After a two-year absence, major U.S. cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase is making a measured re-entry into the Indian market. The company has resumed app registrations and is preparing to launch local fiat on-ramps in 2026, signaling a renewed commitment to the region.
Key Takeaways
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Coinbase has resumed app registrations in India.
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Local fiat on-ramps are planned for 2026.
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The exchange previously exited India in September 2023.
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Coinbase is actively engaging with the Indian government and local entities.
A Strategic Re-entry
Coinbase's return follows a challenging debut in India, which led to the cessation of local services in September 2023. John O’Loghlen, Coinbase's APAC director, stated that the company aimed for a "clean slate" by off-boarding customers from overseas entities. The exchange has already begun onboarding users through an early-access program initiated in October, coinciding with the hiring of Karan Malik as its India marketing lead.
Immediate Trading Capabilities
Upon resuming customer onboarding, Coinbase is enabling immediate crypto-to-crypto trades for Indian users. This move is part of a broader strategy to re-establish its presence and services within the country.
Building Government Relations
Coinbase has been actively working to mend and strengthen its relationship with the Indian government. In early December, Katie Mitch, Coinbase's international policy adviser, met with India’s Parliamentary Standing Committee on Finance, expressing optimism about forward-looking regulations for Virtual Digital Assets (VDAs).
Furthermore, Priyank Kharge, IT minister for Karnataka, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Coinbase India. This collaboration aims to bolster the state's leadership in blockchain innovation and cybersecurity. The partnership will involve working with Coinbase on startup incubation within the Coinbase-backed Base protocol and accelerating real-world blockchain applications.
These efforts build upon previous engagements, including a meeting between Coinbase Chief Legal Officer Paul Grewal and Minister Kharge in August to explore collaborations in developer tools, cybersecurity, and blockchain in governance. Coinbase had previously secured a license with India’s Financial Intelligence Unit in March 2025, paving the way for its potential relaunch.
Sources
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Coinbase mounts a cautious comeback in India, two years after exit, mx.advfn.com.
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Coinbase mounts a cautious comeback in India, two years after exit — TradingView News, TradingView.
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