Malta is doubling down on its role as a global iGaming hub with a refreshed regulatory outlook that emphasizes workforce development, operational resilience, and ESG integration. The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA), in its 2024 Annual Report, outlines how strategic investment in people and governance is driving the jurisdiction’s long-term competitiveness and economic contribution.
Under the leadership of CEO Charles Mizzi, completing his first year in office, the MGA adopted a forward-looking strategy focused on aligning its internal culture and external enforcement with the evolving demands of the global gaming landscape.
Workforce development and talent strategy power regulatory transformation
“Resilience also lies in our people,” Mizzi stated, highlighting that the MGA delivered over 5,000 hours of staff training in 2024. The launch of a performance management system with key performance indicators and the creation of the MGA Values Awards emphasized the Authority’s renewed focus on talent, culture, and operational excellence. 
With 18,000 people directly and indirectly employed in Malta’s gaming sector—14,357 of them tied to MGA-licensed operators—the industry represents 6.2% of the national workforce. The MGA’s workforce-first approach reinforces Malta’s position as a talent-driven ecosystem.
Gaming sector adds over €1.38 billion to Malta’s economy
According to the report, the gaming industry generated €1.386 billion in gross value added (GVA) during 2024, accounting for 6.7% of Malta’s national economy. When indirect contributions are included, that figure rises to 10.1%.
“This is not a marginal industry,” said MGA Chairperson Ryan Pace. “iGaming continues to be a pillar of economic stability and employment growth.”
Licensing maturity reflects a stable and sustainable market
By year-end, the MGA oversaw 315 active licensees holding 323 licences. Although slightly down from 2023, the market remains stable. The top 100 operators by turnover (with an average operating period of 13 years) accounted for 60% of all activity under MGA regulation.
In 2024, 28 new applications were submitted, and 17 licences granted. B2B services represented 65% of new licences. Twelve operators applied for renewal, of which eight were approved.
ESG, cybersecurity, and international collaboration define MGA’s regulatory agenda
Fourteen operators voluntarily submitted ESG disclosures in 2024, marking the launch of the MGA’s ESG Code Approval Seal. “This is a forward step in aligning the gaming industry with Malta’s broader sustainability goals,” said Pace.
The year also brought enhanced international collaboration. The MGA signed a new Memorandum of Understanding with the UK Gambling Commission, hosted the Gambling Regulators European Forum, and cooperated with INTERPOL and UEFA on sports integrity and match-fixing prevention.
Cybersecurity was bolstered by a new Security Operations Centre and the formation of two internal governance committees: one for IT and Data, and another for AML Steering. These efforts place the MGA at the forefront of digital resilience in gaming regulation.
“Effective regulation should not hinder innovation but enable and nurture it,” Mizzi affirmed. As the MGA looks to 2025, its strategy combines enforcement with engagement, placing trust, quality, and long-term sustainability at the centre of its mission.
Photo credit: Freepik
