SPECIAL REPORT
say it all. Paraguay has reached a relevant position in the
global market place, being the largest exporter of renewable
energy, 4th largest exporter of soya bean, the 6th of corn and
7th of beef worldwide.
Paraguay enjoys a competitive advantage over its
neighbours with its costs of production and cargo storage.
The country has made itself attractive to manufacturers by
reducing red tape and taxes and enabling fi rms to produce
more cheaply and make a bigger profi t. As a result, it is not
uncommon for such fi rms to even abandon their country of
origin and settle operations to Paraguay, like Hipasa SA, the
Brazilian producer of diapers, which now has a plant near
Asuncion, the capital city of Paraguay.
More than 100 new industries have been settled under
the Maquila Regime, to name a few are
Yasaki, Sumidenso, THN, Leoni, are top
10 world class industries that export to
the USA, Europe and Mercosur. These
investments have ratified Paraguay as
a platform and an export production
gateway to the world.
The Mission is active in promoting the
country’s attractive business & investment
opportunities through various channels,
however focusing on increasing interaction
between business representatives from both
the countries, to elevate the opportunities.
Q
Q
Are
Ar there any major events to be held in nearby future in
Paraguay
a
that will off er a great platform and will prove
fruitful
fru
for the Indian investors?
Between 6-21st of July, the International Fair of Livestock,
Industry, Agriculture, Trade and Services will take place
in the city of Mariano Roque Alonso, which is the largest
exhibition in Paraguay attracting more than 1,500 exhibitors
and 600,000 visitors every year. As a part of the fair, the
International Business Wheel Expo takes place, which brings
together international representatives and entrepreneurs from
Paraguay.
In 2018, 1,820 meetings were held
between national and foreign businessmen
from 549 participating companies, and
business expectations of around $157
million were created. The Expo, that will
take place for the 23rd time proves to be a
successful platform for foreign companies,
which are interested in selling products,
supplies, equipment and services for the
Paraguayan market.
Parag is one of the
Paraguay
world’s leading food
producers and exporters, as
well as the world’s biggest
renewable energy supplier.
With the most competitive
tax regime in the region
and a strategic location at
the heart of the continent
with easy access to both the
Pacifi c and Atlantic c Oceans
Co
Could
you briefl y share with us what
on
connects
Paraguay and India?
P
Paraguay and India share common
values such as representative democracy,
the protection of human rights and the
freedom of expression among others. As democracies, having
a similar demographic profi le with youth forming more than
65% of their respective populations, India and Paraguay have
similar aspirations as well as the need for imparting requisite
skills to their youth.
On a business level, the strength of both countries lies in
agriculture. Both countries also receive lots of sun and are
focused on benefi ting from solar energy. Paraguay appreciated
the International Solar Alliance (ISA) initiative launched by
India in 2015 and will be joining ISA soon.
Q
is looking forward to a stronger interaction with tourism
authorities and the private sector to leverage the potential.
On the tourism front, do you think Paraguay and India
ou do more? Is Paraguay looking at doing some
could
pr
promotional
campaigns?
Paraguay off ers immense tourism potential and natural
beauty to create a great opportunity for the travel industry to
promote it as a new tourist destination. There is an interest
to position country as a destination for MICE; promotional
activities in this area are on the way. However, the Mission
Q
How d
do you see the future trajectory of
rag
Paraguay-India
relationship?
Par
Paraguay is one of the world’s leading
food producers and exporters, as well as the
world’s biggest renewable energy supplier.
With the most competitive tax regime in the
region and a strategic location at the heart
of the continent with easy access to both the
Pacifi c and Atlantic Oceans, Paraguay can grow business of
Indian companies.
Seeing the enthusiasm of Paraguayan entrepreneurs
and rising interest in Paraguay from Indian enterprises, our
country can be used as a gateway to Latin-American and
Caribbean regions. The partnership in various segments is
only expected to rise.
Q
Wh lies ahead for India-LAC relations?
What
W
With recent high state representation visits, like of Vice
Presi
President Naidu to Paraguay relations between India and Latin
American Countries are strengthening. Certainly, the potential
and sizeable markets attract investment. Paraguay, with a
secure business climate and political situation is undoubtedly
a noteworthy investment destination among Latin American
Countries. It is my duty as an Ambassador to support the
initiatives between India and Paraguay for solid joint ventures
in the future and along with my colleagues at the Mission, I
will spare no eff ort to ensure its success.
PARAGUAY 2019 • 21