Paraguay Launches National Gambling Training Programme
Paraguay has introduced a nationwide Municipal and Sectoral Training Plan on gambling law, led by Conajzar alongside the Paraguayan Association of Games of Chance (APOJA) and Paraguayan Chamber of Games of Chance (CPJA). The initiative aims to strengthen municipal oversight, enforce compliance, and support the implementation of the 2025 Law on Games of Chance reforms.
Empowering Local Authorities
The first training session, held on 15 October at the Paraguayan Organization for Intermunicipal Cooperation (Opaci), brought together officials from 27 municipalities. Participants received guidance on aligning local ordinances with national legislation, ensuring uniform regulation, transparency, and accountability across the sector.
Combating Illegal Gambling and Promoting Responsible Play
A key focus of the programme is tackling illegal gambling operations and money laundering. Municipalities will be equipped with tools to improve licensing procedures, identify unregulated activities, and enforce compliance effectively. The curriculum also covers responsible marketing, prevention of problem gambling, and understanding the social and mental health impacts of gaming.
Programme Structure and Delivery
Scheduled for 2025–2026, the training adopts a hybrid model combining in-person and remote sessions. Participants include municipal leaders, legal advisors, tax authorities, inspectors, and operators. The programme is structured into three core modules:
Axis 1 – Regulatory Alignment: Harmonizing municipal rules with national gambling legislation.
Axis 2 – Fighting Illegal Gambling: Methods to detect and prevent unlicensed operations.
Axis 3 – Responsible Gaming & Player Protection: Promoting safe gambling practices and social responsibility.
Expected Impact
The initiative aims to professionalize Paraguay’s gambling sector and deliver measurable outcomes:
Enhanced capacity of municipalities to regulate and enforce compliance.
Strengthened coordination between public authorities and private operators.
Reduced illegal and informal gambling activities.
Adoption of responsible gaming practices across the sector.
By fostering collaboration between Conajzar, industry bodies, and local governments, Paraguay is establishing a robust, transparent, and socially responsible gambling framework that balances industry growth with community protection.
