On Tuesday, 19 December 2018, the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA), released their Interim Performance Report H1 2020.
This report examines the MGA’s accomplishments over the past six months, and the overall performance of the Maltese gambling industry.
MGA carried out 14 audits of compliance in H1 as well as 85 desk reviews. The regulator handed out nine administrative penalties, with a total financial penalty of EUR124,400 (PS107,697/$136,345).
MGA conducted 11 Compliance Exams for the Financial Intelligence Analysis Unit. During this same time period, the FIAU imposed penalties to three licensees based upon violations found during previous examinations. Totaling EUR 599 420, the FIAU imposed administrative penalties on three licensees based on violations discovered during examinations carried out in previous years.
In addition, 40 checks of responsible gambling websites were conducted. The MGA issued 16 letters of observation to identify areas that could be improved.
Seven of 16 gaming license applications were granted by the MGA. The MGA rejected eight applications or withdrew them.
Co-operation with other countries
MGA reported its collaboration with 12 other regulatory agencies, which made requests for information. As a result, there were 17 data exchanges and 166 complaints of suspicious activities.
Other regulatory bodies also sent 37 requests to collaborate internationally. Over H1, the MGA provided 53 responses.
The local government also received 45 information requests from local governments.
Maltese Gaming Industry Performance
MGA report highlights positive impacts of gaming on Maltese Economy.
In H1, the gross added value of gaming to the Maltese Economy was EUR810.7m, which represents around 9.5%. If indirect effects are included, the number increases to 12.2%.
GVA growth for the gaming sector was stable at 1.1% in H1 of 2022. MGA believes that gaming will “continue to play a crucial role in the Maltese Economy”.
Mizzi appointed new MGA CEO
Charles Mizzi, the new CEO of MGA appointed on Friday, was announced in a report by MGA.
Mizzi takes over Charles Brincat’s role as CEO on the 26th of January. Brincat is leaving after two years.
Mizzi will likely have as one of its first missions to protect Europe from Malta’s Bill55. This bill shields Malta licensed operators from any legal responsibility relating to their gambling activities.
Other European stakeholders feel that it’s incompatible with European Law. In August, the German Gambling Regulator said that the German law was in conflict with the Brussels Recast Regulation. This sparked a controversy. This regulation outlines how EU member states resolve legal judgments.
