TAX NEWS – October, November, & December 2025

Executive Summary

OCTOBER – 2025
RegulationDateContent
Decree No. 4754/2025October 10, 2025MERCOSUR Common Market Group (“GMC”) Resolutions No. 12/24 and No. 15/24 are incorporated into the national legal system, updating the NCM and the AEC.
Decree No. 4808/2025October 23, 2025MERCOSUR Trade Commission Directive No. 130/24 is incorporated into the national legal system.
Decree No. 4809/2025October 23, 2025MERCOSUR GMC Resolution No. 14/23 on the use of starches in very high moisture cheeses is incorporated.
Decree No. 4810/2025October 23, 2025MERCOSUR GMC Resolution No. 48/23 on provisions for metal containers, coatings, utensils, lids, and equipment in contact with food is incorporated.
Decree No. 4811/2025October 23, 2025MERCOSUR GMC Resolution No. 22/24 is incorporated, with amendments to the NCM and AEC, and on the allocation of food additives for food category 1.
General Resolution No. 37/2025October 17, 2025Procedural deadlines in customs administrative proceedings are suspended due to office relocation.
Binding Consultation No. 752/2025October 2025How to document the assignment of credits and their subsequent collection for tax purposes.
Binding Consultation No. 757/2025October 2025Tax treatment of Transparent Legal Structures ("EJT").
NOVEMBER – 2025
RegulationDateContent
General Resolution No. 39/2025November 2025The customs administrations authorized to allow the entry of imported used vehicles are modified.
General Resolution No. 40/2025November 19, 2025The procedure for printing the Detailed Customs Declaration is established as of January 1, 2026.
Binding Consultation No. 668January 2025Restrictions on the importation for consumption of raw materials under the Pure Maquila regime.
DECEMBER – 2025
RegulationDateContent
Decree No. 5181/2025December 23, 2025The real estate tax values for the tax base of the real estate tax and its surcharges are set for the 2026 fiscal year.
General Resolution No. 41/2025December 24, 2025Mandatory adherence to the National Integrated Electronic Invoicing System ("SIFEN") is established for government suppliers.
General Resolution No. 42/2025December 24, 2025The deadline for the application of penalties in the Cargo Management System is extended.

OCTOBER – 2025

► Decree No. 4754/2025 – MERCOSUR GMC Resolutions No. 12/24 and No. 15/24 are incorporated into the national legal system.

The Executive Branch issued Decree No. 4754/2025, incorporating GMC Resolutions No. 12/24 and No. 15/24 into the national legal system, which update the MERCOSUR Common Nomenclature ("NCM") and its corresponding Common External Tariff ("AEC").

The decree fully incorporates these adjustments at the national level, allowing for their immediate application in both import operations and related customs procedures.

The decree introduces changes to several tariff headings, notably:

1. Revision of codes related to the chemical and industrial sector: Multiple subheadings in Chapter 39, corresponding to acrylic polymers and copolymers, are deleted and reorganized to bring them into line with the classification approved by MERCOSUR. Some subheadings are eliminated, while others are relocated or redefined based on more precise technical criteria.

2. Adjustments to the classification of pigments and dyes: Within Chapter 32, the subheadings referring to zirconium-based pigments and suspensions used in ceramic inkjet printers are being reorganized, incorporating new descriptions that allow for more accurate classification.

3. Changes in the classification of agri-food products: In Chapter 7, specifically with regard to the subheading for garlic, the reference to "garlic powder" is replaced by a broader classification — simply "garlic" — bringing this category into line with the amendments to the regional protocol.

4. Update of codes in the metals and machinery sector: The Resolution also modifies the classification of roller chains and certain electrical components, such as reactance coils. These modifications ensure that the description of goods matches regional standards and avoids divergent interpretations at the border.

In addition to incorporating the new MERCOSUR Resolutions, Decree 4754/2025 partially updates the annexes to Decrees No. 6897/2022 and No. 6898/2022, which regulate the national list of exceptions to the AEC and the tariff regime for MERCOSUR automotive and sugar products. These amendments seek to maintain consistency between local regulations and the new regionally approved classifications, avoiding duplication or contradictions in the current tariff annexes.

► Decree No. 4808/2025 – MERCOSUR Trade Commission Directive No. 130/24 is incorporated into the national legal system.

The Executive Branch issued Decree No. 4808/2025, which introduces adjustments to the AEC and the NCM to bring national regulations into line with recent decisions by the bloc. These amendments respond to the ongoing process of tariff harmonization within MERCOSUR, ensuring technical consistency, legal certainty, and predictability in foreign trade operations.

The decree formally incorporates GMC Resolution No. 27/24, which modifies various subheadings of the NCM and updates the tariffs applicable to certain goods, mainly within the chapters classified as "other products." Likewise, specific adjustments are introduced to the tariff annexes established by Decrees No. 6897/2022 and No. 6898/2022, which regulate the National List of Exceptions to the AEC and the tariff regime for automotive and sugar goods.

Decree 4808/2025 incorporates new descriptions and restructuring of tariff positions, allowing for a more accurate classification in line with technological advances and market changes. The update also harmonizes the rates applicable to various NCM codes, ensuring uniformity of tariffs within the bloc and avoiding border discrepancies between the Member States.

The annex contains the new specific rules for sectors as diverse as: a) chemicals and plastics, adjusting the origin requirements for numerous chemical compounds, plastics, and their manufactures; b) textiles and clothing, establishing the conditions for yarns, fabrics, and garments; c) machinery and equipment, updating the rules for electronic components and machinery for various industries; and d) various agricultural and industrial products.

► Decree No. 4809/2025 – MERCOSUR GMC Resolution No. 14/23 on the use of starches in very high moisture cheeses is incorporated into the national legal system.

Decree No. 4809/2025 incorporates an important MERCOSUR technical regulation on food. GMC Resolution No. 14/23, which establishes the "MERCOSUR Technical Regulation on the use of starches in very high moisture cheeses," is incorporated into the national legal system.

The regulation establishes the permissibility of the use of starches in certain dairy products, clearly and specifically defining the conditions under which this is possible:

Products affected: Cheeses with a moisture content greater than or equal to 55.0 g/100 g.

Type of cheese: Applies to cheeses that have been heat-treated and that, at the time of packaging, take the shape of their own container or wrapping.

Permitted ingredients: The use of starches and modified starches is permitted.

Maximum limit: The maximum proportion of starches allowed is 1% (m/m) of the final product.

► Decree No. 4810/2025 – MERCOSUR GMC Resolution No. 48/23 on provisions for metal containers, coatings, utensils, lids, and equipment in contact with food is incorporated into the national legal system.

Decree No. 4810/2025 incorporates MERCOSUR GMC Resolution No. 48/23 into the Paraguayan legal framework. This measure introduces significant adjustments to the MERCOSUR Technical Regulation on provisions for metal containers, coatings, utensils, and equipment that come into direct contact with food.

The most relevant change is in the list of metals and alloys permitted for the manufacture of equipment (such as tanks, silos, and pipes) used in the food industry. The use of stainless steel, aluminum alloys, iron, and cast steels for the processing, storage, and transport of dry foods (such as rice, cereals, legumes, and others) and tubers is explicitly confirmed.

The regulation also details the classification of tinplate (a common material for cans and containers), distinguishing between tinplate without polymer coating and tinplate with internal polymer coating, whether total or partial. On the other hand, the passivation process has been updated, specifying that it can be carried out with compounds of chromium, manganese, titanium, tin, and/or zirconium and their respective oxides or inorganic salts.

The industry should take note of the transition period established by the regulation. A period of 180 days is set for companies to comply with the new requirements, counted from the date of publication of the decree.

► Decree No. 4811/2025 – MERCOSUR GMC Resolution No. 22/24 is incorporated into the national legal system, with amendments to the NCM and the AEC, and on the assignment of food additives and processing aids for food category 1.

The Executive Branch issued Decree No. 4811/2025, incorporating amendments to the NCM and the AEC, pursuant to GMC Resolution No. 22/24. With this update, the country continues to adapt its tariff structure to the changes adopted in the bloc, ensuring the technical consistency necessary for the functioning of the customs union and providing greater legal certainty to foreign trade operators.

The regulations included in Decree No. 4811 apply directly to Food Category 1 - Dairy Products, focusing on the following subcategories: (i) Milk Powder and Cream Powder, establishing or modifying the lists of permitted additives and adjuvants; (ii) Fermented Milks, including yogurts and other fermented dairy products; and (iii) Cheeses, regulating the use of additives and adjuvants in the production of different types of cheeses.

