Malta’s Lotteries and Gaming Authority (LGA) is the latest party to join the fray in the ongoing Italian gambling blockade. Reports in from several Maltese media suggest that although the Italian government implemented the blockade of more than 600 online gambling sites three weeks ago, it is yet to consult its neighbors. 80 Maltese online gambling sites have been blackballed by the Italian government’s move to deny casino fans access to offshore gambling sites. The decision has been implemented through the country’s leading internet service providers, who face hefty fines for refusing to co-operate with the initiative.

Last week, the website of the Maltese Lotteries and Gaming Authority was also blocked by Italian internet service providers. Access was quickly restored to the regulator’s site, which now provides the only means of access to Maltese gambling sites for Italian players. The original decision was apparently reversed following protests to the Italian government.
The LGA’s CEO Mario Galea has stated to Maltese media that the Italian government has promised to commence discussions with key players in the Maltese gaming industry. “The Italians understand they have no problems with us and said they are ready to meet us,” Galea said. “If they don’t, we would have to take diplomatic action.”

Malta’s Remote Gaming Council has also issued a statement in response to the Italian government’s actions, advising that the organization sees no reason why Maltese gambling websites should be included in the blockade, “...other than to protect the Italian government’s monopoly which runs betting in Italy.” The Remote Gaming Council is now encouraging members to lodge formal complaints with the European Commission against Italy.
A further source of pressure on the Italian government comes from several prominent online betting firms that have lobbied the European Commission to step in and halt the blockade. The predominantly British firms have banded together under the leadership of the Remote Gambling Association to make their complaints heard. Similarly, Malta’s Lotteries and Gaming Authority has initiated a publicity campaign using a variety of online gambling forums and Italian media sources to promote its website.

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