Charles Mizzi is set to take on the role of CEO at the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) on January 26th, succeeding Charles Brincat, who has been at the helm for the past two years.
Mizzi brings a wealth of experience to his new position, having previously served as the CEO of the Residency Malta Agency for five years and held various senior roles, including head of the image and communications unit at BNF Bank.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the new role, Mizzi stated, “I am honored to have been given the opportunity to lead the Authority.
I am keen to build on past successes and, together with the team under the guidance of the minister responsible and the board of governors, to strategically steer the Authority forward so that Malta’s already robust position in the field may be further strengthened, while delivering value to all stakeholders.”
Silvio Schembri, Malta’s minister for the economy, EU funds, and lands, also welcomed Mizzi’s appointment, highlighting his extensive experience and contributions to major projects.
Schembri expressed confidence that Mizzi is the right candidate to continue the MGA’s achievements.
One of the key challenges Mizzi may face in his new role is addressing the opposition from European stakeholders to Malta’s Bill 55, also known as Article 56A of Malta’s Gaming Act.
This legislation shields Malta-licensed operators from legal liability arising from their gambling activities.
European regulators have raised concerns that this bill may be incompatible with European law, particularly the Brussels Recast Regulation governing legal judgments among EU member states.
The MGA has defended its position by asserting that its gambling laws align with the principles of the European free movement of services and are fully compliant with EU law.
However, the dispute persists, with the German gambling regulator asserting that the law conflicts with EU regulations.
In response to these concerns, the European Commission has announced its intention to examine Malta’s gaming law to ensure its compatibility with EU law.
If no resolution is reached, the case may escalate to the European Court of Justice, which has historically served as the final arbiter in disputes between European and domestic laws.
This ongoing controversy highlights the challenges Mizzi may face as he takes on his new leadership role at the MGA.