CEOE strengthens trade ties with Paraguay and Uruguay during presidential tour

 

The official program includes a series of key business meetings in Montevideo and Asunción , jointly organized by the State Secretariat for Trade (through ICEX ), the Spanish Confederation of Employers' Organizations (CEOE) , and the Spanish Chamber of Commerce . Antonio Garamendi , along with Narciso Casado , CEOE's Director of Relations with Latin America and Permanent Secretary of the Ibero-American Business Confederation (CEIB), will take the opportunity to meet with leading figures in the local private sector.

 

Uruguay: Gateway to Regional Markets

 

The agenda in Uruguay , which begins on July 22, will focus on a business meeting in Montevideo . This event, coordinated by the Spanish Chamber of Commerce and other institutions, will bring together business leaders, representatives from various institutions, and government officials from both countries. Crucial topics will be addressed, such as public infrastructure in Uruguay , the role of Spanish companies in these investments and their future prospects, as well as innovation and the future vision of Uruguay and Paraguay . The opening ceremony will be led by President Pedro Sánchez and the Uruguayan Minister of Economy and Finance, Gabriel Oddone.

 

At the same time, the CEOE president will meet with the leaders of the Uruguayan Chamber of Industries to strengthen ties and explore joint activities. These initiatives not only seek to reinforce bilateral relations but also to boost participation in the Ibero-American Business Council (CEIB) , with a view to the upcoming Ibero-American Summit in Madrid in 2026 and the 16th Business Meeting that will precede it.

 

Historical Ties and Growth Potential with Uruguay

 

Trade and investment relations between Spain and Uruguay benefit from a historical, cultural, and political closeness. Spain primarily exports machinery, pharmaceuticals, and vehicles, while importing agricultural products and timber. Although trade volumes are not massive, its stability and growth potential in value-added sectors are notable. Spain is positioned as one of the main European investors in Uruguay, with a strong presence in energy, telecommunications, and financial services, taking advantage of the country's legal framework and security.

 

Paraguay: Strategic Partner and Gateway to MERCOSUR

 

The tour will continue in Asunción, Paraguay , where a Spain-Paraguay business forum will be held on July 23. This event, coordinated by the Spanish Confederation of Employers' Organizations (CEOE) and other entities, will bring together business leaders and representatives from both governments. The forum will offer Spanish companies a unique opportunity to learn about the Paraguayan government's priorities, as well as sectors of opportunity and strategic projects in a market considered a privileged gateway to MERCOSUR.

 

The panel discussions will focus on bilateral investment opportunities, incentives for foreign companies, and public infrastructure priorities . The closing remarks will be delivered by the President of the Government of Spain, Pedro Sánchez, and the President of the Republic of Paraguay, Santiago Peña.

 

The CEOE delegation will also hold meetings with Enrique Duarte , president of the Paraguayan Industrial Union (UIP), to coordinate preparations for the XVI Ibero-American Business Meeting in 2026 and the VII SME Forum, as well as explore the possibility of a Paraguayan business delegation visiting Spain.

 

 

The tour seeks to strengthen economic relations and open new investment and trade opportunities for Spanish companies in both South American countries.

 

 

Bilateral Relations with Paraguay: Progress and Opportunities

 

Trade and investment relations between Spain and Paraguay have experienced positive growth. Spain exports machinery and pharmaceuticals, while importing agricultural products such as soybeans and meat. Regarding foreign direct investment, Spain has a significant presence in Paraguay, with interests in energy, telecommunications, and infrastructure. Paraguay's favorable fiscal environment, macroeconomic stability, and competitive workforce offer attractive investment opportunities in sectors such as agribusiness, renewable energy, and digitalization, consolidating Spain as a key partner in its economic development.