The incorporated Resolution introduces adjustments to the description and structure of various NCM subheadings. The decree adopts these modifications in their entirety, replacing the previous version of the NCM in force in Paraguay. In addition, adjustments are introduced to the tariff annexes established by Decrees No. 6897/2022 and No. 6898/2022.

► General Resolution No. 37/2025 – Suspension of procedural deadlines in customs administrative proceedings.

Through General Resolution No. 37/2025, dated October 17, 2025, the National Tax Revenue Directorate ("DNIT") ordered the suspension of procedural deadlines in administrative proceedings before the Administrative Proceedings Coordination Unit (Departments 1 to 4) of the General Directorate of Customs Legal Affairs, during the period from October 21 to 24, 2025. The measure was due to the physical relocation of those offices to the DNIT Litoral Building (5th floor). The deadlines were automatically resumed on the following business day.

► Binding Consultation No. 752/2025 – How to document the assignment of credits.

The DNIT clarified how, from a tax perspective, credit assignment transactions between corporate income tax (IRE) taxpayers should be documented, as well as the treatment applicable to the subsequent collection of such credits by the assignee. In particular, questions were raised regarding the issuance of receipts, the reporting of income for Value Added Tax ("VAT") purposes, and the tax impact for both the assignor and the assignee, especially when the assignment is made at a discount and the collection includes interest or other ancillary items.

The Tax Administration concluded that the assignment of receivables, in itself, is exempt from VAT and must be documented by the assignor issuing an invoice, recording the amount assigned as an exempt transaction and reflecting any discount granted on the same receipt. From the IRE perspective, the income obtained by the assignor constitutes taxable income, with the costs associated with the transaction being deductible. For its part, the transferee must recognize the gain derived from the discount obtained as taxable income and document the collection of the credit by means of an invoice, adequately differentiating the amount of the credit acquired—exempt from VAT—from interest or other items that are taxable.

With regard to the subsequent collection of the credit, it is clarified that the assignee is responsible for issuing the corresponding invoice, even if the credit has been previously acquired through a documented assignment. On this point, it is essential to distinguish between the concepts involved: the collection of the assigned capital remains exempt from VAT, while interest, surcharges, commissions, or other accessories accrued subsequently constitute a provision of services and, consequently, are taxed at the general tax rate.

► Binding Consultation No. 757/2025 – Tax treatment of EJT.

In response to a binding consultation issued in October 2025, the DNIT established its position on the tax treatment of EJT. The consultation arose from questions raised regarding the tax treatment applicable to EJT, in particular to Equity Investment Funds, considering their nature as vehicles with a neutral tax effect on the IRE. In this context, clarification was required as to whether such tax neutrality also implied exemption from certain formal obligations, such as the filing of tax returns, financial statements, tax audits, bookkeeping, issuance of tax receipts, disclosure of VAT transactions, and treatment with respect to the Dividend and Profit Tax ("IDU").

The Tax Administration concluded that, although Transparent Legal Structures are not subject to IRE on their own behalf for the income they intermediate—which must be attributed to their beneficiaries—this does not exempt them from complying with the formal obligations provided for in current regulations. Consequently, EJT are required to file IRE tax returns, prepare financial statements, undergo tax audits when they exceed the legal thresholds, keep tax books, issue named sales receipts, properly report their transactions on the VAT form, and correctly apply the IDU regime only in the cases expressly provided for.

To reach this conclusion, the tax authority starts from the legal definition of EJT as instruments with a neutral tax effect on the IRE, clarifying that such neutrality is limited exclusively to the material aspect of the tax, without extending to formal obligations. Thus, even when no tax is payable, the regulations require the filing of an IRE tax return and the preparation of financial statements simply because they are registered in the general tax regime.

With regard to tax audits, it is reaffirmed that the obligation is determined exclusively on the basis of the level of annual turnover, regardless of the legal nature of the taxpayer or the tax actually determined. With regard to bookkeeping, a distinction is made between the accounting books required by commercial law and the tax books, which are mandatory in all cases.

With regard to the issuance of tax receipts, the obligation to document transactions is confirmed, noting that, in the case of investment funds subject to anti-money laundering regulations, the issuance of unnamed invoices is not appropriate, and counterparties must be properly identified.

In the area of VAT, the criteria for reporting exempt transactions and purchases related to such transactions are specified, clearly establishing the boxes that must be used in the tax return to reflect both exempt income and tax credits computable as cost.

Finally, with regard to the IDU, it is clarified that EJT are only subject to this tax when they receive profits or dividends as partners or shareholders of another generating entity and subsequently distribute them to their beneficiaries. Outside of this specific case, other income generated by these structures is not subject to the IDU and must be taxed, where applicable, at the level of the beneficiaries in accordance with the corresponding tax.

NOVEMBER – 2025

► General Resolution No. 39/2025 – Establishes the customs administrations for the entry of imported used vehicles to carry out the controls and procedures prior to customs clearance for importation.

Through General Resolution No. 39/2025, the DNIT introduced a specific amendment to General Resolution No. 24 of January 31, 2025, which established the specific customs administrations for the entry of imported used vehicles. The main objective of these procedures at the point of entry is to ensure compliance with prior controls, especially those relating to gas emissions.

The substantial change focuses on Article 2 of the original regulation. In essence, Resolution 39/25 grants discretionary power to the General Customs Administration ("GGA"). The GGA may now establish, on an exceptional basis, the authorization of Customs Administrations other than those already established for the control of used vehicles. This exception mechanism will be activated as long as two fundamental requirements are met:

(a) There must be a formal request submitted by the importer; and (b) prior approval from the competent technical area of the Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development (“MADES”) is required.

The documentation must be submitted through the Single Window for Importers ("VUI"); this will also be used to receive notification of the results of the examinations carried out by the various institutions, such as MADES.

► General Resolution No. 40/2025 – Establishes the procedure for printing the Detailed Customs Declaration as of January 1, 2026.

Through General Resolution No. 40/2025, dated November 19, 2025, the DNIT established the new procedure for printing the Detailed Customs Declaration for Import or Export ("DDA").

As of January 1, 2026, the DDA will be available for printing directly from the DNIT computer system, only in cases where paper printing is required.

In this regard, Resolution DNA No. 41/2006 will be repealed as of January 1, 2026.

► Binding Consultation No. 668 – Restrictions on the importation for consumption of raw materials for subsequent processing and sale in the local market under the Pure Maquila regime.

Through Binding Consultation No. 668, issued in January 2025, the DNIT has provided essential clarification for companies operating under the Pure Maquila Regime, specifically regarding restrictions on maquiladoras importing raw materials for processing and subsequent sale on the Paraguayan market (IC04).

In this regard, the DNIT has indicated that imports of raw materials by maquiladoras for processing and sale in the local market are subject to strict compliance with Maquila regulations and are subject to authorization by the National Council of Maquila Export Industries ("CNIME").

Even if the import is initially made under a consumption regime (IC04), the final destination and the company's regime (Pure Maquila) require compliance with the specific rules of Law No. 1064/1997.

The DNIT emphasized that sales of finished products on the domestic market cannot exceed 10% (ten percent) of the total volume exported by the company in the last year. In addition, they must maintain the same controls and quality standards that apply to their export products.

Regarding the replacement of the regime and authorization, the DNIT stated that a maquiladora company that wishes to sell goods on the domestic market, entered under the Temporary Maquila Import Regime, must request the replacement of the regime with another Definitive Import regime. This request must be submitted to the CNIME and comply with all the requirements and procedures set forth in the Chapter on Approval Procedures and Appeals.

Applicable taxation: For local sales, the company must pay the applicable taxes for the nationalization of raw materials, taking as a reference the date of numbering of the temporary import shipment, and pay all internal taxes levied on such sales. The tax authority will establish the profitability coefficient for the payment of income tax on the percentage that will be sold on the domestic market.

In summary, even if an import for consumption is proposed, the "Pure Maquiladora" status subjects the company to a specific regulatory framework that requires prior management and authorization by the CNIME, in addition to the applicable taxes for the nationalization of raw materials.

DECEMBER – 2025

► Decree No. 5181/2025 – Setting the real estate tax values for the tax base of the real estate tax and its surcharges for the 2026 fiscal year.

