Quebec Election Could Advance Private iGaming Regulation

The Parti Québécois’ victory in Quebec’s October 5 provincial election could create an opening for changes to the province’s online gambling framework, including the introduction of a regulated private iGaming market.

The PQ secured 59 seats in the election, while the Quebec Liberal Party won 40 seats and will form the official opposition.

During the campaign, both parties backed the creation of a more competitive private iGaming model. At present, Loto-Québec remains the province’s only legal online gambling platform.

Ariane Gauthier, spokesperson for the Quebec Online Gaming Coalition (QOGC), said there is growing support for reform and that the new government could advance such changes.

“We think this is reform that’s gathering a large consensus that could be successfully put forward by the new Quebec government.”

Independent regulation remains a key issue

The Quebec Liberal Party proposed expanding the responsibilities of the Régie des alcools, des courses et des jeux (RACJ) to cover the licensing and oversight of online gambling operators. Its proposed framework would also address advertising, addiction control and consumer protection.

The Parti Québécois has indicated that it would pursue a similar model.

However, industry representatives argue that Quebec should first establish a clear regulatory framework defining how private operators and Loto-Québec would be governed.

Gauthier said an independent regulator should oversee all operators in the province, including Loto-Québec.

“Quebec has to decide what the specific rules will be that they would like to put in place and which independent organization will act as the regulator for all operators in the province, including Loto-Québec.”

A report estimates that Quebec’s potential iGaming market could reach CAD3.09 billion by 2026. It also states that less than 30% of iGaming activity in the province is controlled, while around 70% is considered illegal.

Troy Ross, president of TRM Public Affairs, said the election campaigns of Quebec’s two leading parties showed support for establishing an online gambling regulatory regime.

“The fact that the two leading parties in Quebec campaigned on creating an online gambling regulatory regime is encouraging. Between the Parti Québécois and the Liberal Party of Quebec, they have more than enough seats to pass legislation and launch a model. This represents a remarkable shift in government policy in Quebec. The Quebec Online Gaming Coalition has effectively built the case for regulation. We look forward to working with the new government on the details of this regulated market.”

Meanwhile, Loto-Québec has reported that 81% of online gambling activity among Quebec players takes place through its platform.