German Regulator’s beef with Malta’ Bill 55

In a recent statement published on its site, the German Gaming Regulator (Joint Gambling Authority of the Länder or GGL) is kicking up a fuss about Malta’s Bill 55. The regulator deems the “protective shield”, referring to the Bill as “unlikely to be compatible with European requirements for the recognition of decisions”. The GGL statement was issued in response to what the regulator said were several requests concerning the Bill, which is the Maltese Government’s amendment to the law on the protection of domestic gambling operators. The statement clarified that “the final assessment” is not the remit of the GGL as it is not in a position to enforce civil law claims by players. The regulator will not be taking further action in the immediate future, under the assumption that EU proceedings are initiated.

What is Bill 55?

In a June 2023 press release, the Maltese Ministry for the Economy, European Funds and Lands announced the enactment of Bill 55, or the Gaming (Amendment) Act. The Act amends the Gaming Act, effectively “enshrining into law the country’s existing public policy that protects the status of the Maltese gaming licence from unfounded challenges.” The Bill stipulates that foreign judgments against a licensee that conflict or undermine the legality of the Maltese framework will not be recognized or enforced in Malta. The Maltese Gaming Authority (MGA) issues gaming licences under a “robust legal framework that is established under Maltese law”. The Maltese government announcing the Bill adds that “[t]his ensures that consumers choose to engage and play within a regulated market, which is subject to strict legal obligations aimed at protecting players and is overseen by a competent regulator that is empowered to take swift enforcement action in cases of non-compliance on the part of the licensee.”

SiGMA’s regional summit in Limassol, Cyprus

SiGMA Balkans/CIS is less than a week away. It will be held at the City of Dreams, Europe’s first integrated resort from the 04 – 07 September.

Industry operators will be able to connect with leading affiliates and two conference stages will feature a number of high-profile guest speakers. There will also be an expo floor, including the SiGMA Startup Village. So much more is happening in Limassol! Check out all the details here.