ATOME PLC (AIM:ATOM) noted that S&P Global Ratings has upgraded Paraguay’s long-term foreign and local currency sovereign credit rating to investment grade. The rating was raised to BBB- with a stable outlook on 17 December 2025.
S&P said the upgrade reflects Paraguay’s record of sound economic and pro-market policies, regulatory stability and stronger governance. The agency revised its GDP growth forecast for the country to 5.4% for the current year and highlighted improved investor confidence.
It comes as ATOME is advancing the Villeta green fertilizer project in the South American country.
James Spalding, president of the ATOME Paraguay subsidiary, in a statement, commented: “This welcome recognition of Paraguay's improved international financial standing confirms the robust and fertile environment for our landmark low-carbon fertiliser project in Villeta.”
He added that the move acknowledged the country’s macroeconomic stability and capacity for foreign direct investment.
"S&P now joins Moody's in raising Paraguay to investment grade, which is a solid acknowledgement of the long-standing track record of macroeconomic stability, strengthened by the country's recent growth and increasing the capacity for foreign direct investment," Spalding added.
"We congratulate Paraguay on this historic achievement and are proud to form part of this strong and vibrant economy as we move to achieve our target of declaring FID at Villeta by the end of January 2026."