A study by CUTS International highlights the unintended consequences of India’s online gambling ban. Following the implementation of the PROGA Act, the share of players using offshore platforms rose from 68.3% to 82%. Nearly one in four players (24.7%) started using offshore operators after the restrictions were introduced.
Key behavioral shifts:
– increased share of players spending over $60 per month
– daily players surged from 3.4% to 42.3%
– 44% spend more than two hours per gaming session
The primary access channel is now closed messaging groups, with mirrors and QR codes playing a secondary role.
Main reasons for choosing offshore platforms:
– ease of access
– lack of legal alternatives
– more attractive bonuses
Estimates suggest that within just two months India lost:
– $845M in player deposits
– $236M in tax revenue
– 6,500 jobs
Instead of protecting users, the ban accelerated the shift toward unregulated markets and undermined the local industry.
