INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
A comprehensive price comparison study by the Catholic University-Campus Salto reveals that Uruguayan products cost 78% more than their
Brazilian counterparts as of April 2025.This persistent gap affects 57 consumer items across seven categories measured between the border
This economic reality drives many Uruguayans to cross the border for shopping savings
Personal care items show dramatic price differences.Toothpaste costs 275% more in Uruguay, while toilet paper is 168% more expensive
Household products follow a similar pattern, with detergent costing 282% more on the Uruguayan side.Food and beverages, which make up nearly
half of the measured consumer basket, are 87% more expensive in Uruguay
(Photo Internet reproduction)The price gap extends beyond daily necessities
Restaurant meals cost 32% more in Uruguay, while clothing and footwear show a 42% difference
These disparities create significant economic pressure on Uruguayan consumers.Multiple independent sources confirm this trend
43.6% lower.The economic impact extends beyond individual consumers
Uruguay recorded $1.917 billion in imports during April 2025, with Brazil serving as its largest trading partner at $392 million
This relationship highlights the economic interdependence despite price disparities.Currency exchange rates play a key role in this
The Brazilian real has depreciated more against the US dollar than the Uruguayan peso, contributing to the price gap.This situation creates
a challenging economic reality for border communities
Uruguayan businesses struggle to compete with Brazilian prices, while consumers face difficult choices between convenience and significant
savings by crossing the border for purchases.
