Malta Gaming Authority clarifies changes made to audit procedures

Last year, the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) updated a section of its website related to system audit, system review, and compliance audit procedures, leading to confusion among licensees.

Providers typically have 60 days to complete system audits and reviews, while compliance audits must be completed within 90 days. The update introduced two new audit statuses—‘Resolved at Audit Stage’ and ‘Partially Compliant’—to help providers categorize issues identified during the process. However, many were unclear about how to apply these statuses.

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To clarify expectations, the MGA released a document outlining the proper use of these options. If a provider encounters a minor issue that can be immediately fixed, it should be marked as ‘Resolved at Audit Stage.’ If an issue cannot be resolved right away but is expected to be addressed in the near future, the ‘Partially Compliant’ status applies. In both cases, providers must include notes detailing the issue, the resolution, and future action plans.

Over the past year, the MGA has also implemented changes to various regulations, including non-profit tombola and lottery applications, audit and review procedures, alternative dispute resolution processes, certificate applications, personal detail forms, device exhibition rules, and financial reporting requirements.

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To streamline audits, the MGA introduced three designated folders for companies to submit their reports: system audits, system reviews, and compliance audits. By ensuring documents are stored in the correct location, the Authority aims to improve efficiency. Additionally, providers must name their files appropriately and justify why each document is considered “sufficient and conclusive” for the audit.

The MGA’s scrutiny extends beyond licensed providers, as it also monitors illegal operators. Recently, the Authority issued a statement addressing casinowinner.io’s false claim of holding an MGA license.