Malta has long established itself as a key benchmark in gaming regulation. The jurisdiction has created a sustainable environment for long-term investment and proceeds to improve it.
The country is not content with its achievements and continues to set the direction for the international community. At the 2026 edition of ICE Barcelona, a comprehensive ecosystem was presented that brought together all the tools needed to launch and scale gambling businesses.
Industry and Government: Coordinated Approach
Participation in the expo aimed to showcase the island’s advantages as one of the most attractive jurisdictions for developing real-money entertainment products online. The central element of the presentation was a VR roulette created by the local Draw & Code company.
Coordination of the exhibition was ensured by delegates of GamingMalta, an independent non-profit foundation established in partnership with the MGA and the Government of Malta. Ivan Filletti, the organisation’s CEO, stated that they have created a kind of global Silicon Valley for web gambling in the country. ICE Barcelona was the perfect platform to showcase practical results in responsible and effective regulation.
The association’s stand reflected a vibrant ecosystem, bringing together numerous market players, from founders, operators, and providers to relevant authorities.
For the 1st time in the event’s history, the following institutions attended the show:
- BOV, the state’s largest bank;
- Malta Enterprise, the government’s economic development body;
- Identità, which manages citizens' identity data and implements immigration processes.
The joint representation enhanced the jurisdiction’s credibility and enabled discussion of licensing, taxes, and HR support for niche companies. Coordinated performance from a united front was the best way to highlight the authorities' alignment with commercial parties.
Malta is not a disparate cluster, but a cohesive hub focused on long-term sustainable business development. The organisation has demonstrated this notion in practice. Now it is up to institutional investors and operators who value a reliable foundation for launching projects.
The jurisdiction’s ongoing R.E.S.P.E.C.T. campaign was also emphasised. It aims to strengthen the industry’s reputation by coherently implementing responsible principles.
Investment Attractiveness of the Renowned Island
Malta’s main advantage is the consistency of all regulatory aspects, rather than individual legislative amendments addressing specific needs.
The jurisdiction provides operators with:
- oversight certainty;
- worldwide recognition;
- low market entry barriers;
- an extensive pool of partners.
The country is also a convenient point for expanding to the European Economic Area. The region is English-speaking, and its infrastructure supports attracting skilled professionals and immigrants.
Prospects of the Mediterranean Gambling Centre
At this year’s ICE Barcelona, GamingMalta’s representatives, together with the MGA, announced the launch of a long-term strategy, Envision 2050. The document contains specific and measurable goals.
For instance, over the next 10 years, the nation’s GDP is expected to grow by 5% annually, driven by investments in 7 priority sectors, including gambling. By 2035, the industry’s contribution to the economy is supposed to increase from €1.5 billion to €2.3−2.8 billion. This surge will ensure a stable 6−7% of the local gross value added.
To promote the strategy, the «Make it in Malta' program was launched at ICE, showcasing successful projects and market case studies. This ambitious approach reinforces the hub’s position as the centre of gaming excellence.
There is ample evidence: from top-notch deals, talent recruitment programs, and special tax treatment to brands themselves as proof of local capabilities. The experience confirms that the island is the ideal platform for realising business ambitions. This opinion is supported by excerpts from the recent iGaming Council’s meeting. The document states that the jurisdiction has attracted €60 million in new investments.
According to the MGA’s 2024 survey:
- 85% of operators are (very) satisfied with the availability of skilled staff and the effectiveness of local training programs;
- 80% appreciate the ease of hiring and relocating top-notch specialists;
- 87% rate the level of business ethics highly.
Talents are the key to success. The country has numerous institutions that offer professional courses for gambling employees, including a dedicated program at the MCAST. Without a steady influx of developers, operational personnel, and compliance experts, brands risk facing restrictions. Thus, training and migration policies, such as those offered by Identità and Malta Enterprise, are continually expanded and given top priority.
Integrating Technologies for Platforms' Growth
The jurisdiction is focusing on the convergence of the best industry discoveries. The local government supports the simultaneous evolution of several areas:
- eSports;
- casino game development;
- innovations in immersive technologies.
Narrowly specialised ecosystems should not remain isolated. The secret to success lies in close collaboration, despite differences. Ultimately, the goal of all niches is entertainment. Regulators create a robust legal framework that ensures transparency and fair competition. At the same time, they stimulate the growth of interactive technologies.
To further strengthen the jurisdiction’s investment appeal, a strategic plan has been developed, including:
- maintaining competitive corporate taxation and political support for businesses;
- improving responsible gambling standards and the skills of industry specialists;
- developing relationships with international authorities and manufacturers;
- encouraging innovations across all verticals of the amusement sphere.
This approach has made Malta a strong choice for 350+ operators. As of the end of 2023, the average lifespan of the 100 largest brands in the country was 13 years. According to Mr Filletti, the island is small, but its influence on the online gaming sector remains significant.
At the Casino Market studio, you can receive consultations on launching entertainment projects in the most favourable global jurisdictions.
Feel free to contact us if you would like to start a compliant, profitable niche business, powered by a Malta gambling licence.
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