Understanding the Online Gambling Market in Malta
Gambling and betting are among the most popular pastimes in Malta. Moreover, gambling and betting activities account for over 16% of the value added within the entire business economy. The fact that the country permits both land-based and online gambling is quite influential in the fact that Malta has become a central hub for the gaming industry, attracting numerous international operators and generating substantial revenue and employment opportunities.
Legal Landscape and the Malta Gaming Authority
- The Malta Gaming Act of 2018 regulates most forms of land-based and online gambling on the island of Malta. Per law and remote gaming regulations, online slots, table games, live dealer games, and betting are all legal.
- The Gaming Act also identifies the MGA (Malta Gaming Authority), the regulatory body responsible for issuing licenses and overseeing all gambling operations offline and online.
- The MGA issues licenses to interested parties, and ensures that all operators comply with the laws. An offshore casino operator can also apply for the MGA license if it prioritises legal gaming and fair play.
- As one of the first regulatory bodies in the world in its own niche, the MGA enforces rigorous standards to ensure player protection, fair gaming, and adherence to anti-money laundering laws.
- With four different license types covering casino games, sports betting, peer-to-peer games, and skill-based games, the MGA offers flexibility to gaming businesses. This structure has made Malta a favoured destination for companies operating diverse gaming platforms.
- The MGA prioritises player safety. As such, it requires licensed operators to implement responsible gaming practices. It also partners with the Responsible Gaming Foundation to raise awareness and support education around safe gambling practices.
Malta Gambling Market Highlights
- Malta is one of the most important hubs of online gambling in Europe. The revenue generated from online gambling is projected to reach US$132.90 million in 2024.
- The trends that currently stand out in Malta’s online casino market include gamification and live dealer games. Both trends aim to provide a more interactive experience for players.
- According to the latest annual report by the MGA, the gaming industry employed over 15,700 people in Malta by the end of 2022. The sector accounted for 5.5% of Malta’s workforce.
- Malta has become the go-to destination for international operators of online casinos. This is due to the country’s favourable regulatory environment and competitive tax rates.
- The revenue in the online casino market in Malta is projected to reach US$57.41 million in 2024, with an increase of 16.4% compared to previous years.