Total SA (NYSE: TOT) has started production at the Incahuasi gas and condensate field in Bolivia, bringing onstream 50,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day, the French oil major said on Aug. 3.

"Incahuasi is one of the largest gas and condensate fields brought onstream in Bolivia," Arnaud Breuillac, head of the group's E&P unit, said in a statement.

"Incahuasi's production will contribute to Bolivia's gas exports to Argentina and Brazil as well as domestic consumption", he said.

The Incahuasi Feld lies at more than 5,600 m (1,640 ft) beneath the Andean foothills, 250 km (155 miles) from the city of Santa Cruz de la Sierra.

The first phase of the field development involves three wells, a gas treatment plant and 100 km (62 miles) of associated export pipelines. The second phase of development, involving three further wells, is currently under consideration.

Incahuasi is situated in the Aquio and Ipati blocks. The development is operated by Total (50%), with partners Gazprom (20%), Tecpetrol (20%) and YPFB Chaco (10%).