India’s Paid Music Subscribers Could Hit 30 Million by 2028, EY-IMI Report Finds

The Indian music streaming market is set to experience a significant boom in the next three years, with the paid subscriber base expected to reach between 28 million and 30 million by 2028, according to a recent report. This represents a staggering growth of over 100% from the estimated 14 million subscribers as of December 2025, marking a major milestone for the Indian music industry.

Background & Context

The Indian music streaming market has been rapidly evolving over the past decade, driven by the proliferation of smartphones and the increasing popularity of streaming services. In recent years, the market has witnessed a significant shift towards paid subscription-based models, with major players like Spotify, Gaana, and JioSaavn offering premium services to users. This shift has been driven by the need for high-quality content, exclusive features, and better user experiences.

The report highlights the growing importance of music streaming in India, with the market expected to continue its upward trajectory in the coming years. The growth of the paid subscriber base is a testament to the increasing demand for high-quality music content, and the willingness of users to pay for exclusive experiences.

Key Details

According to the report, the Indian music streaming market is expected to reach between 28 million and 30 million paid subscribers by 2028, with an estimated 14 million subscribers as of December 2025. This represents a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 20% over the next three years, outpacing the global average. The report highlights the growth of the Indian music streaming market, with major players like Gaana, JioSaavn, and Spotify expected to continue their dominance in the market.

The report also highlights the growing importance of original content in the Indian music streaming market. With the rise of streaming services, there has been a significant increase in the production of original music content, including albums, singles, and podcasts. This trend is expected to continue in the coming years, with major players investing heavily in original content to differentiate themselves from competitors.

What Experts Say

"The growth of the Indian music streaming market is a testament to the increasing demand for high-quality music content," said Rahul Mathur, a music industry expert. "With the rise of streaming services, users are willing to pay for exclusive experiences, including original content and high-quality sound. This trend is expected to continue in the coming years, with major players investing heavily in original content."

The report highlights the broader significance of the growth of the Indian music streaming market. With the increasing popularity of streaming services, the Indian music industry is expected to continue its upward trajectory, with major players investing heavily in original content, marketing, and distribution. This trend is expected to have a positive impact on the broader music industry, with the growth of the streaming market expected to create new opportunities for artists, labels, and distributors.

Key Takeaways

• India's paid music streaming subscriber base is expected to reach between 28 million and 30 million by 2028, up from an estimated 14 million as of December 2025.
• The Indian music streaming market is expected to experience a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 20% over the next three years, outpacing the global average.
• The growth of the Indian music streaming market is driven by the increasing demand for high-quality music content, including original content and exclusive features.
• Major players like Gaana, JioSaavn, and Spotify are expected to continue their dominance in the market, with a growing focus on original content and user experiences.

What This Means For You

The growth of the Indian music streaming market has significant implications for users, artists, and industry professionals. With the increasing demand for high-quality music content, users can expect to see more exclusive experiences, including original content and high-quality sound. Artists and labels can also expect to see new opportunities for distribution and marketing, with the growth of the streaming market expected to create new revenue streams.

For everyday users, the growth of the Indian music streaming market means access to a wider range of music content, including original albums, singles, and podcasts. With the increasing popularity of streaming services, users can expect to see more exclusive features and better user experiences, making it easier to discover and enjoy their favorite music.

In conclusion, the growth of the Indian music streaming market is a significant milestone for the industry, with major players expected to continue their dominance in the market. As the market continues to evolve, users, artists, and industry professionals can expect to see new opportunities for distribution, marketing, and revenue streams, making it an exciting time for the Indian music industry.