Brazil unveils US$ 66 billion infrastructure plan

The Brazilian government has outlined a stimulus package that aims to attract up to BRL 133 billion (US$ 66 billion) in private investment for the country's roads and railways over the next 25 years.

The aim is to award concession contracts to construct up to 8000 km of new roads and 10000 km of rail, together with similar contracts that aim to attract private investment for Brazil's for ports and airports.

It is hoped that more than half of the funds would be invested in the next five years - Brazil is hosting the 2014 World Cup and 2016 Olympic Games and the aim is to improve infrastructure ahead of these events.

A new state-run company would be created to manage future infrastructure planning, while Brazil's BNDES development bank would provide subsidised loans for the projects.