Through Decree No. 5181/2025, the Executive Branch set the real estate tax values established by the General Directorate of the National Cadastre Service (“DGSNC”) of the Ministry of Economy and Finance, which will serve as the tax base for determining real estate tax and its surcharges for the 2026 fiscal year.

The adjustment represents a 4.1% increase in real estate values for both urban and rural properties, based on the year-on-year change in the CPI at the end of October 2025, as reported by the Central Bank of Paraguay.

It is important to remember that the amount of the tax is determined by applying the corresponding rates (normally 1%) to the tax valuation of the properties established by the DGSNC (tax base), which is made up as follows:

Urban properties: Land value (m² of the property per G/m²) plus building value (m² of the buildings per G/m²). The G/m² is determined by the type of pavement with the highest value of the streets adjacent (fronts) to the property for the land value, and by the construction category for the buildings.

Rural properties Land value (hectare ("ha") of the property per G/ha). The tax valuation of each district is determined according to its opportunity cost (distance to urban centers and accessibility) and the predominant soil type, according to the categories indicated in the decree.

It also provides, among other things, for the valuation of properties that change from urban to rural category and vice versa, the procedure for the 50% exemption from tax on rural properties with forestry priority or with real rights to forest land, and the discount for rural properties with unproductive areas that differ from the type of soil in their district.

For property owners in the capital, the most significant change is the creation of Urban Zone 16 (ZU16), which specifically covers the Historic Center of Asunción. This measure, coordinated with the Municipality of Asunción, seeks to encourage urban revitalization and heritage preservation through tax values appropriate to the current economic reality of this sector.

The amount of tax payable to the municipality can be consulted on the DGSNC website, in the municipalities section, property tax settlement section, by selecting the department of residence, the district, and the cadastral nomenclature of the property (register or current account).

► General Resolution No. 41/2025 – Electronic invoicing is made mandatory for government suppliers.

Through General Resolution No. 41/2025, the DNIT established a new mandatory framework for joining the SIFEN. This regulation specifically targets taxpayers who formalize contractual relationships with public sector agencies.

As of January 2, 2026, any taxpayer who signs a contract as a supplier, contractor, or consultant with the entities mentioned in Law No. 7021/2022 on Public Procurement and Contracting will be automatically required to join SIFEN. The deadline for complying with this transition is immediate, with membership becoming effective on the day following the signing of the respective contract.

A key aspect of this resolution is that the obligation to operate under the electronic system persists even if the taxpayer subsequently loses their status as a supplier or consultant to the State. In addition, the regulation clarifies that this requirement takes precedence over previous implementation schedules; if a taxpayer had a later date of adherence set by another regulation but signs a public contract before that deadline, the obligation is automatically brought forward by at least one point of issuance.

It is important to note that contracts for the provision of personal services regulated by civil service laws are exempt from this provision. For the rest of those affected, the resolution contemplates the possibility of requesting a one-time exceptional extension for electronic issuance, which will be subject to technical analysis by the tax authority after the submission of the corresponding documentation.

With the entry into force of this resolution, Article 7 of General Resolution DNIT No. 21/2024 is repealed, thus unifying the criteria and deadlines for all actors involved in public procurement, with a view to strengthening traceability and transparency in the management of State resources.

► General Resolution No. 42/2025 – The deadline for the application of sanctions in the Cargo Management System is extended.

Through General Resolution No. 42/2025, the DNIT extended the adaptation period for the implementation of the new Cargo Management System. This measure modifies what was originally established in DNIT General Resolution No. 04/2024, specifically with regard to the Advance Electronic Transmission of Air Cargo Manifests ("TEMA").

The deadline for the application of penalties for violations related to this system is extended until July 31, 2026. This extension responds to the technical complexity involved in the transition to the new customs processes, recognizing that economic operators require a reasonable amount of time to adjust their internal procedures without the risk of facing premature fines during this learning stage.

By postponing the penalty stage, the DNIT seeks to enable the Technology and Customs Processes Directorates to better coordinate operational mechanisms, allowing any errors arising from the novelty of the system to be analyzed more thoroughly before determining the existence of a violation.

   

INFRASTRUCTURE NEWS - February 2026

Executive Summary

EventDateContent
Infrastructure | Public TenderN/AThe Ministry of Public Works and Communications (MOPC) announced the confirmation of the construction of the Southwest Corridor, which will connect the departments of Ñeembucú and Misiones.
Renewable Energy LawDecember 11, 2025The Executive Branch enacted Law No. 7599/25, “On the Modernization of the Regime Regulating and Promoting Electric Power Generation from Non-Conventional, Non-Hydraulic Renewable Energy Sources.”
Infrastructure | Road Corridor  December 16, 2025The Ministry of Public Works and Communications (MOPC) announced the complete renovation of Gervasio Artigas Avenue.
Mobility | Transport LawJanuary 7, 2026The Executive Branch enacted Law No. 7617/26, “Establishing the Governing Authority for Land Transport and Modifying and Expanding the Provisions of Law No. 1590/00.”
Energy | New Consumption Groups January 16, 2026The Executive Branch enacted Decrees No. 5306/26, “Adopting the Establishment and Development of Convergent Industries as a Sectoral Public Policy, Creating the Bi-Ministerial Commission for the Accreditation of Convergent Industries and the Convergent Industries Consumption Group, Establishing Applicable Electricity Tariffs, and Repealing Decrees No. 7551/2017, No. 6371/2016, and No. 7406/2011”; and No. 5307/26, “Including 'Power to X' initiatives within the Sectoral Public Policy for Convergent Industries established in Decree No. 5306 of January 16, 2026, Creating the Consumption Group for 'Power to X' Industries — including energy vectors and raw materials produced with energy — and Establishing the Applicable Electricity Tariffs.”
Public ProcurementJanuary 22, 2026The National Directorate of Public Procurement issued Resolution No. 195/2025, “Establishing maximum deadlines for the communication of tenders, awards, and contracts affecting procedures involving the 2026 General Budget (PGN 2026).”

More Information:

  1. Infrastructure | Public Tender for the Construction of the Southwest Corridor

The Ministry of Public Works and Communications (MOPC) announced the confirmation of the construction of the Southwest Corridor (the “Project”), which will connect the departments of Misiones and Ñeembucú. The scope of the Project includes the following works:

  1. Construction of 154 km of new roads;
  2. 25 km of urban crossings;
  3. Asphalt paving of departmental roads No. 77 and 79;
  4. Intervention of 111 km of National Route PY 20; and,
  5. Improvements to the access road to the town of Cerrito.

The Project will connect the towns of Yabebyry, Laureles, Cerrito, Villalbín, Mayor Martínez, and Pilar.

The estimated value of the Project is Gs. 2.270.700.000.000 (USD 300.000.000), of which USD 243 million will be financed by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and USD 60 million by the Paraguayan State. The loan is currently pending approval by the National Congress.

To date, the regulatory framework under which the project will be tendered has not been confirmed. However, MOPC authorities have reported that the tender is expected to be published in 2026.

For more information regarding the Project, please click on the following link.

  1. Renewable Energy | Enactment of Law No. 7599/25 on Electric Power Generation from Non-Conventional, Non-Hydraulic Renewable Energy Sources

On December 11, the Executive Branch enacted Law No. 7599/2025, “On the Modernization of the Regime Regulating and Promoting Electric Power Generation from Non-Conventional, Non-Hydraulic Renewable Energy Sources” (“Law 7599”).

This Law repealed Law No. 6977/2023, which previously regulated the generation and commercialization of non-conventional, non-hydraulic renewable energy. Law 7599 introduces significant amendments to the energy legal framework. Among the most relevant, we highlight:

  • Tariff Law 7599 establishes that the “NCRE Reference Tariff” will be set annually by the enforcement authority1 following a technical report from ANDE, which must consider precedents, relevant data, and any other available information. Thus, Law 7599 replaces the criteria of Law 6977/23, which calculated the NCRE Reference Tariff based on the average generation cost.
  • Direct Sales Between Private Parties: La Ley 7599 establece por primera vez la posibilidad de que Cogeneradores y Autogeneradores puedan vender sus excedentes de producción a privados mediante la incorporación de la figura del “Gran Consumidor”.  El Gran Consumir es aquel que tenga una demanda ≥ a 30 MW.
  • Type of Generation: The distinction between interruptible and non-interruptible generation sources is suppressed, thereby eliminating any differentiation in the application of the NCRE Reference Tariff based on the type of generation.
  • Extension of License and Contract Terms: The validity of licenses and contracts is extended from 15 to 30 years, strengthening regulatory predictability and project bankability.
  • New Trust: A management trust is created to administer the resources designated for payments to Generators.
  • Tax Incentives: Licensees are granted access to the incentives provided under Law No. 523/1995 on Free Trade Zones, a benefit not previously included in Law 6977.

