Malta drops ADR directive as EU shuts down ODR platform
Following an EU decision, the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) has announced the repeal of its Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Directive for B2C operators, effective 20 July 2025. The change comes in response to the European Union’s adoption of Regulation 2024/3228, which discontinues the use of the Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) Platform.
Directive 5, dating from 2018, mandated that all B2C licensees include information and a link to the ODR Platform in their general terms and conditions. That obligation, effective for nearly a decade, is now being phased out due to the EU’s decision.
The EU cited consistently low usage as a core reason for the change, noting that the mechanism never achieved the level of cross-border dispute resolution engagement it had aimed for.
The to the platform from their terms and conditions as of the effective date, warning that failure to do so could result in players being misled.
MGA’s annual report
The MGA recently published its, which offers a detailed overview of the performance of Malta’s gaming industry.
From a player protection standpoint, the Authority resolved 3,372 requests for assistance and investigated 83 cases involving websites that published misleading information in 2024. It also conducted 40 responsible gambling-themed inspections and issued dozens of observation letters.
During 2024, the MGA also issued 17 new gaming licences and processed 12 renewal applications.
As part of its licensing due diligence, the Authority carried out nearly 1,200 criminal probity screening checks. It also concluded 13 compliance audits and launched 116 desktop reviews, in addition to investigating over 120 information security incidents reported by licensees.
Resilience and purpose
These resulted in 35 warnings, administrative penalties totalling €306,250, and the cancellation of eight licences. Meanwhile, anti-money laundering and counter-financing of terrorism efforts continued in partnership with the Financial Intelligence Analysis Unit (FIAU), resulting in 60 examinations and penalties amounting to just under €185,000 across six licensees.
In the words of MGA CEO Charles Mizzi, the Authority remains focused on adapting along the iGaming sector: “Resilience is not just about endurance – it’s about adapting with purpose and staying focused on what matters,” Mizzi said in the report. “As the sector continues to evolve, the MGA remains committed to anticipating challenges, adapting with purpose, and upholding the standards that define Malta’s reputation as a trusted jurisdiction.”
