Paraguay is preparing to enhance its international presence by positioning itself as a dependable trade and investment partner for Japan. This effort is part of Paraguay's participation in Expo Osaka 2025, where the country aims to increase exports to the Japanese market and encourage strategic investments.
The Intelligence Directorate of the Vice Ministry of Rediex has identified several Paraguayan products with potential for increased shipments to Japan. These include fresh or refrigerated beef, rice, soybeans, soybean meal, electrical cables, ethyl alcohol, and sugar. These products complement established exports such as sesame, chia, and corn.
Expo Osaka opened on April 13 and is expected to attract around 30 million visitors with participation from 160 countries. The expo is anticipated to generate USD 18 billion in business opportunities. Paraguay will be involved throughout the six-month duration of the event.
According to data from the Central Bank of Paraguay (BCP), between 2021 and 2023, Paraguay exported an average of USD 37.3 million annually to Japan. Sesame and chia seeds accounted for a significant portion with a 46% share; soybean cakes followed with 33%, and corn represented 17.8% of shipments. Scrap copper products and dried vegetables had smaller shares.
Conversely, imports from Japan averaged USD 156.3 million during the same period. The primary imports were vehicles, auto parts, odorous substances, and high-value-added manufactured goods.
In terms of investment, Japanese foreign direct investment in Paraguay reached USD 71.9 million in 2022. The Paraguayan government aims to boost this figure through investment promotion agreements, strategic infrastructure cooperation, and carbon credit opportunities.
Expo Osaka provides an opportunity for promoting greater integration between Paraguay and Japan. Initiatives under consideration include opening the Japanese market to Paraguayan meat exports and waiving visa requirements for Paraguayan citizens holding joint passports.
Under the theme "Ikigai," meaning "the reason for being," Paraguay will showcase itself as a dynamic country committed to sustainable development and open trade at Expo Osaka. This participation marks a new phase in the historically positive relationship between Paraguay and Japan.
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