The 27th edition of Expo Yguazú has opened its doors at the Plaza de la Amistad, featuring more than 100 companies and an agenda that combines culture, production, gastronomy, entertainment, and business opportunities. The Expo Yguazú 2026 exhibition will run until 30 August, with free admission for all visitors.
Organisers estimate that between 30,000 and 35,000 people will attend the four-day event. This year’s expo holds special significance as it coincides with the 65th anniversary of the Yguazú district and the 90th anniversary of Japanese immigration in Paraguay. The district of Yguazú, founded on 22 August 1961, was established as a Japanese agricultural colony through an agreement between Paraguay and Japan.
Expo Yguazú 2026: A tribute to community pioneers
The opening of the event was marked by a civic-military parade to honour the community’s pioneers. This activity aims to maintain the expo’s connection with the origins of the Yguazú Colony, where the exhibition first emerged as part of its anniversary celebrations. The history of Japanese immigration to Paraguay began in 1936, and the Yguazú settlement has become a prosperous hub for agriculture and a blend of cultures.
A key attraction of this year’s edition is the presence of over 100 businesses distributed throughout the various sectors of the grounds. Producers, entrepreneurs, and artisans are also participating, providing them with a platform to display their products and forge commercial contacts. The previous edition of the expo welcomed more than 30,000 visitors and generated economic activity exceeding US$1 million, reinforcing its impact on local tourism and commerce.
Infrastructure improvements and diverse attractions
The organising committee has implemented significant improvements to the venue’s infrastructure. These enhancements include the renovation of toilet facilities, works in the Plaza de la Amistad, and the refurbishment of other spaces intended for both exhibitors and visitors. These investments reflect the sustained growth of the expo in recent years.
This year’s programme features a wide range of attractions for the whole family. The agenda includes the return of hot air balloons, the traditional Japanese Carnival, the Farmers’ Fair, and the fourth edition of the Asado Festival. Additionally, the event will host the Miss Yguazú pageant, artistic performances, and a variety of gastronomic offerings.
A reflection of local development
The mayor of Yguazú, Mauro Kawano, commented on the evolution of the exhibition and the municipality’s tourism development: “The Expo Yguazú is modernised and other tourist spots have also been developed. Ten years ago, we began to encourage tourism within our municipality and today we are seeing the results of that process.”
The expo is a collaborative effort organised with the participation of the Cooperativa Yguazú Agrícola Ltda., the Asociación Japonesa de Yguazú, local entrepreneurs, and civil representatives from the community. The event will continue until Saturday, 30 August, positioning itself as one of the primary events for promoting tourism, production, and commerce in the district.
For more info, find Expo Yguazu on Instagram.
