Paraguay spared in new US tariff round targeting 60 trading partners

The exemption shields Paraguay's export-heavy economy from duties of up to 12.5% that hit other Latin American peers, reinforcing its recent trade surplus momentum.

By Handelsavisen Newsroom · Automated 2026-07-25 11:53 UTC · 1 min read

Paraguay has been excluded from a sweeping new round of US tariffs that impose duties of 10% to 12.5% on approximately 60 trading partners, effective July 24, 2026.

The exemption stands out in a broad-based trade policy shift that has targeted numerous global economies, sparing the South American nation from immediate import costs on goods entering the United States.

The decision arrives as Paraguay has strengthened its trade position, recording a surplus of US$746.

The decision arrives as Paraguay has strengthened its trade position, recording a surplus of US$746.6 million in the first half of 2026.

This marks a decisive reversal from the deficit posted during the same period last year, driven largely by robust soybean exports.

By avoiding the new duties, Paraguay preserves the competitive edge that has fueled this turnaround, while other regional competitors face higher barriers to the US market.

The tariff round reflects a broader US strategy to recalibrate trade relationships, with officials seeking to balance revenue generation with strategic alliances.