La Nación - August 9, 2024
Municipal Board of Asunción approves land use for Astillero La Madrid shipyard.
La Madrid Shipyard, located in the Nueva Tablada neighborhood, has obtained a significant land use concession from the Municipality of Asunción in the Costanera Norte area, outside the protected wildlife zone. Following a request submitted months ago, the Municipal Board approved the usufruct of the land for a period of five years, marking an important milestone for the company and the community.
Commitment and Social Responsibility
With the approval and formalization of the usufruct, La Madrid Shipyard commits to making a significant economic contribution to the capital’s municipality for the use of the land. Additionally, the company has assumed social responsibility towards the community, pledging to promote local development, invest in the environment, and create jobs.
Background and Contributions
La Madrid Shipyard, with more than 35 years of experience in the market, is dedicated to the construction and repair of tugboats, ships, and barges in Paraguay and Argentina. The company has played a crucial role in the community’s development, generating hundreds of jobs and benefiting numerous people. Strategically located on the Paraguay River in the Costanera Norte area of Asunción, La Madrid S.A. is a partner of Dreamers S.A. and has all the infrastructure and equipment necessary for its operations.
Permits and Compliance
The shipyard holds all environmental permits from the Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development (MADES), as well as authorizations from the General Directorate of Merchant Marine and the General Naval Prefecture of the Paraguayan Navy. Moreover, it complies with all tax obligations before the National Directorate of Tax Revenues, ensuring its operation within the legal framework.

Importance of the Shipbuilding Industry in Paraguay
The shipbuilding industry is vital for Paraguay, not only because of job creation and economic development but also due to its contribution to river transportation. Paraguay has the third largest river fleet in the world, after the United States and China, and the largest in South America, with around 3,200 barges in operation.
Economic and Social Impact
The directors of La Madrid explained that, in addition to meeting all legal requirements, the shipyard contributes millions to the treasury and significantly supports the social growth of the neighborhood. Currently, the company employs more than 100 workers, all with social security coverage, and benefits over 500 people, including workers’ families, suppliers, and neighbors of the Nueva Tablada area.
With the new land concession, La Madrid Shipyard is well positioned to continue its work of development and community support, further strengthening its positive impact in Asunción and the region.