Asunción, Agencia IP.- President Santiago Peña highlighted the latest update from the National Institute of Statistics (INE), which reports an increase of 96,557 jobs in the fourth quarter of 2024 compared to the third quarter of 2023.
«In one year and four months of governance, we have created 100,000 new jobs in Paraguay, and I will not rest until we reach 500,000,» he said during a ceremony with graduates of culinary courses participating in the Zero Hunger program in the Guairá department.
Data provided by the National Institute of Statistics (INE) and cited by the Presidency of the Republic show that the employed population was 2,899,993 in the third quarter of 2023 and 2,996,550 in the last three months of the past year.
When comparing the quarters, the sectors with the highest growth were commerce, restaurants, and hotels, which generated over 51,000 new jobs. Community, social, and personal services followed with more than 25,000 jobs. In comparison, the construction sector saw an increase of over 19,000 new jobs.
Unemployment is at its lowest level in 8 years
The report also reveals a significant reduction in unemployment, with 20,000 fewer unemployed people compared to the previous quarter of 2024.
The unemployment rate dropped to 4.6%, the lowest since 2017, solidifying a more stable labor environment with greater opportunities.
Another key improvement is the increase in the formalization rate of private-sector employment, reaching 42.3%, the highest level since 2022. This growth reflects a strengthening of employment with social protection and better working conditions.
«These figures confirm that the country continues on a path of formal and quality job growth. We remain committed to consolidating a dynamic labor market with more opportunities for Paraguayans,» emphasized Minister of Labor Mónica Recalde.