The MGA’s Executive Chairman, Joseph Cuschieri took part in the second East meets West regulators summit which took place in the Philippines between 25 and 28 October, 2016. The summit focused on developments in the Asian gaming market but also included topics related to anti-money laundering, match fixing and regulatory policy developments in Europe, US and Asia. The summit was attended by regulators and policy makers from countries including Philippines, Vietnam, UK, Alderney, Japan, Singapore, US and Isle of Man. Mr Cuschieri participated in a panel titled “Internet Gambling: To Regulate or not to Regulate” which tackled topics covering new technologies and business models as well as the treatment of fantasy sports, e-sports and other forms of gaming. Mr Cuschieri was joined on the panel by Steve Brennan, CEO of the Isle of Man gambling commission and Helene Keeley, President National Council of Legislators from Gaming US States. The panel was moderated by Mr Tal Itzhak Ron representing IMGL.
The MGA also participated in the International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR) annual conference which took place in Sydney, Australia between 31 October, 2016 and 3 November, 2016. Topics discussed included regulatory challenges, compliance methods, match fixing, technical standards and other regulatory developments internationally. Dr Edwina Licari, Chief Officer – Legal and EU/International Affairs for the MGA, participated in a panel entitled: “Millennials and the Regulators’ Challenges” together with representatives from South Africa, NSW and Nevada Gaming Commission. The panel was moderated by Andre Wilsenach, Executive Director, UNLV international centre for gaming regulation.
Mr Cuschieri said that both events highlighted the respect enjoyed by Malta internationally but also served as an ideal platform for all regulators and policy makers to discuss areas of cooperation and mutual interest particularly in the wake of the challenges faced by the sector.