GTG attended an information session organised by Malta Gaming Authority the on 6th March 2023 on the ESG Code of Good Practice, which was published in November 2023.
The aim of the Code of Good Practice and the referred session was to encourage licensees to participate in this framework, albeit on a voluntary basis, by sharing certain data on their operation with the MGA. The MGA is encouraging licensees to have an ESG framework in line with the code so as to have the licensee demonstrate high levels of governance, best practice approaches on social aspects, and a proven focus on environmental initiatives. Certified participants will be awarded an ESG Approval Seal based on the data they would have reported. Licensees will be awarded either a Tier 1 or Tier 2 Seal based on their reporting requirements.
Within the current framework B2C licensees are expected to make a total of 36 or 48 disclosures, while B2B licensees a total 22 or 33 disclosures in topics such as emission, own workforce, data security, customer privacy, responsible gaming, regulatory compliance etc. The report should cover all activities conducted under the Maltese licence by the given licensee. The reports will be handled confidentially by the authority and only statistical data will be published.
Following suggestions received during the information session, the MGA agreed to look into the possibility of a combined report for those licensees who hold both B2C and B2B licences.
MGA informed the participants that there will be a separate Code of Good Practice issued for land-based operators.
Going forward a Guidance Document will be published in Q1/Q2 of 2024 and the first reports shall be filed in Q3 for the period of 1 January – 31 December 2023.
MGA also informed the participants that the expired deadline for opting in will be extended until 18th March 2024. The application can be submitted by filling in the below form:
Should you need assistance relating to the development of your ESG framework kindly contact our ESG Lead Advisor, Reuben Portanier for further information.