AGP Executive Report

Mercosur Push in Switzerland: Switzerland’s lower house approved the EFTA-Mercosur trade deal, after adding CHF 517 million (about $631m) in support for Swiss farmers; the pact is likely headed to a referendum under the country’s direct democracy rules. Paraguay Spotlight in Health: Gilead and PAHO announced a milestone partnership to expand access to twice-yearly lenacapavir for HIV prevention (PrEP) across Latin America and the Caribbean, including Paraguay. El Niño Impacts on Paraguay-Brazil Water: Itaipú began controlled spillway openings for 10 days after El Niño rains raised Paraná River levels, aiming to protect infrastructure and reduce flood risk for Paraguay’s border cities. Local Community Health Drive: A bone marrow donor registration drive will run in Asunción and Mariano Roque Alonso on Sept. 19, using buccal swabs to help patients find compatible donors. Science & Culture: Paraguay’s MuCi Science Museum was named a finalist in three categories for the ICOM COMMS Awards 2026, highlighting its science communication projects. Relocation Interest: Paraguay ranked second in South America in the 2026 Global Relocation Index, boosting attention on its affordability and residency options.

Doctors’ Strike Averted: Paraguay’s Health ministry and the National Union of Physicians reached a preliminary deal for a 2,000,000 guaraní salary increase for public-sector doctors, potentially canceling the Sept. 21-22 strike pending union assembly ratification. HIV Prevention Access: Gilead and PAHO agreed to widen access to twice-yearly lenacapavir (Yeztugo) for HIV prevention across Latin America and the Caribbean via PAHO’s regional purchasing system, including Paraguay. Trade Paperwork Goes Digital: India and MERCOSUR signed a protocol recognizing electronic Certificates of Origin, with Paraguay among MERCOSUR members, aiming to speed customs and cut costs. Sports Spotlight: Paraguay’s U-15 futsal team won the world title after a 3-2 extra-time victory over Colombia, while Brazil leads the medal table at the Santa Fe 2026 South American Games. Culture & Community: Asunción’s English networking scene continues to grow, and a recovered collection of Augusto Roa Bastos’ books sheds new light on the writer’s life.

Doctors’ Strike Averted: Paraguay’s government reached a preliminary deal with the National Union of Physicians for a 2,000,000-guaraní salary increase for public-sector doctors, covering both contracted and appointed staff, with the Sept. 21–22 strike set to be lifted pending union assembly ratification. HIV Prevention Access Boost: PAHO and Gilead agreed a new regional pathway to expand access to twice-yearly lenacapavir (Yeztugo) for HIV prevention, including Paraguay, using PAHO’s regional purchasing system. Trade Modernization for MERCOSUR: India and MERCOSUR signed a protocol recognizing electronic Certificates of Origin, paving the way for paperless preferential trade and simpler customs steps for Paraguay and other members. Paraguay Wins on Home Turf: Paraguay’s U-15 futsal team claimed the 2026 world title with a 3-2 extra-time win over Colombia, finishing six wins in six matches. Diplomatic Update: Paraguay’s ambassador to Serbia, María José Argaña Mateu, met Serbian officials to discuss strengthening bilateral ties, including trade, culture, security, and defense cooperation.

Soybean Testing Network: Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay and others are launching RRECSO-Americas to compare soybean cultivars across 180+ environments, helping producers and seed companies pick varieties for different regions. Trade & Paperless Customs: India and MERCOSUR (including Paraguay) signed a protocol to accept electronic Certificates of Origin, paving the way for faster, paperless preferential trade. Trade Expansion Talks: India and MERCOSUR also announced negotiations to expand their preferential trade agreement, with both sides finalizing the scope and structure. Paraguay-Taiwan Tech Push: A Taiwan-Paraguay Technology Forum in Paraguay’s Central Bank highlighted growing cooperation, including AI-focused collaboration and student exchanges. Asunción Community & Sports: A Blackfoot teen, Jacob Roll, is fundraising to compete in scootering at the World Skate Games in Asunción this October. Local Health Alert: Dengue fever guidance is circulating as early symptom awareness becomes key amid mosquito-borne risk. South American Games Spotlight: Argentina opened with a big hockey day, including a 14-0 win over Paraguay.

