Online Gaming and Esports in India
Taxes on Real-Money Gaming
In 2023, India imposed 28 per cent GST on the full face value of bets and a 30 per cent tax on net winnings, raising costs sharply.
Tax rules squeezed the industry.
GST
From October 2023, 28 per cent GST applied to the full amount wagered, not just the platform’s fee.
Winnings tax
A tax of 30 per cent is deducted on net winnings.
Impact
Platform margins fell, and some firms said the model was unsustainable.
Revenue
Tax collections from the sector rose before the 2025 ban.
A big bill
A platform's tax on the amount deposited by users could exceed its own revenue.
Assuming taxes are always designed to help industries
They can also discourage activities.
Key takeaways
- GST of 28% applied to face value.
- 30% tax on net winnings.
- Margins fell.
- Tax revenue rose.
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