MGA, MFSA sign MoU to formalize regulatory collaboration and training initiatives

A recently signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) and the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) is expected to facilitate more consistent regulatory outcomes through structured cooperation, shared enforcement practices, and joint capacity-building efforts across Malta’s financial and gaming sectors.

The bilateral agreement sets out a framework for collaboration between the two regulators in areas of mutual regulatory interest, with provisions related to information exchange, training, and institutional cooperation.

This agreement complements an existing multi-party MoU that remains in force between the Sanctions Monitoring Board (SMB), the Financial Intelligence Analysis Unit (FIAU), the MFSA, and the MGA. That multi-party arrangement governs cooperation on matters involving anti-money laundering, the financing of terrorism, and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.

While the existing multi-agency MoU continues to guide collaboration in these specific areas, the MGA and MFSA identified the need for a separate bilateral agreement to support wider inter-agency coordination. The new MoU establishes mechanisms for closer communication and cooperation in regulatory domains where the authorities’ responsibilities intersect.

The agreement outlines procedures that will assist each authority in discharging its respective functions more effectively through formalized coordination, the regulators said.

The MoU includes provisions for training and education initiatives between the MGA and MFSA. These efforts are intended to provide both agencies with access to knowledge and resources in areas where regulatory responsibilities may overlap.

“This agreement marks another step forward in our commitment to strengthening inter-agency collaboration,” said Charles Mizzi, MGA CEO. “The relationship between the MGA and the MFSA is an important one, and through this MoU, we are not only enhancing the exchange of information but also fostering a shared commitment to high regulatory standards and professional development.”

Meanwhile, MFSA CEO Kenneth Farrugia said: “The MoU that the MFSA entered into with the MGA is a reflection of our commitment and dedicated efforts to strengthen ties with other local authorities, as we continue to recognize the value of inter-institutional collaboration. This agreement enhances our mutual cooperation on due diligence and enforcement, which is essential in view of the similar players in the respective industries that we regulate and serve.”

“The MoU itself goes beyond the exchange of good practice and intelligence, as it also focuses on the upskilling of our supervisors who are instrumental to the daily operations of both authorities,” Farrugia added.

Both the MGA and the MFSA will continue to participate in the existing multi-party MoU with the FIAU and SMB, while implementing the bilateral agreement to address additional areas of coordination.