Malta Chamber of SMEs President Mr. Paul Abela, Council Member Mr. Mario Debono, and Head of Policy Mr. Jamie Tanti met with the Ambassador of the Republic of Tunisia to Malta, Mr. Zouheir Bouras, following up on the recent delegation visit to Tunisia.
Both sides agreed to build on the positive outcomes of the visit and continue fostering this fruitful collaboration.
The Malta Chamber of SMEs – Landlords Sector reaffirms its commitment to promote a safe, fair, and respectful rental environment for all individuals involved.
Any acts of violence, discrimination, or misconduct that undermine the dignity, rights and property of tenants or landlords alike should be condemned. It is crucial that everyone in the housing sector is treated with respect and fairness, fostering a culture of understanding between landlords and tenants that is built on mutual trust.
The Malta Chamber of SMEs – Landlords Sector remains dedicated to advocating for policies that create a balanced rental framework.
We encourage all stakeholders to work together in promoting best practices that enhance the relationship between landlords and tenants, ultimately contributing to the stability and integrity of the rental market in Malta.
Interested landlords who would like to join the Landlords Sector within the Malta Chamber of SMEs may contact us at .
The Malta Chamber of SMEs welcomes Malta Vision 2050, which aims to reshape Malta’s future towards a more sustainable economy. The SME Chamber has long advocated for the need for a comprehensive national vision, highlighting this both in various fora and in its Budget proposals. In line with this vision, the SME Chamber urges stakeholders and policymakers to ensure that SMEs are placed at the forefront of this initiative. As primary contributors to the Maltese economy and the backbone of the country, SMEs must be central to the development and implementation of the Vision.
Malta Vision 2050 presents a unique opportunity to create a thriving economy that adapts to the evolving global landscape. In this context, it is essential that the voices, concerns, and ambitions of SMEs are integrated into the framework of this initiative.
SMEs account for over 99% of all enterprises in Malta, while 97.8% employ fewer than 50 employees. Our businesses are not only integral to driving economic activity; they are also vital in creating job opportunities and supporting local communities.
For Malta Vision 2050 to be truly effective, it must prioritize and recognize the needs and contributions of SMEs and the self-employed. The SME Chamber encourages that this initiative be driven by technocrats and industry experts to ensure its effectiveness and relevance.
The Malta Chamber of SMEs identifies several key areas where SMEs can play a vital role within Malta Vision 2050, particularly in the realms of Innovation and Technology, Sustainable Practices, and Skill Development and Training.
The Malta Chamber of SMEs remains committed to working collaboratively with government bodies, industry stakeholders, and the wider community to ensure that Malta Vision 2050 is successfully implemented and adopted.
Officials from the Malta Chamber of SMEs, together with members of the Landlords Committee, met with the Housing Authority to discuss recent rent law changes.
The follow-up meeting with the Housing Authority focused on various tenancy management and enforcement concerns. This discussion forms part of a broader, ongoing process that began several months ago, including previous engagements aimed at clarifying key issues. The outcome of this dialogue will be a comprehensive document addressing all identified matters.
In parallel, and following a recent webinar hosted by the Malta Chamber of SMEs, a set of Frequently Asked Questions has been published on the Housing Authority’s website. These FAQs are intended to provide clarity on common issues faced by tenants and landlords and will be regularly updated in coordination with the SME Chamber to reflect new developments and questions.
Malta Chamber of SMEs Deputy President and Chairman of the Town Centre Management Paceville, Mr. Philip Fenech, joined Minister Byron Camilleri at a press conference announcing the installation of 40 CCTV cameras in Paceville by this summer.
The initiative is aimed at improving public safety and reducing crime, accidents, and abuse in key hotspots. St. Julian’s Mayor Guido Dalli also attended the event.
Article by Dr Roberta Lepre – Managing Director WEAVE Consulting
The European Commission’s Strategic Foresight Report 2023 highlights the urgent need for a sustainable economic transition. It underscores how businesses must adapt to geopolitical shifts, funding challenges, social cohesion concerns, and rising sustainability demands. For SMEs in Malta, this is not just a compliance exercise—it’s an opportunity to future-proof their business models, enhance resilience, and tap into new markets.
At Weave Consulting, in collaboration with the Malta Chamber of SMEs, we are actively supporting businesses in navigating these transitions. By identifying key ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) priorities, SMEs can not only mitigate risks but also unlock financial, operational, and reputational advantages. This article will explore key takeaways from the Strategic Foresight Report and outline actionable ESG steps for SMEs.
The EU is accelerating its transition to a net-zero economy, with sustainability at the core of its competitiveness strategy. This means stricter environmental regulations, higher expectations from supply chain partners, and increased financial incentives for sustainable businesses.
One of the biggest challenges highlighted in the report is the increasing pressure on funding. The green transition requires over €620 billion annually in investments, with most coming from private funding. However, SMEs often struggle to access these financial opportunities.
A sustainable future depends on a workforce equipped with the right skills. The Strategic Foresight Report stresses that a lack of sustainability and digital skills could hinder SMEs’ ability to transition effectively.
The report warns that social inequalities and cracks in cohesion could undermine economic stability. SMEs that prioritize social impact and employee wellbeing will be better positioned for long-term success.
A major takeaway from the report is the need for systemic ESG integration. It’s no longer enough for ESG to be a side initiative—companies that embed sustainability into their core business strategy will have a competitive edge.
