Classification
Product TypeProcessed Food
Product FormShelf-stable (Ambient, packaged)
Industry PositionPackaged Consumer Food Product
Market
In Paraguay, tomato ketchup (HS/NCM 2103.20) functions primarily as an import-supplied packaged condiment market. UN Comtrade data (via World Bank WITS) shows Paraguay imported about USD 7.34 million (≈5.12 million kg) of HS 2103.20 in 2024, with Argentina and Brazil as the largest suppliers by value, followed by Uruguay. Applied import duties depend on the NCM line and packaging size, with MEF’s tariff schedule listing different AEC/ANV rates for immediate containers ≤1 kg versus other presentations. Market access risk is driven by INAN sanitary registration and labeling compliance requirements for processed, packaged foods marketed in Paraguay.
Market RoleNet importer (HS/NCM 2103.20)
Domestic RoleDomestic consumption condiment category supplied largely via imports; local packing/production not verified in this record
Market GrowthGrowing (2019–2024 trade-value trend)import value increased between 2019 and 2024
Specification
Packaging- NCM 2103.20.10 covers immediate containers with content ≤1 kg (typical retail-size presentations) in Paraguay’s tariff schedule context
- NCM 2103.20.90 covers other presentations (e.g., larger packs/bulk) in Paraguay’s tariff schedule context
Supply Chain
Value Chain- Regional manufacturer/exporter (Argentina/Brazil/Uruguay) → cross-border freight → Paraguayan importer/wholesaler → retail and foodservice distribution
Temperature- Ambient product handling; protect sealed packaging from heat and physical damage to reduce leakage and quality degradation
Freight IntensityHigh
Transport ModeLand
Risks
Regulatory Compliance HighFailure to secure INAN sanitary registration for the product (R.S.P.A.) and the importing establishment (R.E.), or failure to meet INAN labeling submission requirements, can block commercialization and may prevent smooth customs and market-surveillance clearance for imported ketchup in Paraguay.Obtain/maintain valid R.E. and R.S.P.A. via INAN systems prior to shipment; align Spanish labeling and ingredient/additive declarations with INAN requirements and keep constancia de vigencia available for customs.
Logistics MediumBecause Paraguay’s ketchup supply is heavily import-based and mainly sourced regionally, cross-border transport delays and trucking cost volatility can disrupt replenishment and raise landed cost for packaged ketchup.Use reliable cross-border logistics providers, pre-clear documentation, and maintain safety stock aligned to import lead times from Argentina/Brazil/Uruguay.
Documentation Gap MediumDocumentation or label inconsistencies (e.g., missing/incorrect registration identifiers or incomplete ingredient declarations) can trigger holds, rework, or product withdrawal risk under INAN oversight expectations for packaged foods.Run a pre-shipment document and label checklist against INAN registration outputs (R.S.P.A./R.E.) and maintain traceability records linking lots to import entries.
Labor & Social- Risk of informal/illicit circulation of unregistered foods; INAN communications emphasize that products and establishments should hold sanitary registrations prior to commercialization, and warn that unregistered foods may have entered without control.
FAQ
Which HS/NCM code is typically used for ketchup in Paraguay trade statistics and tariff schedules?Tomato ketchup falls under HS 2103.20 (“tomato ketchup and other tomato sauces”). Paraguay’s tariff schedule further references NCM 2103.20 sub-lines, including 2103.20.10 (immediate containers ≤1 kg) and 2103.20.90 (other presentations).
Where does Paraguay mainly import ketchup (HS 2103.20) from?UN Comtrade data (via the World Bank WITS interface) shows Paraguay’s 2024 imports of HS 2103.20 were sourced mainly from Argentina and Brazil by value, with Uruguay as the next-largest supplier.
What is the main regulatory prerequisite to commercialize imported ketchup in Paraguay?INAN requires sanitary registration for processed, packaged foods (R.S.P.A.) and establishment registration/authorization (R.E.) for the food business activities involved (including importation). INAN also requires label documentation to be submitted for registration and generally expects Spanish labeling (or an official translation), with specific provisions noted for MERCOSUR members.