Gibraltar promotes new gambling act for iGaming market sustainability
Gibraltar has taken a fundamental step to update its regulatory framework following the first reading approval of the Gibraltar Gambling Bill. This legislative initiative, which now moves to the committee stage, aims to replace the current Gambling Act of 2025 with a much more robust regulation adapted to modern operational demands. Although the sector has expressed concern about tax changes in the UK, local authorities clarified that this project focuses on improving the sustainability and transparency of the industry, regardless of external tax measures. It seems that the Rock is not standing still while the tide of regulation changes.
Expansion of licenses and greater executive rigor
The new bill proposes a significant expansion in license categories, now covering the entire gambling value chain. Among the most relevant changes are the following:
- It establishes the mandatory requirement for senior executives of companies to obtain specific authorization to perform their duties.
- Deeper regulation for B2B activities, including marketing services, will be incorporated.
- New permit categories will be created to ensure comprehensive control over all industry providers.
Strengthening the Gambling Commission
To ensure compliance with these rules, the law will strengthen the capabilities of the Gibraltar Gambling Commission (GGC). The regulator will have advanced tools to conduct investigations, apply risk-based controls, and enforce sanctions in case of non-compliance. As a balancing mechanism for operators, the text contemplates the creation of a sanctions appeal tribunal, which will be responsible for reviewing disciplinary measures and addressing the appeals of licensees. Minister Nigel Feetham emphasized that the proposal seeks to offer a flexible framework that allows the sector to continue growing in an orderly manner.
Background and path to approval
This legislative process has been a long-term effort, as consultations formally began in May 2022. The drafting of the final document was strongly influenced by the recommendations of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), especially after Gibraltar remained on Moneyval's grey list between mid-2022 and early 2024. For the law to fully come into force, it must pass the committee stage, a third parliamentary reading, and finally obtain Crown approval.
Tags: United Kingdom, UK, Gibraltar, Gibraltar Gambling Bill, Gibraltar gambling license