ASUNCIÓN, Paraguay – Paraguay's Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG) is actively encouraging the cultivation of bell peppers (locote) as a key driver for revitalizing the economy of small-scale farmers. As a core institution in the agricultural sector, MAG is dedicated to reducing rural poverty and improving the quality of life for farmers through its 'Project to Support Inclusive Transition (PATI)'. This project is based on facilitating financial access, providing expert technical assistance, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

The Directorate of Agricultural Extension (DEAg) under MAG is presenting bell peppers as a stable and profitable crop for small and medium-sized producers, aiming to foster economic stability in the horticulture sector. Green bell peppers, in particular, have been selected as a strategic crop for the PATI project, expected to stabilize farm incomes.

During the first half of 2025, the PATI project directly benefited 160 farmers in the Central Department and western Caaguazú region. They were supplied with seeds suitable for the local climate, and received professional technical support and training to improve yields and quality. Edgar Frutos, a horticultural expert at MAG, emphasized, "Green bell peppers are proving to be a stable alternative compared to other crops. Consistent demand and maintained prices make farm income planning easier."

Currently, approximately 600 farmers across Paraguay are engaged in bell pepper cultivation, with a significant number combining it with intercropping or crop rotation methods involving tomatoes. Unlike tomatoes, which experience volatile price fluctuations, bell peppers maintain an average price of 7,000 Guaraníes (G.) per kilogram, soaring up to 15,000 G. per kilogram during peak season. This provides farmers with predictable income, contributing to their economic stability.

Furthermore, bell peppers boast excellent cultivation efficiency. The varieties supplied by MAG can yield up to 3 kilograms per plant in just three months after transplanting. Year-round cultivation is possible with minimal facilities, helping to reduce reliance on imported produce through consistent supply.

The project includes technical training on soil management, the use of green manure, selecting robust varieties, and agricultural planning, with ongoing guidance from local technicians. According to expert Frutos, Paraguay's daily consumption of green bell peppers ranges from 70 to 90 tons, and MAG's goal is to gradually meet this demand with domestic production.

He added, "We are supporting farmers to move beyond simply planting and harvesting, to participate in a fairer and more profitable production chain." MAG also plans to establish collection and classification centers to add value to the produce.

The goal for the second half of 2025 is to expand the number of PATI project beneficiaries to over 1,200 farmers. Such efforts are expected to not only generate employment and income in rural areas but also play a crucial role in strengthening the nation's food sovereignty.