Alberta to launch regulated iGaming market in 2026

Alberta is preparing to launch a major overhaul of its online gambling and sports betting industry following the passing of Bill 48, the iGaming Alberta Act, in the provincial legislature this week. With only Royal Assent remaining — a formal final step — the legislation will soon become law, setting up a competitive and regulated iGaming market that mirrors the model already thriving in Ontario and becoming the second country in Canada to regulate the market.

Currently, Albertans have just one legal option for online wagering: Play Alberta, a government-run platform regulated by the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission (AGLC). But that will soon change. Bill 48 will establish the Alberta iGaming Corporation, a new government agency tasked with signing agreements with private operators and overseeing their entry into the market. This opens the door for a broader mix of legal betting platforms, giving players more choice and ensuring consumer protections are upheld.

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Industry watchers expect that many well-established brands will seek licences to operate in the province. That includes global players offering some of the best online casinos, who are eager to compete in a market known for its high per-capita gambling spend and young adult population. If managed properly, experts estimate Alberta’s regulated gambling sector could exceed USD $700 million annually, with some projections pointing toward the billion-dollar mark in year one.

The appeal is clear: Alberta has Canada’s youngest adult demographic, the highest per-capita GDP, and a strong appetite for gambling. This makes it a lucrative target for operators of all sizes — from major North American names to fast-growing international sites. Platforms such as GG.Bet, already popular among esports and casino players, are among those expected to apply for entry under the new regime.

Ontario’s experience offers a clear precedent. Since launching its open market in 2022, the province has seen over 50 operators licensed, generating more than CAD $3.2 billion in gambling revenue last year alone. Alberta aims to follow suit, not just to increase provincial revenue, but also to provide a safer, regulated environment for those who already engage in online gambling through grey or black-market sites.

Of course, a full launch isn’t expected until late 2025 or early 2026, as key details still need to be worked out — including tax rates, advertising rules, and responsible gaming policies. The government has said it is working closely with stakeholders, while the opposition NDP has promised to keep pressure on for strong consumer safeguards. Brands like Jungliwin, which offer a range of betting and casino options, are also expected to enter the mix once regulations are finalized.

For Alberta residents, this shift means a more modern and transparent way to place bets — whether it’s through top online sportsbooks offering competitive odds on NHL games, or new casino platforms with better user experiences and provincial oversight. Bill 48 is more than just a legislative change — it’s the beginning of a new era for online gambling in Alberta.