Diplomacy Milestone: India and Paraguay marked 65 years of diplomatic relations, pledging deeper cooperation in strategic areas and new initiatives to boost trade and economic ties. Digital Shift in Paraguay: Bancard reports digital payments now make up 82% of service transactions in Paraguay, up from 66% in 2021, with QR and mobile commerce driving the jump. Culture & Community: The National Secretariat of Culture opened applications for the 2026 National Cultural Journalism Competition, inviting Paraguayan creators and students to submit written and multimedia cultural work. Football Focus: Paraguay FA extended coach Gustavo Alfaro’s contract through the 2030 World Cup, signaling long-term planning as La Albirroja looks ahead. Environment Watch: A Reuters-linked report alleges UK retailers are selling charcoal tied to deforestation in Paraguay’s Gran Chaco, raising fresh pressure on supply chains. Sports (Regional): Paraguay hosted matches in the CONMEBOL Women’s U15 Evolution League, where Venezuela beat Ecuador 1-0 and Paraguay lost 1-0 to Ecuador.

WRC Chile: Oliver Solberg won a wild Rally Chile, leading 15 of 16 gravel stages and helping Toyota clinch a record-equalling 10th manufacturers’ title. Paraguay Football: Gustavo Alfaro’s contract has been extended through the 2030 World Cup, keeping “La Albirroja” on course for Copa América and beyond. Digital Payments: Paraguay’s digital payment boom keeps accelerating, with 82% of service transactions now paid digitally and QR/mobile commerce driving the shift. Culture & Community: The National Secretariat of Culture opened the 2026 National Cultural Journalism Competition (deadline Sept. 30), while Asunción also gears up for a first solo exhibition by young artist Pheline Dietrich. Guaraní & Money: The Central Bank will unveil redesigned guaraní banknotes on Oct. 5, keeping all denominations but updating artwork to spotlight Guaraní culture and Paraguay’s ecological regions. Environment Watch: A report flags Paraguay-linked deforestation tied to charcoal sold in the UK, and another study warns Paraguay is among Latin America’s plastic pollution hotspots.

Football: Paraguay FA has renewed confidence in coach Gustavo Alfaro, extending his contract through the 2030 World Cup, with the Albirroja set to host a group-stage match as the tournament marks its centenary. Sports (Paraguay-linked): In WRC Rally Chile, Oliver Solberg extended his lead to 10.1s over Elfyn Evans, while Sami Pajari said Toyota needs a deeper look after a pace drop. Environment: A new study warns that China’s plastic-waste import ban has left Latin America facing rising health risks, naming Paraguay among “plastic pollution hotspots.” Money & culture: Paraguay’s Central Bank will unveil redesigned guaraní banknotes on Oct. 5, keeping all denominations and values but shifting imagery toward Guaraní culture and regional ecology. Community & tech: Meta’s Oversight Board urged the company not to replace professional fact-checking with Community Notes as Meta tests the system across Latin America, including Paraguay. Local life: Asunción marks World Car-Free Day on Sept. 20 with a 17-km cycling route starting at the Botanical Garden and Zoo.

Paraguay Football: Gustavo Alfaro has extended his contract as head coach of the Albirroja until the 2030 World Cup, keeping him in charge through Copa América and the tournament Paraguay will help host. World Cup 2030: Morocco’s federation chief Fouzi Lekjaa sparked a fresh row by claiming the final will be played at the Hassan II Stadium in Casablanca, but FIFA says the venue is still undecided and a decision will come later. Money & Culture: The Central Bank of Paraguay will unveil redesigned guaraní banknotes on Oct. 5, keeping all denominations and values while shifting the artwork toward Guaraní culture and Paraguay’s ecological regions. Wildlife & Conservation: A jaguar with its cub was spotted near the Tebicuary River in Itapúa, underlining the need to protect biological corridors. Health & Society: The Renaci Foundation says it provides free, comprehensive childhood cancer care across Paraguay, from diagnosis to treatment and research support. Civic Life: Asunción marks World Car-Free Day on Sept. 20 with a free 17-km cycling route through major avenues. Tech & Misinformation: Meta’s Oversight Board urged the company not to replace professional fact-checking with Community Notes as Meta tests the system in Paraguay and other Latin American countries.

