Paraguay Import Restrictions

by countryaah · Published June 2, 2019 · Updated February 13, 2025

In order to enter Paraguay, certain goods are subject to specific controls and, regardless of their value and quantity, they require the consent of Paraguay government, preferably, license must be obtained prior to passage through the customs, preventing the goods from being retained. On this page, you will see what kinds of items are prohibited from entering the Paraguay, and which items need special documentation before exporting to Paraguay.

Paraguay, a landlocked country in South America, plays a significant role in regional trade. The country has a relatively open economy, which relies heavily on imports to meet domestic demand for goods that it cannot produce locally. However, to protect the health and safety of its population, the environment, and local industries, Paraguay has implemented a range of import restrictions and regulatory measures. These regulations ensure that goods entering the country meet national standards, comply with international trade agreements, and contribute to the country’s economic growth while safeguarding public interests.

The Customs Administration of Paraguay, under the Ministry of Finance, is primarily responsible for overseeing the importation of goods. Various other regulatory bodies, such as the National Health Service, the National Environmental Secretariat, and the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, play significant roles in ensuring that specific products comply with safety, health, and environmental standards. Businesses and individuals wishing to import goods into Paraguay must familiarize themselves with the country’s import restrictions, as non-compliance can lead to delays, penalties, and confiscation of goods. This document outlines the prohibited items and those requiring import licenses to help guide the import process.

Prohibited Items for Import into Paraguay

The government of Paraguay has set forth several import prohibitions aimed at protecting the public, local industries, and the environment from harmful or illegal goods. These items are restricted due to their potential risks or violations of national laws, and their importation is therefore forbidden.

Products Harmful to Public Health and Safety

The protection of public health and safety is a key focus for Paraguay’s import regulations. As such, the country enforces strict bans on products that could potentially harm its population, including illicit drugs, counterfeit medicines, and hazardous materials.

Illicit Drugs and Narcotics: Paraguay enforces strict regulations on the importation of illicit drugs and narcotics. The National Anti-Drug Secretariat (SENAD) works in coordination with the Customs Administration of Paraguay to monitor and control the movement of controlled substances across the country’s borders. As part of its commitment to international drug control agreements, including the United Nations Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, Paraguay maintains a zero-tolerance policy for the import of illegal drugs such as heroin, cocaine, methamphetamines, and synthetic narcotics. Any attempt to import these substances is considered a serious criminal offense and is subject to severe penalties, including long prison sentences and substantial fines. Paraguay’s strict enforcement of these laws is crucial in combating drug trafficking and protecting its citizens from the dangers associated with illegal narcotics.
Counterfeit Medicines and Hazardous Health Products: The National Health Service in Paraguay regulates the importation of pharmaceuticals and medical devices to ensure that only safe, effective, and approved products are allowed into the country. Counterfeit medicines, which may be substandard, ineffective, or even harmful, pose a major public health risk and are strictly prohibited. Similarly, medical devices that do not meet the necessary safety and efficacy standards are banned from entering the country. The National Health Service requires importers to submit detailed documentation proving that the products they are importing have been approved by reputable health authorities, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) or the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Any medical products that do not meet these standards are rejected at customs, and importers may face legal consequences, including fines and the confiscation of goods.

Environmentally Harmful Goods

Paraguay’s government has put in place several import restrictions aimed at protecting its environment. These goods are banned due to their potential to cause environmental harm, either by contributing to pollution or by disrupting local ecosystems.

Hazardous Waste and E-Waste: Paraguay adheres to international agreements such as the Basel Convention, which regulates the movement of hazardous waste across borders. As a result, the country has strict regulations that prohibit the importation of hazardous waste, including e-waste (electronic waste), medical waste, and industrial waste. E-waste contains toxic substances such as lead, mercury, and cadmium, which can pose significant risks to the environment if not disposed of properly. Paraguay’s Environmental Secretariat enforces these restrictions to ensure that the country does not become a dumping ground for hazardous waste. Any attempt to import such waste is met with severe penalties, including fines and the destruction of goods. Paraguay’s commitment to protecting its natural environment and public health is reflected in these stringent import controls.
Products Derived from Endangered Species: Paraguay is a signatory to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which works to ensure that trade in wildlife does not threaten the survival of species. In compliance with this agreement, Paraguay prohibits the importation of goods derived from endangered species. These goods include items such as ivory, animal pelts, and certain plants that are obtained through illegal wildlife trade. The Ministry of the Environment and the National Forestry Institute work to regulate and monitor the import of wildlife products to ensure that they do not contribute to the depletion of endangered species. Violations of these regulations are met with heavy fines and the confiscation of the illegal goods, as well as potential legal action.

