Canada’s iGaming industry is experiencing rapid growth, driven by evolving consumer trends and behaviors. Players now prioritize mobile-first platforms, and seamless payment methods have fostered trust between players and operators.
Ontario leads this growth as a key hub, implementing new regulations in 2021 and restructuring government bodies in 2025. The iGaming Ontario Act, 2024, effective May 12, 2025, established iGO as an independent Crown agency, separating it from the AGCO. iGO reports directly to the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport and handles commercial agreements, while AGCO remains the independent regulator.
Ontario hosts around 50 operators at 83 gaming sites, with other provinces considering adapting these regulations. Alberta, for example, is looking to tighten its own rules. Many players explore options available at Maple Casino, enjoying a broad range of games, bonuses, and fast payments, mirroring positive experiences seen across Canada.
The Court of Appeal for Ontario decided on November 12, 2025, that Ontario can legally offer international liquidity in online gaming beyond Canada, ruling 4–1 in favor. This allows Ontario to re-enter shared markets for games like online poker and Daily Fantasy Sports, appealing to consumers who prefer larger player pools and prize funds. This decision positions Ontario to better compete internationally.
By enabling cross-border liquidity, Ontario can enhance its appeal to global operators, boost player engagement, and ensure stable revenues for the industry and government. The Canadian Gaming Association aims to collaborate with the province, AGCO, and iGaming Ontario to implement this model for sustainable market expansion.
Canada’s online casino sector is already thriving, with revenues projected to reach US$9.57bn by 2025, and an estimated CAGR of 2.54% from 2025 to 2030, leading to a market volume of US$10.85bn. User penetration is expected to grow from 70.6% in 2025 to 74.5% by 2030, thanks to widespread use of smartphones and tablets.
Mobile gaming dominates Canada’s market, with 11.8 million Canadians playing on mobile devices in 2023, expected to reach 14.1 million by 2028. Mobile gaming revenue is forecasted to hit nearly US$1.96 billion by the end of 2025. In Ontario, total spending exceeded CA$22.7 billion by mid-2024, marking a 32% year-over-year increase.
By late 2024, Ontario had about 1 million active online casino players, with an average monthly spend of CA$277 per player. The prevalence of 4G/5G smartphones facilitates high-quality gameplay accessible any time. Various affordable smartphone models allow players to enjoy casino games without needing expensive devices, providing more disposable income for responsible gaming.
- SCCG Management. The Gambling Industry’s Global Connector. Access Here.
- Source: SCCGManagement.com