June 15, 2023
Malta, the emerging iGaming promised land
At the heart of the booming iGaming industry is a small island nation in the Mediterranean called Malta. According to a research article published by the Malta Independent (Malta: The Premier Online Casinos Destination for Players and Operators – 2023), the island nation’s iGaming landscape is attractive for operators and players because of its “favourable regulations, responsible gambling measures, and thriving ecosystem”.
The advantages for iGaming operators
The thriving ecosystem in Malta can be attributed to a well-structured and convenient licensing system, and a tax regime which is beneficial for iGaming operators. Specifically on the aspect of the tax regime, there are low liabilities and a flat rate on gross gaming revenue, adding to the country’s appeal from a financial standpoint. In addition, Malta’s robust regulatory framework seeks to help iGaming operators set up their businesses quickly and easily.
While the robust regulatory framework is a big advantage, Malta also has an abundance of talent and expertise in the iGaming industry. This is due to the fact that the Maltese government invests in educating and training the country’s workforce to contribute to the booming industry. This greatly benefits businesses that are looking to set up operations in Malta.
A safe environment for players
But the advantages don’t stop at just the operators, player protection and responsible gaming are serious subjects in Malta. There are policies and regulations in place to make the environment safe and fair for players. Measures including (but not limited to) self-exclusion options, deposit limits, and time-out periods for players need to be adhered to by online casinos. The importance given to protecting players shows that Malta understands that growth in the industry is not only dependent on a solid infrastructure for operators but also an ecosystem which takes the challenges for players into consideration.
Malta is the promised land
With an efficient ecosystem in place which caters to both operators and players, Malta is an ideal destination for the iGaming industry. The regulations and tax regime put Malta in a position to be a leading jurisdiction for years to come. The time is now to reap the benefits of setting up business there.
Source- Malta: The Premier Online Casinos Destination for Players and Operators - The Malta Independent. (2023, May 10).
How we can contribute
If your iGaming company needs support in setting up its business or overcoming licensing challenges in Malta, our compliance and corporate services would be the answer for you. Reach out to us today!
FAQs about the Malta iGaming industry
Malta has emerged as a leading destination for the industry due to its favorable regulations, responsible gambling measures, and thriving ecosystem. The country has developed an efficient licensing system and a highly competitive tax regime that have made it an ideal location for online casino operators. Malta's regulatory framework is designed to attract operators by offering low tax liabilities and a flat rate on gross gaming revenue. Additionally, the country's focus on responsible gambling and player protection ensures a safe and fair gaming environment for players, further solidifying Malta's standing in the industry.
The key advantages for iGaming operators in Malta include:
- Convenient licensing system: Malta has a well-structured and efficient licensing system that allows operators to set up their businesses quickly and easily.
- Favorable tax regime: Malta offers low tax liabilities and a flat rate on gross gaming revenue, making it a financially attractive destination for iGaming operators.
- Thriving talent pool: The Maltese government prioritizes the education and training of its workforce, creating a talented and knowledgeable pool of individuals that can greatly support companies establishing operations in Malta.
Malta takes player protection and responsible gaming very seriously. The country has policies and regulations in place to ensure a safe and fair gaming environment for players. These measures include self-exclusion options, deposit limits, and time-out periods for players. The importance given to protecting players shows that Malta understands that the growth of the industry is not only dependent on a solid infrastructure for operators but also an ecosystem that considers the challenges faced by players.
The Remote Gaming Regulations in Malta establish four classes of remote gaming licenses for operators to target players (B2C):
- Type 1: for casino-type games, online lotteries, and other games of chance (including live casino, roulette, blackjack, baccarat), but also poker played against the house and virtual sports games.
- Type 2: for fixed-odds betting (including live betting).
- Type 3: for Pool betting (including betting exchange), peer-to-peer gaming (bingo, poker networks, etc.), lottery messenger services and commission Based Games (where the operator takes a commission).
- Type 4: Controlled skill games, including fantasy sports.
In the context of Malta's iGaming industry, the term "gaming vertical" refers to a category of products that require specific safeguards to ensure that it is owing to its characteristics. The Malta Gaming Authority has the discretion to categorize a game into the type that it believes closest reflects the nature of the game, in cases where a game displays elements that may fall under more than one of the defined game types. The different verticals are available on the MGA website.
Malta's workforce plays a crucial role in the success of the industry. The Maltese government invests in educating and training the country's workforce to contribute to the booming industry. This provides businesses looking to set up operations in Malta with a pool of talented and experienced professionals, which is a significant advantage for iGaming operators. Moreover, Malta aims to attract workers from all over the world with skill-based work permits, but also advantageous tax schemes specifically targeting high-level positions in licensed gaming companies.
When deciding whether to apply for a remote gaming license in Malta, companies should consider the following main factors:
- The credibility and reputation of the license, which will affect the companies’ relationships with their third parties (service/software providers, banks, etc.)
- The approachability, efficiency, and professionalism of the regulatory authority
- The soundness of the legal regime underlying the license
- The level of trust and faith that players have in the license
- The value for money that the license offers
- The duration of the license validity (10 years for Malta).
Malta's membership in the European Union and its use of the Euro as its currency provide additional benefits for the iGaming sector. As an EU member state, Malta offers a stable and well-regulated environment that is attractive to both operators and players. Additionally, the use of the Euro as the national currency simplifies financial transactions and reduces currency exchange-related costs, further enhancing Malta's appeal as a hub for the iGaming industry.
Check out more about the Malta gaming license.
Written by Michela Mifsud
How we can contribute
If your iGaming company needs support in setting up its business or overcoming licensing challenges in Malta, our compliance and corporate services would be the answer for you. Reach out to us today!
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