Malta Gaming Authority launches consultation on ESG code of conduct
Regulator to speak to its licensees to gather input and feedback on a draft voluntary code
The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) has launched a consultation process with its licensees for its new voluntary environmental, social and governance (ESG) code of good practice.
The regulator has asked licensees for feedback on its draft ESG code, which it plans to use as a metric for self-regulation for online operators.
The MGA began laying the groundwork for an ESG code in 2022, before confirming in January that it was pushing ahead with its ESG commitment.
The MGA said it is aiming to promote a “sustainable gaming sector that safeguards players’ rights”, with the code also helping licensees prepare for the upcoming EU Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive set to come into force next year.
The regulator is asking its licensees to publicly report on their respective ESG efforts.
The MGA’s proposed code will only apply to remote gambling companies, but the regulator is hoping to extend this to land-based firms within Malta.
Elsewhere, Malta’s minister for the economy, Silvio Schembri, has reiterated his commitment to protecting the Mediterranean island’s status as the “igaming industry’s Silicon Valley”.
He said Malta must adapt to the continually evolving industry landscape to preserve this self-proclaimed status.