Internet access and usage in Paraguay has reached record levels, with 81.6% of the population now regularly connected, according to the National Statistics Institute (INE) data. Figures from the INE’s 2017–2024 Permanent Household Survey shows that approximately four million people aged 10 and older now use the internet, a sharp rise from 61.1% in 2017.
The rise in internet access marks real progress in Paraguay’s efforts to expand connectivity, and reduce the digital divide. Particularly in rural areas where infrastructure has long lagged behind. Supported by initiatives such as the 2023 Starlink rollout and growing mobile coverage, this shift is opening up wider access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
Mobile phones remain the dominant access point, with 90% of users connecting while on the move. Instant messaging is the most popular activity, used by 97.5% of internet users, followed by voice calls and social media platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, and TikTok.
Internet access reveals differences
Despite progress, connectivity remains uneven between urban and rural areas: 86.2% of city residents are online, compared to 73.7% in rural regions. Asunción leads with 88.9% coverage, while departments such as San Pedro and Caaguazú lag behind at 70%.
Young adults aged 20 to 34 are the most active users, with nearly 90% of them online. In contrast, only half of children aged 10 to 14 access the internet. Education also plays a defining role: 98.1% of those with higher education are connected, compared to just 60.3% among those with only primary schooling.
While women slightly outpace men in overall usage (82.1% vs 81%), their digital habits differ. According to INE’s data, women tend to use the internet to search for information on health, education or training, and consumer services. Men are more likely to use it for downloading games, streaming videos or films, and conducting banking transactions.
Paraguay advances push for universal access
A key part of Paraguay’s drive to improve nationwide internet access is the National Telecommunications Commission’s (Conatel) recent launch of the bidding process for 5G licences.
This initiative forms part of a wider digital strategy that also includes expanding mobile coverage. The Conatel rolled out satellite services through providers like Starlink. Moreover, it also upgraded fibre optic networks in both urban and rural areas. Together, these efforts aim to close the digital gap and ensure fast, reliable connectivity for all Paraguayans, regardless of their location.
Read more: Paraguay Prepares To Become A Global Hub Of Telecommunication.
