Paraguay is a sovereign state located in central South America, with its capital being Asuncion. It borders Argentina to the south, Brazil to the east, and Bolivia to the west. Operates in the gambling industry especially with Paraguay bookmakers and sports betting. This article explores the history of the Paraguay gambling laws, evolution of gambling laws and regulations, authorities, kinds of permits, charges, and taxes in addition to major moments in the sports betting sector.
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Table of Contents
Summary of Key Events
Gambling Legislation and History
The first casino in Paraguay was launched in 1943, although gambling in some form has been a part of Paraguayan culture for centuries. The Hipódromo de Asunción was established in 1954, thus putting a seal on the legalization of betting in the country. Afterwards, the development of the legal basis of gambling was quite slow; there were only a few significant changes later on.
New Trends in the Enactment of Gambling Laws
- 1943: The first casino opened with this paved the way for gambling to be legalized.
- 1997: Subsequently, Law No. 1016/97 was passed in order to regulate the entire field of gambling.
- 2015-2018: Online gambling was legalized with the first regulation of online lotteries in 2015 and then the regulation of online casinos in 2017, and online sports betting in 2018.
- 2017: On the 27th of April 2018, Decree Conajzar 73072 was published which sought to integrate the rules governing online betting and gambling.
- 2021: Reforms to the gambling legislation were suggested, these included: restrictions on the monopoly and geographical limitation of bingo halls.
- 2023: Paraguayan President Mario Abdo Benitez followed through and signed bill 6903 known as the ‘Ley de Tragamonedas,”’ which outlaws unregulated gambling facilities from having slot machines, and the use of unlawful gambling devices.
Regulatory Bodies of Paraguay Bookmakers
The activities related to gambling are controlled in Paraguay by the National Commission on Games of Chance (CONAJZAR). This body is responsible for the management of licenses as well as the monitoring of gambling activities through audits. Their responsibilities include:
- Issuing Licenses: For the conventional as well as the internet based gaming and gambling businesses.
- Supervisory Role: Compliance with the gambling laws and regulations.
- Auditing: Activities such as regular audits to ensure that the industry is free from bias and corruption.
Types of Bets that are Allowed and not Allowed
- Allowed Bets: All types of sports betting; football, rugby, and other sports.
- Prohibited Bets: No particular prohibited bets are stated under current rules and regulations but professional practice is expected to be followed.
Types of Licenses and Fees
Casino Licenses
In order to open a casino in Paraguay, huge investments are expected from companies, with the amount ranging from $50 million to $70 million. The licenses are issued for a 20-year period and the granting of licenses is done through a public tendering system. The following conditions apply:
- Casinos must be connected to a hotel, the only exception is Asunción.
- Local authorities’ permission is required for slot halls, and these establishments can only include gaming machines.
- Such casinos must not be within a 500-meter radius of schools and other institutions of learning as well as places of worship.
Online Gambling Licenses
CONAJZAR also regulates the online gambling licenses. Operators with current brick and mortar casino operating license are allowed to apply for an online gambling permit. The application process involves:
- Public Tender: The licensing process starts with a tender that is published for the public to see.
- Concession Contracts: The successful applicants are issued with concession contracts.
- Fees: The monthly fixed license fees depend on the location and the kind of business to be conducted.
Taxes on Gambling
The only tax that is applicable to gambling winnings in Paraguay is a 8% tax on any winnings that are above 500,000 guaranis which is equivalent to $70. This tax is despite the fact that it is paid by the operators and it does not come from the players winnings. Key points include:
- Operators’ Responsibility: The 8% tax is be paid by the gambling operators.
- Player Exemption: The following are the regulations concerning taxes on lotteries and other forms of gambling; Players do not have to pay any extra taxes on their winnings.
Sports Betting in Paraguay
Football betting is very popular in Paraguay, sports betting in general is considered almost a national past time. Here’s a detailed look at the sports betting landscape:
Legalization and Regulation
- 2018: Online sports betting was legalized which was after the legalization of online casinos in the year 2017.
- Monopoly Position: At the moment, there is only one licensed company that operates in the sphere of online sports betting with the permission until 2023.
Sporting Event Glory Milestones
Paraguay’s rich history in sports, particularly football, is noteworthy:
- 2004: The national football team emerged second at the Olympic Games and thus got a silver medal.
- 1930: Got to the fourth position in the FIFA World Cup tournament.
- 1953 & 1979: Has claimed the Copa America trophy.
- 1999: Roque Santa Cruz was able to put three goals in the FIFA World Youth Championship.
- 1970: The rugby governing body in Paraguay was formed, and the national side is 38th in the world.
Conclusion
The environment for gambling, especially the one related to Paraguay bookmakers and sports betting, is changing in accordance with the legislative and regulatory advancements, as well as due to social factors. Knowing these dynamics will help the interested parties to succeed in the Paraguayan gambling market. Given the fact that the legal framework for gambling is well developed and there is a strong regulating body in the country, the future for gambling in Paraguay is quite bright.
FAQ of Paraguay Bookmakers
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