The Ontario government is taking action against ticket scalpers and resale platforms to ensure compliance with recent regulations limiting ticket resale prices. Minister Stephen Crawford stated that notifications have been sent to resellers for inspections. This crackdown includes both small vendors and major companies like StubHub and SeatGeek.
The new rule, part of Ontario’s provincial budget, prohibits selling tickets for more than their original purchase price. FIFA and Ticketmaster have already adjusted their practices in response to this regulation.
Despite the enforcement efforts, some companies are still selling tickets above face value. StubHub and SeatGeek have been identified for listing tickets well beyond their original prices. While these companies claim to be working towards compliance, discrepancies between face value and resale prices persist.
Government officials acknowledge the need for companies to adjust their systems to comply with the law but warn of potential fines for non-compliance. The government is focusing on enforcement but recognizes the challenges in ensuring full compliance in the ticket resale market.
Experts raise concerns about the effectiveness of price caps, suggesting that stringent regulations may drive transactions to unofficial channels. However, supporters of the new rule believe it will curb excessive ticket resale practices, setting a new standard for the industry.
Overall, the government aims to strike a balance between enforcement and cooperation with ticket resale platforms to bring about fairer pricing practices in the secondary ticket market.