World Cup 2030 Venue Fight: FIFA says it still hasn’t decided where the 2030 final will be played after Morocco’s football chief Fouzi Lekjaa claimed the Hassan II Stadium in Ben Slimane, while Spain also insists it should host. Environment & Wildlife: A jaguar with its cub was spotted near the Tebicuary River in Itapúa, a reminder to protect Paraguay’s biological corridors. Climate Cooperation: Taiwan and Paraguay are launching a pilot carbon credit project in Paraguay’s woodlands, aiming to test how credits can be verified and transferred. Local Health & Care: The Renaci Foundation says it provides free, comprehensive childhood cancer diagnosis and treatment across Paraguay, while backing research and training. Sports (Rally Chile): Oliver Solberg leads WRC Rally Chile into Saturday, urging a “clever” approach as hotter, tyre-stressing stages loom. Tech & Fact-Checking: Meta is expanding Community Notes testing to multiple Latin American countries, including Paraguay.

World Cup 2030 Venue Clash: FIFA says it hasn’t decided the final venue after Morocco’s Fouzi Lekjaa claimed the Hassan II Stadium in Ben Slimane/Casablanca will host the match, while Spain insists it won’t easily withdraw. Paraguay EV Push: A new report highlights how Paraguay’s renewable power could help shift transport toward electric vehicles and keep more money in the local economy. Childhood Cancer Support: The Renaci Foundation says it provides free, comprehensive childhood cancer diagnosis and treatment across Paraguay, while funding research and expanding access. Public Sector Pressure: Paraguay’s doctors and teachers announce September strikes, adding pressure as Congress debates the 2027 budget. Local Economy Watch: Paraguay’s biscuit market hits about US$107M in annual sales, with sweet biscuits dominating and Asunción driving most purchases. Climate & Energy: Super El Niño is shaping a north-south divide in South American winter conditions, with implications for solar output and weather risk. Digital Governance: Meta begins testing Community Notes in Paraguay and other Latin American countries, with fact-checkers warning it could replace traditional verification.

Public Health & Labor Pressure: Doctors and teachers in Paraguay announced September strikes, with doctors set to walk out on Sept. 21–22 after an August stoppage over pay, hospital supplies, and permanent positions. Digital Governance & Climate Finance: Taiwan and Paraguay are deepening cooperation on carbon credits and environmental governance, including training for young interns and work to improve hydrological monitoring and green finance. Social Protection Capacity Building: ECLAC is strengthening Haiti’s Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor (MAST) through a regional workshop that draws on experiences from Chile, Costa Rica, Ecuador, and Paraguay on social registries and information systems. Fact-Checking Shakeup: Meta is expanding Community Notes testing to Paraguay and other Latin American countries, while regional fact-checkers warn it could replace independent verification. Business & Procurement Access: A Paraguay-focused push uses AI to help micro, small, and medium enterprises find tender opportunities they can realistically win, since fewer than 9% of public contracting money reaches MSMEs. Environment & Trade Scrutiny: A Reuters investigation links UK retailers’ charcoal to Paraguay’s Gran Chaco deforestation via supplier Taruma, raising new pressure on Paraguay’s EU trade ambitions.

World Cup Venue Clash: FIFA has denied any promise to Morocco about hosting the 2030 World Cup final, after Moroccan federation chief Fouzi Lekjaa said the match would be played at the Grand Stade Hassan II in Casablanca (Benslimane), with FIFA insisting a decision will come “in due course.” Public Access & History: Switzerland released the Josef Mengele file online, with “as little as possible” redacted, after public demand. Human Rights in the Region: Brazil rescued 479 people from labor exploitation in August, including victims found in Paraguay and other countries. Paraguay Economy: Manufacturing output in Paraguay rose 26% year-on-year, with the government pushing for major new investments and better infrastructure and energy. Environment & Supply Chains: A UK-linked charcoal probe points to deforestation in Paraguay’s Gran Chaco as part of Big K’s supply chain. Culture in Paraguay: “Apenas El Sol” highlights Ayoreo resilience through a new streaming documentary.

