Malta launches AI rules for online gambling industry
Malta has launched a new regulatory framework governing the use of artificial intelligence in gambling as AI becomes increasingly embedded in online casino and sportsbook operations.
The Malta Gaming Authority and Malta Digital Innovation Authority officially launched the AI Gaming Charter on September 18 following consultation with the gambling industry.
The charter establishes gambling-specific principles covering the responsible, transparent and accountable use of AI.
It is voluntary rather than a new mandatory licensing requirement.
However, the framework is significant because Malta remains one of the world’s major licensing and operational centres for online gambling companies.
The MGA said the charter was designed to complement existing legislation, including the European Union’s AI Act, while addressing issues specific to gambling.
“As artificial intelligence continues to play an increasingly prominent role across gaming operations, the AI Gaming Charter provides a voluntary, principles-based framework to support its responsible, transparent and accountable use,” the MGA said.
The regulator initially launched a targeted consultation on the proposed charter in May, with the process involving licensed operators and other industry stakeholders before the final framework was adopted.
AI is increasingly being used across the online gambling industry for functions including player behaviour analysis, fraud detection, anti-money laundering monitoring, customer service, marketing, personalisation and responsible gambling interventions.
Those applications also create regulatory concerns surrounding automated decision-making, transparency, player profiling and the handling of customer data.
The MGA said the charter was intended to provide practical guidance tailored specifically to gaming businesses rather than replacing existing regulatory obligations.
Its launch was accompanied by an industry event involving Malta-based gambling sites, technology businesses and public-sector representatives.
Malta regulates hundreds of B2B and B2C gambling businesses through the MGA and is one of the principal European bases for international online casino, sports betting sites and gaming technology companies.
