India’s Real-Money Games Ban Reshapes iGaming Landscape
India’s decision to ban real-money games (RMG) has delivered a significant jolt to global iGaming operators targeting the country’s large user base. The move has triggered rapid exit strategies, major regulatory uncertainty, and a rethink of market entry plans.
Regulatory Shift Introduced Nationwide
The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025 bans cash-prize games nationwide. The rule covers both chance-based and skill-based formats. Operators must remove real-money mechanics from their platforms. Compliance teams face uncertainty as regulations continue to evolve. The change focuses on limiting financial harm and high-risk play. The country now adopts a centralised regulatory approach. Businesses must follow strict rules to keep a presence in India. Enforcement actions may follow for companies that ignore the requirements.
“We definitely do it, but even in the case when you do do it, it’s very difficult to know what’s going to come next.”
Market Consequences and Strategic Challenges
Major companies have halted Indian real-money products to comply with the ban. Local gaming giants are shifting toward free-to-play formats to remain active. Sponsorship partnerships in sports are being restructured due to the removal of RMG advertising. Investors are reassessing long-term expectations for India as a regulated gaming territory.
The ban highlights the volatility of emerging online gaming jurisdictions. For international operators, India now requires cautious planning and a focus on non-monetary engagement. iGaming firms must track regulatory changes closely to avoid financial and compliance risks. The situation may influence expansion strategies in other high-growth regions.