Fostering R.E.S.P.E.C.T for the iGaming sector in Malta

GamingMalta, a non-profit entity established in 2015 by the Malta Gaming Authority and the Maltese Government to promote the interests of the island’s iGaming sector, launched the R.E.S.P.E.C.T. initiative late in 2024, aimed at bolstering the industry’s growth potential.

Over the past decade, the iGaming industry in Malta has matured, welcoming new stakeholders, an ever-broadening base of players and more stringent regulation. The Malta Gaming Authority’s (MGA) most recent report, published in 2023 and covering the previous 12 months, attests to the industry’s consistent centrality to the country’s economy, with the sector once again registering positive figures: in 2022, it generated a total Gross Value Added (GVA) of €1,495 million and employed 11,245 people, with 92.2 per cent of these working in the online sector.

However, a rise in numbers often spurs complexity. GamingMalta – a non-profit foundation established by the MGA in collaboration with the Government of Malta in 2015 – has been intent on ensuring the sector maintains its potential for growth. To this end, the foundation is driving an initiative, R.E.S.P.E.C.T, aimed at raising awareness of the industry’s commitment to responsible gaming, entertainment, speed, professionalism, enhanced due diligence, consistency, and talent development.

“The initiative was launched in response to the growing complexities and expectations within the iGaming sector,” Ivan Filletti, the Chief Executive Officer of GamingMalta explains. “As the industry expands, there is a pressing need to address various challenges, including regulatory compliance, responsible gaming and technological advancements, all while maintaining a high level of service and professionalism,” he continues, stressing that these demands have galvanised progress in the iGaming space on the island over recent years.

Elaborating, he says “increased regulatory scrutiny across Europe, as well as point-ofconsumption taxation, alternative licensing regimes, and other emerging markets means that Malta faces an opportunity to maintain its unique gaming status, since these factors all threaten to reduce our leading advantage.” Moreover, “global headwinds against the gaming product persevere, with a new world of automation, AI and advancing technologies reshaping the business model for the future.” Within this context, he insists, “the Maltese Government, Gaming Malta, the MGA, and the entire supporting infrastructure cannot remain passive in their efforts to ensure the island maintains its prominent status.”

To this end, GamingMalta is working with the industry to prepare for the challenges emerging globally, Mr Filletti explains. In addition, the entity liaises with the authorities, tapping into the island’s “unique Government support in order to provide incentives and conditions conducive to business on the island.” It is also intent on listening and “learning how we can develop a further 20 years of sustainable gaming industry growth.” To achieve this, the entity is utilising “a new Malta gaming manifesto to drive positive changes; this will also provide a toolset to adapt the business landscape to current contingencies.”

The CEO underscores GamingMalta’s efforts in “driving initiatives in tandem with the gaming ecosystem to make Malta both relevant and capable of delivering through its strengths and skillset,” while also leading in new forms of esports. Meanwhile, it also addresses industry reputational issues through stakeholders such as the iGaming Council and iGEN, he says. “Malta recognises the importance of high regulatory standards and safer gambling initiatives; we continue to punch above our weight on the global gaming stage and work with the local ecosystem to enhance best practices in Malta.”

As a result of these dynamics, he asserts, “the initiative aims to unify and elevate industry standards while ensuring sustainable growth and a positive reputation” for stakeholders and the country as a whole. The goal behind the entity’s R.E.S.P.E.C.T initiative is to boost recognition of the sector’s positive attributes and increase understanding of how companies in this space “uphold high ethical standards and best practices across the industry.” In this respect, he notes, “foregrounding the compliance measures to which companies adhere in this regulated environment remains paramount,” as does attracting the best talent, while also “nurturing skilled professionals to drive innovation and growth.” Within this context, he continues, Malta remains an attractive destination for both companies and talent in the iGaming industry, thanks to a number of factors.

“We have a favourable regulatory environment, with clear guidelines and a collaborative approach to legislation and compliance. We’re also able to offer a highly skilled and multilingual workforce, with expertise in various aspects of the iGaming industry, alongside a robust business infrastructure. Furthermore, Malta’s quality of life remains appealing to expats and skilled professionals who are able to take advantage of the country’s strategic location in the middle of the Mediterranean, with excellent international connectivity to Europe.”

Furthermore, the initiative’s goal is becoming increasingly urgent considering recent technological innovations. “Both AI and machine learning are changing the game. These technologies enable enhanced personalisation, predictive analytics and fraud detection. AI can also improve customer service through chatbots and optimise game design based on player preferences, giving stakeholders the opportunity to capitalise on these developments” Mr Filletti asserts.

These transformations require new approaches to investment, regulation, training, and collaboration, Mr Filletti continues – perspectives which, he says, the R.E.S.P.E.C.T initiative is promoting. “Continuously investing in research and development is essential to stay ahead of technological trends and integrate new technologies effectively.“

Moreover, there is a need to “upskill employees to work with these new technologies.” This “will also ensure that the workforce is capable of leveraging the capabilities of AI, VR and other innovations.” Additionally, “partnering with other technological companies – in order to integrate cutting-edge solutions – will allow businesses in this space to stay competitive in an evolving marketplace,” he says.

R.E.S.P.E.C.T is also seeking to highlight the sector’s commitment to Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) imperatives, Mr Filletti says. “The industry is implementing eco-friendly practices such as reducing energy consumption, minimising waste and using sustainable materials. Companies are also investing in green technologies and offsetting carbon emissions. Moreover, many stakeholders are committed to responsible gaming practices to protect players, supporting local communities through charitable initiatives, and fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace culture.”

Over and above these responsibilities, governance has taken a front seat in recent years: “companies in the iGaming sector are committed to adhering to strict regulatory standards, promoting transparency in operations and maintaining high ethical standards. These approaches include robust anti-money laundering (AML) measures and regular audits to ensure compliance,” Mr Filletti explains.

Looking ahead, key opportunities in the iGaming sector in Malta are set to centre around technological innovation, market expansion and sustainability. “The industry will leverage advancements in AI, blockchain and VR to create new gaming experiences and enhance operational efficiency. Moreover, new markets and demographics will be explored to increase player bases and revenue streams, while ESG principles are set to continue guiding company operations, leading to long-term growth and resilience. There is a strong adherence to social and environmental responsibilities, which GamingMalta is also helping to foster,” Mr Filletti says.

Meanwhile, as the sector matures further, GamingMalta’s role in promoting excellence will continue unabated. “We will keep asserting Malta’s strengths and successes in the iGaming sector through targeted marketing initiatives, showcasing the country’s favourable regulatory environment, skilled workforce and advanced infrastructure,” Mr Filletti says. To this end, industry events are lined up to “serve as platforms to showcase innovation and best practices within the sector.” GamingMalta also assists companies seeking to employ international talent by means of their relationship manager at Identita.

Collaboration with stakeholders will remain key. “We continue to work closely with Government, industry players and academic institutions to ensure that Malta remains at the forefront of the iGaming industry and continues to attract top talent and investment.” This is GamingMalta’s pledge, he says, concluding: “to ensure that Malta remains a preferred destination for iGaming companies and professionals, fostering long-term growth and sustainability in the sector, underpinned by our ‘home of gaming excellence’ credentials.”

This article first appeared on iGaming Capital magazine 2025, the sister brand to iGamingCapital.mt, both owned by Content House