Asia entered a new phase of fiscal pressure and consumer protection in regulated gambling after three simultaneous moves: India upheld a 28% GST on the total value wagered in iGaming, the Philippines confirmed a minimum 20% withholding tax on casino jackpots, and PAGCOR launched a national 24/7 gambling support hotline.
Nirmala Sitharaman
The strongest measure came from India. On 27 May 2026, the Supreme Court of India confirmed the application of the 28% Goods and Services Tax (GST) on the full-face value of bets placed on real-money gaming platforms, including rummy, fantasy sports, poker and iGaming. The ruling supports the position of the Ministry of Finance, led by Nirmala Sitharaman, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) chaired in 2026 by Vivek Chaturvedi, and the Directorate General of GST Intelligence (DGGI). The decision is based on the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017 and the tax reform implemented on 1 October 2023, which taxes the total wagered amount rather than only gross gaming revenue, commissions or platform fees. The industry now faces estimated fiscal exposure of up to ₹2.5 lakh crore, including show-cause notices, penalties, interest and retroactive tax claims.
In the Philippines, the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) issued Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 57-2026 on 26 May 2026, clarifying that casino jackpot prizes and gambling winnings are subject to final withholding tax. The rate will be 20% for Filipino citizens and resident foreigners, and 25% for non-resident foreigners not engaged in trade or business in the country. The tax applies to the gross jackpot amount, without deductions for service charges, commissions or administrative fees. The measure, implemented under the National Internal Revenue Code, covers fixed and progressive jackpots from table games, electronic gaming machines and bingo games. The BIR official cited in the measure is commissioner Charlito Martin R. Mendoza.
Charlito Martin R. Mendoza
The third front also emerged in the Philippines but focused on player protection. On 26 May 2026, PAGCOR, chaired by Alejandro H. Tengco with Wilma T. Eisma serving as president and COO, launched the National Problem Gambling Helpline (NPGH) together with Seagulls Flock Organization Inc.
The hotline, (02) 8248-9568, will operate 24/7, offering confidential counselling, initial support and referral services for players and families affected by gambling-related problems. Together, India and the Philippines are showing the same regional direction; higher gambling taxes, tighter fiscal enforcement and stronger public obligations toward responsible gaming and consumer protection.
