The Malta Gaming Authority has published a new AI Gaming Charter after research found operators are deploying artificial intelligence faster than their governance frameworks can keep pace.
The charter was developed in partnership with the Malta Digital Innovation Authority following an MGA study into AI use among Malta’s licensed gambling operators.
The MGA noted that survey responses represented only a limited subset of the sector but still provided indicative insight into current AI practices and maturity levels.
According to the research, AI adoption was “uneven and generally selective rather than widespread” across Malta’s licensed operator base.
The study found AI was being adopted more readily in support, monitoring and efficiency functions than in commercially sensitive or player-facing decision areas.
Fully deployed systems were most commonly reported in operational optimisation, data analytics and customer support chatbots, with fraud detection and responsible gambling behavioural modelling deployed to a lesser extent.
By contrast, most operators indicated AI was not in use in dynamic odds setting, risk management, regulatory reporting and AI-powered live casino applications.
While licensees are actively experimenting with the technology, their strategic and governance frameworks remain underdeveloped according to the MGA’s findings.
Operators are being encouraged to clearly inform players when they are interacting with AI, beginning from the user’s very first interaction or exposure to such systems.
The framework is voluntary and does not create new legal or regulatory obligations, but the regulator encouraged licensees to adopt it as a demonstration of commitment to ethical AI use.
The charter complements existing legal frameworks including the EU AI Act while providing practical guidance tailored specifically to the realities of the gaming sector.
MGA CEO Charles Mizzi said at the launch that the document reflects a “shared commitment” between regulators, industry and technology experts to promote the responsible and transparent use of AI.
Mizzi added that it was not the regulator’s intention to stop operators from innovating with AI, signalling a balanced approach between oversight and industry growth.
MDIA CEO Kenneth Brincat said: “Trust is fundamental to the responsible adoption of AI. As its use becomes increasingly embedded across the gaming sector, organisations need practical ways to understand where AI is being used, manage the associated risks and ensure that accountability and human oversight remain firmly in place.”
Brincat added: “The AI Gaming Charter translates these principles into practical, sector-specific guidance, bringing together MDIA’s expertise in AI governance and the MGA’s deep understanding of the gaming sector.”
The two authorities officially launched the AI Gaming Charter on September 18, 2026, at an event attended by representatives from the gaming industry, the public sector and the technology community.
