Malta
The Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) is set to deliver its Advocate General's opinion on Case C-530/24, known as the Tipico case, on March 19, 2026. This case examines the compatibility of Malta's Bill 55 with EU law, particularly concerning the recognition and enforcement of foreign judgments against Maltese-licensed gaming companies.
Enacted in 2025, Malta's Bill 55 has been a subject of controversy. The legislation allows Maltese courts to refuse recognition and enforcement of foreign judgments against gaming operators licensed in Malta. Critics argue that this law undermines the principle of mutual trust in the EU's judicial system and violates the Brussels I bis Regulation, which governs jurisdiction and the recognition and enforcement of judgments in civil and commercial matters across EU member states.
The Tipico case (C-530/24) involves a dispute where foreign litigants seek to enforce judgments against a Maltese-licensed gaming company. The central question is whether Malta's refusal to recognize and enforce these foreign judgments, as permitted under Bill 55, is compatible with EU law. The Advocate General's opinion, scheduled for March 19, 2026, will provide a preliminary assessment before the CJEU delivers its final judgment.
The outcome of this case could have significant implications for Malta's gaming industry. A ruling against Malta may necessitate amendments to Bill 55 and could impact the country's attractiveness as a jurisdiction for gaming companies. Conversely, a ruling in favor of Malta could reinforce the current legal framework but may strain relations with other EU member states concerned about the enforcement of judgments.
Following the Advocate General's opinion, the CJEU will deliberate and issue its final judgment. Stakeholders in Malta's legal and gaming sectors are closely monitoring the developments, as the decision will influence the future landscape of cross-border legal enforcement within the EU.
