Proposed Commission Guideline for Harmonizing National Laws Concerning Food Labeling among Member States
### Controversial Maltese Gaming Act Under Review: Implications for Player Protection and EU Compliance
A significant review of the Maltese Gaming Act is currently underway, with the European Commission scrutinising the legislation for its compatibility with European Union (EU) regulations. The review, initiated due to concerns expressed by Burkhard Blienert, Germany's drug commissioner, focuses on prioritising player protection and ensuring the law adheres to EU principles.
The amended Maltese Gaming Act, passed as Bill No. 55 in 2023, has sparked a heated debate due to its provision that allows Maltese courts to reject the enforcement of foreign judgments related to disputes involving licensed gaming operators if those judgments are deemed incompatible with Malta's public policy.
### Current Scenario
The European Commission launched formal infringement proceedings against Malta on June 18, 2025, alleging that Bill 55 violates EU regulations on jurisdiction and the recognition of judgments, specifically Regulation (EU) No. 1215/2012. The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) and the government argue that Bill 55 aligns with EU principles, such as the public policy exception in the Brussels I Recast, and does not grant blanket immunity to licensed operators.
Several EU countries, including Germany, Austria, and the Netherlands, have expressed concerns about the law, with courts in these countries having ruled against Maltese-licensed betting sites. The Joint Gaming Authority of the States (GGL) has also commented on the amendment, arguing that it is not compatible with the European regulations on the recognition of decisions (Regulation (EU) 1215/2002).
### Potential Consequences for Maltese Gaming Companies
If the EU ruling goes against Malta, it could expose licensed operators to cross-border legal risks, potentially forcing Malta to revise or repeal the provision. The law, as it stands, protects license holders from foreign judgments that conflict with Maltese rules, which could shield them from legal action in other EU jurisdictions.
This situation may strain Malta's relations with other EU member states, particularly those with significant gaming industries or affected by Maltese gaming operators. The ongoing dispute may also make it difficult for foreign plaintiffs to enforce claims against Maltese gaming companies, potentially impacting player protection.
The ultimate decision on the Maltese Gaming Act lies with the EU Commission, and the GGL is in exchange with the competent authorities regarding the new law. The GGL's position is that the law is not compatible with the European regulations on the recognition of decisions.
As the review progresses, the fate of the Maltese Gaming Act hangs in the balance, with implications for player protection, EU law compliance, and international relations. The decision of the EU Commission will be crucial in determining the compatibility of the Maltese Gaming Act with EU law.
The ongoing review of the Maltese Gaming Act, initiated by Germany's drug commissioner and focusing on player protection, has raised concerns in the European Union (EU) and politics of several EU countries like Germany, Austria, and the Netherlands. If the EU Commission rules against Malta, it could potentially impact the online casinos in Germany and other EU countries, as foreign plaintiffs might face difficulties enforcing claims against Maltese gaming companies. This dispute also has implications for the business and finance sectors, as the industry's compliance with policy-and-legislation regulations will be evaluated. The final decision by the EU Commission could significantly affect international relations and the overall general-news landscape of the online gambling industry.
