Historical Timeline of Japanese Paraguayan

1903

The Immigration Act of Paraguay of 1903 is enacted, restricting the entrance of "black and yellow races." In 1921, Paraguay and Japan agree that the "yellow race" does not apply to the Japanese people in Article 14 of the Constitution.

 

1912

The first Japanese resident of Paraguay, Kanezo Sakoda, arrives in Paraguay.

 

1919

On November 7, Paraguayan-Japanese relations are established, during the reign of Emperor Yoshihito of Japan and presidency of José P. Montero of Paraguay.

 

1936

The first Japanese settlement, La Colmena, is established in Paraguay on May 15, 1936.

 

1937

The Japanese Consulate is first established in Paraguay with the Consul Kadori Naruse.

 

1942

La Colmena is declared an "internment zone" with the outbreak of World War II, together with the German communities already established in Paraguay. All civilian and educational activities for these two communities are restricted under pressure of the U.S.

 

1950

There are 578 Japanese and Nikkei in Paraguay.

 

1953

The new era of immigration begins when Paraguay opens its door to all immigrants from countries devastated by World War II, when the majority of Panamerican countries were closed to Japanese immigration. As a result 7,700 Japanese immigrated to Paraguay.

 

1957

Diplomatic representation between Paraguay and Japan is established with the opening of Legations in both countries.

 

1959

Immigration Agreement between Japan and Paraguay is signed, with Paraguay to receive 85,000 Japanese in 30 years.

 

1967

First Japanese-language newspaper, Paraguay Shimpo and the Radio Nikkei are begun by Luis K. Okuhata.

 

1970

The Federation of Japanese Associations of Paraguay is established in order to improve the linkages between the different Japanese communities.

 

1972

The first State visit of a President of Paraguay to Japan, General Alfredo Stroessner, which results in assistance from Japan and greater cooperation between the two countries.

 

1976

Crown Prince Akihito and Princess Michiko of Japan visit Paraguay upon acceptance of an official State invitation.

 

1980

The Nikkei Central Cooperative is established to cultivate and strengthen Japanese agricultural cooperatives.

 

1986

The 50th anniversary of Japanese immigration to Paraguay is celebrated with the presence of Prince Hitachi and Princess Hanako of Japan.

 

1990

The government of Paraguay permits the entrance of Japanese visitors to Paraguay for three months without consular visa.

 

1991

The 6th Pan-American Nikkei Convention is held in Asunción and organized by the Centro Nikkei Paraguayo, an organization founded in 1987 to unite efforts between Nikkei in Paraguay and to promote friendship and cooperation among national and international entities.

 

1996

President of Paraguay, Juan Carlos Wasmosy, inaugurates the building and campus of Centro Nikkei Paraguayo in Itaúgua.

 

Commemorative ceremony of the 60th anniversary of Japanese immigration to Paraguay, attended by President Juan Carlos Wasmosy.