By adopting ESG principles, Maltese SMEs can:
To ensure that ESG support for SMEs is effective, we are conducting a survey to assess the current level of ESG awareness and implementation in Malta. The survey will also identify the types of support SMEs need to navigate the sustainability transition.
Your insights will help shape targeted ESG resources, training, and policy recommendations that benefit Maltese SMEs.
Conclusion
The Strategic Foresight Report reinforces the urgency for businesses to integrate sustainability into their operations. ESG is not just a regulatory requirement—it’s a strategic advantage that can drive long-term growth and resilience. By taking proactive steps now, Maltese SMEs can thrive in the evolving economic landscape.
For more insights on how your business can benefit from ESG, contact us at . Let’s work together to build a more sustainable and prosperous future.
As Malta looks to refine its tourism strategy, the concept of ‘quality tourism’ is increasingly at the forefront of discussions.
However, according to Philip Fenech, Deputy President & Head of Tourism Sector at the Malta Chamber of SMEs, there is a fundamental misunderstanding of what quality tourism entails.
Mr Fenech argues that before discussing its impact, it is crucial to define what ‘quality tourism’ truly means. “There is a total misconception of the phrase,” he asserts. While some equate it with higher spending per capita or attracting a cultured demographic interested in history rather than nightlife, others believe it necessitates transforming all tourism-related businesses into deluxe or branded operations. However, Mr Fenech subscribes to the idea that quality tourism should be about maintaining a high standard across the board.
“We need a good varied mix of all types,” he explains. “Our product marketing mix – ranging from humble retail outlets to brand boutiques, from takeaways to Michelin-starred restaurants, and from Airbnbs to five-star hotels – should be of a high standard and efficient in their operations.”
Impact on SMEs
Malta’s tourism sector heavily relies on SMEs, which make up a substantial portion of the industry. Mr Fenech notes that as competition intensifies, businesses that fail to modernise or enhance their offerings will struggle. “The market will correct itself as is happening, and the stable sustainable businesses will survive as they always have,” he says.
He emphasises that Malta has reached a stage where it can afford to be “picky and choosy” about the types of tourists it attracts, shifting focus towards a higher value chain. This shift does not necessarily threaten SMEs, provided they align themselves with the evolving standards. “Small is beautiful, and the personalised owner-managed service in these particular businesses is priceless,” he states, contrasting the charm of smaller businesses with the efficiency of larger corporate establishments.
Infrastructure and support services
One of the challenges in achieving quality tourism is ensuring that Malta’s infrastructure can support it. According to Mr Fenech, the country is currently undergoing a major upgrade in public services. “Our economy grew very fast in a short time, and it is fair to say that we are suffering from ‘growing pains,’” he acknowledges.
He highlights ongoing improvements across various sectors, including electricity, drainage, traffic management, road networks, transport, and environmental greening. These developments, he notes, must continue to match the rapid growth of private sector investment. “Standards in all aspects need to carry on improving as we attract a higher value chain tourist.”
A key component of this transition is Malta’s air connectivity. Mr Fenech notes that while low-cost airlines have contributed significantly to the country’s tourism numbers, the focus should now be on securing more legacy airlines that can connect Malta with long-haul markets, bringing in higher-spending tourists that Malta has already secured, thanks to new routes launched by Aer Lingus and LOT Polish Airlines, amongst others. “We can be reasonably picky and choosy, by linking to destinations that bring in a higher-spend tourist,” he says. However, he cautions that this transition must be gradual, occurring in tandem with infrastructure enhancements and business efficiency improvements.
The role of events like carnival
Malta’s tourism strategy also involves leveraging cultural events to attract foreign visitors. Mr Fenech sees potential in expanding niche tourism segments that offer higher-added value. “Carnival is only one niche that has potential for further growth,” he states. However, he emphasises that it is just one of many.
“Our tourism has changed and is/has been continually changing from the traditional of yesteryear,” he explains. The challenge now lies in nurturing high-value niches while curtailing those that have grown too large with lower returns.
As Malta navigates these transitions, SMEs remain an essential part of the equation. Their survival, as Mr Fenech highlights, hinges on their ability to evolve alongside the shifting landscape, ensuring they align with the growing demand for quality experiences.
The Malta Chamber of SMEs is proud to be a partner in tarmix.gov.mt, a new digital platform launched to reduce food waste across Malta. Spearheaded by the Malta Food Agency, this initiative connects businesses with surplus food to voluntary organisations that support those in need, creating a streamlined and impactful way to combat food insecurity.
Through this scheme, participating businesses not only contribute to a more sustainable food system but can also benefit from tax deductions, provided they submit valid proof of their food donations.
The SME Chamber, represented by Fabian Demicoli, joined other key partners in signing the official partnership agreement during a ceremony attended by Prime Minister Robert Abela and other dignitaries.
This collaboration reflects the Chamber’s ongoing commitment to sustainability, social responsibility, and supporting innovative solutions that benefit both businesses and the wider community.
Earlier today Malta Chamber of SMEs COO Mr Andrew Aquilina participated as a panellist during a high level conference, the European Employment and Social Rights Forum organised by the European Commission in Brussels.
The conference was also address by LinkedIn CEO Ryan Roslansky and Former Finnish Prime Minister Sanna Marin.
