MGA to Repeal ADR Article 13 Following EU Directive Update

The MGA has stated that licensees must eliminate all references to the ODR Platform from user-facing materials to avoid confusion or the impression of relying on outdated compliance informationImage Source: Shutterstock.com

The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA)has announced that, effective 20 July 2025, it will repeal Article 13 of its Alternative Dispute Resolution Directive (Directive 5 of 2018).

MGA to Repeal ADR Directive Article 13 Following EU Regulation Change

As a result, all online B2C licensees must remove any references to the European Union’s Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) Platformfrom their terms and conditions. This amendment follows the adoption of Regulation (EU) 2024/3228, which officially repeals Regulation (EU) No 524/2013and mandates the discontinuation of the ODR platform.

ODR platform previously functioned as an online tool for consumers looking to resolve disputes with businesses within the EU. The MGA has stated that licensees must eliminate all references to the ODR Platform from user-facing materials to avoid confusion or the impression of relying on outdated compliance information. The Authority also recommends that licensees consult the updated EU Regulation directly to fully understand any new or remaining compliance requirements.

Decision Follows MGA 2024 Activity Report

The regulator’s newest decision comes a week after the MGA announced its 2024 annual report, which highlighted the work the organization has done. In 2024, the Malta Gaming Authority issued 25 financial penaltiesand revoked eight licenses, according to its newly released annual report. During the same period, it granted 17 new licensesand resolved over 3,300 player complaints.

These activities contributed to €84.1 million ($90.3 million)in revenue, with the MGA reporting a rise in its overall operating surplus for the year.

Although the MGA is aligning with the EU in this instance, Malta recently passed legislation allowing it to “refuse recognition and/or enforcement” of foreign judgments involving Malta-registered companies. This move, seen as a challenge to European legal authority, could have significant implications for the many gambling operators headquartered in Malta to ngake advantage of its favorable regulatory environment.

About the Malta Gaming Authority

The Malta Gaming Authority is the official regulatory body responsible for overseeing all forms of gambling in Malta, including both land-based and online gaming activities. Established in 2001, the MGA is one of the most respected and recognized gaming regulators globally, especially in the field of remote (online) gambling.

The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) aims to competently regulate the various sectors of the gaming industry under its jurisdiction by ensuring that gaming is conducted fairly and transparently, preventing criminal activity, and safeguarding minors and vulnerable individuals. Its vision is to be a world-class gaming regulator by adopting international best practices, maintaining effective oversight, and supporting the sustainable growth and development of a robust and responsible gaming sector.