The Vice-Ministry of Industry released the maquila sector’s data for 2025. From January to September of this year, 35,000 jobs have been created, and shipped manufactured goods abroad reached US$921 million. The maquiladora exports registered an increase of US$117 million in value, compared to the same period in 2024. In June 2025, Paraguay’s maquila sector reported exports had totalled US$478 million as of May. This was a 12% increase (equating to US$52 million more) over the same period last year.
The main sectors were auto parts, clothing and textiles, aluminum products, food products, and plastics. In the automobile sector, it is particularly wires and cables, which saw a striking 26.4% increase and accounted for for 32.6% of total maquila exports as of August 2025.
Maquila workforce
According to the Vice-Ministry of Industry’s data, there are currently a total of 35,064 jobs linked to the maquiladora industry. In September alone, 265 more jobs were registered than at the end of August. 2024 saw an increase of 6,550 new jobs.
In the workforce, 71% of the employees are concentrated in the auto parts, clothing, intangible services, plastics and related manufacturing, and pharmaceutical chemical sectors.
Imports and exports
Imports from the sector reached US$505 million through September, resulting in a positive trade balance for the maquila industries. Exports exceed imports by 83%. This demonstrates the significant incorporation of added value into products manufactured in the country under this regime.
Regarding the destination of shipments, Mercosur ranks first, absorbing 81% of the total. Apart from Paraguay, the Mercosur includes Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, and Uruguay. Brazil stands out as the main trading partner, acquiring 64% of Paraguayan exports. Argentina us second with 15%. In South America as well, exports go to Chile and Bolivia (3% each), and Uruguay (2%). Exports also reach the United States and The Netherlands with 4%.
