Let us introduce you to iGaming Ontario

A week after royal assent was given to the Safe and Regulated Betting Act (aka Bill C-218, aka an amendment to the Criminal Code), the government of Ontario has unveiled the framework for its online gaming market.

The province announced Tuesday that the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario is launching a new subsidiary, iGaming Ontario, which will operate and manage the new gaming offerings.

“Following Parliament’s historic vote to lift the prohibition on single-event sport wagering last month, the establishment of iGaming Ontario is another pivotal milestone in our work to ensure people have access to a safe and regulated online gaming market by the end of the year,” said Attorney General Doug Downey. “We are determined to work with industry, responsible gaming advocates and regulatory partners to ensure Ontario is a world leader in building a safe online gaming environment that meets consumer expectations.”

According to the news release put out by the Attorney General’s office, Ontarians spend almost $1 billion annually on online gambling with an estimated 70 per cent taking place on grey market (unregulated) websites. In the new regulated environment, sportsbooks looking for a licence to operate in Ontario will submit an application to the AGCO. Once that licence is granted, the company will enter into a commercial agreement with iGaming Ontario.

As one of the first steps of enforcement and consumer protection, every operator granted a licence will be required to carry the iGaming Ontario logo on its website.

According to the new iGaming Ontario website, licensed operators will be able to begin offering their products and services in December. So, we expect a rather busy summer and fall following the companies lining up for a licence.

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