Brussels has decided to postpone the implementation of a new law regulating gambling and lotteries in Greece following objections raised by Malta.
The Maltese government has made it clear with the European Commission that its objections are in relation to certain aspects of the draft Greek legislation which are unacceptable. The draft law does not respect the fundamental principles of EU law, in particular the freedom of establishment and the freedom to provide services in all EU countries.
An EU official said that Malta was one of the only member states that has objected to date and “we have now decided to give Greece until August 8 to come up with its replies. If we are not satisfied we might even start infringement procedures against the country.”
Apart from the most important matters which were found to be unacceptable by the Commission, certain provisions in the draft legislation were also objectionable. These provisions held that those companies which would want to offer their services in Greece, including online services, would have to be physically present in that country in addition to having a financial guarantee from a Greek bank. Limitations have also been imposed on the number of licences to be given and subject to certain minimum capital requirements.
Throughout the past years Malta has successfully established itself as one of the top remote gaming jurisdictions in Europe and has been on high alert to make sure the EU’s gambling market remains as open as possible.
