Online gambling is a well-liked and lucrative pastime for many Indians because they like the thrill and excitement of placing bets on sporting events, casino games, and other events. However, the landscape of online gambling in India has drastically changed in recent months as a result of Betway and Bet365, two of the biggest and most respected platforms, declaring their exit from the Indian market. What is the justification for this decision, and what does it signify for Indian gamblers?

Why Gambling Giants are Leaving India: What is The 28% GST?

The main reason why Betway and Bet365 have decided to stop operating in India is the new tax law that came into effect on October 1, 2023. The law imposes a 28% Goods and Services Tax (GST) on online gaming, casinos, and horse racing. This means that online gambling platforms have to pay 28% of the full value of bets placed by Indian customers to the government, regardless of whether they win or lose. This is a huge increase from the previous tax rate of 18% on gross gaming revenue (GGR), which is the difference between the bets placed and the winnings paid out.

The new tax law was passed by the GST Council, which consists of representatives from all Indian states, as a way to curb illegal and unregulated online gambling activities in the country. The law also requires offshore platforms to have GST registration and compliance to operate in India and gives the authority to block access to any non-compliant sites. The law aims to protect Indian consumers from fraud and addiction, as well as generate more revenue for the government.

However, the new tax law has also made online gambling very unprofitable and unsustainable for many platforms, especially those that cater to low-stakes and casual bettors. Betway and Bet365 have stated that they cannot afford to pay such a high tax rate on every bet and that they would rather focus on other markets where they can offer better services and value to their customers. Therefore, they have ceased trading in India and have asked their existing customers to withdraw their funds as soon as possible.

The Future of Online Gambling: New Laws, Higher Taxes...What Now?

The new tax law on online gaming has changed the online gambling scenario in India significantly. While it may have some positive effects on curbing illegal activities and generating revenue for the government, it also has some negative impacts on the online gambling industry and its customers. Many platforms may find it difficult to operate in India under such high tax rates and may decide to exit or reduce their services. This may limit the options and choices for Indian bettors, who may have to settle for lower quality or less reputable platforms.

Moreover, the new tax law may also affect the profitability and enjoyment of online gambling for Indian customers. They may have to pay more taxes on their bets or winnings than before, which may reduce their returns or incentives. They may also face more restrictions or difficulties in accessing online gambling platforms, especially those that are based offshore. They may have to deal with more legal and regulatory uncertainties, as different states may have different rules and policies on online gambling.

Therefore, the future of online gambling in India is uncertain and challenging. However, it is not hopeless or impossible. There are still some online gambling platforms that are willing and able to serve Indian customers and offer them a safe and satisfying online gambling experience. There are also some online gambling enthusiasts and advocates who are working to create a more favorable and conducive environment for online gambling in India, by lobbying for more reasonable and consistent laws and regulations. There may be some changes or developments in the online gambling landscape in India in the coming years, and we hope that they will be for the better.

Conclusion

Online gambling is a popular and lucrative activity for many Indians, who enjoy the thrill and excitement of betting on sports, casino games, and other events. However, the online gambling landscape in India has changed dramatically in recent months, as two of the biggest and most trusted platforms, Betway and Bet365, have announced their exit from the Indian market. The main reason for this decision is the new tax law that imposes a 28% GST on online gaming, casinos, and horse racing, which makes online gambling very unprofitable and unsustainable for many platforms.

However, there are still some alternatives that offer a variety of sports betting and casino games, as well as attractive bonuses and promotions. Some of the best online betting sites that you can join today in India are 10CRIC, Dafabet, and 22Bet. These platforms accept Indian rupees and offer a safe and satisfying online gambling experience. The future of online gambling in India is uncertain and challenging, but not hopeless or impossible. There may be some changes or developments in the online gambling landscape in India in the coming years, and we hope that they will be for the better.

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