The Malta Gaming Authority has recently extended its deadline for a responsible gaming consultation, pushing back discussion and confirmation on proposed player protection guidelines for the future.
The Malta Gaming Authority is one of the biggest gaming authorities in the western world, therefore it’s decisions on responsible gaming are likely to affect other gaming authorities in the European Union.
However, the pushback of the deadline has been seen as controversial as a consultation was launched on September 30th that covered decisions like the obligations of licensees for their responsible gaming policies, and discussion of the “five markers of harm” that are to be considered when putting together regulation to tackle harmful gambling.
“This extension will allow all stakeholders additional time to thoroughly review the amendments and provide feedback,” the MGA said.
Adding to the controversial deadline, the Malta Gaming Authority were already under fire for their supposed “soft touch” to license suspensions after a consultation in September revealed only seven licenses were cancelled in 2021.
“Enforcement is crucial for the authority; it helps us fulfil our mandate as a regulator. It is not only a necessary tool in our arsenal to achieve the mandate set out by law, but also essential as a measure of fairness towards licensees that are compliant,” the report said. “We ensure that our enforcement processes and procedures are streamlined and effective, with adequate room for adaptation wherever necessary.”
