Published on: October 4, 2024, 11:37h.
Last updated on: October 4, 2024, 11:37h.
With the British Columbia Conservative Party holding a slight edge in polls as the provincial election draws closer, some individuals are speculating about the potential impact on the iGaming market in the western Canadian province if they secure a victory.
The election is scheduled for October 19, and based on the latest Leger survey published on Wednesday, the Conservatives are gaining momentum. The party leads in voting intention among decided voters for the second consecutive week, with 46% support, placing them three percentage points ahead of the incumbent BC New Democrat Party.
The survey conducted between September 27-30 revealed that 36% of BC residents believe the province is on the right track, while 55% think it is on the wrong track.
Provincial Election Set for October 19
The sudden surge in popularity for the Conservatives in a province historically governed by the Liberal Party and New Democrats since 1991 has raised eyebrows not only among political observers but also within the gaming industry.
“If you said to anyone five or six months ago that the Conservative Party would be a factor at all they’d be fitting you for a tin foil hat,” said an industry source.
In Ontario, led by the Conservative Party, an open, regulated iGaming market was introduced in April 2022, with 51 licensed operators and 83 gaming websites currently in operation, according to iGaming Ontario.
Conservatives Targeting Tax Revenue
In Alberta, led by the United Conservative Party, there is a move towards implementing an Ontario-style iGaming regulatory framework, with the market potentially going live in fall 2025, as per industry sources.
In BC, gambling is legal only on the British Columbia Lottery Corporation’s PlayNow.com platform. It remains uncertain whether this will change under a conservative administration.
“The political landscape can shift rapidly following an election,” stated Mark Harper, Head of Emerging Markets at BVGroup. The company’s BetVictor brand is operating under a license in Ontario.
Premier Eby Supports Competitive Market
“If the Conservatives come into power, it will herald a different approach. They are likely to focus on generating tax revenue, leading to quick changes in strategy and policy,” explained Harper. “Operators are closely monitoring the situation, and I anticipate BC could see swift changes, especially following Alberta’s lead.”
Despite expectations, individuals in the iGaming sector believe that market changes could still occur if the NDP emerges victorious. A senior industry source informed Casino.org that Premier David Eby, during his tenure as Attorney General, was highly supportive of significant alterations to the gambling industry.
Implementation Delays Expected
“[Eby] advocated for a regulatory regime akin to Ontario’s, with operations managed by an independent agency like the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO),” the source mentioned. “However, priorities shifted when Eby assumed the role of Premier in 2022. If the NDP wins, Eby’s position may not be secure, given their long tenure in provincial politics.”
If the Conservatives win, many key figures involved in Alberta’s iGaming process are also active in the BC Conservative campaign,” noted the source.
“Some of these individuals understand the developments in Alberta towards iGaming regulation. They know the potential benefits and the necessary regulatory structure,” the source elaborated.
The willingness in BC to explore new market avenues exists, but a learning curve is anticipated with a change in government.
“If the Conservatives secure a majority, they are likely to advance down this path,” the source predicted. “Initial groundwork has been laid, as BC regulators maintain a strong relationship with their counterparts in Ontario, facilitating ongoing discussions.”
Burns: iGaming Not a Government Priority
“The unfolding events in BC will be intriguing to observe,” remarked Paul Burns, President and CEO of the Canadian Gaming Association (CGA). “Provincial governments have traditionally overseen the gaming industry through lottery operations, emphasizing responsible gaming. However, with the shift away from monopolies, consumer protection standards need to extend beyond government enterprises.
“Ontario’s trajectory focused on consumer protection, market regulation, and has yielded positive results. These changes take time but will continue to evolve,” Burns added.
When engaging with Premier Eby, Burns noted his understanding of the necessity for an open, regulated market from a consumer protection standpoint, particularly regarding sports betting regulations. Nonetheless, the realities of governing a province present challenges.
“From my experience, gaming is rarely a top priority for governments. We are committed to assisting in promoting regulated markets for enhanced consumer protection,” Burns concluded.
Casino.org contacted the BC Conservative Party for comment but has not received a response yet.