A 1. Paraguay's Import Process for Refrigerant Gases
Step 1: Verify Import Eligibility
Check Restricted/Prohibited Refrigerants:
Banned substances: R22 (HCFC) due to Montreal Protocol phase-out.
Restricted substances: A2L refrigerants (e.g., R32) may require special permits due to flammability.
Allowed refrigerants: R134a, R404A, R410A, R32 (with compliance).
Step 2: Obtain Required Licenses
MADES (Ministry of Environment):
Submit an Environmental Import Permit for ozone-depleting or high-GWP gases.
Required for HCFCs, HFCs (e.g., R404A).
SNCP (National Customs Directorate):
Register as an importer and declare refrigerant HS Code (e.g., 2903.39.90 for HFCs).
Step 3: Supplier Documentation
Ensure your supplier (e.g., FRIOFLOR) provides:
Commercial Invoice (with detailed product specs).
Bill of Lading/Air Waybill.
Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) – Spanish preferred.
Certificate of Origin (for tariff benefits under Mercosur).
Phytosanitary Certificate (if applicable).
Step 4: Customs Clearance
Hire a Paraguayan Customs Broker:
Refrigerants are classified as hazardous materials (UN numbers apply, e.g., UN1078 for R134a).
Pay import taxes:
10% standard tariff (IMPA).
10% VAT (IVA).
Possible exemptions under Mercosur agreements (if importing from Colombia/Argentina).
Step 5: Transport & Storage
Flammable refrigerants (R32, R290):
Must follow NFPA 70 (NEC) and Paraguayan fire codes.
Use ventilated, fireproof storage.
2. Key Regulations in Paraguay
Environmental Laws
Montreal Protocol Compliance:
Paraguay bans HCFCs (e.g., R22) and restricts HFCs (e.g., R404A).
MADES monitors quotas for high-GWP gases.
Kigali Amendment:
Future phase-down of HFCs expected (prioritize low-GWP alternatives like R32).
Safety Standards
A2L Refrigerants (R32, R454B):
Require special handling certification (similar to IEC 60335-2-40).
Labeling:
Cylinders must have Spanish labels with safety warnings.
Mercosur Trade Considerations
Lower tariffs for imports from Colombia, Argentina, or Brazil vs. China/Europe.
Certificate of Origin needed to claim benefits.
3. Practical Tips for Importers
✅ Partner with Local HVAC Associations:
Connect with CAI (Cámara de Aire Acondicionado del Paraguay) for regulatory updates.
✅ Pre-Clearance with Customs:
Submit documents electronically via VUCE (Single Window for Foreign Trade).
✅ Competitive Pricing:
Compare R32 prices from Colombia (FRIOFLOR) vs. Argentina (Refrigerant Group).
4. Common Challenges & Solutions
⚠️ Delays at Customs:
Solution: Work with a specialized hazardous-materials broker.
⚠️ Flammability Restrictions:
Solution: Stock R134a (non-flammable) alongside R32 for flexible demand.
Next Steps
Contact MADES for permit requirements: www.mades.gov.py.
Request a proforma invoice from FRIOFLOR to calculate landed costs.
Consult a Paraguayan customs expert (e.g., Importa Paraguay agency).
Need help drafting a Spanish-language compliance checklist or comparing supplier quotes? Let me know!