Paraguay’s National Gambling Commission has reported a significant increase in revenue following the implementation of modernising legislation about a year ago. The commission, known as Comisión Nacional de Juegos de Azar (Conajzar), accumulated total revenues of Gs. 215.940 million (approximately US$ 32.820.000) by the close of 2025. This marks a 22.8% increase over the 2024’s collections after Paraguay’s gambling overhaul.
In January 2026, the commission recorded collections of Gs. 18.715 million (approximately US$2.845.000) from licensing fees. This figure represents a substantial 23.4% rise compared to the same month in the previous year, demonstrating the immediate financial impact of the reforms.
Paraguay’s gambling overhaul: A new era of regulation
These financial results are, according to Conajzar, a direct consequence of Law 7438, which was enacted by the Executive Power in early 2025. The law introduced comprehensive changes to the existing legal framework governing games of chance, amending the original Law 1016/97. A central element of this reform was the restructuring of Conajzar’s oversight, placing it directly under the authority of the National Directorate of Tax Revenue, or Dirección Nacional de Ingresos Tributarios (DNIT).
This strategic move was described by officials as a “clear commitment to modernisation, transparency, and efficiency.” By integrating the gambling commission with the national tax authority, the government aimed to professionalise the sector’s regulation. Consequently, the new structure provides a more stable and solvent foundation for Conajzar, “equipping it with a legal framework suited to the demands of the modern market”.
Strengthened enforcement and market competition
The new legislation significantly bolstered Conajzar’s regulatory powers. The commission now possesses greater authority to execute its resolutions with more firmness, enhancing its ability to maintain order and compliance within the industry. A key aspect of this expanded competence is a strengthened capacity to pursue and penalise clandestine or illegal gambling activities, which helps to secure the integrity of the legal market.
In addition to enhancing enforcement, the law introduced fundamental changes to the market structure itself. One of the most significant changes was the elimination of the existing monopoly in the sector. This has effectively opened the doors to new operators and investors, fostering a more competitive and fair marketplace. This move is expected to drive innovation and improve the quality of services offered to the public.
Expanding the gaming landscape
Another crucial component of the reform was the expansion of the range of games officially recognised and authorised for exploitation. The previous legislation had a more limited scope, which did not fully reflect the evolution of the global gaming industry. The new law adapts to current market realities by legally permitting a wider variety of games, a development that benefits both providers and users.
For operators, this expansion allows for a more diverse portfolio of offerings, enabling them to cater to a broader audience. For consumers, it provides more choice within a regulated and safe environment. This wider selection of legal gaming options is also a strategic tool to draw players away from unregulated, offshore or underground operators, thereby channelling more activity into the taxable domestic market.
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