With the significant increase in cases of Coronavirus in South America, countries such as Brazil, Paraguay and Argentina decided to close their borders to reduce the risks of contamination. In mid-March, hygiene and safety measures were adopted at customs as a way to control contagion between inhabitants, visitors and tourists.
The famous Friendship Bridge is closed, avoiding the circulation between Foz do Iguaçu and Ciudad del Este, as well as the Fraternidade Bridge, connecting the Brazilian side to Puerto Iguazú.
But amid doubts and uncertainties, many ask the same question: when will Paraguay open?
To answer this and other questions about it, we created a post complete with all the information you need to know about the subject. Check out:
Paraguay Closed
On March 18, the Friendship Bridge was closed indefinitely, completing more than 3 months of isolation, being only allowed the transport of loads.
During this period, some negotiations were taken, however, they have not yet been put into practice, such as the possibility of opening trade in Ciudad del Este on alternate days.
However, President Mario Abdo Benítez reaffirmed that borders with neighboring countries should only be reopened when the situation of the new Coronavirus is under control. Since Paraguay has had few cases of contamination and maintains a low mortality rate, totaling more than 1,300 confirmed cases and only 13 deaths.
On the first Sunday of June, a demonstration was held in Ciudad del Este asking for the reopening of businesses and the International Friendship Bridge.
Shopping in Paraguay and Duty Free in Foz do Iguaçu
But, even with Paraguay closed, it is possible to buy some products in Foz do Iguaçu, with prices very similar to those found in Ciudad Del Este, in the duty free in Foz do Iguacu.
The city offers several ventures with original products, from renowned and international brands, at affordable prices. You can take the opportunity to know the sights of the place, such as the Iguazu Falls, and still do your shopping safely and properly.
With the Friendship Bridge closed, merchants and residents of neighboring towns end up suffering from a drop in sales and a lack of resources.
Paraguay has been registering a decreasing number of infected people and has already entered the third stage the so-called “smart quarantine”. From now on, bars and restaurants are authorized to open, as long as they follow safety standards and guidelines, in addition to the other sectors that have already received clearance.
Outdoor activities are also allowed, as long as they are carried out in up to two people. As well as gyms, gymnasiums and religious ceremonies, each with an appropriate amount of individuals and always avoiding agglomerations.
With the Friendship Bridge closed, the hotel sector and trade in Foz do Iguaçu suffered a considerable impact. Despite the demonstrations held in Brazilian territory, Paraguay remains closed and the chances of reopening are increasingly distant.
It is believed that the borders with the neighboring country should only resume activities at the end of the year.
While that doesn't happen, you can take the opportunity to get to know the duty free in Foz do Iguacu and find products from Samsung, Xiaomi, JBL, Lacoste, among other brands.
Common modern and sophisticated environment, you duty free in Foz do Iguaçu offer more than electronics, perfumes, drinks and other items, the place provides a complete and charming shopping experience.
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Images: Unsplash (Raphael Lovaski); Unsplash (Frank Busch)
