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Malta Gaming Authority hosted the Gaming Regulators European Forum (GREF 2024) conference from 20-22 May in Malta. The prestigious conference brought together gaming regulators and industry experts from more than 25 countries to create a platform for tackling pressing challenges in the sector.
The first year that regulators from different continents attended the conference, the discussion was given a more global perspective. The topics discussed included the MGA’s ESG Code, responsible gaming, digital, innovation, perspectives from other continents on gambling regulation and anti-money laundering, as well as a geographic approach to gambling.
Isabelle Falque Pierrotin, chairperson of GREF 2024’s Annual Conference said that she felt honoured to be opening the conference. She highlighted the increasing maturity of GREF member’s gambling tools and analyses, as well as the need for urgent cooperation among stakeholders. She said that “European regulators can’t be separated from other players”. We need to collaborate with other actors to develop effective regulations, even if our responsibilities are unique.
Charles Mizzi, CEO of MGA and GREF 2024’s Annual Conference host in Malta, welcomed all attendees. He stressed the importance for an effective regulatory system that collaboration is key. The complexity of the sector requires collaborative efforts, he said. Collaboration allows for us to take advantage of the expertise and different perspectives from various stakeholders including technology providers, operators and government agencies.
Anna Grech, International Affairs & Policy Outreach Manager at MGA, also delved in to the development of an Environmental, Social, and Governance Code to recognize licensees’ commitment to sustainability, showcasing and enhancing the positive initiatives that the gaming industry has already undertaken.
Rachel Bezzina (the Anti-Money Laundering Manager of the MGA, and the co-chairperson of the GREF AML Working Group) also participated in the discussion. She provided key updates regarding best practices to effectively monitor and supervise ML/FT risk.
The conference, which brought together over 90 representatives of regulatory agencies from different countries, provided an ideal platform for international collaboration and networking, while reinforcing how important it is to have a uniform approach in gaming regulation.
