ASUNCIÓN, Paraguay – Paraguay is actively considering the adoption of the UN-backed international TIR (Transports Internationaux Routiers) customs transit system as a way to significantly enhance its trade efficiency. At a recent TIR conference, the International Road Transport Union (IRU) highlighted the proven benefits of the system for Paraguay's public and private sectors, promising trade facilitation and enhanced customs security.

Key government officials from Paraguay's Ministry of Public Works and Communications, Ministry of Industry and Commerce, Customs Authority, and the National Road Safety Agency attended the TIR system event. Major private sector organizations such as the Paraguayan Exporters Chamber and the Paraguayan International Road Transport Association also participated, demonstrating strong interest in the adoption of the TIR system.

The event is considered a success in raising awareness and generating interest in Paraguay's potential accession to TIR. While further technical and regulatory assessments are needed, the seminar laid a significant foundation for public-private cooperation towards the implementation of the TIR system.

"The UN-backed TIR system simultaneously achieves two key objectives: improved trade efficiency and enhanced customs security," emphasized Lucas Lagleder, Senior TIR Manager at IRU. He added, "Paraguay and other South American countries can significantly optimize infrastructure investments by integrating the trade facilitation benefits of TIR with the development of the Bioceanic Corridor."

He also explained that "TIR will complement existing transport systems and bilateral transport agreements."

Moving forward, Paraguay's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, along with customs and transport authorities, will assess the legal and operational requirements for TIR accession. The Paraguayan Exporters Chamber has already formally urged the swift adoption of the TIR system.

As a next step towards adopting the TIR system, relevant public sector stakeholders have been asked to provide feedback and approval, which is expected to pave the way for Paraguay's TIR adoption. The IRU plans to continue supporting Paraguay's public and private sectors in joining TIR and ultimately benefiting from the enhanced connectivity it offers.

The TIR system has the potential to transform Paraguay from a landlocked country into a land-linked nation via road transport. Indeed, many landlocked countries, including doubly landlocked Uzbekistan, have experienced significant benefits through the TIR system. If Paraguay successfully implements the TIR system, it is expected to greatly contribute to enhanced trade competitiveness and economic growth.