27-03-07 Work on a $ 1.9 bn pipeline that Bolivia claims will quadruple its natural gas exports to neighbouring Argentina will begin in October, the Bolivian government said.
Bolivia agreed late last year to increase natural gas exports to Argentina from the current maximum of 7.7 mm cmpd over a 20-year period starting in 2010.

"This project marks the restarting of investments," Bolivian Energy Minister Carlos Villegas said in the eastern city of Santa Cruz after agreeing a timeframe for the project with Argentine Planning Minister Julio de Vido.
Both ministers said they hope the 1500 km pipeline will start operation before the end of 2009. Engineering work would be finished in May, and the bidding process would take place in June so that construction work can start in October.