Alberta’s much-anticipated iGaming market is facing delays, pushing its potential launch to late 2025. While there was initial optimism about an earlier launch, discussions within the provincial government have revealed that more time is needed to finalize the regulatory framework. This delay is crucial for ensuring that the market operates fairly, transparently, and in alignment with public safety standards.
Currently, Alberta’s only legal online gambling platform is the government-run Play Alberta, which has captured a significant share of the market. However, once the new iGaming system is introduced, private operators will have the opportunity to enter this lucrative market. Industry insiders believe that the tax rate for operators could be a sticking point, with suggestions that a rate higher than Ontario’s 20% could negatively affect the market’s appeal.
Another key issue is the impact on land-based casinos, which could face cannibalization from the rise of online platforms. The Alberta government is carefully analyzing how the iGaming market will affect brick-and-mortar venues, especially given the province’s higher number of land-based casinos per capita. Despite these challenges, the eventual launch of Alberta’s iGaming market is expected to provide significant opportunities for both operators and the province’s economy.
