Uruguay

While Mercosur recorded an 8% increase in beef exports between January and April 2026, Paraguay saw a 25% contraction, the largest relative decline in the bloc. The average price per ton rose 17%, but shipped volume fell to 87,899 tons.

The Asunción Stock Exchange (Bvpasa) is working with the Central Bank of Paraguay to enable the trading of currency futures (forwards) on the stock market as a hedging tool for importing and exporting companies amid exchange rate volatility. Bvpasa President Pablo Cheng also highlighted the potential of the Investor Pass program to attract foreign capital and provide liquidity to the market.

Of the nearly 9,800 people serving house arrest in Paraguay, only 123 use electronic ankle monitors, according to official data. The government admits that most lack effective monitoring and plans to expand the system.

While the European Union restricts imports of Brazilian beef due to the use of antibiotics as growth promoters, Paraguay claims to have already complied with the regulation since 2023/2024, ensuring the continuity of its exports to the bloc.

Uruguayan Gianina García Troche, partner of drug trafficker Sebastián Marset, was heard for the second time by the Paraguayan Public Ministry on May 12 at the Emboscada women's prison. The interrogation was conducted by prosecutor Deny Yoon Pak and takes place on the eve of the deadline for the conclusion of the investigation, which expires on May 20.

Leaders of Uruguay's meatpacking industry have expressed support for maintaining foot-and-mouth disease vaccination, a position that aligns with Paraguay's productive sector, which rejects the Senacsa's intention to suspend immunization before 2030.