Paraguay gambling law reform moves forward after presidential meeting

The government of Paraguay is preparing for the implementation of a new gambling law, following a high-level meeting between President Santiago Peña and the head of the National Directorate of Tax Revenue (DNIT), Óscar Orué, on Monday, April 21.

During the meeting, Orué presented President Peña with updates on the progress of the regulatory framework for Law No. 7438/2025, which was approved in December and enacted in January. The law significantly reforms the country’s legal framework for gambling operations.

One of the key points discussed was the nearly 11% growth in tax revenue during the first quarter of the year—a sign of the sector’s growing economic importance. The new law is expected to further streamline operations and enhance transparency.

A major highlight of the upcoming regulations is the elimination of the monopoly system for granting gambling licenses, which is set to open the market to more competition. Additionally, the integration of the National Gambling Commission (Conajzar) into the DNIT is aimed at strengthening oversight and improving enforcement capabilities.

Crucially, the legislation also prioritizes the fight against illegal gambling. Orué emphasized the role of the DNIT’s intelligence unit in identifying and sanctioning unauthorized operators, signaling a stricter regulatory approach moving forward.

The final regulatory decree is expected to be released soon, setting the stage for a new era in Paraguay’s gambling industry.