MAGLA outlines new advertising directive at Blantyre stakeholder engagement
Operators were encouraged to adopt internal controls that go beyond minimum regulatory requirements.
Malawi.- The Malawi Gaming and Lotteries Authority (MAGLA) has held a stakeholder engagement in Blantyre aimed at strengthening controls around the advertising of betting and lottery products, with particular emphasis on protecting minors.
The meeting, hosted on Wednesday, March 18, at Sunbird Mount Soche, brought together licensed gaming operators, regulators, media representatives and other industry stakeholders. Discussions focused on the implementation of a new directive regulating advertising time bands and content standards across broadcast and digital platforms.
MAGLA said the directive is designed to limit children’s exposure to gambling promotions by restricting when such advertisements can be aired and establishing clearer rules on messaging. The authority also used the session to outline compliance expectations and the potential consequences of breaches.
The regulator stated that the engagement forms part of its broader regulatory mandate to promote responsible gambling. It noted the growing accessibility of betting platforms, especially via mobile and online channels, which has raised concerns about underage participation and exposure to gambling content.
Operators were encouraged to adopt internal controls that go beyond minimum regulatory requirements, including age-verification measures, responsible messaging and collaboration with media houses to ensure adherence to approved time slots.
Broadcasters and publishers were reminded of their duty to reject non-compliant advertisements and ensure all gambling-related content meets regulatory standards.
The Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA), which oversees broadcasting and communications services in Malawi, participated in the discussions to harmonise enforcement on media compliance.
MAGLA stated that further engagements and monitoring activities will follow to assess compliance levels. The authority indicated that enforcement measures, including penalties or licence reviews, may be imposed where violations are identified.
