To do shopping in paraguay is one of the expectations of those who travel to Foz do Iguaçu. That's because Ciudad del Este offers numerous stores with attractive prices, in addition to the wide variety of products.
It is possible to find practically everything when it comes to shopping in Paraguay: electronic options, personal items (such as perfumes, makeup and clothes), decoration items, toys, household items, drinks and others.
How about some tips for not having trouble while shopping?
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1. Documentation
To go to Paraguay it is essential to carry your General Registration Card (RG) or passport.
Despite not be a ride for kids, if it is unavoidable to take them, it is important that an adult is fully responsible for taking care of them. After all, any care is little in very busy environments.
Another important detail in relation to minors is that, in case they are not accompanied by their mother and father, to enter Paraguay they must carry a document with a notarized signature by the absent guardian.
2. Purchase Quota in Paraguay
The value of the land quota for tax-free purchases abroad is US$ 300 (three hundred dollars) until December 2019.
As of January 2020, the new quota will be US$ 500 (five hundred dollars) per person. The quota for duty free shops (like the Puerto Iguazu Duty Free) will also be upgraded next year from US$ 500 to US$ 1000.
If your purchases exceed the quota amount, upon returning to the Brazilian side, you must stop at customs and pay the import tax at the rate of 50% on the excess amount.
This quota for purchases in Paraguay is individual and renewed monthly.
Extra tip: the App Travelers Federal Revenue has other important information for buyers. It is worth consulting!
3. Money and Exchange
It is common for stores in Paraguay to accept reais, dollars and Paraguayan guarani. Usually, it is cheaper to buy dollars at exchange offices (in Foz or Paraguay) than to be subject to the exchange rate carried out in stores.
Malls and larger stores accept international credit cards – at the cost of the IOF (Financial Operations Tax) rate charged by the credit operator and, eventually, an increase made by the store itself.
4. How to Cross the Friendship Bridge
With only 552 meters long, cross the International Friendship Bridge it is not a difficult task.
You can cross it on foot, by bus or motorcycle taxi. And there are also several private vans that make the way. But if you're looking comfort and protection, opt for safe transport, such as Triple Tour receptive service.
5. Care and Safety in Paraguay
Another important issue is the care required when shopping in Paraguay.
Ciudad del Este is usually extremely busy, so be as cautious as you would be in any major city: store money, cell phone and personal objects in a protected place.
> You can also check more details about what products can you buy in Paraguay and the allowed quantities
6. Shopping Tips in Paraguay
This is another frequent doubt that tourists have when shopping in Paraguay. In the center of Ciudad del Este there are several street shops, fairs and street vendors that offer a multitude of items.
If the intention is to buy objects of greater value, invest in renowned stores and malls to avoid replicas and fakes:
– Electronics and Technology:
– Nisei House
– Cellshop
– Madrid Center
– Master 10
– Mega Electronics
– Nave Shop
– Malls and Utilities:
– SA Shop
– Macedonian Store
– shopping mall
– Shopping China (8am to 8pm)
– China House
– Shopping Del Este (7am to 7pm)
– Shopping Lion
– Shopping Monalisa
– Shopping Paris (8am to 8pm)
– Shopping Vendôme
Common opening hours for stores and malls in Paraguay are from 7:00 am to 4:00 pm (Paraguayan time), with some exceptions, as detailed above. It is also important to pay attention to the Brazilian summer time – when in effect, it is set forward by one hour.
Extra Tip: a good place to walk is the Jesuit Plaza, an open-air mall about 20 minutes from the center of Ciudad del Este. There are interesting shops, but the place stands out for its restaurants and various options for fast food. The site is open from Monday to Saturday from 9 am to midnight and on Sundays from 10 am.
It is also important to remember: shopping in Paraguay means a lot of walking. So, wear sneakers and comfortable clothes.
It is common for stores in Paraguay to open from 7 am to 4 pm, according to local time.
So, ready for shopping in Paraguay? Also take advantage and see what items to consider when choose a hotel in foz and make your trip even better!
