Loto-Québec has shattered records by surpassing $3 billion in total revenues for the 2025-26 fiscal year. The crown corporation’s annual report revealed $3.089 billion in total revenues, marking the first time they’ve crossed this milestone. Notably, $1.525 billion in net income was achieved, maintaining a streak of four consecutive years exceeding the $1.5 billion mark, all reinvested back into the province.
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Debate Over an Ontario-Style iGaming Model
With calls for a regulatory shake-up echoing through Quebec, Loto-Québec CEO Jean-Francois Bergeron acknowledged the rising demand for an open market. The push for reform aims to transition from a government-controlled monopoly to a model allowing private iGaming operators, similar to Ontario and Alberta. Bergeron emphasized the need for strengthened online gaming oversight to benefit the people of Quebec while advocating for a responsible market approach. The political climate adds another layer of complexity. A provincial election is slated for October, creating a backdrop for potential change. Ariane Gauthier, representing the Quebec Online Gaming Coalition (QOGC), noted that leading opposition parties are open to considering a competitive market setup. However, existing government sentiments, particularly from the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ), resist these changes, fueled by concerns over extensive iGaming advertising impacts observed in Ontario.
Record Lottery Payouts and Market Dynamics
The fiscal year also saw Loto-Québec distributing a record $1.914 billion to lottery winners. Sector-wise, casinos and gaming halls pulled in $1.301 billion, while lottery games contributed $995.6 million. Revenue from gaming establishments—such as video lottery terminals and bingo halls—totaled $814.5 million. December brought the opening of a new gaming hall in Saguenay, expanding Loto-Québec’s footprint. Yet, despite an 81% preference among Quebec online players for lotoquebec.com, the province lags in channeling players to regulated platforms. And tRM Public Affairs estimates 73% of iGaming activity occurs in the unregulated space, with $2.3 billion in gross gaming revenue slipping through regulatory fingers annually.
Future Outlook Amid Political Uncertainty
Quebec’s gaming market faces an uncertain path. The impending October election could prove pivotal, potentially reshaping the regulatory market. Should a political shift occur, Quebec might see a more open market model, akin to its Canadian neighbors. And the situation bears watching—as the gaming industry’s future in Quebec hinges on upcoming electoral outcomes and subsequent policy decisions from the new government. The fate of regulatory reform could be clearer by year’s end, as political gears turn and market forces await new directives.
Eri Gaitu leads the news desk at Best in Slot, tracking breaking developments across the gambling world in real time. From exclusive bonus offers and casino launches to licensing updates and regulatory shifts, Eri ensures readers are always first to know about the changes that matter to their gaming experience.
