ASUNCIÓN, Paraguay - Paraguay has firmly established the Americas and Asia as its primary export destinations, demonstrating consistent growth in these regions, according to Celso Bareiro, head of Paraguay's Single Window for Exports (Ventanilla Única de Exportación).
In an interview with 650 AM radio, Bareiro highlighted the significant role of Mercosur's duty-free benefits in fostering robust trade with neighboring countries. He also noted the advantages gained through certificates of origin for exports to Asian markets.
Specifically, Bareiro detailed key exports, stating, "We export meat, hides, grains, processed foods, and charcoal to Taiwan. Israel receives shipments of meat, feed, charcoal, and vegetable oils. The United Arab Emirates imports feed, compound feed, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics from Paraguay. Here, 'feed' refers to animal fodder."
Bareiro mentioned that the agency continuously monitors foreign trade trends through monthly and quarterly evaluations, emphasizing that "meat and grains, in particular, consistently present opportunities for the development of new markets."
While not providing specific export projections, Bareiro affirmed the proactive role of the Foreign Investment and Export Network (Rediex), under the Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MIC), in supporting market expansion. He explained that Rediex operates various sector-specific working groups to assist companies in their export endeavors.
Paraguay's principal exports extend beyond the aforementioned items to include soybeans, corn, sugar, and timber. Conversely, its main imports consist of machinery, fuels, vehicles, and chemical products. As a member of Mercosur, the Southern Common Market, Paraguay actively strengthens economic cooperation with Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay, thereby promoting intra-regional trade. Furthermore, Paraguay is diversifying its Asian markets, expanding trade not only with Taiwan, Israel, and the UAE but also with Vietnam, India, and other nations. Notably, the Paraguayan government is aggressively pursuing opportunities within the Halal market, leveraging its strong agricultural and livestock sectors, which is anticipated to bolster trade relations with the Middle East.
Bolstered by its Mercosur membership advantages and amicable relations with Asian countries, Paraguay has successfully positioned the Americas and Asia as its core export markets. Its ongoing efforts to cultivate new markets, particularly for agricultural and livestock products, are expected to be a crucial driver of Paraguay's economic growth.
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