Economic impact of gambling surpasses $15B: industry

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The gambling industry says it has become so large in Canada that it is now the biggest revenue generator and employer in the entertainment field.

More than 135,000 people work directly in the gaming industry, according to research commissioned by the Canadian Gaming Association.

Adding in "the indirect and induced impacts of economic activity in this sector," the association says the total number of full-time jobs supported by the gaming industry in Canada is more than 267,000.

The numbers include direct employment in gambling operations like casinos and racetracks, employment in gambling-related government and charity organizations, and employment in areas that support and service the gambling sector.

"Gaming has grown significantly over the past decade to become an essential pillar of the entertainment industry in Canada," said William Rutsey, CEO of the Canadian Gaming Association.

The gambling industry's net revenues (after prizes are paid) total about $15.3 billion a year, the study says. That makes it worth as much as movies, TV, recorded music and professional sports combined.

Government and charities pick up 57 per cent of this money — $8.7 billion. The rest goes for salaries, spending on goods and services, and profit.

A 2007 study by Statistics Canada found that the net revenue from government-run lotteries, video lottery terminals and casinos was $13.3 billion in 2006 — up five-fold from 1992. That amount represents total money wagered minus prizes and winnings.

That study found that the average Canadian spent $513 gambling in 2006, with Albertans spending the most — an average of $750 each.

About 5.5 per cent of provincial government revenues now come from gambling, Statistics Canada says.

Last Updated: Tuesday, April 8, 2008 | 1:30 PM ET
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