Encarnación Gastronomy Sector Sees 50% Sales Drop Amidst Economic Woes

The gastronomic sector in Encarnación is facing a severe downturn, with businesses reporting a staggering 50% decrease in sales compared to last year. Marcelo Trussy Bello, president of the Gastronomic Association, highlighted the critical lack of circulating money and the significant impact of rising fuel prices on both local consumers and the crucial Argentinean tourist market. This economic pinch is making it increasingly difficult for establishments to maintain operations.

While the upcoming World Rally Championship offers a glimmer of hope, relying on such events for economic survival is unsustainable. Trussy Bello emphasized the need for a more consistent economic flow, noting that the sector struggles to stay afloat with only four months of high season, leaving eight months of uncertainty. The growth seen after 2025, which led to an increase in gastronomic establishments, now appears fragile under current economic pressures.

From our vantage point at ABC Color, this situation underscores the vulnerability of local economies dependent on fluctuating external factors. We urge for collaborative efforts to combat informality, which creates unfair competition for legitimate businesses. The current economic climate, exacerbated by fuel price hikes, demands strategic solutions beyond event-driven tourism to ensure the long-term sustainability of Encarnación's vibrant gastronomic scene. This is a local struggle that resonates deeply within our community, highlighting the challenges faced by small businesses in Paraguay.

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It is very difficult to sustain with four months of high season, when the year has eight months left.