Commercial online gambling operations could begin in Alberta as early as 2026. The provincial government has recently announced plans to launch a regulated market similar to that in Ontario. The framework is the culmination of years of preparation and aims to regulate a large, unlicensed market currently operating in the province. Officials claim that the focus is on enhancing consumer protection, fostering responsible gambling, and introducing transparent laws and a clear regulatory model.
Alberta Introduces Clear Rules and Stronger Protection in the Online Gambling Sector: Quick Summary
- Alberta’s provincial government has recently introduced a regulatory framework to open its online gambling market in 2026. They aim to regulate a large unlicensed market and enforce consumer protection and responsible gambling measures.
- The framework is modelled on Ontario’s system and includes a new provincial corporation, a licensing process for operators, and strict advertising and player protection regulations.
- Despite strong market potential and industry interest, ongoing regulatory work has delayed the launch. Officials say consultations are underway, and more details are expected to be announced in early 2026.
Alberta Publishes Online Gambling Rules Ahead of Market Opening
The provincial government in Alberta has just announced a new regulatory framework for a competitive gambling market. In a press release published on Wednesday, January 14, the authorities confirmed upcoming changes, marking a major step toward legal online gambling. Discussions about opening the market began in 2024, with officials flagging the proliferation of unregulated gambling sites as a major public safety hazard.
Currently, PlayAlberta, run by Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC), is the province’s only legal operator, while most Alberta online casinos operate outside the regulated framework. Dave Nally, minister of Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction, said unregulated iGaming accounts for about 70% of Alberta’s online gambling market. He asserted that the government must take action to safeguard the public, particularly the youth.
Nally stated:
For Albertans who choose not to gamble, the best option is not to start. With unregulated iGaming widely available in our province, it is our responsibility to step in, regulate the market and hold private providers to the highest standards to protect Albertans, particularly our youth.
In a press briefing, Nally revealed that operators could enter the market within “a few months”. He had earlier hinted that the market would launch by the end of 2024, but that deadline has long expired. Officials have consistently said Alberta’s system will be modelled on Ontario, with players legally and safely accessing online casinos in Ontario since 2022.
Regulatory Structure and Revenue Allocation
Authorities passed the iGaming Alberta Act last year, creating the Alberta iGaming Corporation (AiGC) to oversee the market. Under the framework, the AGLC will act as the regulator for operators and suppliers. Companies must complete a three-part registration process and then sign an agreement with the AiGC to operate.
Alberta will retain 20% of the annual online gambling revenue under the proposed model. Two per cent of revenue will support First Nations, while 1% will fund social responsibility programs such as gambling research and problem gambling treatment. The framework also includes a centralised self-exclusion system, similar to that in Ontario, and strict advertising rules.
Gambling advertisements will be restricted to prevent targeting high-risk individuals and minors. Ads will also be banned from featuring current or retired athletes. These measures mirror parts of Ontario’s system, which has approved more than 45 operators since launch.
Market Potential and Ongoing Delays
Industry stakeholders have a positive view of Alberta’s potential during earnings calls, citing strong demographics. The province has the youngest adult population in Canada, the highest per capita GDP, and the highest per capita gambling spend in the country. In 2024, JMP Securities estimated that Alberta’s gambling market could generate revenue exceeding $700 million (approximately €602 million) annually.
PlayAlberta reported $275 million (roughly €236 million) in net sales in 2025, a $35 million (nearly €30 million) increase from the previous year. However, independent surveys show that PlayAlberta’s share is between 23% and 32% of the total market. At the 2024 Canadian Gaming Summit, Martin Lycka of Entain said Ontario is the “platinum standard of iGaming regulation” and a strong model to follow.
Despite the framework, Alberta has yet to announce a firm launch date. Authorities passed Bill 48 on May 15, 2025, and the market was projected to launch in late 2025. Press Secretary Kevin Lee recently revealed the updated timeline during a press briefing.
Lee said:
We anticipate regulations could be finalised soon and look forward to sharing more details about Alberta iGaming Corporation in early 2026.
Officials claim that the process of finalising rules, player safety measures, and the registration process is underway. The government also needs to decide on a tax rate for operators. The Alberta iGaming Corporation is yet to finalise its advertising standards, which could align with Ontario’s strict limits on promotions, athletes, and celebrities.
The Alberta iGaming framework signals a clear shift toward a regulated online gambling market, but key details remain unresolved. Officials continue to consult with industry stakeholders and refine rules and safeguards. A formal launch is now expected in 2026, pending final regulatory decisions.