The city of Hohenau, 365 kilometres from Paraguay’s capital Asunción, took a major step towards industrial development in December 2025. Spanish-owned company South Atlantic confirmed its prawn processing plant at Pradera Alta Industrial Park. As a result, the project consolidates Hohenau’s first industrial park.
The initiative also positions the department of Itapúa as a growing hub for export-oriented manufacturing. The project involves a US$35 million investment and will create more than 500 jobs. Meanwhile, production will supply demanding markets, including the United States, Canada, and Europe.
Government support and industrial strategy
The announcement came during a visit by Minister of Industry and Commerce Javier Giménez. He described the project as the type of industry Paraguay seeks to attract. According to the minister, South Atlantic combines added value and formal employment. In addition, it benefits from competitive energy costs. The company will also use the Maquila regime, meaning it will export Paraguayan-made products to global markets.
“This anchor park will be the gateway for many other industries to a Paraguay that is re-emerging,” Giménez said.
Export focus and regional supply chains
The South Atlantic plant will focus exclusively on prawn processing. The plant will have a daily capacity of 24 tonnes. Notably, all production will be destined for export. This, according to the Ministry, strengthens Paraguay’s reputation as a reliable industrial and logistics platform. The raw material will be imported from Argentina by land. Therefore, the project integrates regional supply chains while adding local value.
Local impact and future growth
Hohenau mayor Enrique Hahn called the project a milestone for the town and Itapúa. He praised support from the national government and the Ministry of Industry and Commerce. Hahn said the park reflects years of planning and coordination.
“It is a source of pride for Hohenau and for Itapúa,” Hahn said. “Today, this Industrial Park is a reality.”
Currently, the park offers 64 available plots. Local authorities expect them to attract new industries. As a result, the park should boost employment, local development, and productive linkages. The project also positions Hohenau as a strategic destination for future investment.
Jobs and training opportunities
From the company’s perspective, the project introduces a new industrial activity to Paraguay. Cecilia Valdez, Production Director at South Atlantic, highlighted its employment impact. She said the company will be among Paraguay’s pioneers in prawn processing.
“We expect to generate more than 500 jobs, mainly for women, operating in two shifts,” Valdez said. “The plant will also provide on-site training.”
As construction advances, interest in remaining plots continues to grow. Consequently, the new industrial project signals Paraguay’s expanding ambitions.
