The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) and the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA), Malta Gaming Authority, signed a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at improving the regulation of the gambling sector.
This agreement is based on the exchange of information and intelligence between the two bodies. Thus, the intention is to improve consumer safety, combat criminal behavior and address the increase in harm caused by excessive gambling.
Details of the partnership between UKGC and MGA
Andrew Rhodes, CEO of the UKGC, called the agreement a symbol of the continued collaboration between the two entities. “We welcome this agreement as a sign of our ongoing collaboration between the MGA and UKGC. We have been working closely for some time, and following our successful visit this summer, it is appropriate that we formalize our working relationship.”
He also emphasized that the aim is to improve industry standards by tackling common challenges such as illegal gambling. Furthermore, explore future collaborations, including follow-up initiatives and critical issues in the areas of anti-money laundering and integrity in sports betting.
For his part, Charles Mizzi, CEO of MGA, stated: “Our long-standing informal collaboration with the UKGC has already delivered significant results, and the formalization of this cooperation is definitely a step in the right direction.
In line with our regulatory objectives, we are confident that such collaboration will enable us to address common challenges more effectively by continually improving the effectiveness of our processes and structure.”
Combating harm caused by online games
The commission’s recent strategy aims to reduce activities in the parallel market. It prioritizes methods such as removing URLs from search results. Furthermore, it includes restricting payment methods and preventing access to illegal websites.
These measures show the joint effort of regulators. The aim is to create a safer gambling environment to protect consumers.