For the effective implementation of Law 7599, the enactment of its regulatory decree is still required to establish the operational and procedural aspects of the regime. The decree is expected to be enacted during the first quarter of 2026.

To access the full text of Law 7599, please click on the following link.

  1. Infrastructure | Renovation of Gervasio Artigas Avenue

On December 16, 2025, the Ministry of Public Works and Communications (MOPC) announced the project for the complete renovation of Gervasio Artigas Avenue, one of Asunción’s main urban arteries. The MOPC indicated that the project has been submitted to the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF) for the corresponding authorizations.

The main aspects of the project include:

  • Estimated Start and Completion Dates: Project execution is expected to begin in late 2026 and reach completion by mid-2028.
  • Legal Framework: Law No. 5074/13 “Turnkey”.
  • Financing: To be provided by the awarded contractor.
  • Project Value: USD 35 million.
  • Scope of Works: Full renovation of the rigid pavement, undergrounding of low and medium voltage grids and telecommunications lines, drainage works and bridges, new traffic signaling, modern lighting, and landscaping with native species.
  • Status The tender is scheduled to be launched during the first quarter of 2026, with the award estimated for June or July.

For more information regarding this project, please click on the following link.

  1. Mobility | Enactment of the Public Transport Reform Law

On January 7, 2026, the Executive Branch enacted Law No. 7617/26, “Establishing the Governing Authority for Land Transport and Modifying and Expanding the Provisions of Law No. 1590/00” (“Law 7617”).

Among the main updates introduced by Law 7617, we highlight the following:

  1. Operational Structure
  1. The MOPC will grant concessions for the provision of Metropolitan Public Transport Services through public tenders.
  2. Metropolitan public transport services must include: (i) fleet provision contracts, (ii) infrastructure provision contracts, (iii) operation within functional units, and (iv) complementary services necessary for operation.
  3. The MOPC is authorized to tender these services either separately or jointly. Fleet provision, fleet operation, and complementary service contracts will be granted for terms of up to 15 years; infrastructure provision contracts will be granted for terms of up to 20 years.
  4. For the resolution of disputes between the concessionaire and the contracting authority, the parties may agree to arbitration.

  1. Revenues
  1. The user fare will be established by the Paraguayan Executive Branch, based on a proposal from the MOPC.
  2. Remuneration may combine different factors, such as the number of passengers transported, mileage covered, fleet size, yard area and services, technology availability, service levels, and performance indicators (e.g., scheduled frequency, regularity).
  3. Remuneration to providers will be adjusted according to polynomial price variation indices, which will be defined in the bidding terms and conditions.

  1. Guarantees | Financing and Cash Flow
  1. A Management Trust for the Financing of the Public Passenger Transport Service is created, with the Financial Development Agency acting as the trustee and the MOPC as the trustor.
  2. To guarantee the sustainability of the trust, the MOPC, in coordination with the MEF, must provide coverage for firm liabilities for a minimum period of 12 months.
  3. Revenue from ticket sales will be transferred daily to the trust, which will pay the providers according to the instructions issued by the MOPC.
  4. The administration, distribution, management, and execution of the trust's financial resources will be subject to oversight.

  1. Other Provisions
  1. The State, within the framework of public bidding processes, may acquire bus fleets and infrastructure intended for metropolitan public passenger transport services. These assets may be put into service through leasing, bailment, usufruct, fiduciary mandates or management trusts, financial leasing, etc. In the case of buses featuring new technologies (such as electric or hybrid vehicles), direct agreements for pilot tests may be signed for limited periods.
  1. A special regime is created for assets intended for public transport services, including a registry and rules for their decommissioning. These assets enjoy special protections: (i) assets assigned to the service are exempt from judicial pursuit by the provider's creditors, except for the financier of said assets; and (ii) in the event of a foreclosure by the financier, the assets will remain operational, and the same remuneration mechanisms received by the original provider will apply.
  1. Failure to comply with payment obligations will result in the issuance of debt certificates by the MOPC, which shall be considered enforceable titles.

The full text of Law 7617 is available by clicking on the following link.

  1. Energy | Creation of New Consumption Groups for Convergent Industries

On January 16, 2026, the Executive Branch enacted Decrees Nº 5306/2026 and Nº 5307/2026, introducing a new public policy framework aimed at fostering the establishment and development of energy-, technology-, and innovation-intensive industries in Paraguay.

Decree No. 5306/2026 (“Decree 5306”) establishes the development of so-called Convergent Industries as a sectoral public policy. This concept encompasses high-tech productive activities that use stable and renewable electricity as a critical input for value creation, including High-Performance Computing (HPC) infrastructure, Artificial Intelligence, cloud services, advanced manufacturing processes, and other energy-intensive industrial transformations. Decree 5306 creates a new electricity consumption group for these industries, applicable to various voltage levels (500, 220, 66, and 23 kV), with tariffs denominated in U.S. dollars and a horizon of up to 15 years, subject to update mechanisms.

As part of the same scheme, Decree 5306 creates a Bi-Ministerial Commission composed of the Ministry of Industry and Commerce and the Ministry of Information and Communication Technologies. This commission will be responsible for accrediting companies that qualify as Convergent Industries based on the submission of a “Productive Linkage Plan” aimed at maximizing local economic and technological impact.

Decree No. 5307/2026 (“Decree 5307”) complements Decree 5306 by introducing specific treatment for Convergent Industries categorized as “Power-to-X.” These include projects that convert renewable energy into energy vectors and raw materials such as hydrogen, ammonia, methanol, synthetic fuels, and others. Decree 5307 formally incorporates these ventures into the Convergent Industries regime and creates a differentiated consumption group for these projects, provided they operate in Very High Voltage (220 kV). Similar to Decree 5306, Power-to-X projects will also be subject to U.S. dollar-denominated tariffs with a projected duration of up to 15 years. Unlike the general regime, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce acts here as the sole enforcement authority for the accreditation and authorization of these projects.

Both decrees align with the objectives of the Paraguay 2050 National Development Plan and an investment attraction strategy based on leveraging the country's comparative energy advantage, promoting higher value-added activities, know-how transfer, and integration into global productive chains.

From a practical perspective, the framework is still in its initial implementation phase. The adjustment of the tariff structure by ANDE and compliance with the administrative deadlines set forth in the decrees will be necessary steps. However, the full operability of the new regimes will depend on complementary regulations and the materialization of specific projects — processes that will reasonably take time.

Nonetheless, Decrees 5306 and 5307 represent a clear policy signal toward industrial and energy development in high-value projects. While significant challenges remain regarding implementation and institutional coordination, they constitute a positive step in strengthening Paraguay's attractiveness as an investment destination in key sectors such as energy, technology, and high-tech industries.

  1. Maximum Deadlines for Notifying the National Directorate of Public Procurement of Procedures Involving the 2026 General National Budget

On January 22, 2026, the National Directorate of Public Procurement (NDPP) issued Resolution No. 195/2025which mandates that procuring entities must notify all procedures that partially or fully involve the budget for the 2026 fiscal year, regardless of the source of financing.

In particular, the resolution establishes that tenders, awards, contracts, their corresponding amendments, and any procedures subsequent to the issuance of the procurement code must be reported to the NDPP in accordance with the deadlines established in the Annex of the Resolution.

The NDPP will not issue procurement codes nor disseminate files through the Public Procurement Information System that do not comply with the deadlines established in this Resolution.

Other news:

  1. Suspension and Cancellation of Relevant Tenders

The National Directorate of Public Procurement declared the suspension and the cancellation of the following tenders, respectively:

  • International Public Tender ID No. 459961 for the design and construction of drinking water and sanitation works in the Mariano Roque Alonso basin (approximately USD 142.000.000).
  • International Public Tender ID No. 470438 for the design and execution of the hydro-electromechanical rehabilitation and modernization of the Acaray-Yguazú Hydroelectric Complex (approximately USD 82.000.000).

For further information regarding any of the topics covered in this edition of our newsletter, please contact: Rodolfo G. Vougargvouga@vouga.com.py); Manuel Acevedo (macevedo@vouga.com.py); Silvia Benítez (sbenitez@vouga.com.py); Lucas Rolón (lrolon@vouga.com.py); Yvo Salum (ysalum@vouga.com.py).

