The iGaming in Canada has been growing rapidly over the past decade across the world. Several countries have been leading the way in terms of online gambling, but Canada has often lagged due to the regulations in the country. However, things have changed for the better in recent years and the iGaming sector is growing in Canada.
iGaming Regulations in Canada
Due to the Criminal Code of Canada 1985, all online gambling is considered illegal in Canada. That should immediately put a stop to any form of iGaming but there is a loophole in the Criminal Code that allows each province to make their own rules regarding iGaming. For example, Ontario have recently passed laws that legalize iGaming in the province, and it is regulated by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario. That means, for anyone who wants to play games at an online casino Canada, they can do so in Ontario, including people who are just visiting the province. Some of the other provinces in Canada where iGaming is now regulated include Alberta, British Columbia, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Quebec, and Manitoba.
Popularity of iGaming in Canada
The online gaming sector in Canada is growing at a rapid rate. One glance at the statistics show that come the end of 2023, the expected revenue for iGaming in Canada is expected to exceed $6.5 billion. There are several online casinos that cater specifically for Canadian players, meaning it is possible to bet using Canadian dollars and the casinos have been awarded a license by the provincial regulator. It is estimated that over 65% of the legal gambling age population will have gambled in 2023 and that underlines just how popular iGaming is in Canada. The surge in the number of online casinos and sports betting websites in Canada is another indication of just how big the iGaming sector has become in the country. The top iGaming operators would not be offering their services in Canada if they did not believe it would be worth their time and effort.
Why is the iGaming Sector Growing in Canada?
With provinces legalizing online gambling across the country, more people are participating in iGaming. There is no doubt plenty of people were gambling online before the regulations made it legal but there were many who did not want to take the risk. The fact iGaming is now regulated in many provinces has drawn new people to start gambling online. Thanks to the introduction of mobile iGaming, it is more easily accessible than ever before and that has led to more people becoming involved. A 30-minute break from work is enough to load an app on a mobile device and play a slot game or spin the roulette wheel. Convenience is playing a huge role in the iGaming sector, with more people than ever before choosing to play games using a mobile device.
The iGaming sector in Canada is a big industry and with virtual reality, artificial intelligence, and cryptocurrency all having a role to play in the future, the Canadian iGaming market is going to continue growing.
