The Malta Chamber of SMEs has published the findings of its SME Barometer® for the first quarter of 2026, providing an overview of the current business climate and key challenges faced by SMEs in Malta.
The survey, conducted between 3rd April and 17th April 2026, gathered 382 responses from businesses operating across a wide range of sectors, including retail, construction, tourism, professional services, and manufacturing. Respondents represented a diverse mix of enterprises, with the majority employing between 1 and 49 employees. This distribution provides a representative snapshot of the SME sector and its current operating environment.
Key Findings
The results indicate that employee shortage remains the most significant issue, cited by 41.8% of respondents as one of the top two challenges currently impacting their business. This continues to highlight ongoing pressures in the labour market.
Other prominent concerns include:
- Unfair competition (21.5%)
- Traffic congestion and skills mismatch (both at 15.7%)
- Processing of third-country national (TCN) visa applications (14.6%)
- Rising inflation and cost pressures, alongside late payments, excessive competition and the international situation each affecting a notable proportion of businesses
Broader National Concerns
When asked about national priorities, respondents identified a range of structural and governance-related issues that they believe require attention. These include concerns related to overpopulation (38%), lack of governance (32%), level of corruption (25%) and increase in inflation (24%).
When asked whether Malta is moving in the right or wrong direction, responses from SMEs reflected a mixed sentiment. While a portion (41%) of respondents expressed confidence in the country’s current trajectory, a significant number (59%) indicated concerns about the direction of key economic and structural factors.
When asked whether the next 12 months will be a good time to invest, SME responses reflect a cautious and somewhat divided outlook. Around 19% of respondents believe it will be a good time to invest, while 49% remain uncertain. Meanwhile, 32% indicated that they do not consider it a favourable period for investment.
In two specific questions included in this survey, respondents highlighted concerns related to ongoing geopolitical developments, particularly the conflict in the Middle East and its potential impact on energy prices, supply chains, and overall economic stability.
While the direct effects on SMEs in Malta may vary, the uncertainty generated by such external factors is contributing to a more cautious business outlook.
With regard to the most effective forms of government support, 29% of respondents identified regulatory flexibility and a reduced administrative burden as the most beneficial measures, followed by 22% who highlighted financial assistance and 17% who pointed to supply chain and logistics facilitation.
Respondents also emphasised the importance of information and advisory support, improved access to finance, and ensuring a level playing field to help businesses navigate ongoing challenges.
Conclusion
The Q1 2026 SME Barometer highlights a business community navigating a combination of labour market challenges, cost pressures, and structural concerns. The findings aim to contribute to ongoing dialogue between stakeholders and support informed decision-making on matters affecting SMEs.
The Malta Chamber of SMEs will continue to monitor trends and gather feedback from the business community in the coming months.
Click here to view full survey results
SME Chamber’s representatives described the strong viewing figures as evidence of the public’s appetite for informed discussion on economic and business policy. They noted that SMEs remain a crucial pillar of Malta’s economy and that open dialogue between policymakers and the business community is essential for sustainable growth.
