The policy had the advantage of helping international players such as Mason Grady, Leo Dyer and Teddy Williams remain at professional clubs in Wales.
But with Hawkins unavailable, Galtland believes the Wales international are at a disadvantage.
“We are all struggling financially – the union and the region – and we are the only team that has been penalised because of that rule,” Gatland said.
“We want to bring in players with Joe’s ability and give them the opportunity to play more Test matches.
“But unfortunately we are currently restricted by internal union regulations.”
The Professional Rugby Board (PRB), made up of the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) and regional representatives, must grant Hawkins a special exemption to be selected. The other option is to scrap the rule altogether.
The decision to lower the mandatory cap from 60 to 25 was made as part of negotiations between the WRU and players in February 2023.
It comes as the national team were considering a strike ahead of their Six Nations Championship home game against England, though the threat was eventually dropped.
Gatland admitted the PRB and the union would have to change their decision on the 25-man salary cap rule now, joking: “The players could go on strike again!”
He highlighted a serious issue and one that will continue to be discussed as the WRU prepares to publish a new strategy later this year.
