With almost a week to go before Toronto hosts its first FIFA World Cup match, Ontario is increasing fines for illegal ticket resales, a move one expert says won’t actually help buyers score more affordable tickets.
The province announced Thursday that it will increase the maximum penalty for illegal ticket resales from $10,000 to $25,000 for repeat offenders, touting it as a move that protects Ontario consumers and families. It will also publicly name ticketing businesses found to be selling tickets above face value, according to its news release.
But the legislation and newly increased fines create “a lot more risk to consumers,” says David Clement, the policy director for international advocacy group Consumer Choice Centre.
The ability to re-sell tickets still exists, said Clement, it just doesn’t exist in a “properly maintained” space, so customers can get ripped off on third-party platforms.
