Indonesia Blocks Polymarket Over Gambling Concerns

Indonesia’s Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs has blocked access to Polymarket, stating that the platform operates as an online gambling service despite presenting itself as a prediction market.

The action forms part of the government’s broader campaign against speculative digital betting activities in the country.

Government Targets Prediction Market Platform

Alexander Sabar, director general of digital space supervision, said Indonesian authorities would not permit any form of online gambling activity. Speaking in Jakarta, he stated that Polymarket’s services involve betting and speculation on uncertain outcomes, which he said violates Indonesian regulations.

Prediction markets typically allow users to trade contracts linked to future events, including elections, sporting events and economic developments, often using crypto assets or blockchain technology.

However, Indonesian authorities said Polymarket effectively functions as a platform for wagering money on event outcomes and therefore falls within the definition of online gambling under domestic law.

Broader Restrictions Introduced

The ministry confirmed it has also identified and monitored social media accounts connected to Polymarket as part of wider efforts to limit access to the platform across digital channels.

Officials stated that the measures are intended to protect the public, particularly younger internet users, from exposure to speculative betting services.

Authorities added that similar platforms suspected of offering prediction market-style betting services could also face blocking measures in the future.

International Regulatory Pressure

Indonesia’s decision follows similar actions taken in several other countries.

According to Alexander Sabar, Singapore, Brazil and India have already blocked access to Polymarket, while jurisdictions including Taiwan, Thailand, China and Japan have introduced restrictions under local regulations.

The ministry said international actions against prediction market platforms supported Indonesia’s decision to classify the service as a form of online gambling.

Authorities Continue Monitoring Digital Platforms

The ministry urged the public to avoid participating in speculative digital betting and crypto-linked wagering activities, warning that such services could lead to financial losses and breaches of Indonesian law.

Officials stressed that these platforms should not be viewed as harmless trading tools because they involve gambling-related activity.

The government also confirmed ongoing cooperation with police and other agencies to monitor digital services and maintain what it described as a safe and productive online environment in Indonesia.