Finally, Ontario Launch Date Announced!

After much back and forth, a launch date for the Ontario legal gambling market has finally been announced. There have been setbacks, delays, and fervent pushbacks, but you can finally set your sights for 4 April 2022. 

iGaming Ontario has finally put pen to paper – so to speak – by announcing that the legal market for online gambling, with betting offered by selected online casino operators, will commence at the start of April 2022. Many stakeholders will breathe a sigh of relief as this topic has been fiercely debated ever since plans first went on the table back in 2019.

It has been a long road as the Ontario government has had to jump through a myriad of regulatory loopholes to get where they are today.

Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) sets the standard

There have been recent reports by certain entities within the gambling industry that have opposed the move to permit either regulated online sports betting or online casino apps in the province. Pushback has come from land-based casinos, as well as labour unions, which are concerned about the fallout that will occur from moving much of the current gambling activities online. However, the AGCO has ensured that its policy on gambling practises, advertising, and industry integrity will be implemented across the board.

Up until now, the provincial lotteries have maintained a monopoly on the market. A more relaxed gambling market will incentivise private operators to compete for market share, ensuring that a high level of service is on offer while still adhering to all regulatory guidelines.

One of the most exciting prospects for Ontarians is the fact that single game sports wagering will be far more accessible come April 2022. It will now be possible to back Ontario’s best as they compete in the major leagues sports of North America.

Regulated market will force offshore betting sites out

There’s little reason in pretending that many individuals have used offshore sites up until now in Ontario. However, one of the biggest arguments for a regulated gambling market, is the fact that state officials as well as watchdogs such as iGaming Ontario will now be able to put better measures in place to rid the province of offshore sites.

Moreover, it has been stated that Ontario has the potential to become one of the biggest and most appealing gambling markets on the entire continent. There are a number of contributing factors such as the quality of brands that have shown interest, the size of Ontario’s population, and proposed gambling services and offers.

It is time to brace yourself for what can only be described as a momentous day for Ontarians across the province. The legal market for gambling will be sure to attract new online casinos to Ontario and completely revolutionise gambling activities in the province.

Be sure to stay on top of prospective private operators who will emerge as industry leaders by virtue of providing quality gambling services within a safe and regulated market.