AGP Executive Report

Diplomacy & Travel: New Zealand published a list of 25 countries whose citizens can transit through Auckland without a transit visa, including Paraguay, but travellers still need an NZeTA before boarding. Culture & Heritage: Paraguay’s National Secretariat of Culture named three Aché women from eastern Paraguay—María Tatúgi, Anselma Mbyvangi and Teresa Karengi—as Living National Treasures for preserving basketry and traditional knowledge. Sports (Paraguay): Cerro Porteño’s futsal team extended its dominance, winning the national championship for an 11th straight year and securing a spot in the 2027 Copa Libertadores de Futsal. International (Paraguay ties): Paraguay’s ambassador Estefanía Laterza de los Ríos presented credentials to US President Donald Trump, pledging deeper cooperation on democracy, prosperity and security. Global (UN): The UN General Assembly backed a resolution urging the US to reverse visa restrictions blocking Palestinian officials from attending in person; Abbas will speak via video.

Paraguay Sports Spotlight: Cerro Porteño’s futsal team extended its dominance, winning the Paraguayan championship for an 11th straight year after a two-leg final vs Exa Ysaty (9-6 overall) and booking a spot in the 2027 Copa Libertadores de Futsal. Education & Economy: Teachers in Paraguay staged a strike demanding higher salaries and a better education budget, pressing the government on funding priorities. Regional Security: A new analysis says Tren de Aragua has expanded deeper into Brazil, shifting from turf wars to partnerships with local criminal factions and raising a fresh cross-border security challenge, with investigators pointing to the Brazil–Paraguay–Argentina tri-border. International Diplomacy: The UN General Assembly backed a resolution urging the US to reverse visa restrictions blocking Palestinian officials from attending in person; Mahmoud Abbas will address the UN via video after the US denied visas. Culture & Community: Paraguay’s World Skate Games ASU26 medals will be inspired by Asunción’s historic Galoperas dancers, turning local tradition into a global sporting symbol.

Paraguay Spotlight: World Skate Games ASU26: Organizers in Asunción unveiled medals inspired by the Galoperas—traditional dancers whose swirling steps and spins are etched into the design, linking Paraguayan folklore to the Oct. 2–18 event. Sports: Cerro Porteño Futsal: The Azulgrana won Paraguay’s futsal championship for an 11th straight year, beating Exa Ysaty 7-3 then losing 3-2, for a 9-6 aggregate and a spot in the 2027 Copa Libertadores de Futsal. Education: Teacher Strike in Asunción: Paraguay’s educators mobilized to demand an 8% wage increase, more education budget, and fixes to school infrastructure, rejecting a government pact they say targets union unity. International: UNGA on Palestine Visas: The UN General Assembly backed a resolution urging the US to reverse visa restrictions blocking Palestinian officials from attending in person; 152 countries voted for Abbas to address the session via video. Regional Climate: El Niño Watch: Latin America is preparing for varied impacts, with southern Brazil and parts of Paraguay/Uruguay/northern Argentina likely facing wetter conditions and higher flood risk.

Paraguay Teachers Strike: Teachers in Asunción and other cities hit the streets and blocked roads, demanding an 8% pay rise, a bigger education budget, and fixes for school infrastructure, rejecting a government deal they say is meant to weaken union unity. Colombia vs Paraguay Friendlies: Colombia named a 26-man squad for friendlies in the U.S., with matches against Paraguay in New Jersey on Oct. 2, while Luis Díaz was left out to rest and James Rodríguez retired from international football. El Niño Watch for Paraguay: Regional governments are ramping up contingency plans as El Niño is forecast to intensify, with Paraguay and parts of southern South America likely facing above-average rainfall and higher flood risk. UN Gaza/Palestine Video Address: The UN General Assembly approved allowing Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to speak by pre-recorded video after the U.S. denied visas; Paraguay voted against the measure. Paraguay in Global Mobility Rankings: Paraguay’s passport ranks around the top tier in Latin America for visa-free access, though some destinations may still require an ETA or pre-registration. Villeta Investment Dispute: ATOME says it has filed a notice of dispute and intent to arbitrate against Paraguay under the UK-Paraguay investment treaty over its Villeta low-carbon fertiliser project.

