Paraguay is undergoing a profound digital transformation, transitioning from a period of emerging connectivity to a nation where the Internet is now considered a fundamental utility. Recent data reveals a significant surge in nationwide usage. Those numbers are complemented by a strategic government push to bridge the “digital divide” in the country’s most remote regions.
A decade of rapid expansion
According to recent reports, the proportion of the Paraguayan population (aged 10 and over) using the Internet has skyrocketed over the last decade. In 2015, just 49.7% of the population were regular users; by 2024, that figure reached a historic 81.6%. This trend reflects more than just a rise in social media browsing. The data indicates a shift in how Internet is consumed:
- Home connectivity: In 2015, only 31.7% of users connected from home. This has more than doubled to 68.2%, signaling a massive investment in fixed-line and home Wi-Fi infrastructure.
- Economic integration: Internet access is no longer a luxury but a “basic input” for the national economy. It is now deeply integrated into banking, education, and professional services.
- Demographics: The highest adoption is seen among young adults aged 20 to 34, with penetration rates exceeding 94%.
Digital connectivity growth
In August 2025, Paraguay has achieved a significant milestone in digital inclusion, with a substantial increase in the percentage of the population now possessing consistent Internet access. The growth was largely attributed to the robust expansion of mobile broadband and targeted government initiatives. Those measures were aimed at modernising the nation’s telecommunications infrastructure. As high-speed connectivity becomes more pervasive across both urban and rural districts, the digital divide is narrowing. This is providing a larger segment of the populace with the tools necessary for modern communication.
The socio-economic implications of this digital surge are profound, particularly in the sectors of education, commerce, and public administration. Enhanced connectivity has facilitated the rise of e-learning platforms and digital entrepreneurship, allowing local businesses to engage more effectively with global markets. Furthermore, the digitisation of government services has improved transparency and accessibility for citizens. This upward trend in Internet penetration underscores Paraguay’s commitment to fostering a competitive knowledge-based economy and improving the overall quality of life through technological integration.
Bridging the gap: satellite internet in the Chaco
While urban centres like Central and Alto Paraná boast high connectivity, the sparsely populated Chaco region has historically faced isolation. To address this, the Paraguayan government, through the Ministry of Information and Communication Technologies (MITIC), has launched an ambitious satellite connectivity programme.
In a landmark development this month, 18 remote communities in the Chaco are now officially connected via high-speed satellite Internet. Furthermore, this initiative is part of a wider agreement involving the state-owned telecom Copaco and Starlink, aiming to establish 500 access points across schools and rural health centres.
Highlights of the Chaco rollout:
- Speed and reliability: Technicians have reported speeds of up to 280 Mbps in indigenous community schools, providing the same quality of service found in modern cities.
- Social justice: A notable success is the connection of the Sawhoyamaxa community (Enxet people). This project fulfils part of a historic Inter-American Court of Human Rights ruling. The programme is ensuring that land restitution is accompanied by essential modern services.
- Opportunities: For these 18 communities, the Internet facilitates immediate access to telemedicine, digital government platforms, and enhanced educational resources that were previously out of reach.
Starlink initiative for rural public services
In October 2025, the Paraguayan government had formalised a landmark agreement with Starlink, the satellite Internet constellation operated by SpaceX. The deal was to provide high-speed connectivity to 500 rural schools and various healthcare facilities across the country. The work is orchestrated through the Ministry of Information and Communication Technologies (MITIC) and the state-owned telecommunications firm Copaco. This project specifically targets remote regions where traditional fibre-optic infrastructure is often logistically and financially unfeasible. By utilising low-earth orbit (LEO) satellite technology, the initiative ensures that essential public services in isolated communities can access reliable, low-latency broadband, which is crucial for modernising national infrastructure.
The primary objective of this partnership was to bridge the persistent digital divide that has historically hindered educational and medical outcomes in Paraguay’s interior. In schools, the introduction of high-speed Internet is expected to revolutionise the learning environment. This will grant students and educators access to global digital resources and e-learning platforms. Simultaneously, the integration of Starlink within rural hospitals will facilitate the digitisation of health records. Additionnally, it will enable more efficient oversight of government social programmes, such as the Hambre Cero food security initiative.
The path towards connectivity
The jump to 81.6% national usage proves that Paraguayans are ready for a digital future. However, the government’s focus on the Chaco suggests that “growth” is now being measured by inclusion rather than just numbers. By leveraging satellite technology to reach the final frontiers of the country, Paraguay is ensuring that its digital revolution leaves no citizen behind.
