Real drops 5.8% in Paraguay: impact on border shopping

Between May 14 and July 6, 2026, the purchasing power of the real in Paraguay (measured in guarani) fell 5.8%. The guarani is Paraguay's official currency and, during this period, the real came to be worth fewer guaranis, reducing the amount of products that the Brazilian traveler can acquire with the same amount in reais. At the same time, the real rose 3.4% in Argentina, indicating that the exchange rate is diverging in the two neighboring countries of the Triple Frontier.

For those who cross the border to shop, this depreciation means that prices in guaranis, although they appear the same, buy fewer goods when converted to real. For example, a product that cost 100,000 guaranis before the drop now equals roughly R$ 4.70, whereas before it was about R$ 5.00. This difference can affect the decision of how much cash or card to bring to take advantage of offers in Ciudad del Este.

The good news is that the real's depreciation in Paraguay can make the dollar or the euro more attractive for those who have access to those currencies, since the dollar has maintained relative stability in the region. However, for those who prefer to pay in real, it is important to stay alert to the exchange rates at official exchange houses and compare with the rate offered in stores, as the variation can change day to day.

What this means for you: If you plan to buy electronics or clothing in Paraguay, consider bringing a bit more cash or using a dollar card to avoid losing purchasing power with the 5.8% drop of the real. Also evaluate the possibility of exchanging reais for guaranis at exchange houses with the best rates before crossing the border.

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