* Malta Issues First Online Gaming Licence Under New Rules
WorldMatch has become the first firm to gain an online gaming licence in Malta following the enactment of new legislation, it was announced at a formal launch ceremony on the island last week. Describing itself as an “innovative concept” in the online gaming industry, WorldMatch will give the likes of casino operators, airline companies, cruise liners and internet portals access to the gaming sector without any commitment in terms of management, technology, finance or legal matters. The firm has so far agreed six contracts. Alessandro Fried, the general director of WorldMatch explained at a press conference that Malta was chosen as the company’s base due to its recent accession to the European Union, and the island’s strong legal framework "Gaming is a very delicate and sensitive business which cannot but be treated with respect and a high sense of ethics” observed Mr Fried. "Instead of closing their eyes to the reality of gaming, in Malta they came up with a serious piece of legislation," he added.
Last Tuesday’s launch ceremony was also attended by senior members of the government including Parliamentary Secretary Tonio Fenech and the chairman of the Maltese Gaming Authority, Joe Zammit Maempel.
