Legislation

Malta enjoys a modern and frequently updated set of legislation. In fact it was the First EU Member State to regulate on-line gaming on May 1st 2004.

Primary Legislation governing foreign investment in Malta:
The Income Tax Act of 1948 (as amended) regulates taxation in Malta.
The Business Promotion Act of 1988 provides for fiscal and other incentives to companies engaged in manufacturing (including software development), repair or maintenance activities.
The Companies Act of 1995 (replaces the Commercial Pertnerships Ordinance of 1965) regulates the creation of private limited liability companies and public companies. It contemplates the possibility of setting up investment companies with variable share capital (SICAVS) and companies with share capital denominated in a foreign currency.
The Malta Financial Services Centre Act of 1988 established the Malta Financial Services Authority, the agency responsible for the regulation of commercial partnerships, financial services and investment services in Malta.
Investment Services Act of 1994 regulates investment services, including banking and insurance.
The Exchange Control Act of 1972 specifies that the Central Bank of Malta must approve applications for investment and the subsequent repatriation of profit and capital.

Primary Legislation directly concerning gaming and betting:
Racecourse Betting Ordinance of 1934 regulates horse and greyhound racing and their respective licensing.
Kursaal Ordinance of 1958 regulates the establishment of casinos in Malta.
Gaming Act of 1998 further controls and regulates casinos.
Lotteries and Other Games Act of 2001 incorporates all gaming legislation except casinos into a single legislative instrument.

Other relevant legislation:
Electronic Communications (Regulation) Act, 1997
Data Protection Act, 2002
Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 1994
Prevention of Corruption (Players) Act, 1976