Paraguay’s strategic approach to artificial intelligence and digitalisation was presented at the CAF 2026 Forum held in Panama. Klaus Pistilli, the Deputy Minister of Technologies from the Ministry of Information and Communication Technologies (MITIC), represented the nation at a high-level, closed-door panel. The discussion centred on the role of emerging technologies in fostering competitiveness across Latin America and the Caribbean.
In his address, deputy minister Pistilli specifically pointed to the optimisation of administrative processes as a key area for improvement. The application of intelligent systems could lead to reduced bureaucracy, and faster, more reliable services for the public. This would, in turn, increase the overall efficiency of the state apparatus.
The CAF 2026 Economic Forum brought together influential regional figures to engage in an executive dialogue on these critical topics. Specifically, the forum, organised by the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF), focused on the profound impacts of Advanced Digitalisation and Agentic Artificial Intelligence.
Paraguay’s strategic digital vision
Theme at the CAF 2026 Forum was predicated on the understanding that the fusion of these technologies is fundamentally reshaping the global determinants of competitiveness, productivity, and state efficiency.
During the meeting, Klaus Pistilli articulated Paraguay’s forward-thinking strategy. He detailed the nation’s ambition to establish itself as a regional benchmark in the field of digital transformation. According to the deputy minister, Paraguay is actively constructing its future through the implementation of public policies, designed to acknowledge the comprehensive, cross-sectoral influence of Artificial Intelligence.
Furthermore, Pistilli explained that this influence extends across both the public and private spheres. The overarching goal of this national strategy is to ensure that digital services evolve into powerful instruments for enhancing operational efficiency throughout the country.
Optimisation and implementation challenges
In his address, the deputy minister highlighted the tangible benefits that AI can bring to the public sector. He specifically pointed to the optimisation of administrative processes as a key area for improvement. The application of intelligent systems could lead to streamlined government operations, reduced bureaucracy, and faster, more reliable services for the public. This would, in turn, increase the overall efficiency of the state apparatus.
At the same time, Pistilli candidly addressed the inherent difficulties associated with the large-scale implementation of AI. He acknowledged that integrating these advanced technologies presents a complex set of challenges that must be navigated carefully.
Connectivity “a top priority”
A central theme of Pistilli’s presentation at the forum was the indispensable role of connectivity in underpinning all digital development. He emphasised that without robust and widespread access to digital networks, the promise of a digital future cannot be realised for everyone. Therefore, the expansion of technological infrastructure is considered “a top priority” for the Paraguayan government.
This focus on infrastructure is crucial for bridging the digital divide, a persistent issue in many parts of the region. Pistilli stressed that ensuring these technological advancements reach every sector of society is paramount. By strengthening connectivity, Paraguay aims to create an environment where all individuals and businesses, regardless of their location, can participate in and benefit from the digital economy.
A showcase of public-private collaboration
As a concrete illustration of this strategy in action, Pistilli showcased the Distrito Innova (Digital District) project. He presented this initiative as a prime example of effective public-private collaboration specifically geared towards fostering innovation. This project serves as a tangible commitment to creating a dynamic environment where new ideas can flourish and technological progress can accelerate.
The core objective of the Distrito Innova is to consolidate a comprehensive ecosystem dedicated to technological advancement. This ecosystem is designed to actively promote cutting-edge research, nurture entrepreneurship, and attract significant technological investments to the country. Ultimately, the project is envisioned as a powerful engine for driving competitiveness and ensuring sustainable development, not only for Paraguay but for the entire Latin American region.
