Legislation
Paraguayan Association of Gambling Operators comes out in support of new gaming decree
By James Marrison - 19 May 2025
The Paraguayan Association of Gambling Operators (APOJA) has praised the enactment of Decree No. 3846, which regulates Law No. 7438, updating the legal framework of the sector after almost 30 years. The measure gives the 263 municipalities in the country 30 days to comply with the new provisions and report their current licenses.
Lorena Rojas, president of APOJA said. “Now, all municipalities have 30 days to report to the General Directorate of Gambling the licenses granted, detailing the type of game authorized and the fees collected.”
Rojas noted that municipalities are responsible for granting licenses for gambling establishments, which mainly operate with slot machines. From now on, these businesses will need to comply with new technological requirements. “The systems of the licensees must be connected online or in real-time with the regulatory authority,” she said.
Additionally, all devices and systems must be certified by an inspection entity duly accredited by the National Accreditation Organization (ONA), which must not have ties to the sector. These requirements are mandatory for operating and placing bets legally.
“The Directorate of Gambling, in coordination with the DNIT (tax office), has the authority to seize items used in illegal gambling,” Rojas stated.
“Combating illegal gambling and formalizing the activity will allow for greater revenue and, with it, more resources to support the most vulnerable sectors,” she said.
Another significant new development is the end of the monopoly on the lottery and sports betting. This decision was endorsed by the National Competition Commission (CONACOM), in compliance with Law No. 4956 regarding the Defence of Competition.
Earlier this month Paraguay issued the decree that outlines the regulations for its new gambling law. This comes after President Santiago Peña enacted Law 7483, which revises the legal framework for gambling operations in January. A major shift will see Conajzar transition to the National Directorate of Tax Revenues (DNIT), granting the agency enhanced oversight powers to tackle irregularities in the gambling sector and address illegal gambling activities.
Another key feature of the decree is the establishment of the General Directorate of Gambling, which will serve as a technical body tasked with implementing and enforcing policies, regulations, and controls for the operation of regulated gambling activities. The General Directorate of Gambling will coordinate technical and informational assistance to Conajzar with the DNIT departments responsible for fiscal intelligence and tax control processes.
