Vicuñas in Bolivia

Although local knowledge of their economic exploitation is still poor, a new look at vicuña may offer important economic possibilities for the inhabitants of the High Andes in Bolivia. This article investigates the possibilities for a change in vicuña production systems in Bolivia, which could result in increased economic benefits whilst guaranteeing the sustainability of the system. Its main conclusion is that future vicuña production systems can certainly be made more efficient and sustainable, but that more effort is needed to develop new marketing systems and technologies if the inhabitants are to take full advantage of the possibilities that vicuña production offers.