Paraguay Roundup: Paraguay confronts violent crime, regional insecurity, renewable energy gains

Investigation continues into fatal shooting of young man in Ñemby

Authorities in Paraguay are continuing investigations into the death of a young man who suffered a gunshot wound to the chest in the city of Ñemby, a case that has intensified public concern over violent crime and urban insecurity. The incident reflects broader anxieties surrounding public safety in parts of Paraguay where violent crime, armed confrontations, and street-level insecurity have increasingly drawn national attention. Fatal shootings involving young people often generate strong public reactions because they highlight both the vulnerability of youth and the limitations of local security responses. The death has also renewed debate around crime prevention policies and the effectiveness of law enforcement strategies in rapidly growing areas surrounding the capital region.

Paraguay opens renewable energy sector to private sales and tenders

Paraguay has regulated its renewable energy law, allowing private firms to generate, sell, and export clean energy, including solar and wind power. The reform opens the door for ANDE to launch international tenders, including a delayed 140 MW solar project in Chaco Central, with contracts lasting up to 30 years. President Santiago Peña called it “a decisive step” to attract investment, diversify energy sources, and meet growing electricity demand, while a new state-backed trust aims to reduce payment risk for private investors.

Paraguay expects 800 MW of new energy capacity led by the private sector

Paraguay plans up to 800 MW of new energy capacity as rising demand pushes the government to attract private investment through long-term contracts and its first 140 MW solar tender in Chaco Central. Officials say electricity demand grew by 18% in 2024 and 12.5% in 2025, well above historical levels, with Vice Minister Mauricio Bejarano stating: “The private sector will be the major player going forward in Paraguay.”

Paraguay traces Marset cocaine route from Bolivia to Europe

Paraguayan prosecutors have indicted Gianina García Troche, former partner of Uruguayan trafficker Sebastián Marset, outlining a drug network that moved cocaine from Bolivia to Europe through Paraguay. According to El País, the operation involved nearly 1,000 clandestine flights across the Paraguayan Chaco and the export of 17,340 kilos of cocaine seized in Belgium and the Netherlands, with an estimated European market value of up to USD 434 million.