Paraguay's Foreign Trade Sees Positive Momentum with Strong Maquila Growth and Stable Exports

Paraguay closed the first quarter of 2025 with encouraging signs in foreign trade, driven by an 8.2% increase in exports under the maquila regime and a stable exchange rate that supported competitiveness. Total exports reached USD 4,087.7 million—slightly ahead of imports—which reflects a positive trade balance and growing resilience in key industrial sectors.

While traditional exports like soybeans and electricity saw a temporary dip due to global price fluctuations, other products such as beef, soybean oil, aluminum, and manufactured goods showed solid growth, helping to balance overall performance.

Imports also expanded by 4.3% year-over-year, signaling increased local demand and industrial activity. Analysts highlight that maquila shipments—mainly involving processed goods—played a key role in keeping Paraguay’s export engine moving forward.

Meanwhile, meat exports to the United States grew in volume, pushing up Paraguay’s share of exports to that market from 2.7% in past years to over 4% in 2025.

With a dynamic industrial base, a favorable trade balance, and expanding markets, Paraguay continues to position itself as a competitive and attractive player in the global trade landscape. Source: MarketData