Paraguay in Global Mobility: Paraguay ranks 3rd in a new Global Citizen Solutions tax-optimisation index for internationally mobile people, scoring 77.2/100 behind the UAE (1st) and Antigua & Barbuda (2nd), as the report stresses that tax structure—not just headline rates—shapes relocation decisions. Paraguay in International Sports: Jürgen Klopp has named a 44-player Germany squad split into two groups for Nations League games, dropping World Cup top scorer Deniz Undav and drawing attention for the way the media leaked parts of the selection; the move keeps Paraguay’s World Cup impact in the spotlight. Paraguay in Business & Investment: UK-listed ATOME PLC says it has served a Notice of Dispute and Intent to Submit a Claim to Arbitration against Paraguay under the UK-Paraguay investment treaty tied to its Villeta low-carbon fertiliser project worth $665 million. Local Culture & Community: Asunción hosts Casa MOLA Paraguay, a sustainable fashion event promoting circular economy ideas, with talks and networking for designers and students. Food & Diaspora: A feature highlights Paraguayans in Japan cultivating cassava and other staples to keep traditions alive and supply community demand.

Paraguay Spotlight: Paraguay is climbing in global mobility and opportunity rankings, placing second in South America in the 2026 Global Relocation Index and 44th worldwide, with Rumavi citing low costs, a territorial tax system, and accessible residency options. Health & Community: A new bone marrow donor registration drive will run in Asunción and Mariano Roque Alonso on Sept. 19, aiming to expand Paraguay’s registry ahead of World Marrow Donor Day. Science & Culture: The Paraguay Science Museum (MuCi) has been named a finalist in three categories for the ICOM COMMS Awards 2026, including “Science for All” and press campaign recognition. Industry & Innovation: KG Mobility says it has supplied 20 Musso EVs to Paraguay as part of an electric vehicle pilot, with plans for an auto parts center. Sports (Paraguayan link): Inter Miami’s lineup included Paraguayan midfielder Matías Galarza in a recent match. Regional Diplomacy: Bolivia and Paraguay have finalised their shared border after 88 years of talks.

Mercosur Trade Boost: Switzerland’s lower house has approved the EFTA–Mercosur free trade deal, after adding CHF517 million (about $631m) in support for farmers; the accord is expected to face a referendum under Switzerland’s direct democracy rules. El Niño Food Risks: A new “Godzilla El Niño” warning flags major threats to rice, sugar, coffee, cocoa and palm oil, while some regions may see gains for soybeans, wheat and maize—urging countries to strengthen sourcing plans. Health Tech Update: Apple says hypertension notifications on Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 may be unavailable in 33 regions because regulatory clearances are still in process. Paraguay Spotlight: Paraguay ranks second in South America in the 2026 Global Relocation Index and is set for a bone marrow donor drive in Asunción and Mariano Roque Alonso on Sept. 19. Science & Culture: Paraguay’s MuCi Science Museum is a finalist in three categories for the ICOM COMMS Awards 2026.

Doctors’ Strike Deal: Paraguay’s government reached a preliminary agreement with the National Union of Physicians for a 2,000,000-guaraní salary increase for public-sector doctors, potentially canceling the Sept. 21-22 strike pending union ratification. MERCOSUR Trade Push: India and MERCOSUR signed a protocol to recognize electronic Certificates of Origin, with Paraguay among the parties, aiming to speed up paperless customs for preferential tariffs. Paraguay Sports Glory: Paraguay’s U-15 futsal team won the world title at home, beating Colombia 3-2 in extra time after a 1-1 draw in regulation. Diplomacy: Paraguay’s ambassador to Serbia presented credentials as both countries discussed deeper economic ties and cooperation in culture, security and defense. Local Economy & Payments: Digital payments now account for over 80% of service transactions in Paraguay, reflecting a fast shift in how people pay. International Spotlight: A U.S. lawsuit alleges Resorts World fired a compliance director after he flagged suspicious, possibly illegal, gambling activity involving patrons from multiple countries including Paraguay.

