Malta Leads EU Block Against Proposed $2.19 Billion Online Gambling Levy

The European Union is considering implementing a $2.19 billion levy on online gambling across its member states, but Malta has joined forces with Italy, Portugal, and Spain to block it.

The Commission's proposal would impose a 3% tax on the sector's net turnover, which would raise an estimated $2.19 billion annually over the 2028-2034 period, according to Politico, citing European Commission modeling.

Malta, with a population of just over half a million people, would be hit hardest under this plan, facing a bill of around $190 million (€165 million) per year. This is more than Italy's share, despite its economy being much larger.

The Malta Gaming Authority license, which unlocks banking relationships and access to the EU market for crypto-casino platforms, would be directly impacted by this tax. Maarten Haijer, secretary general of the European Gaming and Betting Association, warned that higher taxes would push players toward unlicensed sites.