27 More Online Gambling Firms Move to Malta

The small Mediterranean island of Malta is fast becoming the choice destination for gambling firms to house their online operations. No less than 27 international gaming firms are expected to relocate their operations to Malta by the end of this month.

Among the 27 online gaming companies making the move include some of the industry's most recognizable names. William Hill, Virgin Games, Intercasino, Playboy Casino and Littlewoods are set to start operating their online casino and poker services within the week.

With the 84 existing online gambling firms already operating from Malta and the numerous companies expressing intent or awaiting approval of their pending license applications, the 27 incoming firms add weight to Mario Galea's pronouncement. The Lotteries Gaming Authority Chief Executive, in a recent statement, said, "Malta's becoming the natural hub of online gaming."

Aside from the recent restrictions on online gambling in the United States, this latest inflow of online gaming firms is attributed to the introduction of the UK Gambling Act 2005. Set to be enforced starting September 1, the Gambling Act prohibits all forms of advertisement and promotion of gambling services by companies outside the European Economic Area (EEA) or jurisdictions on the government's White List.