The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) has been recognised for its regulatory framework for the igaming market in Ontario at the International Association of Gaming Regulators’ (IAGR) Awards. 

Announced at the IAGR’s Annual International Regulatory Awards Gala Awards Event, AGCO was awarded the Regulatory Excellence Award for developing and implementing the Ontario framework for launch back in April. 

The award is presented to the regulator which shows “excellence in gaming policy and regulation recognizing an outstanding contribution and achievement by a regulator in advancing efficient and effective gambling policy and regulation”.

“This achievement would not have been possible without our partners at the Ministry of the Attorney General,”  said Tom Mungham, Registrar and CEO of the AGCO. 

“This award recognizes the exceptional skill, commitment and energy that was required from the AGCO team to launch a new regulated igaming market in Ontario, particularly in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“Before the launch of the new competitive igaming market last April, residents of Ontario wagered significant amounts each year on igaming websites with limited consumer protection and responsible gambling measures. 

Many players who accessed these sites were not aware they were in fact unregulated. We are honoured to be recognized on the international stage for our efforts to serve the people of Ontario.” 

Leading a ‘first-of-its-kind’ regulatory framework in Canada, bringing a competitive marketplace to private operators, AGCO also recognised the work done by the Ministry of the Attorney General and Finance, which helped to deliver the marketplace launch.

“Congratulations to the team at the AGCO on their well-deserved award for regulatory excellence,” added Attorney General Doug Downey. 

“My team was honoured to work with AGCO in developing a strong, responsible, competitive internet gaming model that effectively combats the illegal market, attracts investment and creates good jobs.”

“On behalf of the panel of judges and the IAGR Board, congratulations to The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario,” concluded Jason Lane, IAGR President and award judge. “The scale and breadth of the regulatory reform coupled with the detailed evidence of enhanced delivery of the new licensing regime made AGCO’s nomination a standout.”