Amid increased regional travel during the year-end holidays, Paraguay recorded nearly 567,000 cross-border movements between 23 and 31 December. Border posts registered 333,281 entries and 233,641 exits, according to the Directorate of Migration. The increase represents a 9% rise compared with the same period in 2024. Most activity occurred at major land crossings and the country’s main airport. Authorities say the figures confirm a strong recovery in regional mobility and tourism.
The surge was driven by holiday travel, family visits, and shopping trips across neighbouring borders. Most travellers moved through Encarnación, Ciudad del Este, and Asunción. Migration officials monitored traffic to maintain smooth operations and avoid congestion. The agency also highlighted a positive trend for the national economy and local services.
Encarnación leads foreign arrivals
Newcomers accounted for 74.5% of all entries during the final weeks of the year. Paraguayan citizens represented the remaining 25.4%. Most visitors were Argentine nationals, reflecting strong cross-border ties and seasonal tourism demand. Officials noted steady flows throughout the week, with peaks around Christmas and New Year.
The Encarnación–Posadas crossing recorded the highest volume of foreign travellers. Combined traffic across the San Roque González de Santacruz Bridge and the international train reached 173,532 foreign entries. Meanwhile, 110,043 foreign nationals exited through the same route. Local businesses reported increased activity, especially in hospitality and retail.
The Friendship Bridge, linking Paraguay and Brazil, also saw heavy traffic. The crossing recorded 25,928 entries and 21,240 exits. Of these, 14,991 entries and 9,024 exits involved foreign nationals. Authorities deployed additional staff to manage queues and improve processing times.
Airports and annual growth trends
The Directorate of Migration closed the year with a 25% increase in overall migratory flow. The airport alone recorded more than 1,285,623 passengers, setting a new annual record. Officials believe improved connectivity and regional stability supported this growth. Furthermore, infrastructure upgrades helped manage higher passenger volumes efficiently.
Silvio Pettirossi International Airport registered slightly more departures than arrivals during the period. The terminal recorded 22,140 entries and 22,908 exits. Most travellers were Paraguayan citizens, with 12,846 arrivals and 14,398 departures. Airlines reported high occupancy rates during peak holiday dates.
Looking ahead, authorities expect sustained demand during long weekends and summer holidays. Authorities plan to strengthen border staffing and digital systems. These measures aim to improve traveller experience and maintain security. As regional mobility continues to grow, Paraguay positions itself as a key gateway in the Southern Hemisphere.
