RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – The arrival in Paraguay of Chilean consortia such as the Luksic group (with its Enex brand), making strategic alliances with the Cartes group, represent agreements of great relevance to continue generating economic development, market positioning and capital injection in the country.
The ambassador of the Republic of Chile Jorge Ulloa provided specific details of this great commercial exchange experienced between the two countries. In addition, he outlined future investment projects, large infrastructure development plans and the important trade line that will continue to generate greater bilateral revenues in the near future.
“We are in a global village, the world is becoming increasingly smaller and the needs for food and improved quality of life are a permanent demand not only in Paraguay and Chile, but worldwide. For this reason, trade is a key element in improving the way we live,” the ambassador said.
He added that diplomacy has ceased to be a link between peer governments and has become a true bridge between peoples. Thus, trade relations not only link governments directly, but also a trade link and cooperation between individuals.
“In the current context, this type of links between large groups (Luksic-Cartes) that ultimately benefit the countries are being consolidated. Chilean investment is growing in Paraguay and this should be enthusiastically welcomed. This will improve the quality of life of both Paraguayans and Chileans. The more employment is generated, the better for everyone,” he emphasized.
DIPLOMACY
With respect to the role of embassies, he said that it is to provide information and knowledge of how each country works. He said that they are open to all those who seek to invest in Paraguay. He stressed the fundamental role of the General Directorate of Export Promotion, also known as ProChile, which was key in promoting the advantages of investing in Paraguayan lands.
“The ProChile office in Paraguay and under this embassy achieved the best results in the world, it is a great source of pride. We are here to support and promote, not to impose or direct, only to raise awareness of what the Chilean investor wants to know,” he said.
NEW INVESTMENTS
In addition to the export of Paraguayan meat, of which Chile is the main trading partner, important areas of exchange are opening up between the two nations. Renewable energies are an area under study by investment groups. In mining, Paraguay is perceived as having a potential yet to be explored and it could be analyzed for future development, where Chile could contribute all its experience in the field.
“Water will become a scarce commodity. Therefore, Paraguay must diversify its energy matrix,” he said.
DIGITAL AND BIOCEANIC
The ambitious “Digital Highway” project will unify Paraguay, Argentina, Chile and Brazil with countries on the other side of the hemisphere through fiber optic cables. As a result, the speed of communication with the East will operate in real time, facilitating long-distance negotiations.
“This great project will offer the opportunity to close commercial ties with countries in different parts of the world such as Korea, New Zealand, Thailand, among others. To this we must add another project of vital importance, such as the bioceanic highway that will allow Paraguay to be the key between the Atlantic and the Pacific, developing its Chaco territory. Paraguay will cease to be a landlocked country and will expand towards the rest of the world,” he said.
Chile and Paraguay are planning to sign the ACE 35 agreement before March next year. This free trade agreement will allow Paraguay to join Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay and Chile in a trade exchange of great scope. President Sebastián Piñera is expected to visit Paraguay in 2022 for the official announcement.
REDISCOVERY OF PARAGUAY
According to the diplomat, Paraguay has been promoting its brand at a regional and global level, allowing a greater visibility of its advantages to investors who are increasingly looking at the Paraguayan market with better eyes. Several groups from different fields are monitoring the Guarani land as an attractive destination for new opportunities.
“Paraguay is still a little known country at a regional level with respect to the investment potential it offers. Due to the great advances in trade matters, Paraguay is being rediscovered as a destination for investment capital of large business groups. For years it has had an outstanding economic stability and this is very attractive to investors,” he pointed out.