In 2023, the gaming industry accounted for 7 percent of Malta’s Gross Value Added (GVA). This share aligns with 2022 figures, marking a recovery from earlier fluctuations caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Over the past five years, the industry’s GVA has surged by 25 percent, reaching approximately €1.34 billion by 2023. A report from the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) reveals key data underscoring the industry’s performance, contribution, and future prospects.
The share of the gaming industry in total GVA in Malta. Source: MGA.
Beyond direct contributions, the sector bolsters ancillary industries such as professional services, IT, and real estate. The MGA’s strategic emphasis on business-to-business (B2B) activities has amplified these ripple effects, reinforcing Malta’s reputation as a hub for high-value-added services.
Casino and online gaming performance
The land-based casino sector saw a 17 percent rise in visits, reaching 925,088 by year-end, with foreign players accounting for over 62 percent of visits. Casino-generated gross revenue also climbed by 14.2 percent, bolstered by increased junket activity.
In the online gaming sphere, active player accounts on MGA-licensed platforms grew by 1.7 percent to nearly 37 million, though new account registrations fell by 3.8 percent compared to 2022. The total number of gaming licences issued stood at 305, showcasing steady growth in this segment.
The relative share of the gaming industry in total GVA (2023). Source: MGA.
A growing employment sector
The gaming industry remains a significant employer in Malta, with 10,519 full-time employees directly engaged in activities regulated by the MGA. Of these, 91 percent work in the online gaming sector. When factoring in indirect employment—such as roles in IT, legal, and real estate services connected to the industry—the total workforce reaches 16,428, representing 5.2 percent of Malta’s employment.
This growth has been driven partly by an expanded sample of service providers and increased outsourcing by gaming operators.
Gaming workforce. Source: MGA.
Taxation changes
The introduction of the EU’s “Pillar 2” rules in 2023, mandating a 15 percent minimum tax rate for large multinational corporations, marked a significant regulatory shift. Malta has aligned with these rules, balancing its competitive tax environment with evolving international standards, reads the .
Future outlook
Looking ahead, 72 percent of operators anticipate revenue growth in 2024, with many also predicting increased employment opportunities. However, rising operational costs—particularly in legal, IT, and marketing domains—pose challenges.
On the technological front, innovations such as artificial intelligence (AI), cloud gaming, and blockchain are reshaping the sector. Operators are increasingly adopting these technologies to improve personalisation and immersive experiences, ensuring Malta’s gaming industry remains at the forefront of global trends.
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