Paraguay has successfully completed its first official export of watermelons to Uruguay, shipping a 21,000-kilogram consignment in October 2026. The watermelons came from Guayaybí, in the department of San Pedro. The shipment marks a significant milestone for Paraguay’s fruit industry, having met Uruguay’s strict phytosanitary requirements.
This initial shipment represents a new commercial opportunity for Paraguayan fruit growers. In 2023, Paraguay produced over 65,000 tonnes of watermelon, generating approximately US$12 million from domestic sales and exports. As previously reported by The Asunción Times, the country has been strengthening its position as a regional watermelon producer. The opening of the Uruguayan market offers another opportunity to expand the industry’s international reach.
Rigorous inspection process
The shipment underwent a thorough inspection and verification process conducted by technicians from the National Service for Plant and Seed Quality and Health (Senave). Inspectors confirmed that the watermelons complied with all established phytosanitary conditions. They also verified that the fruit met the necessary quality and safety standards for international trade.
Senave is the Paraguayan state agency responsible for regulating and certifying the quality of plant products. The agency supports the country’s agricultural policy by ensuring exports meet international market standards. This helps protect and strengthen Paraguay’s position as a competitive agricultural exporter.
New trade framework
A work plan for exporting fresh cucurbitaceous fruits, including watermelons, enabled this first shipment. The plan establishes an Integrated System of Risk Mitigation Measures. This framework ensures the safe export of Paraguayan agricultural products to Uruguay.
Carmen Berni, the technical general director of Senave, commented on the milestone: “The opening of this market represents a new opportunity for the national fruit sector, by facilitating the access of Paraguayan watermelon to international destinations under established phytosanitary conditions.”
In this process, Senave actively supports producers through surveillance and phytosanitary control programmes. These initiatives are aimed at maintaining the country’s phytosanitary status and contributing to the opening and consolidation of foreign markets for Paraguayan agricultural goods.
Opportunities for producers
The export marks a significant step forward for Paraguay’s fruit industry. It creates valuable opportunities for watermelon growers, especially for those who meet the stringent requirements necessary to compete in international markets.
The successful shipment to Uruguay is expected to encourage further growth in the fruit sector. It provides a clear pathway for producers in regions like San Pedro to expand their operations and contribute to the country’s growing portfolio of exportable agricultural products.
