UMVA has learned that Malta’s opposition Nationalist Party is poised to block any attempt to impose a European Union‑wide online gambling tax, claiming it would cripple the island’s economy and cripple regulated operators across Europe.
During a European Parliament plenary debate on future EU “own resources,” Nationalist MEP David Casa slammed the proposal as the most damaging idea yet, warning that it would punish licensed EU companies while rewarding illegal and offshore platforms.
The levy, part of broader EU talks to create new budget streams, could generate between €2 billion and €4 billion annually, yet Casa argued it would push licensed operators to third countries and drive consumers into the grey market.
Malta’s gaming industry, already under strict supervision, contributes over 10 % of the country’s GDP, provides high‑quality employment, and upholds robust consumer protections, Casa noted.
He cautioned that Malta is uniquely exposed to any disruption in the sector, stating, “There is no other member state as exposed as Malta,” and warned that misguided policies could force businesses away from the EU.
While Malta faces scrutiny over Bill 55, designed to shield gaming companies from foreign court judgments, the Gaming Authority defends Article 56A as a safeguard of regulatory autonomy.
Casa also highlighted plans to remove the EU’s Online Dispute Resolution platform from local procedures after European changes made the system obsolete.
He emphasized that any new EU own‑resources mechanism would still require unanimous backing from member states, insisting, “Let us not waste time; own resources require unanimity.”
Casa warned that a future Nationalist government would immediately veto the proposal, stating, “A PN government would veto this proposal without hesitation.”
He concluded, “We will not let anyone dictate to us what is in our sole competence; Malta will decide on this matter, and we certainly will not be told what to do by any socialist.”
