EXCLUSIVE: Meta to allow Alcohol, Real Money Gambling ads on its platform in India
From August 27, 2024, businesses in India can onboard WhatsApp Business Platform for messaging in the verticals such as Alcohol and Real Money Gambling.
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Real Money Gaming players in India were left stunned after an internal email on Tuesday announced that the big tech firm, Meta will allow alcohol and real money gambling businesses to promote and market their activities on their platforms. Conversational engagement platform Gupshup confirmed Storyboard18 that an email was sent on behalf of Meta to its internal clientele.
From August 27, 2024, businesses in India can onboard WhatsApp Business Platform for messaging in the verticals such as Alcohol and Real Money Gambling.
The email states, “We are excited to announce that starting August 27, 2024, businesses in India, APAC, and LATAM can onboard the WhatsApp platform for messaging in the following verticals: a) Alcohol b) Over-the-counter products (Prescription drugs and medical devices are still prohibited) c) Real Money Gambling.”
Meta’s updated policy now permits these verticals for both promotions/marketing and utility use cases, though WhatsApp Commerce restrictions will still apply.
A senior official from Gupshup confirmed that the email was sent internally to its clients. The official refused to comment.
“This is disappointing. On one hand, the entire RMG industry is struggling, and now Meta wants offshore gambling platforms to advertise on their platforms. The industry will not take this lightly and will oppose this move. We will take legal action against such practices,” said a senior official from a fantasy gaming platform.
Storyboard18 has reached out to Meta. The article will be updated with the company's official comments.