Doctors’ Deal to Avert Strike: Paraguay’s government reached a preliminary agreement with the National Union of Physicians for a 2,000,000-guaraní salary increase for public-sector doctors, potentially canceling the Sept. 21–22 strike pending union ratification. U-15 Futsal Glory at Home: Paraguay won the 2026 U-15 Futsal World Championship, beating Colombia 3-2 in extra time in Itapúa, with Kevin Benítez scoring the winner with 51 seconds left. Trade Simplified for MERCOSUR: India and MERCOSUR signed a protocol recognizing electronic Certificates of Origin, with Paraguay included, aiming to cut paperwork and speed preferential tariffs. Swiss Senate Backs MERCOSUR Deal: Switzerland’s upper house approved the EFTA–Mercosur trade agreement and set aside CHF517 million to support farmers, sending it back to the lower chamber. Diplomacy Update: Serbia’s foreign ministry met Paraguay’s ambassador in Rome-based credentials talks, highlighting plans to deepen economic and cultural ties. Sports Spotlight: Paraguay’s South American Games swimming campaign continues in Santa Fe, while local rally and WRC3 coverage highlights international crews finishing strong.

Paraguay-Taiwan ties: A Taiwan-Paraguay Technology Forum in Asunción spotlighted AI cooperation, building on earlier agreements and student exchanges. Trade & integration: India and MERCOSUR (including Paraguay) have launched talks to expand their preferential trade deal, while also signing a protocol to accept electronic certificates of origin for more paperless customs. Local economy & jobs: Paraguay’s Development Finance Agency (AFD) approved a record US$108.8m for industrial lending in 2026, boosting operations, beneficiaries, and job creation across all departments. Municipal elections: Paraguay is preparing for the Oct. 4, 2026 municipal vote with 5.04m registered electors, 14,711 polling stations, and nearly 18,000 electronic voting machines. Environment & cities: The “Green Asunción” project lays out greener transport, rainwater management, and urban resilience plans with MADES and UNDP support. Sports & youth: A Blackfoot teen is fundraising to represent Team USA in scootering at the World Skate Games in Asunción.

Diplomacy: India and Paraguay marked 65 years of diplomatic relations, pledging to deepen cooperation in strategic areas and expand trade, with both sides pointing to progress in agriculture, health, pharmaceuticals and IT. Digital Economy: Paraguay’s digital payments keep surging: Bancard reports 82% of service transactions now happen digitally, up from 66% in 2021, driven by mobile use and QR payments. Environment & Trade: A report says UK retailers are selling charcoal linked to deforestation in Paraguay’s Gran Chaco, raising pressure over how everyday imports connect to land clearing. Culture & Food: Asunción-based Guaraní cooking creator Emi Báez is bringing traditional recipes to millions online, turning heritage into a mainstream platform. Sports: Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi hit 99 goals across all competitions as the club drew 2-2 with Nashville, while Paraguay’s Matías Galarza made his appearance for Miami. World Affairs: Nauru opened its Jerusalem embassy, with Israel praising the move—another sign of shifting diplomatic alignments.

Diplomatic Milestone: India and Paraguay marked 65 years of diplomatic relations, pledging deeper cooperation and more trade ties. Digital Economy: Paraguay’s digital payments now make up 82% of service transactions, with QR and mobile commerce driving rapid growth in accounts and connected businesses. Currency Watch: The Paraguayan guaraní is under pressure, with the peso story pointing to broader regional inflation and rate-hike expectations as the dollar strengthens. Banking & Culture: The Central Bank of Paraguay will unveil redesigned guaraní banknotes on Oct. 5, shifting artwork toward Guaraní culture and Paraguay’s ecological regions. Football: Gustavo Alfaro has been confirmed as Paraguay’s national team coach through the 2030 World Cup. Sports Spotlight: Lionel Messi’s 99th Inter Miami goal came in a 2-2 draw with Nashville. Environment & Trade: A report alleges UK retailers sell charcoal linked to Paraguay’s Gran Chaco deforestation. Tech & Connectivity: India endorsed a 6G leadership and security call, joining a 24-nation push for secure next-gen networks.