Products Requiring Import Licenses

In addition to prohibited items, there are goods that can be imported into Paraguay, but only after obtaining the necessary licenses from the appropriate government authorities. These products require additional scrutiny and must meet specific standards before they are allowed entry into the country. The import licensing system helps ensure that these goods comply with Paraguay’s health, safety, and environmental regulations.

Goods Subject to Import Licensing

Certain products require an import license to be brought into Paraguay. These goods are subject to regulation due to their potential impact on public health, safety, the environment, or the country’s economy.

Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices: The National Health Service in Paraguay regulates the importation of pharmaceutical products, medical devices, and other health-related goods. These products must meet safety, efficacy, and quality standards before they can be allowed into the country. The import licensing system ensures that pharmaceuticals and medical devices comply with Paraguay’s national health regulations and international standards. Importers must provide detailed documentation, including certificates of origin, regulatory approvals, and clinical trials data for new medications. Medical devices such as diagnostic tools, surgical instruments, and therapeutic products must also meet rigorous safety standards. Importers are required to provide certification from recognized health authorities, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) or the European Medicines Agency (EMA), to demonstrate that the products meet the required quality and safety standards. These regulations help ensure that only safe, tested, and approved health products are available to the public.
Agricultural Products and Livestock: The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock regulates the importation of agricultural products, including fruits, vegetables, seeds, livestock, and animal products. Importers must obtain an import license to ensure that the products meet Paraguay’s phytosanitary and veterinary health standards. These standards are crucial to protect local agriculture and livestock from the introduction of pests, diseases, and harmful pathogens. For example, livestock must be certified as disease-free and undergo health inspections before entering the country. Agricultural products such as fruits and vegetables must be inspected for pests and contamination. The Ministry of Agriculture also monitors the import of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) to ensure that these products are safe for the environment and human consumption. Importers are required to provide health certificates and other documentation to prove that the products meet the necessary standards.

Environmentally Sensitive Goods

Paraguay is deeply committed to environmental protection, and the country has implemented a range of regulations to control the importation of goods that could harm its environment. These goods require an import license to ensure that they comply with local environmental standards and do not contribute to pollution or ecological damage.

Chemicals and Hazardous Materials: The Ministry of Environment and the National Environmental Secretariat regulate the importation of chemicals and hazardous materials to prevent environmental contamination. These materials include industrial chemicals, pesticides, solvents, and fertilizers, which can pose risks to both human health and the environment. Importers of hazardous substances must obtain an import license to ensure that these chemicals are handled and disposed of safely. The Ministry of Environment requires that the chemicals meet stringent safety standards, and importers must submit detailed documentation outlining the chemical composition, safety measures, and potential environmental risks associated with the products. Any chemicals that do not meet the required safety standards may be banned from entering the country, or may face restrictions on their use.
Plastic and Packaging Materials: As part of its ongoing efforts to reduce plastic pollution, Paraguay has enacted regulations to control the importation of plastic products and packaging materials. The National Environmental Secretariat oversees the importation of plastic goods to ensure that they comply with Paraguay’s environmental sustainability and waste management standards. The importation of non-biodegradable plastics and single-use plastics, which contribute to pollution, is subject to stricter controls. Importers must demonstrate that their products comply with local recycling and sustainability standards. The government encourages the importation of eco-friendly plastic alternatives, such as biodegradable plastics or those made from recyclable materials. Importers who fail to meet these environmental standards may face additional tariffs, restrictions, or the rejection of their goods.

Regulated Consumer Goods

Paraguay also regulates the importation of certain consumer goods to ensure that they meet local safety, quality, and environmental standards. These goods typically include electronics, motor vehicles, and household appliances.

Motor Vehicles and Spare Parts: The Ministry of Public Works and Communications (MOPC) regulates the importation of motor vehicles, ensuring that they comply with local emissions, safety, and environmental standards. The importation of used vehicles is subject to additional scrutiny, as the country seeks to ensure that these vehicles do not contribute to pollution or pose safety risks. Vehicles must undergo inspection and certification to verify their roadworthiness and emissions standards before being allowed to enter the country. Importers of motor vehicles must obtain an import license and provide documentation proving that their vehicles meet the required safety and environmental standards. Similarly, spare parts for motor vehicles must meet safety and quality standards to ensure they are compatible with local vehicles and road infrastructure.
Electronics and Household Appliances: The Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MIC) and the National Standards Organization of Paraguay regulate the importation of electronics and household appliances to ensure that they meet safety and energy efficiency standards. These goods, including products like refrigerators, air conditioners, washing machines, and televisions, must comply with electrical safety regulations to prevent hazards. Additionally, electronics and appliances must meet energy efficiency requirements to help reduce the country’s energy consumption. Importers of these goods must submit documentation proving that their products meet the necessary standards for electrical safety and energy efficiency. Non-compliant products may be rejected at customs or subject to additional inspections. The goal of these regulations is to ensure that the products are safe for use and help promote sustainability in Paraguay’s energy consumption.