You might be interested to know that Coinbase is actively engaging with Indian regulators to shape the country’s evolving crypto policies. Their efforts focus on fostering constructive dialogue and advocating for a clear regulatory framework that supports India’s growing Web3 ecosystem. With ongoing discussions, the outcome could significantly impact how global crypto companies approach the Indian market—making it worth watching how these diplomatic efforts unfold.
Coinbase is actively engaging with Indian regulators to explore ways to reenter the country’s burgeoning crypto market. After stepping back in 2023 due to regulatory and compliance hurdles, Coinbase is now in discussions with India’s Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) to understand what it takes to reestablish operations. These talks aim to clarify the legal framework for digital assets in India, which has remained complex and evolving.
Although Coinbase previously launched in India, it suspended operations in 2022, shortly after its entry, under pressure from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). By June 2023, the company halted new user registrations, and full operations ceased by September. Despite pulling out of direct trading, Coinbase continued offering its wallet services to Indian users, indicating ongoing interest in maintaining a presence in the market.
The regulatory environment in India has been a significant challenge. The RBI’s informal pressure and strict banking restrictions limited the ability of crypto exchanges to operate smoothly. Coinbase’s exit reflected these difficulties, making it one of the notable withdrawals among large U.S.-based platforms.
Meanwhile, other exchanges like Binance and Bybit have managed to navigate the regulatory landscape by registering with the FIU after paying fines for prior unauthorized operations. Coinbase remains in the process of understanding and potentially fulfilling similar requirements. While no official announcement has been made about Coinbase’s FIU registration status, the active discussions suggest that the company is optimistic about future regulatory clarity.
Leadership plays a strategic role in Coinbase’s approach to India. In early 2025, the company’s Chief Legal Officer, Paul Grewal, joined the US-India Business Council (USIBC) global board of directors. His involvement signals Coinbase’s long-term interest in strengthening ties with Indian regulators and industry stakeholders.
Grewal has emphasized India’s rapid growth in Web3 developer activity and increasing institutional adoption, viewing these as key opportunities for Coinbase and other global players. The USIBC serves as a platform that facilitates business cooperation between the U.S. and India, especially in finance and technology sectors. Grewal’s position underscores Coinbase’s desire to foster a more favorable regulatory environment and to support the development of India’s crypto ecosystem.
India’s market potential is undeniable. The country ranks as one of the fastest-growing Web3 ecosystems worldwide, with its share of global developers quadrupling since 2018 to roughly 12%. Retail interest remains high, despite ongoing regulatory uncertainty, and institutional involvement continues to grow.
Recent signals from the Indian government hint at a shift toward a more structured regulatory approach rather than outright bans, which has encouraged Coinbase’s reentry efforts. The company believes in India’s long-term growth prospects, considering the country a key emerging market for digital assets. Additionally, the need for effective regulatory frameworks has become essential for fostering a safe environment for cryptocurrency transactions.
However, navigating India’s strict tax regimes and compliance requirements remains complex. Coinbase’s ongoing diplomatic engagement demonstrates its commitment to overcoming these hurdles and capitalizing on India’s vast market potential.
