The Ontario government has increased the maximum fine for illegal ticket resale to $25,000 [1].
This policy shift aims to protect consumers from price gouging and ensure fans can access tickets at face value during major sporting events. The measures are specifically timed to curb illegal activity before the FIFA World Cup, with the first match scheduled for Toronto on June 12, 2024 [4].
The new fine regime takes effect on June 10, 2024 [3]. This represents a significant increase from the previous maximum fine of $10,000 [2]. In addition to the monetary penalty, the province intends to use public transparency as a deterrent against professional scalping operations.
"We will publicly name any ticketing business that is fined under the legislation," Premier Doug Ford said.
Government officials believe the higher penalties will create a stronger barrier for those attempting to profit from the high demand of the World Cup. An unnamed Ontario Minister of Tourism said the changes will deter scalpers and ensure fans can buy tickets at face value.
However, not all industry observers believe the increased fines will solve the problem. A ticket-resale expert said that increasing fines will not necessarily help consumers because scalpers will simply find other ways to profit.
The crackdown comes as the province prepares for the influx of international visitors and the logistical pressures of hosting a global tournament. By targeting the businesses that facilitate illegal resales, the government seeks to stabilize the secondary market, though the effectiveness of such measures often depends on the ability of authorities to monitor digital marketplaces.
“"We will publicly name any ticketing business that is fined under the legislation."”
Ontario is leveraging aggressive financial penalties and public shaming to mitigate the 'scalping' effect common during mega-events. By aligning the effective date of the law just two days before the first World Cup match, the government is attempting to signal a zero-tolerance approach to price gouging, though critics suggest this may push the illegal trade further into unregulated digital spaces.
