economia ·
Buying a phone or iPhone in Paraguay: is it worth it?
Marco Três newsroom · edited by Annie GrellmannUpdated on
Price, customs allowance and tips to avoid traps in Ciudad del Este
Phones in Ciudad del Este are often cheaper — but they count toward the allowance and have rules. Here's how to buy safely.
Quick answer: Yes, you can buy a phone or iPhone in Ciudad del Este cheaper than in Brazil, but it counts toward the US$ 500 per-person allowance (by land, the Friendship Bridge, once every 30 days). Above that, the excess is taxed 50%, declared via Brazil's e-DBV (Receita Federal). Buy at a trusted store, ask for a receipt and check it's genuine and unlocked.
Does it count toward the allowance?
Yes. Electronics — phones and iPhones included — count toward the US$ 500 per-person land allowance, usable once every 30 days. The excess is taxed 50%, declared via the e-DBV.
Where to buy safely
Choose established stores (Shopping China and others). Ask for a receipt, confirm it's genuine, unlocked and under warranty. Compare the final price with Brazil's, including any tax.
Live data: check the current exchange rate at the real's purchasing power.
Source: Receita Federal. Check current rules before traveling.
Frequently asked questions
- Is the iPhone in Paraguay genuine?
- At trusted stores, yes. Demand a receipt, check the seal and test that it's unlocked before paying.
- Does a phone count toward the allowance?
- Yes. Electronics count toward the US$ 500 per-person land allowance, once every 30 days.
- Do I need to declare it?
- If you exceed the allowance, yes — via e-DBV, with 50% tax on the excess.
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