Gibraltar was always one of the pillars of the betting industry, and any news coming from the Rock has an impact on European and global markets. The government of Gibraltar shifted toward a more modern approach to market regulation by updating its gambling rules a few days ago. The 2026 update has set the goal of aligning the 2005 framework with how the industry actually operates today.
What Does The New Law Change For Operators?
The most important structural shift is how licensing works. So far, a remote gambling license was a requirement only if betting equipment was physically located in Gibraltar. The new Gambling Act focuses on brands and companies’ control, regardless of where their servers are located.
Providers outside the Rock that supply Gibraltar-licensed operators are obliged to hold a valid license as well. The approval fee has been set to £1,000. B2C companies can continue group marketing under their existing license, while B2Bs need a separate marketing license at no additional fee.
Another important step for the government is how it will enforce the law. In the past, there was the option of suspension or revocation. From now on, the new framework introduces graduated penalties and a dedicated Gambling Appeals Tribunal.
How Does The Affiliate And Marketing Landscape Shift?
Affiliate and marketing operators are affected too. Under the previous rules, there was no obligation to obtain a license for marketing purposes. Now, a license is a prerequisite for any company that wants to conduct, arrange, facilitate or provide advertising services for gambling anywhere in the world.
Affiliates operating in or from the country must obtain a Gambling Operator Support Services license as well, although a narrow exemption applies to those primarily targeting a Gibraltar-based audience. The government has the right to deny a license if the Minister believes that Gibraltar's public interest and reputation would be at risk.
Why Is This Happening Now?
There’s a reason for this timing. Gibraltar’s gambling sector generates around 30% of the territory's GDP, and more than 3,400 people work at the Rock. On the other hand, the country’s gross revenue is tied to the UK market at roughly 75%.
When the UK recently doubled Remote Gaming Duty from 21% to 40%, the pressure on local operators became unbearable. The new gambling framework is part of an attempt to attract operators from other markets. At the same time, Gibraltar doesn’t want to send signals of “gray areas” in its legislation, cementing its position as a well-regulated jurisdiction.
A few weeks ago, the first prediction market license was issued under the old law, signaling a shift in direction. The economic consequences of the UK tax shift have to be covered, and Gibraltar believes it has found a way to do so.
