Paraguay’s corn exports for the 2025 harvest have surged significantly, with shipments from June to September tripling compared to the same period last year, according to the Paraguayan Chamber of Grain and Oilseed Exporters and Marketers (Capeco). The data reveals an impressive 1,272,612 additional tonnes shipped, marking a 245% increase over the previous season.
The export cycle for the 2025 harvest, which began in June, has seen an unprecedented pace driven by strong global demand and significantly improved production volumes. By September, a total of 1.7 million tonnes of corn had been exported, compared to just 519,124 tonnes during the same period in 2024. This remarkable growth underscores Paraguay’s rising prominence in the global grain market.
Record-breaking export growth
Sonia Tomassone, Capeco’s Foreign Trade Advisor, attributed the success to a bumper harvest, with projections estimating a yield of 5.6 to 6 million tonnes for 2025, a substantial increase from the 3.7 million tonnes recorded in 2024.
“The enhanced production and strong international demand have created a perfect storm for our exporters,” Tomassone noted.
Looking at the calendar year, from January to September 2025, Paraguay exported 2,293,108 tonnes of corn. That is double the volume shipped in the same period last year. This export boom has generated US$384 million in foreign exchange earnings, a US$203 million increase compared to 2024.
Leading exporters, and industry dynamics
Brazil remains the primary destination, accounting for 45% of exports, but Paraguay has successfully diversified its markets. New shipments have reached Peru, Bolivia, and Middle Eastern countries, including Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, and Oman, reflecting a strategic expansion beyond traditional regional buyers.
The ranking of exporters is led by the companies LDC and Cargill, Each with 11% of the market share. Followed by Copagra (9%), Agrofértil and LAR (8%), among others. In total 58 companies were responsible for Paraguay’s corn exports from the 2025 harvest as of September, demonstrating the sector’s increasing competitiveness and diversification in global markets.
Also read about Paraguay’s forestry boom: How exports hit historic highs in 2025.
