Real gains strength in Argentina and Paraguay: what it means for border shoppers

In the last 30 days the real rose 1.2% against the Paraguayan peso and 3.6% against the Argentine peso. This variation means that, when exchanging reais for pesos, the Brazilian traveler receives more units of the local currency per real, expanding purchasing power in stores in Ciudad del Este and in Argentina.

The dollar rate (R$ 5,08) stayed in the intermediate range of the 69-day series, i.e., neither at a peak nor at a trough, which reinforces that the real's appreciation was not caused by a sharp drop in the dollar but by specific movements of the local currencies.

For those planning to cross the border, the practical tip is to look for exchange houses that accept reais directly – such as those listed in the guide Where to exchange money at the border and where the real is accepted – and compare the offered rate with the official quote. Generally, the 3.6% appreciation in Argentina allows buying up to 3.6% more products or services, while in Paraguay the gain is 1.2%.

What this means for you:

• If you intend to shop in Ciudad del Este, exchange reais for Paraguayan pesos now to take advantage of the 1.2% gain;
• For purchases in Argentina, such as crafts or duty-free items, exchange reais for Argentine pesos and enjoy the 3.6% increase;
• Always check the exchange rate at the recommended exchange houses before crossing, as the offer can vary throughout the day.

Read also: Where to exchange money at the border and where the real is accepted