An important court ruling in Ontario has given the Ford government significant support in its attempt to widen the province’s online gaming market to players living outside Canada. The latest judgment reshapes how Ontario’s digital gambling sector could operate in the future.
Ontario Court Allows Broader Online Gambling Participation
In a majority decision, the Court of Appeal for Ontario ruled that Ontario’s online casino and sports betting programs would continue to comply with the Criminal Code of Canada, even if international participants are allowed to join.
This ruling stems from a 2024 request submitted by the Ontario government, seeking legal clarity on whether expanding access beyond Canadian borders would still remain lawful.
How Ontario’s iGaming System Works
Ontario currently runs its online gambling model through iGaming Ontario, a government-owned corporation. Under this system:
- Private operators can partner with iGaming Ontario.
- These companies can offer online casino games such as slots, blackjack, roulette, and a range of sports betting options.
- Operators must restrict participation to individuals physically present in Ontario.
The new court ruling allows these operators to build separate platforms for international players, increasing the possibility of higher revenues while maintaining regulatory boundaries.
Opposition From Other Provinces
A group of lottery corporations from four Canadian provinces challenged this expansion, expressing concerns about market fairness and regulatory impacts. Despite their objections, the Ontario Court of Appeal upheld the province’s authority to move forward.
Limits on Domestic Expansion
The judges emphasized that the ruling was based on the assumption that players in other Canadian provinces would not be allowed to participate unless Ontario signs a formal agreement with the province where those players reside.
This means the expansion applies only to international users, not to Canadians outside Ontario.
Government Response
Ontario’s Ministry of the Attorney General declined to provide immediate comments on Wednesday, noting that the case is still within the appeal period and remains legally active.
