written and last updated by
Sam Smith at
10 Jun 2024
Journalist, Editorial Department
Alberta's Premier Danielle Smith has ordered the development and implementation of a strategy to create a regulated iGaming market in the province. The task has been assigned to Alberta's Minister of Service, Dale Nally, who will collaborate with representatives of Indigenous communities.
Nally stated that the province has the potential to become a leading hub for the gaming industry, emphasizing transparency and a free market. He highlighted that low corporate taxes, streamlined regulations, and high disposable incomes would position Alberta as a prime destination for the gaming sector.
A staff member from Nally's office reported that meetings between the government and Indigenous representatives began last week. Authorities are keen to gather their perspectives on the potential opportunities and implications of introducing an iGaming market in the province. Officials will also engage in discussions with operators of land-based casinos and racetracks.
Currently, Ontario remains the only Canadian province with a legal online gambling market. In Alberta, the only legal platform is Play Alberta, which is regulated by the local authority, AGLC. This site accounts for 45% of the market, while the remainder is dominated by offshore brands.
Dan Keen, Vice President of Gaming at AGLC, remarked, "Alberta's future is yet to be seen. We support Minister Dale Nally in his approach and mandate to work towards opening the gaming market to make it legal. AGLC firmly backs this initiative."
Additionally, it is worth noting that South Africa has introduced a new bill to regulate the iGaming sector.