The MGA to host GREF 2024 in Malta

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The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) hosted the Gaming Regulators European Forum (GREF) 2024 conference in Malta from May 20 to 22. This prestigious event brought together gaming regulators from over 25 countries, providing a dynamic platform to address industry challenges and share valuable insights.

For the first time, regulators from other continents attended the event, introducing a global perspective to the discussions. Topics ranged from the MGA’s ESG code, responsible gambling, digital innovation, international perspectives on gambling regulation, anti-money laundering, and a regional approach to gambling.

GREF chairperson Isabelle Falque-Pierrotin expressed her honor in opening GREF’s 2024 Annual Conference. She emphasized the growing maturity of GREF members in their analyses and tools, the urgent need for stakeholder cooperation, and GREF’s openness to international partnerships. She noted:

European regulators cannot operate in isolation. Even with our unique responsibilities, we must collaborate with others to propose effective regulation.

MGA CEO Charles Mizzi welcomed attendees to Malta, underscoring the importance of collaboration for effective regulation. He stated:

The complexity of the industry demands collaborative efforts. With various stakeholders, including operators, technology providers, and government bodies playing critical roles, collaboration allows us to leverage diverse expertise and perspectives to develop comprehensive and effective regulatory frameworks that address the industry’s inherent complexities.

Additionally, Anna Grech, International Affairs & Policy Outreach Manager at the MGA, discussed the development of the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Code. This initiative acknowledges licensees’ commitment to sustainability and highlights the positive actions already being undertaken by the gaming industry.

Rachel Bezzina, the Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Manager at the MGA and co-chair of the GREF AML working group, also led a dialogue during the event. She provided key updates on best practices for monitoring and supervising ML/FT risks.

With over 90 participants from various regulatory bodies, the conference was an excellent platform for networking and collaboration among international stakeholders, reinforcing the importance of a unified approach to gaming regulation.