Posted on: March 3, 2026, 11:56h.

Last updated on: March 3, 2026, 11:58h.

• Quebec’s provincial election slated for October 5
• Polls indicate Parti Quebecois is leading, while the CAQ holds fourth place in various surveys
• Official from the Quebec Online Gaming Commission states they have engaged with all provincial parties regarding the igaming framework

The Quebec Online Gaming Commission (QOGC) is intensifying its pursuit of a regulated, competitive igaming landscape in the province, where Loto-Québec currently monopolizes the legal igaming sector.

Coalition Advocates Market Liberalization

With the upcoming provincial election on October 5, current polls show the Parti Quebecois in the lead, with a support range of 30% to 34%. The Liberals follow closely with 24% to 27%, while the Conservatives range between 14% and 18%, and the incumbent CAQ sits at 11% to 17%.

Ariane Gauthier, speaking to Casino.org, indicates that QOGC views this as an opportunity to push for a regulatory shift similar to that of Ontario, transitioning towards allowing private operators to compete with the crown agency.

The QOGC consists of private operators like Betway, Bet99, DraftKings, Entain, Flutter, Games Global, and Rush Street Interactive, collaborating with Apricot Investments to create a fresh regulatory structure in Quebec.

Projected $300 Million Tax Revenue

Gauthier disclosed that QOGC has engaged with all provincial political parties multiple times to express their insights.

“Analyzing the narratives from Ontario and soon Alberta confirms that revising the regulations is essential for the establishment of a framework that accommodates private online offerings,” she stated. “Maintaining a monopoly over online gaming through Loto-Québec is no longer feasible in the internet age.

“As we evolve digitally, timely actions from the Quebec government will enhance the playing experience for users while also benefiting the economy,” she emphasized. “If Quebec embraced the regulation of private online gaming, it could generate up to $300 million in tax revenue based on a 20% tax structure similar to Ontario’s.”

Loto-Québec’s Role in Online Gaming Regulation

According to Gauthier, the $300 million in potential tax revenues would stem from channeling grey market betting into regulated environments, which is separate from any increase in gaming activity.

During the Canadian Gaming Summit last June, Gauthier participated in a discussion on the gross gaming revenue provinces forgo to the grey market. Quebec leads with CAD $1.97 billion, equivalent to a potential $400 million in tax revenue, followed by Alberta and B.C. at CAD $1.3 billion, Ontario at CAD $757 million, and Atlantic Canada at CAD $600 million.

Loto-Québec contends that most online players choose its platform for a legal, secure gaming experience. A representative highlighted that the coalition of private operators primarily benefits foreign entities rather than Quebecers.

“Loto-Québec may not be perfect, but all of its operations are legally compliant,” stated Renaud Dugas. “Moreover, all generated revenue is reinvested in Québec. Last year, the corporation contributed over $1.5 billion in dividends to the Province, in addition to its various contributions to society.”

Call for Comprehensive Discussion

Gauthier remarked that all provincial parties engaged with QOGC have shown willingness to consider regulations that include private entities. Alberta is on the verge of implementing a new regulatory framework overseen by the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission, which will manage compliance and licensing, while the Alberta iGaming Corporation will oversee market operations.

“Political parties are evaluating their financial strategies and are aware of the chance to foster a safer gaming environment while boosting government revenue,” she noted. “With Quebec facing significant deficits, $300 million is substantial for funding various initiatives. The CAQ has begun expressing interest, and other parties are increasingly recognizing this matter.”

Gauthier expressed increased optimism regarding market reforms compared to when she joined QOGC in 2024.

“We aimed to introduce a perspective that diverged from Loto-Québec’s narrative,” she explained. “For far too long, Loto-Québec maintained a monopoly on online gaming communication, and with the Coalition, we can provide checks and balances, ensuring data-driven arguments prevail in public policy discussions.”

Casino.org has solicited comments from the Parti Quebecois and the Liberal Party but has not yet received a response.