Meta To Allow Alcohol & Gambling Ads In India

Meta revealed that starting 27 August, it will allow businesses in India, APAC and LATAM to advertise alcohol and real money gambling on its platforms. While this decision is expected to boost Meta's ad revenue, it has raised concerns among various stakeholders and evoked strong reactions from India's real money gaming industry.

Allowing alcohol advertising on platforms like Facebook and Instagram has sparked criticism, particularly due to concerns about public health and the vulnerability of young audiences to targeted marketing. The inclusion of real-money gambling ads has also prompted questions about consumer protection and the potential for increased addiction risks.

The Indian real money gaming industry which operates in a regulatory grey area views Meta's decision with mixed feelings. On one hand, it provides an opportunity to reach a broader audience and offers some degree of legitimacy to the industry. On the other hand, it raises concerns about heightened competition and the potential for unregulated gambling platforms to exploit these new advertising channels.

Industry experts believe Meta's move could lead to a surge in online gambling advertisements, highlighting the urgent need for a comprehensive regulatory framework in India. The absence of clear guidelines has created an environment where unethical operators can thrive, increasing consumer risks. 

While the long-term effects of Meta's decision are yet to be seen, it ignited a debate around responsible advertising, consumer protection and the necessity for a well-regulated online gaming ecosystem in India.