The success story of Malta: Europe's gaming hub

During the last few years, we have witnessed a literal explosion in the popularity of online gaming. Thanks to technological advances and the widespread availability of high-speed internet, players today can easily access their favourite games while on their morning commute. 

And this worldwide phenomenon certainly hasn't stopped in Europe. For example, the Netherlands, a relatively small country in terms of population size, took such an interest in online gaming that it is now the sixth most significant market in mainstream video games in Europe. But why has Malta, another small country, become such a magnet for gaming companies?

The history of iGaming in Malta

Malta has seen a proliferation of iGaming companies moving their headquarters to this tiny island at Europe's southernmost tip. Several successful start-ups followed.

Online gaming, or iGaming, began in Malta in 2002. Any gaming company looking to operate in Malta needs a license issued by the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA), which is the regulatory body for gaming in Malta. The Malta Gaming Authority is considered a flagship within the gaming industry due to the robust gaming framework that has made Malta an iGaming sector hub.

The next milestone in Malta's rise in the online gaming world was in 2004 when they joined the EU. Since then, more and more companies have invested in a Maltese licence as it meant they were able to be active in every EU country.

The last decade has seen Malta's gaming sector flourish. In 2004, Malta became the first EU member state to enact legislation on remote gaming, and industry stakeholders consider Malta as one of the foremost tried and tested jurisdictions in the world.

Nowadays, European countries are taking measures to introduce country-level regulation for the gambling business, but many jurisdictions worldwide are not, and in these markets, an MGA license still enjoys a leading position. Compared to licenses from alternative sources, the MGA license enjoys a very high degree of respect. When players see 'Licensed by the MGA' on a website, they know they can trust it since the MGA prioritises player protection and anti-money-laundering practices and offers a stable regulatory framework for the gambling industry. Since then, the Maltese iGaming market has flourished.

The success story of a Maltese iGaming company

Let's take a look at iGaming company Play North, a relative newcomer founded in 2018, which built its brand on simplicity, honesty and integrity, according to its website. Play North prides itself on offering a safe and hassle-free environment for its players. They were able to attract highly talented developers, designers and marketing specialists. Nowadays, they have two hugely popular casino brands, Kansino & Pikakasino.

The company is currently active in the Netherlands, but expansion plans to other regulated markets are well underway, and they are currently looking for more talented people to join the company.

What does the future hold for the Maltese iGaming industry?

Peering into the crystal ball for Malta's iGaming industry reveals a panorama of possibility. The anticipation around mobile advancements and virtual reality could revolutionise the player's experience, making gaming more accessible and immersive than ever. And as regulations evolve, they could either deal a winning hand to the industry or shuffle the deck entirely.

What's clear is that, with its business-friendly environment, such as favourable taxation and seasoned regulatory framework, Malta is poised to tap into its potential as a leading light in the gaming world's expansion, and companies are busy adding to their success stories. 

Players who engage with any gambling, casino or betting actvity must be 18 years old and above. Players are urged to seek help if they require it. Players play at their own risk.