Malta Set to Remain EU’s Fastest-Growing Economy Until 2027
Malta is expected to remain the European Union’s fastest-growing economy over the next two years, according to the European Commission’s latest spring economic forecast. The report projects Malta’s economy will grow by 3.7% this year and 3.6% in 2027, significantly above the EU average growth rates of 1.1% and 1.4% respectively. The Commission attributed Malta’s strong performance largely to the resilience of its services sector, particularly tourism, which it said exceeded expectations during 2025 despite continued geopolitical uncertainty internationally. Employment growth is also forecast to remain among the strongest in Europe, with jobs expected to increase by 3.9% this year while unemployment stays close to 3%. The report indicated that the fiscal deficit was projected to decline from 3.4% in 2024 to 2.2% next year, supported by stronger tax revenues and economic expansion. However, the Commission warned of increasing government expenditure, including higher public sector wages. (TVM News)
Driver in Sliema Crash Held Maltese Licence Despite Lacking Residence Permit
A man accused of causing a devastating crash in Sliema that left a delivery worker with a leg amputated had allegedly obtained a Maltese driving licence despite not holding a valid residence permit, a court heard on Thursday. Ahmed Tahruni, 33, faces multiple charges including causing grievous injuries through dangerous driving, driving without insurance, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and operating a Y-plate vehicle without the necessary permit. Inspector Clive Abela told the court that police had discovered a driving licence issued to Tahruni by Transport Malta in November 2025. At the time, Tahruni was reportedly classified as an asylum seeker and did not possess a valid Maltese residence permit. Police are now investigating how the licence was issued, given that Transport Malta’s regulations require applicants to hold a valid Maltese ID or residence card and prove they have lived in Malta for at least 185 days. (Times of Malta)
MEP says party would veto EU online gaming tax
A future Nationalist government would immediately block any EU-wide tax on online gaming, according to MEP David Casa, who warned that the proposal could severely damage Malta’s economy. Addressing the European Parliament during a debate on new EU revenue streams, Casa criticised Socialist-backed proposals for an EU online gaming tax, describing them as economically harmful and legally flawed. He argued that such measures would place EU-licensed operators at a disadvantage while encouraging companies to relocate outside the bloc and pushing consumers towards illegal and unregulated platforms. Casa stressed that Malta would be among the countries hardest hit by any such reform, noting that more than 10% of the country’s GDP is linked to the online gaming sector, which supports thousands of jobs. Casa also pointed out that EU own-resource measures require unanimous approval from member states, insisting that a future PN administration would “veto it without hesitation”. He urged EU institutions to focus instead on alternative funding mechanisms that do not undermine legitimate industries or European competitiveness. (The Malta Independent)