Paraguay Football: Gustavo Alfaro has extended his contract as Paraguay’s national team coach through the 2030 World Cup, keeping the Albirroja’s World Cup-building momentum under the Argentine manager. Money & Culture: The Central Bank of Paraguay will unveil a full redesign of guaraní banknotes on Oct. 5, keeping all six denominations but shifting the artwork toward Guaraní culture and Paraguay’s ecological regions. Environment & Wildlife: A jaguar and cub were spotted near the Tebicuary River in Itapúa, reinforcing calls to protect biological corridors where forests and farms meet. Sports Spotlight: In MLS, Lionel Messi scored for Inter Miami in a 2-2 draw with Nashville, reaching 99 goals across all competitions for the club. Tech & Climate Cooperation: Taiwan and Paraguay are launching a pilot carbon credit project in Paraguay’s Chaco, aiming to test how credits can be verified and transferred. Social Media Integrity: Meta’s Oversight Board urged the company not to replace professional fact-checking with Community Notes as the system expands across Latin America, including Paraguay.

World Cup Politics: Morocco’s football chief Fouzi Lekjaa says the 2030 final will be in Casablanca’s Benslimane, but Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch hit back, warning FIFA hasn’t decided and urging him to stop election-style promises. Paraguay Football: Coach Gustavo Alfaro has extended his Paraguay contract through the 2030 World Cup, keeping the Albirroja on the same path for Copa América and beyond. Currency & Culture: Paraguay’s Central Bank will unveil redesigned guaraní banknotes on Oct. 5, keeping all denominations but shifting imagery toward Guaraní culture and the country’s six ecological regions. Nature & Tourism: Paraguay will host the South American Bird Fair for the first time (Sept. 17-20) in Asunción, spotlighting its 730+ bird species. Sports Delegation: Team Paraguay’s 341-athlete squad was officially flagged for the 2026 South American Games in Santa Fe. Tech & Misinformation: Meta’s Oversight Board urged the company not to replace professional fact-checking with Community Notes as the tool expands across Latin America, including Paraguay. Wildlife Alert: A jaguar with a cub was spotted near Itapúa’s Tebicuary River, underscoring the need to protect biological corridors. Climate Cooperation: Taiwan and Paraguay are launching a pilot carbon credit project in Paraguay’s Chaco.

WRC Rally Chile: Oliver Solberg urged crews to drive “clever” as tyre-punishing Saturday stages loom, extending his lead to 10.1s over Elfyn Evans after a clean, drying Friday. Sports—Tyres: FIA boosted Rally1 Hankook allocations from 28 to 36 to cut the risk of punctures and delaminations seen at Rally Paraguay, with drivers expecting hard choices on abrasive gravel. Wildlife in Paraguay: A jaguar with its cub was spotted near the Tebicuary River in Itapúa, highlighting the need to protect biological corridors where forests and farms meet. Environment & carbon: Taiwan and Paraguay are moving ahead on a pilot carbon credit project in Paraguay’s Chaco, aiming to test practical verification and transfer methods. Public services—strikes: Paraguay’s doctors and teachers have announced September walkouts, escalating pressure as Congress debates the 2027 budget. Tech & information: Meta is testing Community Notes in Paraguay and other Latin American countries, as fact-check groups warn it could replace independent verification.

Electric Vehicle Push: Paraguay’s clean-power advantage is fueling a push to electrify transport, aiming to cut fuel imports and attract investment. Public Health Pressure: Doctors and teachers in Paraguay have announced September strikes, escalating demands as Congress debates the 2027 budget. Procurement Access: A new effort uses AI to help micro, small and medium firms find tenders they can realistically win, since fewer than 9% of public contracting money reaches MSMEs. Community Notes in Paraguay: Meta is testing Community Notes across Paraguay and other Latin American countries, with critics warning it could replace independent fact-checking. Environment & Trade Scrutiny: UK retailers are linked to charcoal tied to deforestation in Paraguay’s Gran Chaco, raising fresh pressure on Paraguay’s EU trade ambitions. Renaci Foundation: The Renaci Foundation says it provides free childhood cancer diagnosis and comprehensive treatment nationwide while backing research and training. World Cup 2030 Noise: Morocco’s federation chief claims the final will be in Casablanca’s Hassan II Stadium, but FIFA says the decision is still pending.