Imports of computer equipment were the second largest item imported by Uruguay from the U.S. in 1997. Paraguayan imports of computers are disproportionately large, as much of these products are passed as unregistered trade to neighboring countries. Unregistered trade in general, and the import duties and taxes paid by those who participate in it, are the principal revenue stream of the government of Paraguay. Smuggling activities are not included in the Argentine import market statistics provided above. However, it is estimated that smuggling activities, principally from Paraguay, represent an additional 40 percent to the total Argentine market.
Personal computers account for the majority of sales within the region to date.