Malta Strengthens Leadership In Regulated Gaming And Responsible AI

Malta continues to reinforce its position as one of Europe's leading gaming jurisdictions, with a rising volume of Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) licence applications reflecting strong international confidence in its regulatory framework. Between January and June 2025, the Authority received 28 applications for new gaming licences and issued eight approvals. Recent performance data shows sustained demand from operators seeking entry into regulated markets, reinforcing Malta's standing as one of the most established regulatory hubs in the European iGaming sector. 

This momentum reflects a clear shift towards regulated casino markets, as international operators increasingly prioritise jurisdictions that offer clarity, consistency and recognised infrastructure. As compliance moves from a one-time licensing process to continuous oversight, many operators are centralising these functions in jurisdictions with established regulatory infrastructure, such as Malta. 

Alongside this expansion, the MGA is advancing a forward-looking agenda on artificial intelligence (AI). The Authority has opened a public consultation on a draft framework focused on the ethical and responsible use of AI across the gaming sector. Prepared in collaboration with the National Institute for Trade Policy, the document is designed to complement existing legal and regulatory frameworks, including the EU AI Act, while addressing the specific needs of the gaming industry.

MGA Chief Executive Charles Mizzi noted that AI is already widely used by operators for customer support, fraud detection, marketing and risk management, and that the sector now requires clearer guidance on applying these technologies responsibly. The proposed framework encourages operators to prioritise transparency in AI systems, robust data protection, human oversight of critical decisions, regular algorithmic testing for errors, and stronger supervision of technology suppliers.

Together, the surge in licence applications and the responsible AI consultation align Malta closely with EU standards on transparency, oversight and data protection, further strengthening its reputation for trusted, forward-looking regulation.