1. The MOPC, through the Vice-Ministry of Mines and Energy (Art. 7 of Law 7599).

Mades creates the National Registry of Mitigation Projects

Through Resolution 47/2026, the Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development (“Mades”) established the creation of the National Registry of Mitigation Projects (the “Registry”), introducing a mandatory registration requirement for projects that intend to generate or have generated carbon credits in Paraguay.

This Registry constitutes a provisional record that would enable Mades to collect, organize, and validate information regarding mitigation projects. Resolution 47/2026 further provides that registration in this Registry would allow for subsequent registration in the National Carbon Credit Registry established under Law 7190/2023 on Carbon Credits.

Key points to consider include:

(i) Projects already submitted to a standard administrator must be registered by March 15;

(ii) Future projects must register before initiating the certification process with the relevant standard administrator;

(iii) The official registration fee amounts to 150 minimum daily wages (≈USD 2.6k);

(iv) Any fundamental modification to a project must also be reported;

(v) Failure to comply with the indicated deadlines may result in the initiation of administrative proceedings against the infringing party, potentially leading to warnings, disqualification, or fines.

Mades considers that the creation of the National Registry of Mitigation Projects represents a step forward toward the awaited implementation of Law on Carbon Credits.

The full text of the resolution is available at the following link.

For more information, please contact our experts: Rodolfo Vougargvouga@vouga.com.py); Rodrigo Fernández de Nestosa (rfernandez@vouga.com.py); Andrés Norberto Vera (avera@vouga.com.py); Cecilia Vera (cvera@vouga.com.py)

NOVEDADES LEGISLATIVAS EN MATERIA REGULATORIA Y PROPIEDAD INTELECTUAL

Executive Summary

Norma/DocumentoDateContent
Salud | Régimen para el uso de cannabis medicial19/12/2025La Dinavisa emitió la Resolución Nro. 488/2025 que reglamenta cuáles son los productos de uso medicinal derivados del cannabis.
Juegos | Licitaciones para Concesiones05/02/2026La Conajzar emitió la Resolución Nro. 28/2026 que establece el calendario del llamado a licitación pública para la concesión de la explotación de la “quiniela””.
Resolución Dinapi Nro. 609/20252/11/2025“Por la cual se aprueba el Reglamento General Técnico Registral del Departamento de Actos Jurídicos de la Dirección General de Propiedad Industrial (DGPI)”.
Resolución Dinavisa Nro. 047/202611/02/2026“Por la cual se establece una Unidad Estratégica de Trabajo para la incorporación de inteligencia artificial en los procesos regulatorios del sector sanitario”.

More information:

  1. Salud | Nuevo régimen para uso medicinal del cannabis

El pasado 19 de diciembre de 2025  la Dirección Nacional de Vigilancia Sanitaria (“DINAVISA”) aprobó la Resolución Nro. 488 (“Resolución 488”) que  establece un plan piloto excepcional y temporal mediante el cual reglamenta el uso de productos medicinales derivados del cannabis. La Resolución 488 autoriza el uso de combinaciones de Tetrahidrocannabinol (“THC”), Cannabidiol (“CBD”) y otros cannabinoides para pacientes con necesidades urgentes de salud.

El objetivo principal de la nueva regulación es facilitar el acceso seguro y controlado a medicamentos derivados del cannabis sin la necesidad de un registro sanitario previo, basándose en una declaración de «necesidad excepcional para la salud pública» emitida por el Ministerio de Salud.

Este plan busca, además, desarrollar evidencia científica local y promover la industrialización controlada en Paraguay, asegurando que los productos cumplan con estándares de calidad y trazabilidad total.

  1. Patologías y Condiciones Médicas Admitidas

La resolución especifica una lista de condiciones médicas que pueden ser tratadas con estos productos combinados (THC/CBD), siempre bajo la decisión y supervisión de un médico especialista.

Entre las condiciones médicas con acceso a estos productos, se citan: (i) el dolor crónico, (ii) la esclerosis múltiple; (iii) tratar efectos adversos derivados de la quimioterapia; (iv) los trastornos neurológicos; y, otras condiciones tales como la pérdida de apetito en pacientes con VIH/SIDA o cáncer, así como cualquier otra patología que el médico especialista considere necesaria bajo su criterio profesional.

  1. Requisitos para la Producción y Comercialización

Para garantizar la seguridad del paciente y el rigor científico, solo las empresas que cumplan con el estricto ecosistema regulado pueden participar en este plan. La supervisión recae en tres pilares institucionales:

  1. Dirección Nacional de Vigilancia Sanitaria (“DINAVISA”): Como autoridad principal de aplicación, es la encargada de otorgar la «Licencia de Producción Controlada«. Los laboratorios autorizados tienen la obligación de informar directamente a esta institución sobre cualquier reacción adversa o efecto secundario reportado por los usuarios.
  2. Servicio Nacional de Calidad y Sanidad Vegetal y de Semillas (“SENAVE”): Toda la materia prima vegetal debe provenir obligatoriamente de semillas certificadas por esta institución e inscritas en el Registro Nacional de Cultivares. Además, coordina con DINAVISA la autorización del cultivo y manejo de las plantas.
  3. Secretaría Nacional Antidrogas (“SENAD”): Actúa como el organismo de fiscalización y control de seguridad. Su rol es ejercer el control administrativo y operativo para evitar el desvío de sustancias, trabajando de forma coordinada en la trazabilidad de la producción e industrialización.

Los laboratorios interesados en participar deben gestionar sus solicitudes directamente ante la DINAVISA. Es importante destacar que, según la Resolución 488, una misma entidad sí puede actuar como productora y comercializadora a la vez; para ello, se requiere una única Licencia de Producción Controlada, la cual habilita legalmente al titular tanto para la producción como para la comercialización de los productos derivados, siempre que cada producto específico sea notificado a la DINAVISA.

En cuanto a la trazabilidad, los laboratorios licenciatarios deben garantizar un sistema de trazabilidad total; lo que significa que cada producto debe ser rastreable desde su origen como semilla hasta el frasco final que recibe el paciente.

  1. Control del uso de medicamentos a base de cannabis

La Resolución 488 establece controles estrictos con el fin de garantizar el uso seguro y racional de estos medicamentos. Solo profesionales con registro vigente y que estén inscriptos en el Programa Nacional para el Estudio y la Investigación Médica y Científica del Uso Medicinal del Cannabis (“PROINCUMEC”) pueden recetar estos productos.

Los pacientes que necesiten estos medicamentos deben, asimismo, registrarse formalmente en el PROINCUMEC siguiendo los procedimientos de DINAVISA. La entrega de estos productos se realiza bajo un régimen de vigilancia que permite el seguimiento médico continuo.

  1. Compromiso Social: Donaciones

Un aspecto clave de la resolución es la obligación a cargo de los laboratorios privados licenciatarios de donar hasta el 2% de su producción final. Estas donaciones se destinan exclusivamente a cubrir las necesidades de los pacientes de escasos recursos inscritos en el registro público del programa.

Consideraciones Finales

El régimen instaurado por la Resolución 488 tiene un carácter temporal y transitorio de duración de 2 (dos) años contados a partir de la entrada en vigencia de la Resolución, y concebido como una fase de aprendizaje regulatorio. En este contexto, el Estado paraguayo busca generar evidencia práctica y capacidades institucionales que permitan evaluar, ajustar y eventualmente consolidar un marco permanente, equilibrando el acceso urgente a tratamientos médicos con los estándares de seguridad, control y trazabilidad exigibles para sustancias sujetas a fiscalización.

El texto íntegro de la resolución se encuentra en el siguiente link.

  1. Juego | Concesión para la Quiniela

  1. Objeto y aspectos relevantes

El pasado 05 de febrero del 2026, la Comisión Nacional de Juegos de Azar (CONAJZAR) ha emitido la Resolución Nro. 28/2026, mediante la cual se modifica el cronograma del llamado a Licitación Pública N° 01/2025 (“Resolución 249”). La Resolución tiene por fin el otorgamiento, mediante procesos licitatorios, de hasta 3 concesiones para la explotación del juego de azar denominado «Quiniela» con alcance en todo el territorio nacional.

