Paraguay’s forest product exports generated US$60.08 million in revenue between January and July 2026, from a total volume of 105,219 tonnes. This performance marks a significant year-on-year increase of 11% in value and 2.5% in volume, according to new data released by the National Forestry Institute (Infona).
The figures, compiled by Infona’s Directorate of Trade and Forest Industry, show a positive trend when compared to the same period in 2025, when 102,543 tonnes were exported for US$53.39 million. The term FOB, or Free on Board, indicates that the revenue is calculated at the point when the goods are loaded onto the shipping vessel, with the seller having fulfilled their obligation at that stage.
Strong monthly performance
Momentum in the sector was particularly strong in July, which was the best-performing month of the year so far. Exports during this period reached 19,612 tonnes, valued at US$11.99 million. These figures represent an 18% increase in volume and a 20% rise in value compared to June 2026, highlighting a significant monthly acceleration in trade.
This growth continues the upward trajectory seen in recent years. In 2025, Paraguay’s forestry sector surpassed US$100 million in exports for the first time, establishing a new record for the industry. That performance was largely driven by strong international demand for value-added products like plywood.
Key products driving growth
Charcoal and briquettes have continued to be the dominant products within Paraguay’s 2026 forest product exports portfolio. Between January and July, shipments of these goods amounted to 66,583 tonnes. This represents a 6.3% increase in volume, while the FOB value surged by 32.7% to reach US$31.24 million, indicating strong pricing and demand in international markets.
Plywood exports also demonstrated robust growth. Shipments totalled 20,583 tonnes, bringing in US$17.84 million. These numbers correspond to a 15.7% rise in volume and a 20.2% increase in value compared to the first seven months of 2025. The plywood sector has been a key area of expansion, with Paraguayan products reaching markets across the Americas, Europe, and the Middle East.
Diversification and value addition
The report from Infona also noted positive performance in other product categories. The export value of posts, forks, and corner posts increased by 40%, generating US$1.54 million. Additionally, carpentry works and pieces contributed US$2.82 million to the total revenue.
Furthermore, the data highlights the emergence of new products in the export basket. Shipments of fibreboard, a new addition, reached 226 tonnes for US$198,000. Exports of wooden tableware and kitchenware also doubled, with 133 tonnes shipped for a value of US$229,586. This trend towards diversification is seen as crucial for the sector’s long-term health.
A shift towards processed goods
While traditional exports such as sawn timber and wood sheets experienced some year-on-year declines, the overall growth was sustained by products that undergo greater industrial processing. Infona, the governing body for the administration and sustainable development of the country’s forest resources, noted that this shift is strengthening the sector’s value chains.
The cumulative results through July suggest a strategic move towards a more sophisticated production model. By increasing the share of processed products, Paraguay’s forestry sector aims to enhance its competitiveness in demanding global markets, attract investment, and support sustainable economic growth.
