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Navigating the landscape: Licensing and regulation for online casinos in Canada

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3 weeks ago

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This article is presented to you by Ontario Casinos. Must be 19 or older. Ontario only. Please play responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, visit ConnexOntario.ca.

Understanding the licensing and regulatory framework of online casinos in Canada can be a bit complicated. Each province has its own set of unique guidelines and regulations that contribute to a larger, multifaceted picture. Imagine it as a mosaic of gaming regulations.

Maintaining awareness of Canada’s gaming regulations is crucial to ensure responsible gameplay, comprehension of the game rules, and online safety. By staying informed, players can avoid potential pitfalls and make informed decisions when engaging in online gaming activities.

Ontario’s Distinctive Approach

The legalization of online casinos in Ontario was achieved by implementing the Safe and Regulated Sports Betting Act, an Act that amends Canada’s Criminal Code to legalize single-event sports betting in the country, which came into force in August 2021. This legal framework marked a notable advancement in regulating online gaming operators throughout the province.

The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) assumes a pivotal role in supervising and upholding these regulations, guaranteeing operators comply with responsible gambling practices and safeguarding consumer interests. For its part, AGCO’s subsidiary, iGaming Ontario (iGO), is responsible for conducting and managing igaming when provided through private operators in Ontario.

Ontario distinguishes itself from other Canadian provinces by adopting a proactive stance in establishing a thoroughly regulated online gaming environment, allowing operators outside the province to register with the AGCO, and sign an operating agreement with iGO before they can offer their games to players in Ontario. 

The following operators are just a few who have successfully registered with the AGCO and who have entered into an agreement with iGO, and offer their platform to players in Ontario.

Implications for Operators

Ontario is the only province in Canada to open up its regulated igaming market to private and international operators.

For operators eyeing the Ontario market, understanding the rules and regulations of the province’s online gaming model is crucial! The competitive landscape may shift, and operators must align their strategies with the unique regulations in place.

Also, maintaining a commitment to responsible gaming practices is non-negotiable, as regulators place a premium on protecting consumers and on problem gaming prevention.

Ontario’s recent move towards having legal and regulated operators contracted by iGO shows the province’s dedication to responsible gaming. In this fast-paced world of online casinos, operators need to keep up with regulatory changes and adjust their game plan accordingly, bearing both responsibility and liability for misdoings and poor compliance management.

This article is presented to you by Ontario Casinos. Must be 19 or older. Ontario only. Please play responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, visit ConnexOntario.ca

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