COVID-19 Update: Action plan adopted by the Malta Gaming Authority (“MGA”) and the Malta Business Registry (“MBR”)

COVID-19

14 Mar 2020

As headlines on the novel coronavirus continue to escalate and the World Health Organisation now categorises the outbreak as a pandemic, the MGA and MBR have adopted policies to mitigate the spread of the virus that seek to maintain the smooth running of their services, including the closure of their offices to the public with immediate effect. Until further notice, both entities have put in place remote working measures for their employees.

This guidance intends to highlight key changes in day-to-day processing and operations of the MBR and MGA.

MBR – service continuation via various alternative channels

MBR has announced the continuation of the provision of services through the following methods:

• registration of documents through online services on their website https://registry.mbr.mt/ROC/;
• ordering of certificates or documents through email orders.mbr@mbr.mt and returned by post;
• payments of penalties and fees through bank transfer: (i) BOV account with IBAN: MT09VALL22013000000040025310447 or (ii) HSBC account with IBAN: MT91MMEB44026000000002173649001;
• paper format documents may be left in an envelope and delivered in a dedicated letterbox at the entrance of their premises. Processing of such documents will start 2 working days from delivery to minimise any health risks for our employees;
• documents addressed to the ICTU are to be delivered in the dedicated letterbox clearly indicating that these relate to share transfers. The share transfer documents will be processed and the necessary documentation will be forwarded to the MBR; and
• meetings will be held through teleconferencing only.

Should you require any assistance with contacting and making filings to the Malta Business Registry, get in touch with WH Partners’ corporate services team at corporate@whpartners.eu.

MGA – assistance, document delivery and reporting via online channels

The MGA has meanwhile implemented the temporary measure of accepting all submissions in soft copy. This does not constitute an exemption from adherence to document certification requirements. The MGA has reminded operators that notwithstanding the situation, obligations relating to the protection of players should not be prejudiced, and that reporting obligations towards the MGA that relate to such measures – including but not limited to the Player Funds Reports and reporting obligations concerning the financial standing of the licensee – must continue to be observed. Where licensed operators face challenges to meet any requirements, operators are encouraged to contact MGA officials.

Should you require any assistance in doing so, please contact WH Partners’ Gaming team at gaming@whpartners.eu.

ALSO SEE:

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Coronavirus Update: Travel restrictions and your rights as a travel or tour operator

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Coronavirus Update: COVID-19 Impact on the EUIPO as of 16th March 2020

Coronavirus Update: Europe’s Budgetary Responses

Coronavirus Update: Suspension of statutory limitation and court filing periods in Malta

Coronavirus Update: First economic measures launched to help business in Malta

Coronavirus FAQs:

Coronavirus FAQs: An Employer's Perspective - UPDATED

Coronavirus FAQs: Statutory limitations and court process

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The information above does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice and should not be relied on as such. For any specific matters kindly seek legal assistance.