Paraguay’s Development Finance Agency (AFD) Drives Economic Growth Through Housing Loans

Pedro Espinola Special Correspondent

mesa.entrada@senatur.gov.py | 2025-08-22 21:46:40

 

ASUNCIÓN, PARAGUAY — According to a recent report by the Development Finance Agency (AFD) of Paraguay, a total of $195.9 million in loans were approved as of June 2025, with the housing sector accounting for the largest share. This funding is expected to create 43,417 jobs and benefit 3,407 families and businesses.

The AFD approved 1,640 loans for the housing sector, providing approximately $68.7 million in support. This significant portion of the total loan amount is contributing greatly to the revitalization of the construction industry. This investment alone is expected to create around 20,249 jobs, successfully addressing both housing stability and employment creation for the people of Paraguay.

Beyond the housing sector, the commercial and services sectors received over $55.4 million through 1,436 loans. This funding will be used to strengthen small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and revitalize local economies, with an estimated 10,622 new jobs to be created. Additionally, the agriculture and livestock sector, which forms the backbone of the Paraguayan economy, received over $27.3 million in support, benefiting 242 individuals and creating 970 jobs.

For the "My First Home" (Mi Primera Vivienda) program, Itaú Bank was the most active, approving $8.3 million (209 people), followed by Atlas Bank with $7.9 million (199 people), and Basa Bank with $7.5 million (207 people). In the "My Home" (Mi Casa) program, Itaú Bank approved $5.6 million (78 people) and GNB Bank approved $2.8 million (40 people). Major financial institutions are actively participating in the AFD's housing loan programs, helping to make the dream of homeownership a reality for the public.

Meanwhile, the Guarantee Fund for SMEs (Fogami) is playing a crucial role in helping SMEs secure financing, having provided guarantees worth $288 million to 14,992 companies as of June 2025. These guarantees reduce the lending risk for financial institutions, making it easier for SMEs to obtain funding.

The AFD is promoting balanced growth in the Paraguayan economy through financial support for various sectors, including housing, commerce, and agriculture. Investment in the housing sector, in particular, is playing a key role in improving the quality of life and creating jobs for citizens. The AFD plans to continue developing various financial products and expanding its support to foster the sustainable development of Paraguay.

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