Paraguay’s soybean industry closed 2025 with strong industrial performance, despite persistent global price pressures. Total soybean production from the 2024/2025 harvest reached 10 million tonnes. Paraguay’s agro-industrial sector achieved its highest milling level in recent years. Processing totalled 3.19 million tonnes of grain. This represented 81% of installed capacity across the sector.
Meanwhile, soybean exports increased by 17% compared with 2024, according to CAPPRO. However, the total export value fell by 15%. This decline reflects competitiveness challenges, production costs, and long-term strategic objectives. The figures highlight the complex balance between volume growth and price volatility.
Strong industrial capacity supports export growth
Exports of soy-based industrial products generated more than US$1.15 billion. The entire soy value chain produced US$3.502 billion in foreign exchange earnings. These results confirm Paraguay’s available installed capacity and technical expertise. Market access also continues to support further expansion opportunities.
The industrial sector highlights that the 2025 performance demonstrates readiness for additional local processing. Growth in oil, meal, and by-product exports confirms industrialisation as a value-added growth engine. These developments also create employment opportunities and labour market diversification. Paraguayan products now reach more than 35 international destinations.
Despite higher processing volumes, revenue pressures remain evident. CAPPRO’s report indicates that cost competitiveness remains a key challenge. Long-term strategies focus on improving efficiency and logistics. Industry leaders also seek stability in export markets.
Production outlook remains positive despite lower prices
The initial harvest estimate was revised upwards from 9.29 million to 9.64 million tonnes. Analysts remain optimistic about upcoming campaigns. “If production reaches around 10.39 million tonnes, Paraguay could surpass the 11-million-tonne 2023/24 campaign in 2026,” said Larissa Barboza, Senior Market Intelligence Analyst at StoneX, in a recent report.
Although export revenue exceeded US$3.571 billion in 2025, it remained below 2024 levels. The previous year recorded US$4.174 billion in exports. Lower international prices continue to affect overall earnings. However, export volumes remain resilient.
Argentina and Brazil continue as the main buyers of Paraguayan soybeans. Argentina accounts for 80% of total exports. Brazil represents 14%, making it the second-largest destination. Together, these markets anchor Paraguay’s regional trade position. Nevertheless, diversification remains a strategic priority for future stability.