El cronograma de licitaciones establecido en la resolución es el siguiente:

  1. Presentación de Ofertas: el plazo límite para la presentación de ofertas vence el lunes 27 de marzo del 2026, a las 09:30 horas, en las oficinas de la CONAJZAR.
  2. Apertura de Ofertas: El acto oficial se llevará a cabo el mismo lunes 27 de marzo de 2026, a las 10:00 horas.
  3. Informes de Ofertas: La Conajzar contará con un plazo para presentar estos informes es de 10 días hábiles tras la apertura, prorrogable por 5 días más.
  4. Adjudicación: Se realizará dentro de los 5 días hábiles posteriores a la recepción del informe de revisión (con opción a prórroga por igual periodo).
  5. Recursos de Reconsideración: Los oferentes podrán presentarlos dentro de los 10 días hábiles siguientes a la notificación del resultado. La resolución de dichos recursos se dará en un plazo de 20 días hábiles adicionales.

El texto íntegro de la resolución y el pliego de bases y condiciones se encuentra en el siguiente link.

  1. Propiedad Intelectual | Nuevo Reglamento en DINAPI para ACTOS JURÍDICOS

La Dirección Nacional de Propuedad Intelectual emitió la Resolución DINAPI n.º 609/2025 (“Resolución 609”) mediante la cual se introducen cambios operativos relevantes para el registro de actos ante la Dirección de Actos Jurídicos que es la sección de la DINAPI que se encarga de registrar y anotar los actos que modifican la situación jurídica de los derechos de propiedad industrial (v.gr. transferencias, licencias, cambios de nombre o domicilio, fusión, entre otros). La resolución empezó a regir desde el 1 de enero de 2026.

A continuación, señalamos las novedades más relevantes que establece la Resolución 609:

  1. Plazos de perentorios: Anteriormente, la falta de plazos específicos permitía que los trámites quedaran pendientes indefinidamente. Con la resolución se introducen plazos perentorios de 10 días hábiles para:
  1. Subsanación de errores: En caso de que la documentación presentada resulte observada. En caso de incumplimiento del plazo el trámite se archivará automáticamente.
  2. Publicaciones: Una vez recibida la orden, el comprobante de publicación debe presentarse en un plazo de 10 días hábiles para evitar el archivo.

El archivo de los antecedentes se ordenará de forma definitiva en los siguientes escenarios:

  • Falta de subsanación: Cuando no se cumplan los requisitos formales dentro del plazo otorgado.
  • Vencimiento de publicación: Por no presentar el anuncio en tiempo y forma.
  • Finalización: Una vez concluido exitosamente el proceso de inscripción.

  1. Actos jurídicos presentados en renovaciones: Cuando se trate de la inscripción de actos jurídicos (por ejemplo, cesiones, cambios de nombre, fusiones u otras modificaciones relativas al titular del registro), y el registro se encuentre en trámite de renovación, la solicitud de inscripción deberá presentarse dentro del expediente administrativo de renovación correspondiente, y no como un trámite independiente.

  1. Medidas Cautelares: Las anotaciones judiciales tendrán una vigencia de 5 años desde su inscripción, extinguiéndose de pleno derecho si no se solicita su reinscripción.

  1. Documentación: Se reconoce plena validez a la firma digital a todos los documentos electrónicos firmados con firma digital, emitidos en el país o en el extranjero siempre que se cumpla con los requisitos de autenticidad e integridad.

Plazo de regularización

Aquellas solicitudes presentadas antes de la vigencia de la Resolución 609 tienen como fecha límite para regularizar los procesos ante la Dirección de Actos Jurídicos hasta el 31 de marzo de 2026.

El texto íntegro de la resolución se encuentra en el siguiente link.

  1. Propiedad Intelectual | DINAVISA crea unidad para el uso de inteligencia artificial en regulación sanitaria

El 11 de febrero de 2026, la Dirección Nacional de Vigilancia Sanitaria (DINAVISA) emitió la Resolución Nro. 047/2026, mediante la cual se establece una Unidad Estratégica de Trabajo destinada a orientar la incorporación de inteligencia artificial en sus procesos regulatorios.

La resolución fija como objetivos principales coordinar lineamientos técnicos, evaluar riesgos y oportunidades de la IA en la gestión sanitaria, y promover su utilización bajo criterios de ética, transparencia y protección de datos.

Entre las funciones asignadas se incluyen la elaboración de buenas prácticas, el impulso de proyectos piloto, y la coordinación de un equipo multidisciplinario que integre áreas técnicas, jurídicas y tecnológicas.  La medida entró en vigor desde su firma y compromete a las distintas dependencias de DINAVISA a colaborar en su implementación. En la práctica, esto supone principalmente un proceso de adaptación interna dentro de la institución, orientado a modernizar sus procedimientos regulatorios mediante el uso de inteligencia artificial.

El texto íntegro de la resolución se encuentra en el siguiente link.

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Para obtener más información respecto de alguno de los temas abordados en esta edición de Newsletter, por favor póngase en contacto con nuestros expertos: Manuel Acevedo (macevedo@vouga.com.py); Laura Lezcano (llezcano@vouga.com.py); Grecia Florentín (gflorentin@vouga.com.py); Stephanie Medina (smedina@vouga.com.py

Reformas relevantes en la nueva ley de arbitraje de Paraguay  

El pasado 23 de diciembre de 2025, el Poder Ejecutivo promulgó la Ley de Arbitraje N.º 7561, que entró en vigencia ese mismo día. Esta normativa moderniza integralmente el régimen de arbitraje en Paraguay y lo alinea con estándares internacionales avanzados. La Ley 7561 deroga por completo el régimen arbitral de la Ley 1879/2002, que a partir de ahora queda vigente únicamente para regular la mediación (arts. 53 al 67) y pasa a denominarse “Ley de Mediación”.

A partir de su entrada en vigor, la nueva ley se aplica a todos los arbitrajes que se inicien en adelante, así como a los laudos dictados bajo este nuevo marco, asegurando una transición clara hacia un sistema arbitral actualizado, eficiente y coherente con las mejores prácticas globales.

La nueva normativa se estructura sobre tres ejes fundamentales: la modernización del marco legal mediante la incorporación de prácticas internacionales; el fortalecimiento de la actividad arbitral, garantizando certeza y coherencia en los procedimientos y en la ejecución de los laudos; y la optimización de la relación con el Poder Judicial, preservando la independencia del tribunal y limitando su intervención a supuestos estrictamente necesarios.

Las reformas más relevantes de la Ley 7561 pueden sintetizarse en los siguientes puntos:

  1. Arbitrabilidad de ciertos casos

Una de las reformas más trascendentes de la Ley 7561 es la ampliación de las materias que pueden someterse a arbitraje, incorporando ámbitos que antes estaban excluidos. A partir del nuevo marco normativo, se consideran arbitrables:

  • Disputas de contenido patrimonial, eliminándose la anterior prohibición de arbitrar asuntos que requirieran intervención del Ministerio Público. La única exclusión que se mantiene es la referida a las controversias laborales individuales.
    • Conflictos sucesorios, incluyendo cuestiones relativas a inventarios, avalúos, administración y partición de la masa hereditaria, así como disputas entre herederos, albaceas o legatarios.
    • Controversias del ámbito deportivo profesional, conforme al régimen previsto por la Ley 2874/2006 “Del Deporte”.
    • Disputas que involucren a entidades públicas, municipalidades y organismos binacionales, siempre que la materia no esté regida exclusivamente por normas de derecho público.
  1. Principio “pro-arbitraje” y mínima intervención judicial

La Ley 7561 consolida un marcado principio pro-arbitraje, estableciendo que, en caso de duda, toda interpretación debe favorecer la procedencia del arbitraje y la plena eficacia de la cláusula arbitral. Este criterio normativo obliga a priorizar la validez y operatividad del convenio arbitral frente a interpretaciones restrictivas o formalistas.

En línea con ello, la nueva ley introduce una regla decisiva: ante una excepción de convenio arbitral, el juez solo podrá rechazar la remisión al arbitraje cuando la nulidad, invalidez o inoperancia del acuerdo resulte manifiesta y evidente. Este estándar —basado en el test prima facie— limita de manera significativa la posibilidad de que los tribunales estatales examinen en profundidad la validez del convenio arbitral, reforzando la presunción de validez del acuerdo y protegiendo la autonomía del tribunal arbitral, conforme a las tendencias modernas del arbitraje comercial internacional.

