In a historic breakthrough for Paraguay’s pork industry, The Republic of China (ROC, Taiwan) has officially announced a pork export pact that introduces a zero-tariff policy for Paraguayan pork exports, set to take effect on 5 July. This preferential trade measure is expected to significantly boost exports and employment across the country’s agribusiness sector.
A competitive edge
Until now, Paraguayan pork entered the Taiwanese market under a 12.5% tariff. With the elimination of this barrier through the newly signed agreement, Paraguayan exporters will enjoy a unique competitive advantage, as the country becomes the only pork-exporting nation granted zero-tariff access to Taiwan’s lucrative market.
“This is a game-changing moment,” said Minister of Industry and Commerce Javier Giménez. “It marks a before-and-after in our relationship with Taiwan, but more importantly, it will generate direct benefits for our local industry and job creation throughout the production chain.”
Economic impact and export growth
Paraguay currently ranks third among pork exporters to Taiwan. Government officials estimate that, with the new pork export pact, annual exports could double from US$ 50 million to over US$ 100 million in the coming years.
The Taiwanese ambassador to Paraguay, José Chih-Cheng Han, formally delivered the signed agreement from President Lai Ching-te to Paraguayan President Santiago Peña. The agreement specifically applies to fresh, boneless, frozen pork exported from Paraguay.
“This achievement is the result of coordinated efforts, diplomatic, economic, and technical, between both governments and the private sector,” noted Ambassador Han. “We’re confident this will bring substantial benefits to both nations, particularly to Paraguay’s productive sector.”
Taiwan: 81% of Paraguay’s pork export markets
According to National Service of Animal Health and Quality (SENACSA) numbers, Paraguay exported 3.98 million kilograms of pork to Taiwan between January and May this year, generating over US$ 12.7 million in revenue. Currently, Taiwan accounts for 81% of Paraguay’s total pork export market.
With the new zero-tariff policy now in place, Paraguay is poised to become a leading pork supplier in East Asia, an uncommon and strategic opportunity for economic expansion and international market positioning. This trade milestone adds to a growing list of bilateral achievements between Paraguay and Taiwan. In the academic sphere, the Taiwan Fellowship programme is also creating new opportunities for Paraguayan researchers and scholars.
The pork export pact reflects Taiwan’s continued commitment to strengthening its long-standing bilateral relationship with Paraguay, one of its few remaining diplomatic allies in Latin America.
