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Malta faces EU legal action over controversal gambling law
The European Commission has launched legal action against Malta over a controversial gambling law that may limit EU citizens’ rights.
The dispute mainly targets Malta’s Gaming Act’s Article 56A. Previously, this article was known as Bill 55. The issue with this bill is its ability to block legal actions from other EU courts against all those companies that are licensed by the Malta Gaming Authority.
According to critics, this makes it difficult for players to recover their lost money, which is a legal breach of human rights across the EU.
Malta claims that only its courts can handle such disputes and that its approach respects EU single-market rules. However, the European Commission disagrees and believes Article 56A may break EU rules, especially the Brussels I Regulation.
MGA stated:
“Malta has consistently held that any unjustified restrictions run directly counter to the case law of the CJEU and create a clear barrier to market access and trade within other Member States.”
The Maltese government stated:
“The government reiterates that Article 56A does not establish new or separate grounds for refusing recognition or enforcement of judgments. Rather, it codifies into law Malta’s long-standing public policy on online gaming matters.”
Despite defending its position, Malta says it is open to further discussion. The government now has two months to respond formally. If no resolution is reached, the issue could go to the European Court of Justice, potentially affecting Malta’s role as a hub for iGaming companies.
FAQs
Is gambling legal in Malta?
Gambling in Malta is legal and regulated by the Malta Gaming Authority.
What is the legal gambling age in Malta?
The legal gambling age in Malta is 18 years old.
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