Paraguay’s gambling regulator launches tender for legal sports betting

Paraguay’s National Gambling Commission (Conajzar) is hunting for sports betting operators. The call comes as the gambling authority faces headwinds due to previous failures.

Conajzar has initiated a public tender for sports betting exclusives throughout Paraguay and has published notices in several newspapers to distribute the tender.

The notices do not indicate whether the tender is national or international. However, it suggests that bids may be submitted until October 31 at 10:00 AM local time. Conajzar will open the bids and announce the potential participants on that day.

LOW BARRIER TO ENTRY

Those who wish to participate must pay PYG 60 million (US$8,686) to be considered for the option. For this non-refundable amount, they will receive the specifications and conditions of “Conajzar” for the sports betting market.

Once all applications are received, the regulator will evaluate the companies. The amount of the fee, the offer’s guarantee, the financial and legal capacity, and the background and experience in the gambling industry will be considered.

Paraguay is attempting to establish a regulated, well-functioning sports betting market. However, it continues to encounter obstacles that make this difficult for various reasons.

At the end of last year, shareholders of “Daruma Sam SA”, which trades as sports betting operator “Apostala”, commented to the media about “Conajzar’s” oversight of the sports betting industry. They complained that “Conajzar” did not take action against illegal sports betting.

The company noted that it had filed several complaints with the regulator but never received a response. “Daruma Sam” also opposed online betting, adding that “Conajzar” has not done enough to advance regulation of the online segment, which is still largely unregulated.

FORGETTING THE PAST

The call also comes amid an investigation into corruption and tax evasion in managing gambling in the country. Specifically, it involves “Conajzar’s” alleged deal with “iCrop” to lower gambling fees and allow slot machines in prohibited locations. Prosecutors are taking action against seven of the eight people in the case.

So far, the judge has not made a decision. A preliminary hearing was to be held recently. However, several defendants found excuses to postpone it. Citing reasons such as general health or family problems, they filed a motion for postponement and won.

With information from Latina Press