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The Malta Communications Authority (MCA) is the statutory body responsible for the regulation of the various electronic communications sectors, which include fixed and mobile telephony, Internet and TV distribution services. Furthermore, the Authority regulates two other sectors which are the postal services, as well as the eCommerce sector.
The MCA eCommerce Strategy 2022-2025 published in late 2022, introduced a fresh approach that builds upon previous efforts and provides policy guidance to further enhance eCommerce in terms of both quantity and quality of services. This strategy recognizes the continuous growth of global eCommerce and the significant technological advancements spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic in various industries. It also aims to leverage the Government’s Digital Malta Strategy to reinforce the digital economy.
The Strategy includes an action plan that outlines the MCA’s commitment to developing a regulatory framework that supports the growth of an inclusive, fair, and sustainable eCommerce ecosystem. To achieve this, the MCA will implement several initiatives that aim to accelerate adoption, foster capacity building, and promote excellence.
The Strategy also takes into account the Authority’s ever widening remit that branches into digital services besides more traditional eCommerce. Various initiatives planned for the coming years in fact address the needs and requirements of overarching digital services that include eCommerce but also other related matters including trust services and intermediary platforms.
In 2022, the Authority initiated the Implementation of the DSA, a central component of the EU’s Digital Services Package. The DSA aims to institute stringent regulatory measures for providers of intermediary services, enhancing transparency and user safety across the EU’s
digital landscape.
These measures oblige providers to take prompt action against reported illegal content and maintain effective complaint and Annual Report and Financial Statements 2022 | Digital Services and Ecommerce Regulation 75 redress mechanisms. The MCA has been integral in supporting and representing the Maltese government during the development and
roll-out of this pivotal EU regulation.
Following the publication of the Act in the EU Official Journal in October 2022, the DSA is poised to become directly applicable in all EU member states, including Malta, as from 17th February 2024. With Malta adhering to the EU’s regulatory frameworks, the DSA’s
introduction will significantly impact the nation’s digital environment.
Recognising this, the Maltese Government is due to designate the MCA as the country’s official Digital Services Coordinator. This role assigns the MCA with the responsibility of ensuring providers of intermediary services established in Malta comply with the DSA’s
regulations. Furthermore, as the Digital Services Coordinator, the MCA is expected to actively liaise with European counterparts, promoting a harmonised approach to the DSA’s implementation.
