Ontario launches sweeping review of its booming iGaming market
Ontario's government has launched a formal review of its regulated online gambling and betting market. The move comes as the province's iGaming sector continues to expand, with projections showing revenue exceeding $10 billion by 2025. Meanwhile, iGO is preparing to announce a new CEO following Martha Otton's retirement.
The review will assess the sector's performance and social impact since private operators entered the market in April 2022. Its key goals include increasing efficiency, streamlining regulations, and supporting economic growth. Specific areas of focus involve reducing duplication in reporting, addressing regulatory uncertainty, and improving collaboration between iGO and the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO).
The province's iGaming market is forecast to generate $6.82 billion from the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) and $3.7 billion from iGO in 2025. However, no data is available on how the market's growth has affected employment numbers since private providers were introduced.
In a separate development, iGO has recently become a standalone agency. This change aims to provide more flexibility in the fast-evolving iGaming sector. The agency's leadership transition follows Martha Otton's retirement, with a new CEO expected to be named soon.
The review's broader objectives include balancing casino revenue with responsible gambling practices. It also seeks to ensure the sector delivers strong economic benefits for Ontarians while adapting to technological advancements.
The findings of the review will shape future regulations and operations in Ontario's iGaming market. With revenue projections rising and iGO restructuring as an independent agency, the sector is poised for further changes. The government's focus remains on economic growth, efficiency, and responsible gambling oversight.
