The Ontario government is taking action against ticket scalpers and resale platforms to ensure compliance with recent regulations that limit the resale price of tickets to their face value. Minister of Public and Business Service Delivery and Procurement Stephen Crawford mentioned that inspections have commenced after sending out notification letters to resellers. The crackdown covers various entities, including ticket brokers, StubHub, and SeatGeek.
Implemented as part of Ontario’s provincial budget, the rule prohibits selling tickets for more than their original purchase price. In response, FIFA removed resale World Cup tickets for Toronto matches, while Ticketmaster adjusted its platform to prevent listings above face value.
Inspectors are conducting enforcement actions, which may involve communication with resellers, requests for records, site visits, and penalties. Violations could result in fines ranging from $3,000 to $250,000, as outlined in enforcement letters sent to ticket brokers.
Despite these measures, some companies like StubHub continue to offer tickets above face value. While they claim to be working towards compliance, discrepancies persist in pricing. Companies expressed challenges in adjusting to the new regulations, leading to uncertainties in implementation.
Minister Crawford acknowledged the need for companies to adapt to the changes gradually but warned of consequences for non-compliance. The government aims to swiftly enforce the price caps to address concerns raised by industry experts about potential black market activities.
