Paraguay's maquiladora sector posted export revenues of USD 471 million in the first four months of 2026, according to the Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MIC). This represents an increase of USD 83 million compared to the same period in 2025, Ultima Hora reported.
Four product categories—autoparts, food products, clothing, and aluminum manufactures—accounted for 71% of total maquila exports between January and April. In April alone, exports reached USD 100 million, with more than 5,160 authorized operations. That month, the MIC approved 24 new maquila programs, which are expected to generate investments of USD 57 million and create 1,154 jobs.
The ministry noted that 92% of companies with approved maquila programs are concentrated in four departments: Alto Paraná, Central, Capital, and Amambay. Regarding export destinations, 82% went to Mercosur countries, with additional shipments to the Netherlands, the United States, Chile, and other international markets.
The maquila regime currently supports 35,357 direct jobs, an increase of 2,645 from a year earlier. The clothing, autoparts, intangible services, plastics, and chemical-pharmaceutical sectors together account for 72% of these positions. Women make up 45% of the workforce.
According to the Vice Ministry of Industry, maquila exports represented 69% of Paraguay's total industrial manufacturing exports in 2025. As of the end of the first four months of 2026, the sector's trade balance remained positive, with exports exceeding imports by 83%, indicating increased value-added in domestic production.