Paracel: 7 years promoting the economic transformation of the north of the country
Paracel has established itself as the largest private enterprise in the country, marking a turning point in the economy of northern Paraguay. To date, the company has already invested more than USD 1.4 billion, including pre-factory works, expansion of the forest base and socio-environmental projects, betting on a development model that combines economic growth, social inclusion and sustainability.
Today, Paracel is preparing for the development of Paraguay's first sustainable forestry industrial hub. After signing a mandate with IDB Invest, the project under evaluation contemplates the construction of essential infrastructure, such as power transmission lines, a private river port and other complementary works that would enable the arrival of new industries linked to the sector.
The company currently has more than 1,200 employees, of whom 70% come from the department of Concepción and 47% worked in the informal sector before joining Paracel, in addition to having more than 370 active companies (small, medium and large) linked to the company, which shows their role in formalizing employment and improving living conditions. With the development of the industrial hub, it is estimated that 7,000 direct and indirect jobs will be created at their peak.
The company's economic impact is also reflected in business growth: since the arrival of Paracel, the number of MSMEs formalized in Concepción rose by 102%, boosting the creation of new businesses and strengthening local production chains. In addition, since 2020, the number of people enrolled in the Social Security Institute in the department grew by 31%, strengthening social security for workers.
An important point to highlight is that since the company's inception, tax revenue has increased by 153% in the department of Concepción. In addition, Paracel not only generates employment, but also promotes technical training and productive diversification. Through alliances with institutions such as SINAFOCAL and SNPP, it facilitates access to tools and certifications that allow workers to access better job opportunities.
To date, more than 1,484 certifications have been carried out in 10 specialties, allowing these people to not only be hired by the company but also in other companies. This comprehensive approach helps communities in their area of influence to perceive a better quality of life.
In parallel, in 2025, the company celebrated the completion of the C9 housing, designed to receive more than 2,000 people who will work on the construction of the industrial hub. These facilities comply with national and international standards, especially the IFC Socio-Environmental Performance Standard, and guarantee comfort and safety for the human team.
Paracel's socio-economic commitment is also reflected in its social impact, implementing 14 social programs in 46 communities in its area of influence, focusing mainly on the promotion of infrastructure, production, income and community health and security, strengthening the relationship with the territory and promoting inclusive development.
With these actions, Paracel positions itself as a key actor in the economic transformation of the region and the country, aligning its operations with the highest standards and consolidating Paraguay as a regional reference in forest innovation and sustainable development.
About Paracel
Paracel is the first Paraguayan cellulose forestry company, created to generate a positive impact on society and promote an increase in demand for biodegradable products. This Paraguayan company, the largest private enterprise in the country's history, has more than 203,000 hectares of its own land.
It is led by three companies: the Zapag Group, Heinzel Holding GmbH and Girindus Investments, all committed to sustainable development and the creation of social, economic and environmental value.