La Ley 7561 también refuerza de forma decidida el principio de mínima intervención judicial, consagrando la independencia funcional del tribunal arbitral, destacando estas principales innovaciones:

  • Prohibición absoluta de que los tribunales ordinarios suspendan un arbitraje por cualquier vía o mecanismo.
    • Calificación de mal desempeño para cualquier intervención indebida dirigida a controlar o interferir en el ejercicio de funciones arbitrales antes del laudo.
    • Fortalecimiento del principio kompetenz-kompetenz: el tribunal arbitral es el único competente para decidir sobre su propia jurisdicción, y el juez civil solo podrá intervenir cuando la invalidez del convenio sea manifiesta.

Estas disposiciones consolidan un marco que otorga mayor certidumbre y estabilidad al arbitraje, evitando dilaciones, reduciendo la posibilidad de maniobras obstruccionistas y garantizando la autonomía del procedimiento.

  1. Extensión del convenio arbitral a no signatarios

La Ley 7561 incorpora, de manera expresa, la posibilidad de extender el convenio arbitral a sujetos no signatarios en situaciones excepcionales. Esta extensión se fundamenta en el principio de buena fe y procede cuando, del comportamiento del tercero, pueda inferirse razonablemente su consentimiento tácito a someterse al arbitraje.

En particular, el tribunal arbitral podrá incluir a personas o empresas que, sin haber firmado la cláusula arbitral:

  • Hayan participado de manera activa y determinante en la negociación, celebración, ejecución o terminación del contrato; o
    • Hayan obtenido beneficios directos o pretendan derivar derechos del contrato que contiene la cláusula arbitral.

Este enfoque flexible permite evitar conductas oportunistas, asegura coherencia contractual dentro de grupos económicos o cadenas comerciales y alinea la legislación paraguaya con las prácticas modernas del arbitraje internacional.

  1. Nuevo régimen de medidas cautelares: preciso y eficaz

Con la Ley 7561, el nuevo artículo 25 establece un régimen integral y moderno, inspirado en la Ley Modelo UNCITRAL:

  • Incorpora una definición detallada de medidas cautelares, habilita su dictado inaudita parte,
    • Otorga al tribunal arbitral la facultad de ejecutar directamente sus decisiones,
    • Exige contracautela adecuada,
    • Impone responsabilidad por daños en caso de medidas injustificadas y fija un procedimiento judicial de ejecución rápido, sin oposición ni revisión del fondo.

Este régimen opera en coherencia con el principio de mínima intervención judicial previsto por la Ley 7561, garantizando protección urgente sin necesidad de recurrir al juez salvo en casos estrictamente necesarios.

  1. Sistema de anulación estrictamente limitado

La acción de nulidad reemplaza al antiguo “recurso”, confirmando que:

  • Solo procede por causales taxativas y restrictivas.
    • El Poder Judicial no puede revisar el fondo del laudo, manteniendo el criterio de intervención judicial restringida, la Ley 7561 establece que la acción de anulación es la única vía de control del laudo arbitral, limitada a causales estrictas y de interpretación restrictiva.
    • En arbitraje internacional, las partes pueden renunciar contractualmente a la nulidad.

Esto implicaría que los laudos son más estables, previsibles y respetados, lo que reduce tiempos y costos posteriores.

  1. Reconocimiento y ejecución más sencilla de laudos

La Ley 7561 introduce mejoras clave:

  • Los laudos dictados en Paraguay no requieren reconocimiento previo, pudiendo ejecutarse directamente como sentencias nacionales.
    • Las causales de no arbitrabilidad u orden público ya no se examinan de oficio, debiendo ser alegadas por la parte interesada.
  1. Arbitraje y normas de orden público

Una de las innovaciones más relevantes de la nueva normativa es que la naturaleza de orden público de una norma ya no constituye un impedimento para someter la controversia a arbitraje.

No obstante, cuando el conflicto involucre materias de orden público:

  • No podrá pactarse arbitraje de equidad, y
    • Los árbitros no podrán decidir conforme a equidad,
      debido a que deben aplicar estrictamente el derecho vigente.

Esta apertura amplía considerablemente el ámbito del arbitraje, sin sacrificar el respeto por normas fundamentales del sistema jurídico.

8. Prescripción

En coherencia con los estándares internacionales y con la práctica de arbitraje comercial moderno, la Ley 7561 establece que el inicio del procedimiento arbitral interrumpe la prescripción.

La interrupción se produce tanto cuando:

  • Se notifica el requerimiento arbitral a la otra parte, como cuando
    • Se presenta la solicitud ante una institución arbitral.

Este cambio brinda seguridad jurídica a las partes, especialmente en contratos de larga duración o controversias con períodos extensos de negociación previa.

9. Impugnación y ejecución del laudo

La Ley 7561 define con claridad el régimen de control judicial del laudo arbitral:

  • La acción de anulación es la única vía para impugnar un laudo.
    • Sus causales son taxativas y de interpretación estricta, evitando revisiones amplias o de mérito por parte de los tribunales judiciales.
    • Se elimina el exequátur para los laudos nacionales, que ahora pueden ejecutarse directamente ante el juez competente, al igual que una sentencia judicial.

Este esquema fortalece la eficacia del arbitraje, reduce tiempos y asegura que las decisiones arbitrales sean definitivas y ejecutables con mínima intervención judicial.

En conclusión, la Ley 7561 marca un verdadero punto de inflexión en la resolución de controversias en Paraguay. Para empresarios y ejecutivos, introduce un marco más confiable, moderno y eficiente para gestionar riesgos contractuales y comerciales. Con esta reforma, el arbitraje se consolida como una herramienta estratégica: protege inversiones, fortalece relaciones comerciales y garantiza mecanismos de resolución de disputas ágiles, especializados y garantizando mecanismos de resolución de disputas ágiles y especializados, alineados con los estándares internacionales.

Para mayor información y gestión de procesos de arbitraje puede contactar con nuestro equipo de solución de controversias: Mirtha Dos Santos (mdsantos@vouga.com.py ); Silvia Benitez (sbenitez@vouga.com.py ); Sebastian Silva (ssilva@vouga.com.py ).

Paraguay Advances in a New Framework for Convergent Industries and Power-to-X Projects

The Executive Branch has recently promulgated Decrees No. 5306/2026 and No. 5307/2026, introducing a new public policy framework aimed at fostering the installation and development of energy, technology, and innovation-intensive industries in Paraguay.

Decree No. 5306/2026 establishes, as a sector-specific public policy, the development of "Convergent Industries." This concept encompasses highly sophisticated technical activities that utilize stable, renewable electric energy as a critical input for value creation. This includes high-performance computing (HPC) infrastructure, artificial intelligence, cloud services, advanced manufacturing processes, and other energy-intensive industrial transformations. Furthermore, the Decree creates a new electricity consumption category for these industries, applicable to various voltage levels (500, 220, 66, and 23 kV), with tariffs denominated in U.S. dollars and a horizon of up to 15 years, subject to update mechanisms.

As part of the same scheme, Decree No. 5306/26 creates a Biministerial Commission composed of the Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MIC) and the Ministry of Information and Communication Technologies (MITIC). This commission will be responsible for accrediting companies that qualify as Convergent Industries, based on the submission of a "Productive Linkage Plan" aimed at maximizing local economic and technological impact.

In addition to this general framework, Decree No. 5307/2026 introduces a specific treatment for "Power-to-X Convergent Industries" — projects that convert renewable energy into energy carriers and raw materials such as hydrogen, ammonia, methanol, synthetic fuels, and others. This Decree formally incorporates these ventures into the Convergent Industries regime and creates a specific consumption category for Power-to-X projects connected to Very High Voltage (220 kV), with tariffs also denominated in U.S. dollars and a planned duration of up to 15 years. Unlike the general regime, the MIC acts as the direct enforcement authority for the accreditation and authorization of these projects.

Both Decrees align with the objectives of the Paraguay 2050 National Development Plan and an investment attraction strategy based on leveraging the country's comparative energy advantage, promoting higher value-added activities, know-how transfer, and integration into global productive chains.

From a practical perspective, this framework is still in the implementation phase. While the National Electricity Administration (ANDE) must adapt its tariff structure and the Decrees provide for administrative periods for their rollout, the effective application of the new regimes will depend on additional regulations and the accreditation of specific projects, which will reasonably take time.

In conclusion, Decrees No. 5306/26 and No. 5307/26 constitute a significant signal in terms of industrial and energy policy. While they do not resolve the challenges of implementation, predictability, and institutional coordination on their own, they represent a positive step toward creating a more attractive environment for investments in strategic sectors such as technology, advanced industry, and energy transition in Paraguay.

