Paraguay’s National Telecommunications Commission (Conatel) is accelerating its move into the digital era, aiming for a complete analogue television blackout nationwide by 2029. This milestone marks a major step in the modernisation of the country’s telecommunications infrastructure. With implementation already underway in some of the most densely populated areas.
From midnight on 31 December 2024, Asunción and the Central Department officially joined the digital transition, following a successful trial switch-off in July 2023. The analogue signal has also been discontinued in key areas of the Cordillera, Paraguarí, Ñeembucú, and Presidente Hayes departments, indicating steady progress in the rollout of digital television.
Fourteen zones, one roadmap
Engineer Tomio Ishibashi, Conatel’s Planning and Control Manager and a pioneer in digital TV in Paraguay, shared key insights into the transition. He explained that Conatel has approved a phased roadmap covering 14 geographical zones. The process began with a “simulcasting” phase, during which both analogue and digital signals are broadcast simultaneously, allowing users to gradually adapt to the new technology.
“We are now at the point where it’s time to fully embrace the shift to digital technology”, said Ishibashi, emphasising the maturity of the process and the importance of this technological transformation.
Ishibashi also revealed that the next regions scheduled for analogue blackout are Alto Paraná, followed by Itapúa. He noted that several broadcasters have already taken the initiative, completing the transition in major cities such as Ciudad del Este, O’Leary, Encarnación, Saltos del Guairá, and Concepción, a sign of the sector’s strong commitment to digital migration.
A strategic choice for better broadcasting
Paraguay adopted the Japanese–Brazilian ISDB-T standard (Integrated Services Digital Broadcasting) back in March 2011, when the state-owned television channel carried out the first experimental digital broadcast.
This strategic decision laid the groundwork for improved television quality, increased channel offerings, and access to interactive services, all of this is preparing Paraguay to become a global hub of telecommunications.
The analogue blackout: for the future
The analogue blackout not only promises enhanced picture and sound quality, but also frees up valuable radio spectrum. This, in turn, paves the way for the development of new telecommunications services. With its sights firmly set on 2029, Paraguay is establishing itself as a regional leader in the adoption of digital television.
