon into an economic powerhouse, with a gross domestic product (GDP) of around 80 trillion dollars. This success did not come by chance; it was the result of over two decades of consistent work in research, development, and infrastructure, allowing them to go from being food importers in the 1980s to becoming the world's leading exporters of various agricultural products. This experience should serve as a model for Peru, which holds similar wealth but has yet to capitalize on it effectively. The proposal for a railway connecting the Peruvian coast with Pucallpa, deep in the Amazon, raises questions about the viability of such a large-scale project. Many critics argue that there is not enough production in the region to justify its construction. However, this view seems limited to a short-term perspective and does not take into account the potential that could be activated with the implementation of this infrastructure. The development of a train would not only facilitate the transport of products but also incentivize production and large-scale trade. Historically, many infrastructure projects have been conceived in contexts of skepticism, yet they have ended up transforming economies and communities. Examples such as the Panama Canal or the Central Railway of Peru demonstrate that investment in infrastructure can be a catalyst for sustainable development. The last train built in Peru, the Central Railway, was key to the growth of the central highlands of the country, and its success is largely due to its ability to connect markets. Without this train, many of the riches from the interior of the country would not have been able to be utilized. The construction of a railway connecting the jungle with the coast is not only a matter of connectivity but also of economic strategy. A train would facilitate the entry of Amazonian products into international markets, opening the door to export potential that is currently restricted. This is further complemented by the possibility of accessing one of the largest markets in the world, the Asian market, which increasingly demands raw materials. This is a vital point that must be considered in the context of a country seeking to diversify its economy and reduce its dependence on traditional sectors. The recently inaugurated port of Chancay, with the presence of President Xi Jinping, offers a unique opportunity to propose the connection between the Amazon and the coast. This project could not only be the most important infrastructure work of the 21st century but also represent a fundamental step towards the economic integration of South America. History has shown that cooperation between nations is crucial for achieving significant advances, and the coastal train could be the first step towards a more united and prosperous future. On the other hand, it is essential that this type of proposal be accompanied by a legislative framework that encourages investment. The creation of laws that promote sustainable development, research, and technical assistance can be the perfect complement to this infrastructure project. A long-term plan that considers not only the construction of the train but also the development of production in the region is essential to ensure that the Amazon fulfills its true potential. The integration of the Amazon into the international market would not only benefit Peru but could also create a virtuous circle on the continent. The construction of a railway connecting different South American countries, from Colombia to Argentina, could create a network of exchange that boosts regional growth. These types of initiatives could enable South America to become a relevant player in the global economy, sustainably leveraging its abundant natural resources. In conclusion, investment in infrastructure, especially in the case of a railway connecting the Amazon with the coast, could be the key to awakening a true El Dorado in Peru. With the right approach and a long-term vision, Peru could not only improve its GDP but also transform the lives of millions of Peruvians. The opportunity is in our hands; it is time to plan and act on a grand scale.