Gender Policy Update: Japan’s Imperial House Law revisions take effect Oct. 24, letting women keep imperial status after marriage and boosting “dignity upholding” allowances to narrow gender pay gaps—though other discrimination issues remain. Health Labor Tension in Paraguay: Paraguay’s public health system faces pressure as doctors submit formal resignations amid wage and labor demands; MSPBS says negotiations are still open, warning of shortages in critical specialties. Public Sector Strikes: Doctors and teachers have announced September strikes tied to pay and budget demands, with doctors planning Sept. 21–22 while negotiations continue. Trade & Agriculture: Paraguay opens a new import channel for Chilean fresh blueberries after SAG and SENAVE agree on phytosanitary requirements. Asunción Life & Opportunities: A “Study in Europe 2026” fair lands in Asunción Sept. 12, and Expo Madera 2026 runs Sept. 10–12 to spotlight Paraguay’s forestry sector. Tech & Media: Meta is testing Community Notes in 16 Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, including Paraguay, as it moves away from professional fact-checking.

Health Labor Dispute: Paraguay’s public health system is bracing for shortages after the MSPBS confirmed 446 doctors resigned amid demands for wage and labor improvements, including pay differentiation by training and specialization. Social Media Integrity: Meta has started testing Community Notes in 16 Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, including Paraguay, as it moves toward replacing professional fact-checking—prompting sharp criticism from the International Fact-Checking Network. Local Governance & Economy: A new report argues Latin America needs real sovereignty and agency, warning against “false equidistance” in the rivalry between Washington and Beijing. Regional Trade Watch: Brazil’s animal feed exports to Russia surged nearly sixfold in 2026, with Paraguay among the top buyers. Local Events: Expo Madera 2026 opens in Asunción on Sept. 10 to spotlight Paraguay’s forestry industry, jobs, and innovation. Education & Mobility: A “Study in Europe 2026” fair hits Asunción on Sept. 12, connecting Paraguayan students with European universities and research paths.

Paraguay Sports Spotlight: The Paraguayan Olympic Committee named golfer Sofia Garcia and speed skater Julio Mirena as Team Paraguay’s flag bearers for the 13th South American Games in Santa Fe, Argentina (Sept. 12–26), with COP president Camilo Perez pointing to a target of at least 36 medals. Infrastructure & Cross-Border Mobility: The Joint Paraguayan-Brazilian Commission set new operating hours for the Integration Bridge over the Paraná River, starting Monday, Sept. 14, expanding overnight access for empty heavy trucks (18:00–05:00) and allowing light vehicles/private cars on a daily schedule (07:00–13:00) for residents of specific border communities. Tech for Agriculture: Agro IA, with UNA aeronautics students, is developing autonomous aerial spraying using AI, aiming to boost precision and cut costs for producers, with projected capacity up to 300,000 liters and coverage around 1,000 hectares per day. Culture in Asunción: The Asunción Municipal Chamber Orchestra will hold a free youth-focused concert (“By and for the Youth”) on Wednesday, Sept. 9 at 20:00 at the “Ignacio A. Pane” Municipal Theatre.

Paraguay Travel & Connectivity: Asunción’s Silvio Pettirossi airport is entering a busy stretch, with airlines adding routes and frequencies as Paraguay pushes to position itself as a regional hub, including direct links across South America, Central America and Europe. Border Traffic Update: The Paraguayan-Brazilian Integration Bridge will shift to new operating hours starting Sept. 14, expanding overnight crossing for empty heavy trucks (18:00–05:00) and setting a daily daytime schedule for light vehicles and private cars for eligible border-community residents. AI in Agriculture: Paraguay is launching an autonomous aerial spraying project using AI, led by Agro IA with UNA aeronautics students, aiming for unmanned ultralight aircraft to boost precision and cut costs for producers. Culture in Asunción: The Asunción Municipal Chamber Orchestra will hold a free youth-focused concert on Sept. 9 at the “Ignacio A. Pane” Municipal Theatre, featuring emerging musicians and a mix of classical and Paraguayan works.