MGA pushes sustainability with first ESG seals

Garance Limouzy November 8, 2024

SiGMA news

The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) has awarded its first-ever ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) Code Approval Seals to licensees in the online gaming sector. Following the voluntary launch of its ESG Code of Good Practice last year, the MGA encouraged gaming operators to submit ESG disclosure returns covering 19 topics across Environmental, Social, and Governance pillars. The Code offers gaming companies a strategic framework to improve transparency and strengthen sustainability reporting in alignment with global best practices. The first annual reporting cycle saw 14 gaming operators awarded the ESG Code Approval Seal, marking the companies as industry leaders in sustainability efforts. The Code supports two levels of ESG compliance: Tier 1, which sets foundational ESG standards, and Tier 2, which encourages a more ambitious, aspirational approach. Each awarded seal is valid for one year, with operators having the flexibility to renew or modify their reporting tier annually. MGA CEO Charles Mizzi stated, “We believe this initiative will significantly enhance the industry’s reputation and sustainability credentials. By integrating ESG considerations into their operations, gaming companies not only contribute to the wellbeing of society and the environment but also strengthen the trust and confidence that consumers, investors, and regulators have in the industry. This initiative sends a clear message: sustainability, in the broadest sense of the word, is integral to the future of the gaming sector.”

Companies recognised with the ESG Code Seal of Approval

The were awarded the ESG Code Seal of Approval across Tier 1 and Tier 2 categories:

Tier 1 compliance:

Aspire Global International Limited (Licence No. MGA/CRP/148/2007)

BML Group Limited (Licence No. MGA/CRP/108/2004)

Betway Limited (Licence No. MGA/B2C/130/2006)

Dumarca Gaming Limited (Licence No. MGA/CRP/169/2009)

IBA Entertainment Limited (Licence No. MGA/B2C/174/2009)

L&L Europe Limited (Licence No. MGA/B2C/211/2011)

NSUS Malta Limited (Licence No. MGA/B2C/730/2019)

One Casino Limited (Licence No. MGA/B2C/327/2016)

Palasino Malta Limited (Licence No. MGA/B2C/920/2021)

Pariplay Malta Limited (Licence No. MGA/B2B/469/2018)

The Mill Adventure Limited (Licence No. MGA/B2B/866/2021)

Tier 2 compliance:

Play’n GO Malta Limited (Licence No. MGA/B2B/225/2012)

Tipico Co. Ltd (Licence No. MGA/B2C/101/2004)

Trannel International Limited (Licence No. MGA/B2C/106/2000)

Building a sustainable gaming future

The MGA’s ESG Code Approval Seal is not only a badge of recognition but also a crucial step forward in establishing online gaming as a responsible, sustainable, and ethical industry. As the online gaming sector grows, the importance of ESG considerations—ranging from environmental impact to social responsibility and governance practices—will only increase.

This initiative aligns with the MGA’s mission of fair and transparent regulation, crime prevention, and protection of minors and vulnerable players. The Code’s two-tier system offers companies the flexibility to scale up their commitments and deepen their ESG impact over time.