SBC News Malta asks for ECJ clarity on illegal betting definition

Malta asks for ECJ clarity on illegal betting definition

joseherrear
Malta Economic Secretary Jose Herrera

Malta’s Economic Secretary Jose Herrera has urged the European Court of Justice (ECJ), for further clarity over the European Unions definition of illegal betting. Herrera made the appeal in light of the publication of the European draft convention on sports competitions.

The convention purpose is to prevent  and detect corruption and manipulation of professional sports within EU member states. Furthermore the convention seeks to combat crime in professional sports through EU state wide co-operation.

Having reviewed the draft set by the ECJ, Herrera claimed that certain document provisions would “hinder the free movement of services within the EU “. The Economic Secretary further noted that the convention could become an “inappropriate encroachment into the Maltese betting industry”

Herrera noted that the convention did not suitably define illegal sports betting, which the Maltese secretary believes could be used by EU member states to restrict Malta licensed sports betting operator from promoting products in EU state markets.

“This definition would inevitably influence Malta’s gaming sector, and consequently Malta is seeking the ruling of the ECJ because if ratified, the new definition would hinder the free movement of services.”

Herrera’s concerns have been supported by Malta Lotteries and Gaming Authority Chairman Joseph Cuschieri: “Since the financial crisis, countries have been intent on implementing certain licence frameworks to tax these gaming operators. These frameworks are basically saying that even though a gaming company has a licence in Malta, it would need another licence to operate across Europe.”

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