In life, and in politics, it is important to be honest: Malta is not perfect. We still face challenges, and there is much more to be done. But let us also recognise a truth that is becoming increasingly clear – Malta is moving forward. Step by step, sector by sector, we are preparing our nation for the future.
This government has never shied away from listening. On a daily basis, I meet with entrepreneurs from all walks of life – from family-run businesses to large international investors, from start-ups with big dreams to leaders in established industries. They share with me their difficulties and their aspirations. Listening is important but what matters most is acting. And that is what we do: we act, we adapt, and we deliver solutions.
What I feel when I engage with the business community is encouraging: there is a high level of positivity. People feel that Malta is on a strong path, that they can plan their lives with peace of mind. That does not mean every business has it easy or that every individual faces no difficulties. But the overall direction is the right one.
The results speak for themselves. Traditional pillars of our economy – finance, tourism, and gaming – continue to grow. But what excites me most is the way Malta is opening new economic chapters. Artificial intelligence, fintech, blockchain, video game development, esports and remote work are no longer abstract ideas – they are real industries taking root here. International reports consistently highlight Malta’s progress in digital adoption and AI, proof that our early investments are paying off.
Foreign direct investment is another area where Malta is punching above its weight. The Financial Times’ Greenfield FDI index listed Malta as the country that attracted the most foreign direct investment relative to its size. Last year, I made a commitment that Malta would achieve the largest FDI inflows in its history – and we kept that promise. Today, I am making another commitment: next year, we will go even further and surpass this record.
We are attracting high-value industries- Silvio Schembri
What makes this wave of investment even more significant is its quality. We are attracting high-value industries – medical equipment, semiconductors, advanced manufacturing, digital services, finance, maritime and aviation. This is not just about quantity but about strategic depth, in full alignment with ‘Malta Vision 2050’.
Our economic landscape is evolving. We are shifting away from labour-intensive sectors and towards capital-intensive, knowledge-based and high-value-added activities. This is how we ensure that future generations of Maltese workers will have access to better jobs, higher wages and more sustainable opportunities.
We are a small country but our ambitions are great. The spirit I sense among our people and businesses gives me confidence that Malta is not only keeping up with global change but leading in several areas.
We are not perfect and we cannot afford complacency. But we are moving firmly in the right direction. And with vision, courage and unity Malta will continue to move ahead – stronger than ever.
Silvio Schembri is Minister for the Economy, Enterprise and Strategic Projects.
