Roberta Metsola Officially Opens SiGMA Summit in Rome

European Parliament President Roberta Metsola has officially opened this year’s SiGMA Summit in Rome, marking the first time the Maltese-founded global enterprise has hosted its Central Europe edition in the Italian capital.

Addressing more than 30,000 delegates and 1,000 exhibitors, Metsola praised the innovators behind the event as the “building block of next generation Europe,” expressing pride that SiGMA’s global success story began in Malta. “This is one of the biggest gatherings of its kind in the world. And I have to say, I’m more than a little proud that it all started in my island home of Malta,” she said.

The President spoke about Europe’s need to remain dynamic, creative, and innovative, while maintaining a balance between growth and responsibility, a balance she described as what makes Europe unique. Metsola also highlighted the challenges of fragmented regulation across EU member states, noting that differing licensing systems and advertising rules make it harder for companies to operate across borders. “That has to change,” she underlined, proposing the idea of an optional ‘28th regime’, a single European framework that could simplify cross-border business. Calling for “innovation, not over-regulation” and “delivery, not red tape,” Metsola reaffirmed the European Parliament’s commitment to empowering entrepreneurs and startups to compete globally.

Eman Pulis Highlights Malta’s Role in the Global Digital Industry

SiGMA founder Eman Pulis emphasised the importance of Malta continuing to look beyond its shores, while maintaining its identity as a global hub for digital and iGaming industries.

In his address, Pulis reflected on how SiGMA’s journey began in Malta with simple ideas and limited resources, but through consistent work, vision, and ambition, it has successfully expanded into multiple markets around the world. He stressed that the iGaming industry must be built on strong regulation and a solid reputation to ensure sustainable growth. Pulis also noted that Malta was among the first countries in the world to establish a regulatory framework for iGaming — one that went on to serve as a model for other nations.

During her visit, Metsola also met with Maltese professionals who contributed to the setup and organisation of the summit, a reflection, she noted, of how Malta continues to export top-level talent and skills across Europe.

The President concluded her address by officially declaring SiGMA Central Europe 2025 open.

#MaltaDaily