Global - Technology - Review

The landlocked nation of Paraguay is mainly flat. In the west are the hot, arid and sparsely populated plains known as the Gran Chaco, extending over several neighbouring countries, and historically the subject of conflict. While parts are potentially fertile, the Paraguayan Chaco has suffered soil loss from dust storms, and there has been widespread deforestation. Armadillos and tapir are found here, and there are several National Parks. Most Paraguayans live in the south east of the country, near the capital Asuncion. Inequalities between landowners and the rest of the population have been the cause of tensions. Industries include pharmaceuticals, steel, meat processing, wood products and hides. Many people rely on subsistence agriculture. Folk music traditions include the rural Paraguayan Polka, and the slow, melancholy Guarania style of singing. The cuisine fuses native and Spanish traditions. Sopa Paraguaya is a type of corn bread made from maize, similar to that found all over the Americas. Traditional crafts include lacemaking and embroidery. The well preserved Jesuit mission of the Holy Trinity at Parana dates from 1706, and is a World Heritage site. Asuncion, on the left bank of the Paraguay River, is said to be the world’s cheapest city.