MGA Exploring the Development of a Voluntary ESG Code of Good Practice for Remote Gaming Sector

The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) is exploring the development of a voluntary Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Code of Good Practice for the remote gaming sector.

As noted by the MGA, the idea comes amid investors, consumers and employees becoming “increasingly aware of the impact that companies have on society and the environment,” which has resulted in a growing awareness of ESG matters.

Concerning this matter, the Maltese Government in recent years has launched a voluntary ESG reporting platform in a bid to encourage companies to publicly report on their ESG performance. This will then hopefully drive investment towards sustainable business.

Starting from 2024, all large or listed groups will be required to report under the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), with the MGA now embarking on a journey to develop a voluntary code for the remote gaming sector. It aims to help guide and prepare local licensees for upcoming ESG legislation and to gain the benefits associated with running a “sustainably conscious operation.”

The code aims to establish the common priorities for ESG in gaming, with the needs of key stakeholders taken into consideration. Reducing environmental, social and governance impacts whilst continually enhancing Malta’s reputation as a leading Gaming jurisdiction is also being taken into consideration.

The MGA added: “Looking ahead, we expect to see more and more companies taking concrete actions towards becoming more sustainable, and we believe that reporting such efforts contributes positively to implementing change within the sector and improving its overall perception, while also addressing the increasing demand for transparency and accountability in the industry.

“As part of this initiative, the MGA has launched a survey with its licensees who are the key partners in the process of transforming the gaming sector into a more sustainable and transparent one.”