U.S. and Paraguay Cement Anti-Drug Alliance as Trafficking Threats Rise

The governments of Paraguay and the United States have reaffirmed their commitment to fighting drug trafficking through continued cooperation with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.

A joint statement released by both nations announced Paraguay‘s National Anti-Drug Secretariat will remain part of the Sensitive Investigation Unit program.

This renewed partnership follows a brief period of uncertainty in late 2024 when reports suggested a potential suspension of cooperation. Paraguay’s Ambassador to the United States clarified the misunderstanding, stating that there was never any intention to halt collaboration.

Instead, the goal was to expand existing agreements. Paraguay faces mounting challenges from organized crime. The country ranks fourth among 193 United Nations member countries in criminal activity, according to the Global Organized Crime Index 2023.

Its crime rate increased to 7.52 points, up from 6.70 in 2021. The economic damage caused by drug trafficking in Paraguay reached nearly $192 million in 2023, up from $178.6 million in 2020.

The country has transformed from being solely a transit nation to an emerging source of cocaine. It now sees an estimated flow of almost 200 tons annually from Bolivia and Peru.

Paraguay’s Role in Drug Trafficking and International Cooperation

Paraguay leads illegal cannabis production in South America and serves as a key trafficking point to Brazil. The country also functions as a distribution center for synthetic drugs destined for Argentina and Brazil while hosting operations of Brazilian criminal gangs like the First Capital Command.

Between 2018 and 2023, authorities arrested 2,237 people in drug trafficking-related operations. The DEA provides sophisticated equipment and ongoing training for personnel engaged in counter-narcotics efforts.

President Santiago Peña recently spoke with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio about strengthening this cooperation. During these discussions, Rubio congratulated Paraguay on its first-ever purchase through the Foreign Military Sales program—a radar with 400 km range costing $45.7 million.

Both countries emphasized that anti-narcotics cooperation is essential for dismantling organized crime networks. This collaboration is crucial for creating a safer environment for citizens across the region.