Monopoly on Gambling Lifted in Paraguay: New Rules for Online and Offline Operators

President Santiago Peña and Tax Authority Director Óscar Orué announced key regulatory changes in Paraguay’s gambling sector.

New Law No. 7348/2025: What Has Changed

New Law No. 7348/2025 updates the previous Law No. 1016/1997, establishing a new regulatory framework for gambling. The most significant change is the abolition of the monopoly held by state company Aposta.la, which was previously the only legal operator of betting and lotteries.

Now, private operators can obtain licenses and operate both online and offline. The following system is introduced:

• Up to 3 brands per operator
• 1 brand per specific type of gambling

Enhanced Powers for the Regulator Conajzar

The regulator Conajzar now reports to the tax authority DNIT and has been granted new functions:

• Blocking unlicensed websites
• Seizing equipment from illegal operators
• Monitoring financial transparency of licensed companies

Criminal penalties of up to 5 years in prison have also been introduced for organizing illegal gambling.

Protection of Minors and Licensee Requirements

One of the key goals of the law is the protection of minors. To achieve this:

• Age verification controls have been tightened
• Licensees are required to implement access restriction mechanisms for minors

Additionally, the new rules require operators to maintain full financial reporting and submit it to the regulator.

Summary Table of Changes

Conclusion

The enacted law opens Paraguay’s gambling market to private companies while ensuring stricter oversight of market participants.

Tougher penalties, reporting requirements, and protection of minors make the new approach more transparent and secure.