In a process of development, with a strong organizational work from the regulator Conajzar and the impulse that will lead to the opening of the market, online gaming and sports betting in Paraguay are experiencing optimistic momentum, with hopes of a notable advance.
To have a clearer picture of the current situation and the possibilities of the sector in the country, specialist Luis Mario Rojas (General Manager at Quattro Inversiones) shared with G&M News an exclusive report that analyzes different market patterns. We present it here to the readers.
PREFERENCES AND INCOME
In terms of preferences, Paraguayan consumers choose to play from home. There were 65,000 active users in 2023, with a penetration rate of 0.9% in a territory with a total of 7.5 million people. Beyond these low numbers, there is a trend towards growth in mobile gaming, with revenues of USD 105.36 million (2023), and a projection for 2028 of USD 134 million. The average revenue per user (ARPU) is stable, with about USD 1,550 from 2022.
Of course, in comparison with other jurisdictions, Paraguay is still far from countries like Brazil, Mexico and Colombia. Consequently, today, regulator Conajzar seeks to expand the market and make it more competitive, with a greater presence of local and international operators.
Likewise, there are many companies and projects around the generation of systems, platforms and online games due to the demand for mobile games and the development of personalized solutions for the local and global markets. At an economic level, the evolution of this industry will create thousands of jobs and promote technological innovation. In that sense, the author makes a comparison with Malta due to the potential for progress that the sector shows.
TIPS FOR PROGRESS
In conclusion and looking to the future, Rojas says that there is solid and sustained growth in online gaming in Paraguay, although with financial obstacles ahead.
Thus, he prepares a series of recommendations for operators, regulators and investors. For operators, he suggests investing in alternative payment solutions and collaborating with financial service providers. To regulators, he asks them to establish a clear and coherent regulatory framework and improve access to the financial system.
Meanwhile, investors must take advantage of business progress and the lack of strict regulation, and look for solutions to overcome financial barriers. Finally, there is also advice for the systems and gaming industry: encourage local games development, invest in technological skills training, and create partnerships with universities and research centers.