Asunción — Paraguay is emerging as a hub for international business exchange focused on sustainability and innovation. The recent "1st Forum on Sustainability and Circular Economy" and the "International Business Roundtable," held as part of the Paraguayan Business Expo (FEPY), have garnered global attention, showcasing the nation's new potential. The events were particularly significant as they served as a platform for generating tangible cooperation and investment opportunities.

The forum's central theme was the 'circular economy'. Supported by the European Union's 'AL Invest Verde' program, the forum brought together international experts, business executives, and government officials. They engaged in in-depth discussions on how to transition the entire business ecosystem toward a circular, inclusive, and low-carbon model. One expert emphasized, "The traditional linear economic model is no longer sustainable. We urgently need new business models that efficiently circulate resources, minimize waste, and create social value." Participants shared success stories from their respective countries and presented a concrete roadmap for the future direction of Paraguayan industries. The forum is being hailed not as a one-off event, but as the first step toward a fundamental transformation of Paraguay's industrial structure.

Simultaneously, the "International Business Roundtable" saw business delegations from 17 countries explore cooperation opportunities across more than 40 different sectors. They viewed Paraguay not just as a consumer market, but as a strategic production base and export platform for the South American region. One foreign investor remarked, "Paraguay has abundant natural resources, a young workforce, and a stable economic environment, all of which contribute to its high growth potential." He expressed particular interest in renewable energy, agricultural technology, and digital infrastructure. The roundtable led to practical business matching, with numerous memorandums of understanding (MOUs) being signed. This suggests that Paraguay can serve as a bridgehead for expanding into the global market, beyond just South America.

These events reaffirmed Paraguay's role as a member of the international community committed to sustainable development. By presenting a blueprint for future industries through the circular economy forum and attracting real investment and cooperation through the international business roundtable, Paraguay successfully managed to "catch two birds with one stone," pursuing both sustainability and economic gain. All eyes are now on how Paraguay will leverage these international exchanges to achieve an even greater leap forward.

[ⓒ Global Economic Times. 무단전재-재배포 금지]