Paraguay is set to introduce its first Forestry Technical Baccalaureate, with the new educational programme scheduled to launch in 2026. The development marks a significant step forward in formalising and strengthening professional training within the nation’s vital forestry industry, after forestry exports reached a record high in 2025.
This landmark initiative is the result of a coordinated effort between the Ministry of Education and Sciences (MEC), the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security (MTESS), and the National Forestry Institute (Infona), alongside the productive sector.
Paraguayan shipments exceeding US$100 million
On 22 December 2025, the Paraguayan forestry sector achieved a historic milestone, with consolidated shipments exceeding US$100 million. According to records updated fewer than ten days before the end of the year, the sector recorded total exports of 195,816 tonnes, valued at US$100,594,433.
This accomplishment not only fulfils initial projections but also underscores the vitality of key areas such as plywood production, establishing sustainable forest management as a strategic cornerstone for attracting investment and creating high-value employment in competitive international markets.
“The route to attracting investment”
In this context, the president of Infona, Cristina Goralewski, emphasised that these results validate the sector’s strategic direction.
“The performance of the forestry export sector demonstrates that Paraguay is advancing towards a more sophisticated production model, with greater added value and the ability to compete in demanding markets. This is the route to generating employment, attracting investment, and consolidating sustainable forest management,” she noted.
Main exported products
Charcoal and briquettes continue to lead Paraguay’s forestry exports. In November 2025, shipments reached 14,287 tonnes valued at US$5.64 million, reflecting year-on-year increases of 25% in volume and 24% in value.
Brazil received the largest volume of these exports, whilst markets such as the United States and the United Kingdom stood out for their higher FOB values.
- Plywood: This product is consolidating its position as one of the highest value-added items in the sector. November exports amounted to 2,980 tonnes worth US$2.52 million. Year-to-date figures show increases of 23% in volume, and 32% in value, underscoring its strategic importance in export diversification.
- Raw wood: Exports showed a recovery in November, with 1,199 tonnes shipped for US$416,564. This performance indicates an improvement in export prices, albeit with a more concentrated destination structure, primarily regional markets.
Ongoing transition and combating illegal deforestation
Regarding raw materials, Goralewski emphasised the ongoing transition to forest plantations, particularly eucalyptus, which now account for 80% of the wood used by the industry. This shift aligns with extensive reforestation efforts that have resulted in more than 340,000 hectares planted across the country.
The head of Infona also highlighted progress in tackling illegal deforestation through early warning systems that utilise satellite imagery. These tools have enabled a significant reduction in such incidents over the past decade.
A positive 2025 for the sector
Finally, Goralewski described 2025 as a positive year for the forestry sector: “There are always areas for improvement, but we celebrate this historic growth and the strengthening of our exports.”
Goralewski further noted that 2025 recorded the lowest incidence of forest fires in the last five years, largely due to abundant rainfall that maintained moisture levels in ecosystems.
Read more: Inside Paraguay’s Forestry Boom: How Exports Hit Historic Highs In 2025.
