Updaed 1230
Bernard Grech Resigns as PN Leader
Bernard Grech has resigned as leader of the Nationalist Party, announcing his decision in a televised statement at noon on Tuesday. His resignation came two days after a MaltaToday survey showed the PN trailing Labour by 39,000 votes. The results reversed gains made in last year’s European Parliament elections, dealing a blow to party supporters. Discontent had also been growing within PN ranks. Grech, who turned 54 on Sunday, took over the leadership in 2020, defeating Adrian Delia with 69% of the vote during a turbulent time for the party. He said that over the course of his leadership, the PN had narrowed the gap with Labour, particularly during the recent European Parliament elections. He expressed hope that whoever follows him, will take the Party forward.
Malta ratifies High Seas Treaty at the UN Ocean Conference: Malta officially ratified the UN High Seas Treaty, becoming the 38th country to endorse this key environmental agreement aimed at protecting marine biodiversity beyond national borders. Deputy Prime Minister Ian Borg submitted Malta’s ratification at the UN Ocean Conference in Nice, France. The treaty, which needs 60 ratifications to take effect, supports the goal of protecting 30% of global land and seas by 2030. Borg also attended the “For a more connected Mediterranean” summit, highlighting Malta’s commitment to enhancing maritime, digital, and infrastructure connectivity, while stressing the importance of balancing innovation with climate action. He also participated in the World Islands Forum on maritime transport decarbonisation alongside leaders from Tuvalu and Belize.
Project Green explores private-public partnership to maintain parks and valleys: Project Green is exploring a public-private partnership (PPP) to manage and maintain parks and valleys under its care. A preliminary market consultation has been launched to assess private sector interest in a five-year PPP covering upkeep, servicing, and safety. The initiative is part of Project Green’s strategic plan for 2025–2027 and aims to enhance resources, capabilities, and quality standards. Separately, the agency will issue a tender later this year for smart technologies, including IoT and AI systems, to better manage green spaces. Project Green currently oversees 1.2 million square metres of open spaces, expected to grow by 100,000m² annually, and is managing 120 projects valued at €350 million.
Morning Briefing
Psychiatrist and boxer charged over fake certificates
A psychiatrist and a boxing trainer have been charged after the latter used fake medical certificates to justify breaching bail. Mark Xuereb, 53, and Scottish trainer Scott Dixon, 48, both of Sliema, were arraigned on Monday. Dixon, out on bail since a 2009 cannabis case, had stopped signing the bail book, despite a €15,000 deposit and €25,000 personal guarantee. When police moved to re-arrest him, Dixon submitted several dubious medical certificates to the court. This triggered a Criminal Court investigation, leading to both men’s arrest. Xuereb, founder of Crisis Resolution Malta, is accused of issuing false medical certificates and providing misleading information to authorities. Dixon faces charges of document forgery, using false documents, failing to update ID records, and breaching bail. Both pleaded not guilty and were released on bail. (Maltatoday)
1500 more people retiring each year than entering the workforce – Minister
Malta faces a growing labour challenge, with 1,500 more people retiring each year than entering the workforce, Home Affairs and Employment Minister Byron Camilleri told Parliament. During a debate on JobsPlus’ financial estimates, he said the government was acting to limit third-country nationals in sectors that don’t need them, while protecting those that do. The Labour Migration Policy, shaped through ongoing consultation, will be introduced gradually to avoid economic disruption. Camilleri highlighted Malta’s labour force participation rate—now 87%, among the EU’s highest—and record-low unemployment. JobsPlus is focusing on education and upskilling to maintain competitiveness. Opposition Shadow Minister Ivan J. Bartolo acknowledged progress but questioned why 17 young people leave Malta daily, often highly skilled. He urged investment in future-focused sectors like AI, robotics, and green jobs to create fulfilling careers, not just employment. (Times of Malta)
Malta records €401.3m trade deficit in April 2025
Malta registered a trade deficit of €401.3 million in April 2025, according to the National Statistics Office (NSO). Compared to April 2024, imports rose by €10.2 million, while exports fell by €26.8 million. Between January and April 2025, total imports from the European Union reached €1,575.1 million, making up 60.4% of Malta’s total imports. The largest increase in imports came from Portugal, while imports from Spain declined the most. On the export front, the NSO reported a significant increase in goods sent to Turkey, while the biggest drop in exports was to the United States. These shifts reflect changing trade dynamics and market demands within key international markets.
