Updated – Malta News Briefing – Thursday 9th July 2026

Updated 1100

Malta leads EU in daily generative AI use

Malta has emerged as the European Union’s top user of generative artificial intelligence, with adoption rates significantly above the bloc average. According to the latest Eurobarometer survey, 38% of Maltese respondents use generative AI tools daily for personal purposes, compared with an EU average of 20%. Malta also leads in workplace and educational use, with 39% reporting daily use for work or study. Tools such as ChatGPT, Google Gemini, Microsoft Copilot and Midjourney are among the most widely used examples of generative AI. The survey also found that adoption is accelerating rapidly, with 86% of Maltese users saying their use of generative AI has increased over the past year, including 55% who said it had increased significantly — the highest figures recorded across the EU.

More than 29,000 join Malta’s AI learning programme

More than 29,000 people have registered for and started the AI għal Kulħadd programme within seven weeks of its launch, reflecting strong public interest in developing basic artificial intelligence skills. The national educational initiative introduces residents aged 14 and over to the fundamentals of AI through three courses covering AI basics, its everyday applications and its use in learning. Participants who complete the courses and assessments receive certification and access to a one-year subscription to either ChatGPT Plus or Microsoft 365 Personal. So far, 15,839 participants have completed all three courses and received the additional benefits. The programme aims to provide users with the knowledge needed to understand and use AI tools safely and effectively in everyday life.

Morning Briefing

New Scheme Helps Businesses Cut Energy Costs and Improve Efficiency

A new government-backed scheme has been launched to help Maltese businesses reduce energy and water consumption while lowering operating costs and improving competitiveness. The Energy Performance Assessment for Enterprises Scheme offers tailored support to companies seeking practical ways to improve efficiency and strengthen long-term resilience. Low energy-consuming enterprises can benefit from a free assessment, including on-site visits and expert recommendations, while medium energy users may receive financial assistance to carry out detailed evaluations. Speaking at the launch, Energy Minister Miriam Dalli described energy assessments as a smart investment that would help businesses better understand their consumption and identify savings. The initiative forms part of Malta’s wider environmental objectives and supports the goals outlined in Malta Vision 2050. The scheme is open to businesses registered with the Malta Business Registry and self-employed individuals with a valid VAT number. Applications are now open through the Energy and Water Agency. (Maltatoday)

Agius Saliba Seeks Stronger Consumer Protection in EU Telecom Reform

Labour MEP Alex Agius Saliba has warned that proposed European Union telecommunications reforms could reduce competition and ultimately leave consumers facing higher prices and fewer choices. Acting as the Socialist and Democrats Group negotiator on the Digital Networks Act within the European Parliament, Agius Saliba has submitted 342 amendments aimed at strengthening the legislation. He argues that the European Commission’s proposal risks weakening the powers of independent national regulators responsible for overseeing the telecommunications sector and safeguarding fair competition. According to Agius Saliba, limiting the authority of these regulators could allow major telecom operators greater scope for anti-competitive practices, potentially affecting service quality and increasing costs for mobile and internet users. His proposed amendments seek to preserve strong consumer protections while ensuring telecommunications markets remain open, competitive and properly regulated. Negotiations on the legislation are expected to continue within the European Parliament before the final rules are agreed. (The Malta Independent)

Malta Records Highest-Ever IVF Success as 254 Babies Born

Malta achieved record results in assisted reproduction last year, with 254 babies born through IVF treatment and the country’s highest-ever pregnancy success rate. The Embryo Protection Authority’s annual report shows that 774 IVF procedures resulted in 249 pregnancies, while more than 2,000 applications for treatment approval were submitted during 2025. The national pregnancy rate climbed to almost 58%, significantly exceeding the European average. The Authority also reported a record ‘Take Home Baby’ rate of more than 45%, with Malta outperforming European benchmarks in both conventional IVF and donor-assisted treatments. Chief Executive Officer Simone Attard attributed the progress to legislative reforms introduced over recent years, which expanded access to IVF services for more couples and single individuals. Deputy Prime Minister and Health Minister Ian Borg said continued investment and legal reforms had helped many people realise their dream of starting a family, with almost 1,000 IVF babies now born in Malta. (TVM News)

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