Landlocked South American nation Paraguay has achieved a remarkable feat in the first quarter of this year, successfully introducing 17 domestically produced goods to 16 new international markets. According to a recent announcement by the Information Directorate of Rediex (Investment and Export Network), under the Paraguayan Ministry of Industry and Commerce, exports to these new markets have exceeded $6.9 million (USD).

The newly exported items encompass a diverse range of manufactured products, including edible gelatin, tapioca starch, electric bicycles, and bovine by-products. These products have been exported for the first time to countries such as France, Austria, the United States, and Uzbekistan, demonstrating Paraguay's efforts in export diversification. Additionally, various nations across different continents, including Hong Kong, Bermuda, and Suriname, have joined as new markets for Paraguayan goods.

The Paraguayan Ministry of Industry and Commerce emphasized the significance of this achievement, noting that while trade relations with these countries existed in the past, these mark the first exports of specific items.

Looking at the specific export items and volumes, chia seeds worth $83,280 were exported to Kazakhstan, while ice cream ($80,926) and gelatin capsules ($280,781) found their way to Brazil. Furthermore, processed bovine leather valued at $175,209 was exported to the Czech Republic, and cigarette filters worth $103,617 were shipped to Canada for the first time.

In addition, Hong Kong received copper scrap worth $151,258, Uzbekistan imported bovine by-products valued at $50,945, Bermuda purchased shorts worth $54,858, Venezuela imported aluminum construction materials valued at $86,171, Austria received tapioca starch worth $113,288, and India imported glycerin valued at $122,699.

Argentina saw its first imports of grain ethanol and steel structures, while Suriname received cut tobacco, France imported gelatin, Uruguay received laminated glass, Bolivia imported electrical cabinets, and the United States welcomed electric bicycles, further enhancing the diversity of Paraguay's export portfolio.

This achievement is attributed to the Paraguayan government's proactive export promotion policies and the continuous efforts of local businesses. Notably, with 80% of Paraguay's total exports being transported via the Paraná-Paraguay waterway, efficient waterway management is highlighted as playing a crucial role in strengthening export competitiveness.

Moving forward, Paraguay is expected to build upon this success by exploring even more diverse products and markets, thereby contributing to national economic growth. In particular, the focus is likely to be on expanding exports of high-value-added manufactured goods to improve the export structure and secure new growth engines.

A Paraguayan government official stated, "This opening of 16 new markets is a significant milestone that demonstrates the potential and competitiveness of the Paraguayan economy. We will continue to support the recognition of more Paraguayan products in the global market through ongoing market research and the development of tailored export strategies."

Meanwhile, this achievement can be interpreted as a positive sign that Paraguay is strengthening its inherent competitiveness and diversifying its export markets amidst increasing global economic uncertainty, thereby enhancing its resilience to external shocks.