IRU highlighted the proven benefits that the UN-backed system would bring to Paraguay’s public and private sectors – streamlining trade and strengthening customs security – at a recent TIR conference.
Paraguay’s recent event on the TIR system brought together key government institutions, including the Ministry of Public Works and Communications, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, customs, and the National Transit and Road Safety Agency. Leading private sector organisations, such as the Paraguayan Exporters Chamber and the Paraguayan Chamber of International Road Transport, also participated.
The event successfully raised awareness and generated interest in Paraguay’s potential accession to TIR. While further technical and regulatory assessments are needed, the seminar laid the groundwork for public-private collaboration to move forward.
Road transport, backed by TIR, can transform Paraguay from a landlocked country into a land-linked country. Many landlocked countries have benefitted hugely from the TIR system, including double-landlocked Uzbekistan.
IRU Senior TIR Manager Lucas Lagier said, “The UN-backed TIR system achieves two key goals simultaneously: enhanced trade efficiency and strengthened customs security. With the development of the Bioceanic Corridor, Paraguay and other South American governments can significantly optimise their infrastructure investments by integrating TIR’s trade facilitation benefits.”
“TIR also complements current transit systems and bilateral transport treaties,” he added.
Customs and transport authorities, along with the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Industry and Commerce, will now evaluate the legal and operational requirements for Paraguay’s TIR accession. The Paraguayan Exporters Chamber has officially called for an accelerated implementation process.
To move forward, relevant public sector actors have been asked to provide input and approvals, paving the way for Paraguay’s potential adoption of TIR. IRU will continue supporting Paraguay's public and private sectors on their journey towards TIR accession, ultimately enabling them to reap the benefits of TIR and the enhanced connectivity it offers.