Ontario is ramping up its regulatory approach to online casinos, solidifying its place as Canada’s most active and structured gambling jurisdiction. As online gaming continues to reshape the national gambling landscape, the province has introduced updated regulations aimed at keeping pace with rapid digital growth.
This move is part of a wider shift in how Canadian provinces respond to the evolution of gambling, from traditional slot machines to mobile-first platforms. Ontario’s regulatory expansion not only seeks to protect consumers and ensure fairness but also aims to keep tax revenues within provincial borders as the online market swells.
Digital Gambling Is Now the Engine of Growth
Canada’s gambling industry is on track for major expansion, with sector-wide revenue projected to reach $17.5 billion by 2029. Much of this momentum is being fueled by online casino activity. In 2025 alone, digital platforms are expected to generate around $9.6 billion in revenue, confirming that more Canadians are turning to their phones and laptops for games like blackjack and roulette.
Ontario has become a national leader in this area. Since the province legalized iGaming in 2022, total gaming revenue has surged 129%. In the latest fiscal year, it recorded C$3.2 billion in gaming revenue, a 32% increase over the previous year. The province now licenses 49 operators managing 77 active websites, covering a broad mix of casino games and sports betting.
Regulation as a Response to Rapid Change
To address the accelerated rise of online gambling, Ontario’s regulators are strengthening oversight. The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) is now reviewing operator behavior more closely, requiring higher transparency in reporting and more stringent consumer protection protocols. The updates are part of an effort to keep gaming fair, safe, and competitive as new players enter the market.
Oversight will also cover responsible gambling initiatives. As online platforms make gaming more accessible than ever, regulators are increasingly focused on monitoring tools, affordability checks, and game design standards. These measures are aimed at minimizing harm and preventing excessive or unsafe gambling behavior.
Canada’s Hybrid Gambling Habits
Consumer behavior indicates that Canadians often blend online and offline entertainment. About 88% of retail shoppers, for example, use both digital and physical channels. The same holds true in gambling. Many users now enjoy the flexibility of mobile casinos while still valuing the in-person experience of a traditional venue.
The ability to switch between platforms gives users more control over how and when they play. In this context, some of the greatest mobile casinos in Canada stand out not just for their game variety but also for offering seamless integration with responsible gambling tools and easy access across devices.
This hybrid model, online speed with offline atmosphere, is likely to define the future of gambling in Canada.
Employment and Tax Impact
The digital shift has not led to a drop in employment. Instead, it has created new roles. The gambling sector employs about 135,500 people across Canada, with approximately 25,000 of those jobs tied directly to the iGaming sector. From game developers to customer service staff and compliance officers, the digital expansion is generating real-world economic benefits.
Annual tax revenue from online gambling alone is estimated at around $450 million. However, a portion of Canadian player activity still flows to offshore websites, which aren’t subject to domestic rules or tax structures. This makes accurate market tracking difficult and has fueled the push for stricter regulatory oversight.
A Broader Industry Under Watch
Ontario’s updates come as several provinces look at their own frameworks. Alberta, Nova Scotia, and British Columbia are all navigating changes in machine access, licensing rules, and platform preferences. Some of these updates are logistical, like sourcing equipment, while others are more strategic, involving regulatory positioning in the online space.
There is also increased awareness of how global trends affect Canadian gambling. Tourism slumps in Las Vegas, for example, have caught the attention of analysts who monitor Canadian traffic to international destinations. Rising travel costs have pushed some players to stay local, both physically and digitally, further driving interest in mobile gaming.
Conclusion: A Clear Step Toward a Regulated Future
Ontario’s decision to enhance oversight of digital casino operators is not just a regulatory adjustment; it’s a sign of where the industry is heading. As player habits evolve and online platforms continue to dominate, provinces must be proactive in shaping a safe, transparent, and fair gambling ecosystem.
With growing revenue, rising participation, and new technologies entering the market, this expanded oversight is a crucial step in ensuring that Canada’s gambling framework stays modern, balanced, and beneficial to all stakeholders.
DISCLAIMER: The information on this site is for entertainment purposes only. Online gambling carries risks, so you should only play within your means. If you’re struggling with a gambling addiction, reach out for help from a professional at the National Gambling Helpline through this phone line: 1-626-960-3500. All gambling websites and guides on this website are 19+. Check your local laws to ensure online gambling is legal in your area. Not valid in Ontario.
Check these websites for free gambling addiction resources.
https://www.gamblersanonymous.org/ga
https://www.responsiblegambling.org/