Updated – Malta News Briefing – Monday 16 June 2025

Updated 1100

MIDI Seeks Exit Strategy as Manoel Island Plans Falter: MIDI has confirmed it is seeking a settlement with the Maltese government over the Manoel Island project, admitting the development is unviable without sustained political support. At its AGM, chairman Mark Portelli stressed that an agreement would be preferable to lengthy court battles. This follows a meeting with the Prime Minister, with sources hopeful for a resolution. Despite this, MIDI has formally denied breaching concession terms, arguing that it is entitled to a deadline extension of at least ten years. It also rejected government claims as baseless and warned of reputational damage. The €350.3 million project valuation includes Tigné Point, though the Manoel Island share remains unclear. MIDI reported over €3.7 million in losses last year. (Newsbook)

Sharp Rise in Crack Cocaine Use Reported by Agencies: Crack cocaine use has surged in Malta, with rehabilitation data showing it now rivals powdered cocaine as a leading addiction. In 2024, 35% of OASI Foundation clients were primarily addicted to crack, up from 19% in 2023. National agency Sedqa also reported a sharp rise, with 97 crack cases, second only to alcohol. OASI CEO Noel Xerri links the trend to increased coca production and a global heroin shortage, partly due to Afghanistan’s opium ban. Crack is more addictive than powdered cocaine, delivering a faster, more intense high and harsher crash. Former addict Clifford Galea Vella shared how the drug devastated his life, leading to massive debt and addiction-driven behaviours before recovery. (Times of Malta)

Morning Briefing

Regeneration plan for Grand Harbour announced
Prime Minister Robert Abela announced that an international firm has been appointed to draft a masterplan for the regeneration of the Grand Harbour. Speaking during a political event in Birgu, he said the project will prioritise community wellbeing and transform neglected zones like Marsa into vibrant spaces. The full plan is expected by the end of the year. He said that Marsa has enormous potential “to become one of the most beautiful zones in this country, and that is what the people who live in Marsa deserve, and that is what we will give them.” (The Malta Independent)

Nearly half of Maltese support euthanasia proposal
49.1% of respondents support legalising voluntary euthanasia for terminally ill adults with six months or less to live, according to a survey published on Sunday. Opposition stands at 29.1%, while 21.8% are undecided. Younger people are more supportive, with under-35s leading in favour, while pensioners are more likely to oppose. PL voters back the proposal more than PN voters. (Maltataoday)

Malta among top ecosystems for startup value
Malta has ranked among the top three ecosystems in the MENA region for ‘Bang for Buck’ in the 2025 Global Startup Ecosystem Report. The ranking highlights the country’s ability to generate strong startup outcomes with limited resources. Malta Enterprise’s targeted support and investor-friendly approach are credited for the ecosystem’s continued growth and resilience.Now in its 13^th edition, the GSER is considered the world’s most comprehensive research on startup ecosystems, drawing insights from more than five million companies across 350+ global ecosystems. In a year where many regions saw declines in startup performance, Malta stood out with its continued growth and ecosystem strength. (Times of Malta)