Paraguay plans to hold a competition for sports betting licenses

Paraguay is preparing to end exclusivity in sports betting by 2026, opening the market to competition. The National Directorate of Tax Revenue (DNIT) is currently assessing the feasibility of conducting a competitive tender for licenses, fulfilling President Santiago Peña’s mandate to reform the gambling sector.

The proposed changes continue the new gambling law passed in January 2025. The document allows for two additional sports betting licenses, although the current concession for operator Aposta.la runs until 2028, complicating the liberalization process.

DNIT Director Oscar Orue confirmed:

“Our legal department is analyzing the possibility of holding a tender in 2026”

emphasizing the need to evaluate the practical use of the two quotas provided by law.

Part of a Comprehensive Gambling Market Reform

This initiative is part of a broader gambling policy reform promoted by President Peña and the ruling Colorado Party. Historically, Paraguay’s gambling sector was built on exclusive concessions and lacked clear regulation.

The government has already begun dismantling monopoly models, starting with the state lottery Quiniela Nacional. Earlier this year, DNIT announced a tender for its operation, open to both national and international companies.

The competition for managing the National Lottery represents a significant departure from years of exclusivity and allows for up to three operators from 2026, aligning with constitutional provisions against monopolies.

Goal — Transparency and Investor Confidence

The reform aims to restore investor confidence and ensure Paraguay’s gambling market operates under fair and accountable rules. While a final decision on full sports betting liberalization by 2028 has not yet been made, President Peña and the Colorado Party show clear determination to create a transparent and competitive system that will drive revenue growth and enhance industry transparency.