Alberta to Open a Regulated Online Gaming Market

Another province is following Ontario's lead in opening a regulated online gaming market. On Thursday, Alberta Minister of Service and Red Tape Reduction Dale Nally announced at the Canadian Gaming Summit that Alberta is officially moving forward with its plans.

Alberta Follows Ontario's Model

"Let me tell you a little bit about what our gaming site is going to look like," Nally said. "It's going to be very similar to Ontario because we're following their model. As far as I'm concerned, they built the roadmap. We'll massage it a little bit, but it's been inspired by the experience in Ontario. It's going to be an open and free market."

AGLC Will Not Serve as Regulator for Alberta Market

Currently, Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) is the only regulated gaming operator in the province, running the PlayAlberta online gambling brand. Nally clarified that AGLC will not oversee the new regulated operators, acknowledging operators' concerns about sharing data with a competitor.

Ontario's model has the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario as the regulator, with a separate body, iGaming Ontario, managing gaming operations. Alberta may adopt a similar structure to create a buffer between AGLC and independent sportsbook and casino brands.

Inclusion of First Nations in the Marketplace

Nally emphasised that First Nations in Alberta will be involved in the new marketplace. The AGLC already has relationships with some First Nations operating land-based casinos in the province.

No Timeline for Launch

While Nally did not provide a specific timeline for the market launch, the legal framework is in place for Alberta Premier Danielle Smith to proceed. Last month, the Alberta legislature passed a bill confirming the province's ability to manage gaming independently, paving the way for an open market.

Since then, Nally's office has been consulting with key stakeholders, including the lottery and First Nations. Although the market's opening seemed inevitable, Thursday marked the first official confirmation from Nally's office that Alberta is moving in this direction.