Meta has confirmed that India is not included in the list of countries where alcohol advertising is allowed on WhatsApp Business, adhering to India’s stringent regulations that ban all forms of alcohol promotion, including surrogate ads. Despite recent policy changes that permit promotional messaging for sectors like alcohol, online gambling, and over-the-counter drugs in other regions, India continues to enforce its ban on such advertising.
Earlier reports had indicated that starting August 27, 2024, businesses in India might use WhatsApp Business for messaging related to alcohol, real money gambling, and over-the-counter products.
However, Meta’s updated policy emphasizes that in regions where certain activities, such as gambling, are prohibited, businesses must avoid promoting these activities. The policy also mandates that messaging related to online gambling and gaming must comply with local laws, industry codes, and licensing requirements, and must not target individuals under 18, ensuring adherence to regional legal standards and responsible practices.