To access the full text of the Decrees, click here: Decree No. 5306/26Decree No. 5307/26  

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For more information regarding these Decrees and other energy-related matters, please contact: Rodolfo G. Vouga (rgvouga@vouga.com.py); Manuel Acevedo (macevedo@vouga.com.py); Lucas Rolón (lrolon@vouga.com.py); Yvo Salum (ysalum@vouga.com.py).   

Registro Unificado Nacional (RUN) – Paraguay

El RUN es un sistema nuevo, centralizado y único que fusiona el Servicio Nacional de Catastro y Registros Públicos en una sola estructura operativa, creada por la Ley 7424/2025 y reglamentada por Decreto del Poder Ejecutivo N° 5305/2026. Su finalidad es eliminar duplicaciones, reducir el riesgo inmobiliario y dar seguridad jurídica plena en las transacciones.

El RUN une en una sola institución funciones que antes estaban dispersas entre:

  • Dirección General de Registros Públicos
  • Servicio Nacional de Catastro
  • Departamentos de Mensura y Geodesia del MOPC

Con la implementación del RUN toda información física y jurídica de un inmueble depende de un único órgano técnico-administrativo del Poder Judicial.

Qué cambio implica en la práctica la implementación del RUN:

  • Un solo trámite, una sola mesa de entrada, una sola numeración. Desde enero 2026, cada trámite se ingresa en un solo lugar y recibe un número único para seguimiento.

Antes, había que ir al Servicio Nacional de Catastro, Registros Públicos, Mensura, etc.
Ahora, todo se hará en una sola ventanilla física o a través del sistema RUN.

  • Un solo certificado para cualquier operación inmobiliaria

El RUN reemplaza dos certificados (catastral + dominio) por uno solo: el Certificado Catastro Registral Inmobiliario, incluirá en un único documento:

  • Ubicación
  • Superficie y mensura
  • Linderos
  • Superposiciones existentes
  • Restricciones ambientales o de seguridad
  • Titularidad jurídica
  • Hipotecas, embargos y otras medidas

Esto cambia totalmente la práctica notarial y será el documento básico para comprar, vender, hipotecar, etc.

  • Publicidad obligatoria de las superposiciones

El RUN permitirá visibilizar si un inmueble tiene superposición o conflicto antes de firmar la escritura.

Esto:

  • Reducirá el riesgo histórico de títulos duplicados.
  • Permitirá que comprador y vendedor sepan exactamente el riesgo antes de cerrar una operación.
  • Limitará reclamos o juicios posteriores.
  • Cada inmueble tendrá una identidad única (Código Único Catastral Registral)

El RUN asignará un código alfanumérico inmutable para cada propiedad del país, lo que asegurará coherencia entre el plano, la mensura y el título.

  • Trazabilidad total del expediente

Una vez se encuentre totalmente implementado el RUN, cualquier ciudadano con contraseña podrá ver en qué etapa está su trámite en tiempo real.

  • Cómo se podrá realizar un trámite en el RUN

El escribano público o el usuario deberá ingresar la escritura y la documentación técnica en una única mesa de entrada, y obtendrá un número RUN.

Un mismo órgano verificará:

  • Mensura (coherencia geográfica)
  • Titularidad (coherencia jurídica)
  • Superposiciones
  • Restricciones legales

Si bien la implementación del RUN en las primeras semanas presentó retrasos en las gestiones y trámites debido a problemas en la fiscalización electrónica, se espera que una vez que se solucionen los problemas de la transición y se avance hacia la digitalización total de los documentos, el sistema asegure mayor agilidad, trazabilidad y seguridad.

An exceptional and transitional regime is established for the regularization of tax debts

Through Decree No. 5,154/2025 (the "Decree"), the Executive Branch established an exceptional and temporary regime for the regularization of certain tax debts, with the aim of facilitating compliance with past-due tax obligations and reducing the financial impact of accumulated surcharges and interest.

This special regime will remain in effect until August 31, 2026, and provides for the application of a monthly interest rate or surcharge of 0% and the possibility of requesting payment plans for overdue tax obligations corresponding to:

  1. Monthly tax periods closed through December 2023, and
  2. Annual obligations corresponding to fiscal years closed on December 31, 2023.

The special regime applies to: (i) final, liquid, and enforceable tax debt certificates; and (ii) tax adjustments and penalties (pending or finalized) provided that there is express agreement or acquiescence by the taxpayer.

Debts arising from the filing or amendment of tax returns, as well as advance payments of corporate income tax (IRE), are excluded from the regime.

Development

The benefits established in the Decree apply to the following tax debts:

  1. Final, liquid, and enforceable debt certificates, even when they are being collected by the Treasury Attorney's Office.
  2. Tax adjustments and penalties that are pending, arising from tax assessments, audit processes, administrative proceedings, or appeals for reconsideration, whether in administrative or judicial proceedings, provided that the taxpayer expressly agrees or acquiesces to the total amount owed.
  3. Adjustments arising from completed audit processes or administrative proceedings, under the same conditions of express agreement or acquiescence.

The regime does not apply to IRE advance payments or debts arising from payment facilities that have lapsed due to non-compliance. Likewise, debts arising from the filing or rectification of tax returns are excluded.

To qualify for the regime, taxpayers must submit the note authorized by the National Tax Revenue Directorate ("DNIT"), available on its websitehttps://www.dnit.gov.py/web/portal-institucional/pagos), which must be submitted exclusively through the institutional reception desk of the DNIT or the Ministry of Economy and Finance ("MEF"), as applicable. For all purposes, the date recorded in the respective administrative file shall be considered the valid date. Debts that do not qualify for the regime will continue to be subject to the interest and surcharges provided for in the general regime.

The Decree empowers the DNIT to grant exceptional payment plans, with a minimum payment equivalent to 10% of the debt and a financing rate of 0%, according to the following scale:

  • Up to 24 monthly installments, when the debt does not exceed G. 500,000,000.
  • Up to 36 monthly installments, when the debt exceeds that amount.
  • Exceptionally, more than 36 installments, when the debt exceeds G. 1,000,000,000, with the express authorization of the National Director of Tax Revenue.

Failure to comply with the agreed installments will result in the loss of the benefits of the regime and the application of the interest and surcharges provided for in the general regime.

Additionally, a 50% discount on the penalty for fraud is provided for in cases of prompt payment, provided that the resulting amount is not less than the minimum legal penalty. In ongoing proceedings, the taxpayer's express agreement or acquiescence will allow for the direct application of the minimum penalty provided for such an offense. In cases being processed in court, adherence to the regime must be approved and communicated to the court or tribunal involved.

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Vouga Abogados advised FMO on the granting of a USD 45 million loan to BANCOP S.A.

We are proud to have advised FMO, the Dutch entrepreneurial development bank, on the granting of a USD 45 million loan to BANCOP S.A., intended to finance agricultural producers and green projects.

The primary objective of this loan is to support agricultural producers in rural areas, contributing to job creation in regions where nearly one-third of the population lives below the poverty line. 90% of the funds will be allocated to the financing of agricultural producers, while the remaining 10% will be dedicated to projects related to green lending.

We congratulate the team led by our partner Carlos Vouga, along with associates Belén Rodríguez and Yvo Salum, for their outstanding work on this transaction.

For us, it is a true honor to contribute to the development of projects that promote financial inclusion and sustainability, reaffirming our commitment to providing legal advice on sustainable finance, international lending, and economic development in Paraguay.

Vouga Abogados Advises on the Acquisition of Tigo Money by Grupo Azeta

Vouga Abogados advised Las Ardenas S.A., part of Grupo Azeta, in the acquisition of Tigo Money, with the closing subject to regulatory approvals.

Grupo Azeta’s entry into this market will strengthen the development of the platform to meet demands for innovation and efficiency in the sector, thereby promoting financial inclusion for a large segment of the Paraguayan population.  

The Vouga Abogados team, led by partners Rodolfo G. Vouga and Manuel Acevedo, and comprising senior associate Cecilia Vera, associates Lucas Rolón, Belén Rodriguez, Camila Dutra, and other team members, was responsible for managing the legal and regulatory due diligence, drafting and negotiating the transaction documents, as well as advising on regulatory requirements before the Central Bank of Paraguay and the National Competition Commission.

At Vouga Abogados, we are proud to support strategic transactions of this magnitude, reaffirming our commitment to legal advisory in mergers and acquisitions, fintech, and financial regulation, while contributing to the development of the digital financial ecosystem in Paraguay.