An investigation by Argentine TV show Periodismo Para Todos (PPT) revealed significant smuggling of soybeans from Argentina to Paraguay. This illicit trade exploits the same cross-border blindspots that are used for drug trafficking. Smugglers transport soybeans into Paraguay to circumvent Argentina's hefty 30% export tariffs. The soybeans are transported via the Paraná River, where Paraguayan boats either collect soybean loads from Argentine boats or dock at clandestine ports to await truck deliveries. Once in Paraguay, the soybeans are recorded as Paraguayan produce and exported. This contraband trade has been fuelled by rising production costs in Argentina and falling global soybean prices, making smuggling a more profitable option for many farmers. The impact of this illicit trade is evident in industry statistics. Between 2011 and 2015, while Argentina's soybean production increased by 8%, exports fell by 6%. In contrast, Paraguay saw a 10% rise in production but a dramatic 62% increase in exports, indicating the scale of the contraband operation.