Section 1: Introduction

Under the Agencies and Appointments Directive, the AGCO is annually required to provide a multi-year Business Plan to the Attorney General. This Business Plan sets out its core strategy for the next three fiscal years, including key initiatives that will be undertaken in support of this strategy.

In recent years, the AGCO has experienced significant growth in role and mandate across a more diverse set of sectors. From Ontario’s expanded alcohol retail marketplace to the legalization of cannabis, to the focus on equine welfare and the expansion in digital gaming channels, our regulated sectors continue to change, mature and offer more choice to Ontario customers.

The AGCO leverages a common sense and outcomes-based approach. We work closely with Government and stakeholders to identify practical solutions that balance the imperative to safeguard the public interest and consumer safety with the need to foster a business environment that is dynamic and encourages innovation. Our track record as a nimble regulator reflects our success and commitment to responding to emerging and sometimes disruptive trends with straightforward strategies that fulfill our mandate to reduce public harm while maintaining a ‘right sized’ approach to regulation.

The AGCO’s new Strategic Plan for 2025-2028 establishes the agency’s priorities for the next three years, anchored in the following goals: Reduce the Risk of Harm, Foster Industry Sustainability and Innovation, Strengthen our Organizational Foundation, and Attract, Retain and Develop our People. These four goals support the evolution of the AGCO’s mandate and key government objectives for enhanced accountability and efficiency in delivering public services; supporting evidence-based decision making and policy development; maintaining the focus on protecting consumers and the public interest; and working with regulated industries to reducing administrative burden on businesses to drive economic growth in Ontario.