EU ‘detailed opinion’ delays Malta’s revised Gaming Act

Updating the market, The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) has informed that it will delay the introduction of its revised Gaming Act until 1 August 2018.

The authority details that a ‘EU member state’ has submitted a detailed opinion to the European Council in relation to its Gaming Act’s legislative mandate, which the MGA will review.

‘This Detailed Opinion has extended the standstill period for implementation of the Regulations by one month, to the 16th July 2018.  In this light, the implementation of the new regulatory framework shall also be delayed by one month, and will henceforth be moved to the 1st August 2018, in full respect of the standstill period in terms of the Directive’ the MGA details in its communication.

Last May, Malta’s Parliament approved outright a number of provisions to be added to the Gaming Act, strengthening the MGA’s powers to enforce compliance.

Malta’s revised Gaming Act primarily focuses on establishing a new anti-money-laundering (AML) code alongside further improving player protection standards.

Aiding the MGA’s compliance operations will be the development of a new ‘player support unit’, designed to be a mediator between players and operators relating to potential disputes.

Further, provisions will see the MGA move to revamp Malta’s responsible gaming measures and mandates for licensed operators and gaming-related services.