Real drops 2.3% in Paraguay: impact on border shopping

Between July 19 and August 19, 2026, the real lost 2.3% of its value against the Paraguayan guarani – meaning each real bought fewer guaraníes. At the same time, the dollar was quoted at R$ 5.21, one of the highest points in the last 94 days of observation.

Dollar is the U.S. currency used as an international reference; real is the Brazilian currency; guarani is the official currency of Paraguay. When the real "falls" or "depreciates," the exchange rate rises and, for those coming from Brazil, buying products or services priced in guaraníes becomes more expensive.

For people who cross the Brazil-Paraguay border to shop, the immediate effect is that items that previously had a more favorable cost now require more reais or dollars. While Paraguay records a 2.3% drop, Argentina also saw the real lose value, but only by 1.1%, meaning the depreciation there is less pronounced.

A practical tip is to monitor the rate before traveling, compare the rate offered at exchange houses in Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil, and Ciudad del Este, Paraguay, and evaluate using dollars or credit cards, which can minimize the loss caused by currency fluctuations. Marco Três tracks these numbers in real time so you can plan your purchases better.

What this means for you:

• Bring a bit more reais or dollars when crossing the border, as your money buys fewer guaraníes than at the start of the period;
• Check the rate at exchange houses before converting, as the differences can be significant;
• Consider paying in dollars at establishments that accept them, since the real is weaker and the dollar, despite being high, may be more stable for large purchases.

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