Industry & Maquila · September 21, 2026
Maquila-industry exports reached USD 1.010 billion between January and August 2026, up 26% from the same period in 2025. The growth consolidates the regime as one of Paraguay’s main engines of export-led industrialization.
An industry gaining scale
Auto parts, garments, beverages and aluminum manufactures accounted for around 70% of shipments. Mercosur received 77% of exports, mainly Brazil and Argentina, while the regime supports close to 40,000 jobs.
Imports of inputs reached USD 529 million through August, compared with exports of USD 1.010 billion. The difference is not equivalent to domestic value added, but it shows the regime’s capacity to transform inputs and place industrial production in foreign markets.
More projects and a broader productive base
During 2026, new maquila projects were approved in activities including assembly, garments, software and intangible services. The expansion broadens the regime beyond its traditional industrial segments.
In 2025, maquila represented a majority share of Paraguay’s exports of manufactures of industrial origin, reinforcing its weight in the country’s export strategy.
What it means for investment
The regime provides a framework geared toward export production, with a 1% single tax and customs benefits established under current regulations. For an investor, however, the fiscal incentive is only part of the equation: demand, logistics, energy, labor availability, rules of origin and effective market access must also be assessed.
Growth also creates opportunities for providers of maintenance, automation, packaging, industrial software, logistics, certification, laboratories, technical training and professional services.
The next challenge
Product and destination concentration remains a risk factor. Mercosur absorbs more than three quarters of shipments, and a significant share of exports is concentrated in a few categories. The next stage will depend on diversifying markets, increasing value added, and developing suppliers and specialized capabilities within Paraguay.
Radar reading: maquila has already demonstrated the capacity to grow and gain scale. The next leap will be to convert that volume into greater diversification, value added, specialized employment and new investment linked to the industrial chain.
Scope and sources
This article is editorial analysis based on public information. It does not constitute an investment recommendation.
Primary source: Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MIC), maquila exports through August 2026.