Paraguay's exports under the maquila regime recorded significant growth of 25% in the first half of 2026, reaching US$717 million compared to US$575 million in the same period the previous year, according to data from the Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MIC).
The auto parts sector remains the leading export product, accounting for 32% of the total value. This is followed by the food and beverages segment (17%), apparel and textiles (16%), aluminum (6%), plastics (6%), electronics and electrical goods (6%), and chemical and pharmaceutical products (4%). The remaining categories account for 13% of external sales.
The Common Market of the South (Mercosur) remains the main destination for maquila exports. Brazil leads purchases with a 62% share, followed by Argentina with 15%. Outside the bloc, the Netherlands stands out with 9% and the United States with 4%.
The sector is also a major job creator, with 36,052 registered positions in June, an increase of 6% compared to the 34,129 jobs a year ago. The workforce is composed of 55% men and 45% women.
The geographical distribution of maquila industries is concentrated in four regions: Alto Paraná accounts for 48% of companies, the Central Department for 29%, Asunción for 9%, and Amambay for 6%.