The World Bank has approved a $150 million project to support infrastructure improvements and sustainable tourism in the Argentine province of Neuquén. The initiative, titled “Resilient Infrastructure for Regional Economic Development and Job Creation,” is designed to enhance regional economies and create jobs.
According to Rolando Figueroa, Governor of Neuquén, “Infrastructure investment and institutional capacity building related to tourism are engines of provincial development and part of a virtuous circle that improves quality of life and generates progress through socially sustainable and territorially balanced growth.” He also stated, “Tourism is the second driving force of Neuquén’s development, after energy, and we have found in the World Bank a reliable partner to enhance and grow it, working as a team.”
The project aims to benefit about one million people living in or visiting Neuquén. Nearly 300,000 residents in the regions of Pehuén, Southern Lakes, and Upper Neuquén are expected to see direct benefits.
Marianne Fay, World Bank Country Director for Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay said: “Patagonia is a unique tourist destination. To strengthen it, we support infrastructure investments that expand the range of tourist attractions in a sustainable way. Investing in tourism promotes local job creation, increases opportunities for residents, and drives provincial economic growth.”
Key components of the project include paving key routes for better connectivity with Chile; investing in priority tourist destinations by improving infrastructure and basic services; strengthening institutional capacities for tourism development with support for local entrepreneurs as well as women and youth; and implementing disaster risk management measures focused on wildfire prevention.
The program also emphasizes women’s inclusion by providing technical training and supporting women-led businesses. It will introduce integrated fire management measures such as improved data systems, early warning systems, risk reduction actions, and specialized firefighting equipment including aircraft.
The loan features a variable spread rate structure. It will be repaid over 32 years with a seven-year grace period. The national government provides a sovereign guarantee for this financing.