Gibraltar Enforces New Gambling Act 2025
Gibraltar’s long-awaited Gambling Act 2025 has officially come into force, overhauling a regulatory framework that had been in place for two decades. The new legislation expands the scope of supervision, introduces stricter licensing standards, and requires all gambling businesses to establish a tangible economic footprint within the jurisdiction.
Modernised Regulatory Framework
The Gambling Act 2025 replaces laws dating back to the early 2000s, creating a more comprehensive and accountable regulatory system. Oversight now extends to new business categories under the Gambling Division of the Ministry of Finance, led by Andrew Lyman. The change gives the regulator broader reach across all areas of the gambling industry.
A key element of the reform is the requirement for licensees to show a substantive economic presence in Gibraltar. This can be demonstrated through local offices, infrastructure, employees, or tax contributions. The rule is designed to eliminate “brass plate” operations — companies that held local licences but maintained little or no real presence on the Rock.
New Licensing and Accountability Rules
The new act introduces separate licences for B2C, B2B, and gaming operator support services, reflecting the increasingly diverse structure of the sector. Activities such as marketing, CRM, managed trading, and software hosting will now require specific approvals.
Senior managers must also undergo personal vetting, mirroring Britain’s Personal Management Licences issued by the Gambling Commission. The measure aims to strengthen accountability within licensed entities and ensure that individuals in key roles meet proper standards of integrity and competence.
Marketing activities are also brought under new regulatory controls. The Gambling Commissioner gains the authority to issue administrative fines, cease-and-desist orders, and suspensions for non-compliance. Operators will be required to submit detailed digital reports covering AML compliance, technical standards, and safer gambling measures, enhancing transparency and oversight.
Independent Appeals Tribunal
The act also establishes an independent Gambling Appeals Tribunal to hear appeals against decisions by the Gambling Commissioner, including licence refusals, suspensions, and revocations. The new body adds an additional layer of procedural fairness to Gibraltar’s gambling oversight, balancing strong regulatory enforcement with a clear appeal mechanism.