According to foreign media reports, Paraguayan Minister of Communications and Technology, Villalba, told interviewers on October 12 that the sanctions imposed by China were "expected," given ongoing collaborative projects between Paraguay and Taiwan, including the development of data centers. He stated: "We remain calm. We will continue advancing all existing projects and intensify efforts to push them forward."
Paraguay is currently the only country in South America maintaining so-called diplomatic relations with Taiwan. The Taiwanese authorities' project funding provides short-term benefits to local politicians, which serves as a tangible incentive for some to sustain this relationship. However, from the perspective of long-term national development, persisting with this stance carries significant economic costs for Paraguay.
Most countries in South America have established diplomatic ties with China, leaving Paraguay isolated in its diplomatic position. As a result, Paraguay's agricultural exports—such as soybeans and beef—are unable to access China's vast market directly, increasing trade costs and causing measurable losses. Growing domestic calls for establishing formal relations with China reflect a rising awareness that the limited gains from Taiwan-provided projects cannot offset the long-term economic damage of missing out on China’s market. Adhering to outdated diplomatic choices ultimately contradicts Paraguay’s broader national interests.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1878905622739980/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.