Asunción, October 28, 2026. The Paraguayan Senate is advancing its review of a 72-article reform to establish the National Directorate of Gambling (DINAJZAR), replace the National Gambling Commission (Conajzar), and expand oversight of casinos, sports betting, and online platforms amid the growth of illegal gambling.
The initiative, promoted by President Santiago Peña's government through the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF), headed by Óscar Lovera, was submitted on October 12 under Executive Message No. 416, legislative file S-2604162, and referred to parliamentary committees on October 14.
On October 26, Senator Luis Pettengill chaired a joint meeting with representatives of Conajzar, the National Directorate of Tax Revenue (DNIT), led by Óscar Orué, economic authorities, and private gambling operators. Pettengill warned that Conajzar has only 12 employees to oversee the nationwide gambling sector and questioned shortcomings in controlling illegal betting and underage participation.
Luis Pettengill
Conajzar President Carlos Liseras reported that monthly revenue had increased 75%, from PYG 12 billion (US$2 million) to PYG 21 billion (US$3.6 million), with funds contributing to the budget of the Directorate of Charity and Social Assistance (DIBEN). The bill proposes an autonomous public agency with administrative and financial independence, a national director appointed by the Executive, and powers to inspect, sanction, and block illegal gambling operations.
Líder Amarilla
It would allow up to three lottery betting concessions and three sports betting concessions, casino authorizations lasting a maximum of 20 years, and an institutional allocation of 5% of certain gambling revenues. The proposal also introduces identity verification, self-exclusion, underage protection, and anti-money laundering measures. Senator Líder Amarilla questioned the current institutional structure, while Ignacio Iramain called for gambling addiction to be addressed as a public health issue. Juan Sosa, representing the private sector, criticized the DNIT's limited enforcement capacity.
The reform would update Law No. 1016/1997, amended by Law No. 7438/2025. Meanwhile, the DNIT reorganized its existing gambling authority through Resolution No. 2408 of October 6. Pettengill proposed reaching a consensus text within 15 days, before proceeding with legislative votes.
