MGA to launch unified self-exclusion system

The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) has revealed plans to launch a unified self-exclusion system for companies that hold remote gaming licences in the country.

Earlier this month, the Maltese Parliament gave its approval to the third and final reading of the new national Gaming Act.

The MGA will take on a greater supervisory role, with a focus on compliance and enforcement functions to combat issues such as money laundering and funding of terrorism.

In addition, the MGA now gains new intervention powers, while the framework also formalises the role of the MGA’s Player Support Unit as a mediator between aggrieved players and operators.

As part of this approach, remote gaming licensees will now be required to adhere to the new unified system, whereby players that self-exclude from one operator will not be able to access the services of another.

The MGA recently introduced a similar system for land-based operators in the country.

Heathcliff Farrugia, chief executive of the MGA, said: “The protection of players is at the heart of the MGA’s regulatory agenda, and this project further underlines our resolve to ensure that players have the necessary tools to engage in gaming services responsibly.

“Over the years we have witnessed efforts from gaming operators to implement various responsible gaming measures, and thus we strongly believe that the unified self-exclusion system will be well received by the industry and consumers alike.”

Over the coming weeks, the MGA will assess the suitability of a range of technical solutions for the new system.

The process will include public consultation, followed by a call for requests for the technical development and implementation of the solution.

The MGA is also considering opening the system for subscription on a voluntary basis to operators licensed in other regions, but will initially focus on companies active in Malta.

Related article: Maltese Parliament approves revamped gaming laws