PRESS RELEASE BY THE MINISTRY FOR THE ECONOMY, TECHNOLOGY AND STRATEGIC PROJECTS

The Opposition has once again chosen to focus on a single figure and present it in a misleading manner, while ignoring the broader picture reflected in the survey. Once again, it has opted to criticise everything without putting forward any credible alternatives or solutions.

The facts are clear: the proportion of respondents who believe that this is not a good time to invest has fallen from 32% to 22%, while the number of those who consider it a good time to invest has increased. This clearly confirms an improvement in business sentiment towards the Maltese economy, according to the very same survey to which the Opposition is referring.

The Government recognises that there is always room for improvement and is therefore continuing to work to enhance quality of life, strengthen the competitiveness of businesses, and steer the economy towards higher productivity and greater value-added, in line with the Malta Vision 2050.

This is being achieved through a number of concrete measures, including the MicroInvest scheme, which also supports wage increases; an annual investment of €100 million in automation, digitalisation, artificial intelligence and skills development; as well as Malta Enterprise schemes that help businesses invest in technology, boost productivity and reduce their reliance on low value-added work. At the same time, BusinessFirst continues to provide guidance and support to small and medium-sized enterprises.

The results of these measures are evident in the type of investment Malta is attracting in high value-added sectors such as medtech, semiconductors, microchips, esports and the digital industries. Malta will continue to benefit from a strong and resilient economy, creating more quality jobs and delivering sustainable economic growth, as recognised by international institutions including the IMF and the European Central Bank.

The Government calls on the Opposition to move beyond criticism for criticism's sake and to work together in the best interests of Maltese and Gozitan families. At a time of global economic challenges, our country needs seriousness, responsibility and a shared commitment to the national interest.