Updated 1130
Malta’s Economy Stays Strong in Early 2026 Despite Slower Growth: Malta’s economy continued to grow strongly in the first quarter of 2026, although at a slower pace than the previous quarter, according to the Central Bank of Malta. Growth remained well above the euro area average, driven mainly by domestic demand. Employment and labour market activity strengthened further, with unemployment remaining below the eurozone average despite a slight increase. Inflation eased to 2.3% by March, while underlying inflation edged higher. Although the government deficit widened, Malta’s debt-to-GDP ratio fell and remained significantly lower than the euro area average. (The Malta Independent)
€1.4bn Sir Temi Zammit Hospital Tender Extended to October: The deadline for bids on the €1.4 billion Sir Temi Zammit geriatric hospital project has been extended from 15 July to 27 October following numerous requests for clarifications from prospective bidders. The Finance Ministry said the extension ensures procurement rules are followed while allowing sufficient time to address queries. The project involves the construction of a 300-bed hospital at St Vincent de Paul and its operation by a private concessionaire for 27 years, with the aim of easing pressure on Mater Dei Hospital. (Maltatoday)
Morning Briefing
Italian journalist links Maltese man to Sicily cash boat
An Italian investigative journalist has identified Maltese national Owen Jones as the alleged owner of a boat linked to the dumping of up to €750,000 into the sea off the Sicilian coast, although Jones has denied owning the vessel or having any connection to the cash. Giuseppe Bascietto said he identified Jones through a Maltese identity document and claimed information gathered during his investigation indicated Jones was aboard the vessel when it ran out of fuel near Casuzze on July 29. According to Italian reports, those on board allegedly threw two waterproof bags containing bundles of euro banknotes into the sea as the coastguard approached. Italian authorities have not confirmed Jones’s identity, ownership of the boat or his status in the investigation. Through his lawyer, Jones said the money was not his and that he had nothing to do with it. (Times of Malta)
MTA chief rejects claims Malta is facing overtourism
The Malta Tourism Authority has dismissed concerns that Malta is experiencing overtourism, arguing that rising visitor numbers are being balanced by shorter stays and a more even distribution of tourism throughout the year. Despite tourist arrivals reaching four million in 2025 and expected to rise to around 4.5 million this year, the average length of stay has fallen to 5.7 nights, compared with around 12 nights three decades ago. The MTA estimates that, even at the height of August, there are around 100,000 tourists in Malta at any one time. It also pointed to Eurostat data showing Malta had the least seasonally concentrated tourism industry in the European Union in 2025, with visitor numbers spread more evenly across the calendar rather than peaking heavily during the summer months. (The Malta Independent)
Government pledges health insurance for disciplined forces
Prime Minister Robert Abela has pledged that all members of Malta’s disciplined forces will receive health insurance as the government continues to strengthen support for frontline officers. Speaking during a visit to the Rapid Intervention Unit and Special Intervention Unit training grounds at Ta’ Kandja, Abela said investment in personnel, technology and training was an investment in the country’s security. The visit followed last week’s shooting in which two police officers were injured, one of them seriously. Abela toured training facilities, inspected operational vehicles and observed tactical exercises carried out by the specialised units. He praised officers for their service and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving their working conditions while continuing to equip the Police Force to respond effectively to emergencies and maintain public safety. (TVM News)
