VOLUME 6, April 2019

Welcome to the CGA Update. As part of our outreach to Canada’s gaming industry, the CGA Update will provide you with insights and updates on the association’s projects and activities. Let us know what you think, we value your feedback. You can always reach us at [email protected]

ONTARIO BUDGET OPENS DOOR TO REGULATED ONLINE GAMBLING

Ontario’s Progressive Conservative government yesterday released its first budget, “A Plan for the People”, which contains several new gaming initiatives that will allow the government to take strong steps towards protecting consumers while expanding choice.

Legalization of Online Gaming in Ontario

The Ontario government recognizes that consumers’ gambling preferences continue to evolve, and with Ontarians spending over $500M annually gambling online using grey-market websites, the Progressive Conservatives will establish a competitive market for legal online gambling that will reflect consumer choice while protecting consumer who play on these sites. The government wants Ontario consumers to have access to “safe and legal gambling options”.

The next step is for the government to consult with stakeholders to “develop a market that reflects consumer preferences, fosters an exciting gaming experience and minimizes the burden on business while ensuring appropriate protections are in place.”  The Ministry of Finance told CGA that it will be leading the consultations and they will be initiated shortly, however they have not yet determined timelines for implementation.

The CGA will keep its members updated on the progress.

Single-Event Sports Wagering

The Ontario government re-confirmed its support for legalization of single-event sports wagering, stating “it is time to usher Ontario out of the gambling prohibition era and treat the people of Ontario as adults by allowing them to bet on the outcome of a single sporting event”. The province will continue to press the federal government to make the change and stand up for Ontario consumers.

CGA@ICE NORTH AMERICA – MAY 14-15, 2019

The CGA will be presenting an expanded session at ICE North America in Boston in May to discuss the growth and development of Canada’s gaming industry, why Canada is a great place to locate your business to access the American market, and the recent announcement by the Ontario government to regulate online gambling. We expect a full session as the interest in Ontario will be strong with this international audience.

The CGA will also have a booth where information about the association, its advocacy work, and membership will be available.

LOOKING AHEAD

The Canadian Gaming Summit is approaching and we are working to finalize speakers and programs. We are excited about the new line up, which focuses on fewer sessions but with strong content and presenters. So far we have confirmed programs on AML, Esports, cashless wagering/technology, skill gaming and social gaming, to name a few. Please keep checking the Summit website, as there will be weekly updates for the industry forum and networking events.