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Canada has a complex history with gambling, spanning both land-based casinos and online platforms. Gambling laws have often been unclear, with all forms of gaming, betting, and lotteries prohibited unless regulated by a provincial government under the federal Criminal Code. Each province holds the authority to oversee gaming activities and ensure compliance with these regulations.
In 2022, Ontario made history by legalizing internet gambling, including online casinos, lotteries, and sports betting, but only for licensed operators regulated by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO). As the first province to take this step, Ontario experienced a surge in revenue, generating billions of dollars in the process.
This guide delves into the current regulatory landscape while offering insights into the future trends and growth opportunities shaping Ontario’s iGaming market in 2025 and beyond.
The Evolution Ontario’s iGaming Market
For several years, dedicated provincial politicians in Ontario have been diligently working to establish and develop the province’s iGaming Market. On March 3, 2021, the Ministry of the Attorney General and the Ministry of Finance announced their intention to gather input from various stakeholders to help shape the development of a competitive online gaming sector in Ontario. The primary objective of this initiative was to enhance consumer protection while facilitating the entry of online gambling companies into the Ontario market.
Following Canada’s Criminal Code, the administration and oversight of internet gaming within the province will be entrusted to iGaming Ontario, a subsidiary of the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO). This decision was formally announced by the government of Ontario on July 6, 2021, establishing iGaming Ontario as a distinct legal entity separate from AGCO.
In collaboration with iGaming Ontario, the formulation and implementation of essential regulations, programs, and processes seek to strike a delicate balance between pivotal government objectives such as safeguarding consumers and streamlining bureaucratic procedures. iGaming Ontario will also be responsible for creating and executing operating agreements with private online gambling operators.
Furthermore, other online gaming operators and Gaming-Related Suppliers that are registered with the AGCO and operate under the direction and oversight of iGaming Ontario will be permitted to offer their gaming products and services to residents of Ontario once the province’s new online gaming market is launched.
Current trends in Ontario’s online casino industry
The iGaming sector in Ontario has grown remarkably in only its first year of operation. Gaming income quadrupled from $1.4 billion to $2.4 billion, and total wagers nearly doubled from $35.5 billion to $63 billion, a startling 78% rise, according to Paramount Commerce. Additionally, according to iGO, the regulated iGaming sector increased its GDP contribution to $2.7 billion in Ontario’s second year of operation from $1.58 billion in the first.
Additionally, the offerings from casinos and gaming companies have increased significantly. Given Ontario’s iGaming industry is strictly regulated, it has been amazing to see casino operators implement exciting features like progressive jackpots without going overboard with regulatory constraints.
Future Trends and Opportunities for Growth
Ontario has emerged as a trailblazer in the realm of online gaming across Canada. Its approach is being closely observed by other jurisdictions as a potential model for their own regulations. Despite its leadership position, Ontario’s online gaming sector is not without its challenges. Public concerns and unresolved issues persist, warranting attention and action.
The online gambling industry in Ontario has proven to be highly lucrative, with the province recording an impressive $18 billion in wagers during the 2023–2024 fiscal year. However, mounting concerns about compulsive gambling and the aggressive advertising tactics employed by the industry have amplified calls for more robust regulations.
Anticipated measures in Ontario include the implementation of stricter advertising laws for gambling websites, mirroring initiatives undertaken by other countries. While some initial steps have been taken, such as a regulatory amendment prohibiting the participation of athletes and celebrities in gambling advertisements as of February 2024, there are still lingering issues that demand resolution.
Despite existing laws addressing problem gambling in the iGaming sector, there are persistent calls for even more stringent regulations and guidelines to protect players. The rapid evolution of technology adds another layer of complexity to the future of gaming in Ontario. While technological advancements hold the potential to both benefit and harm gamblers, the absence of adequate laws and regulations could potentially tip the balance towards harm. Therefore, it is crucial to implement measures that effectively address these technological advancements to safeguard the well-being of all stakeholders in the online gaming sector.
Conclusion
Many things have already occurred, and many more will follow. There are countless prospects for Ontario-based online casino businesses. Gamblers now have access to safe and secure online gaming environments. Although stricter laws are to be expected, things are looking up in the future.