Malta Gaming Authority explores voluntary ESG code

The authority said that it was exploring such an initiative in response to growing awareness around ESG matters.

Malta’s government has already developed a voluntary ESG reporting platform to encourage companies across all sectors to report on their performance publicly. Furthermore, beginning next year, all large or listed companies will be required to report under the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive.

In this context, the MGA said that although it is “proud of the consistent progress of the gaming sector”, a voluntary code of good practice for the remote gaming sector would help to guide and prepare local licensees for the upcoming ESG legislation.

A firm timeline has not been publicised for the development of the code.

“The code will set out the common priorities for ESG in gaming, taking into consideration the needs of key stakeholders, to reduce environmental, social and governance impacts while continually enhancing Malta’s reputation as a leading gaming jurisdiction,” the MGA said.

“Looking ahead, we expect to see more and more companies taking concrete actions towards becoming more sustainable, and we believe that reporting such efforts contributes positively to implementing change within the sector and improving its overall perception, while also addressing the increasing demand for transparency and accountability in the industry.”

Earlier today, the MGA suspended a licence belonging to betting operator Betago, citing a number of infringements to its Gaming Compliance and Enforcement Regulations.

Also this month, the MGA amended parts of its Player Protection Directive to mandate the monitoring of specified markers of harm.