NetEnt Americas is now officially a supplier to the British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC). The Corporation is the only licensed lottery and gaming operator in British Columbia. This exciting move has been in the pipeline for some time, finally coming to fruition last year on approval by the Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch (GPEB).
Who Are NetEnt?
NetEnt is one of the leading digital entertainment companies within the online gaming sphere. Founded in 1996, the company has proved to be a pioneer in forging ahead in the market with immersive games powered by a cutting-edge platform.
Who Is the British Columbia Lottery Corporation?
BCLC is a Crown corporation that is owned by the province. The corporation’s revenues are geared towards supporting education, health care and local communities.
British Columbia is the country’s fifth largest province by area and third if you’re looking at population. It is the BCLC that has been vested with the legal provision of online gambling services within B.C.’s borders.
What’s Brought All This On?
Online gambling regulations in Canada aren’t exactly black and white. Firstly, it’s up to each province in the country to regulate its own gambling industry.
Secondly, it should be noted that the provision of online gaming services is neither illegal nor legal. That’s where things get somewhat confusing. Essentially, Canadian players do have access to unlicensed operators. But, under Canadian law, online casino operators are required to provide their operations from outside the country.
Previously, online gaming software giant, NetEnt did make its games available in Canada. But, a few years ago, the supplier just withdrew its games from Canada-facing online casinos. There was no official statement – not a word.
Back in early 2016, online gaming brands Betspin, Rizk and Guts – all owned by the renowned Gaming Innovation Group – announced they would no longer make NetEnt games available to Canadians. To add to that, other Canadian-facing casinos began removing titles by the Swedish online casino games provider in the following months.
It wasn’t until fall 2016 that NetEnt finally announced it would apply for a license to provide its gaming content to British Columbia gambling customers.
While we’ve still never heard why NetEnt officially withdrew from the Canadian gaming market, it may have something to do with the country’s overall regulatory environment.
What’s the Next Step?
Now, a little over a year later, NetEnt’s Americas division has received the required approval from the British Columbia Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch to supply the BCLC with its online gaming content.
NetEnt is reportedly pleased to expand its reach and have the opportunity to extend its footprint in regulated markets.
Get Ready for a Bumper NetEnt Year
NetEnt promises British Columbia players a bumper year of superior gaming, including brand new games like Cosmic Eclipse. If you loved Twin Spin original, be sure to check out NetEnt’s latest offering, Twin Spin Deluxe. The game makes use of the Swedish developer’s Cluster Pays format – an innovative new payout mechanic for players to look forward to.
Keep your eyes peeled for your favourite online casinos latest offerings from NetEnt.
