Paraguay's maquiladora industries reached exports of US$ 471 million in the first four months of 2026, an increase of US$ 83 million compared to the same period the previous year, according to data from the Vice Ministry of Industry. Growth was driven mainly by the auto parts, food, clothing, and aluminum manufacturing sectors, which accounted for 71% of shipments made between January and April.
In April alone, exports under the maquila regime totaled US$ 100 million, with more than 5,160 authorized operations. In the same month, 24 new maquila programs were approved, with projected investment of US$ 57 million and an estimated generation of 1,154 new jobs.
Currently, maquiladoras employ 35,357 people directly in the country, with a year-on-year increase of 2,645 positions. Women hold 45% of these jobs. Regarding destinations, 82% of exports went to Mercosur countries, as well as the United States, Chile, and the Netherlands.
The report highlights that maquiladoras represent one of the strategic sectors of the national economy, with a positive trade balance and increasing incorporation of added value in Paraguayan production.