Updated 1300
Malta set to lead EU in economic growth and employment through 2026: Malta is set to remain the EU’s fastest-growing economy through 2025 and 2026, according to the European Commission’s Spring Economic Forecast. GDP is projected to grow by 4.1% in 2025 and 4.0% in 2026, following 6% growth in 2024. The expansion is driven by strong private and public consumption and robust exports, especially in tourism and financial services. Malta is also expected to maintain the EU’s lowest unemployment rate at 3.1%, with employment growth easing to sustainable levels. Inflation is forecast to slow, while wages are set to rise faster than prices, supporting household spending. The government deficit is projected to decline to 3.2% in 2025 and 2.8% in 2026, helped by reduced capital spending and lower subsidies. A slight dip in income tax revenues is expected due to bracket reforms. Malta’s debt-to-GDP ratio will stay below 48%, among the lowest in the EU. (Maltatoday)
Government ‘deeply concerned’ by fresh fighting in Tripoli – Ian Borg: Foreign Minister Ian Borg expressed deep concern over the recent violence in Libya, describing it as a key partner and close neighbour to Malta. Clashes in Tripoli left several dead and sparked protests demanding Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibah’s resignation. Borg said Malta is closely monitoring the situation and is ready to act if needed, citing the recent evacuation of 38 Maltese citizens from Tripoli. The unrest followed the assassination of militia leader Abdel Ghani al-Kikli, who had previously been granted a Schengen visa by Malta. Fighting erupted near areas where Maltese nationals were present, including the Corinthia Hotel. Borg echoed UN calls to protect civilians and support peace efforts. Libya remains unstable since Gaddafi’s fall in 2011. (Times of Malta)
New regulations announced to eliminate the abuse between local and foreign vegetables and fruit: Malta’s Agriculture Ministry has introduced new regulations to prevent foreign fruit and vegetables from being mixed with local produce in fields. Linked to the country’s agricultural trade systems, the rules aim to guarantee that products sold as Maltese or Gozitan are genuinely local. Black crates used at the Pitkalija market will now require mandatory labels to trace product origin. The measures, welcomed by farmers’ association president Malcolm Borg, are expected to support producers, sellers and build consumer trust. Malta Food Agency CEO Brian Vella said the system will act as a “passport” from field to market, ensuring transparency. An information campaign and meetings with sector stakeholders will support the rollout. Agriculture Minister Anton Refalo called it a key electoral promise. (TVM)
Morning Briefing
Labour MEP investigated after lobbying scandal emerges
Labour MEP Daniel Attard is under investigation by Belgian police after meeting a Huawei lobbyist at a football match last year. Authorities have requested the lifting of his parliamentary immunity. The request follows recent raids across Europe linked to alleged misconduct by Huawei lobbyists. Attard’s involvement emerged after investigators found he attended a match alongside a lobbyist under scrutiny. In a statement, Attard said he has asked European Parliament President Roberta Metsola to waive his immunity and allow a full investigation. He also requested to be heard by investigators and is consulting with the S&D group on any necessary steps, stressing he has “no involvement” in the case. (Times of Malta)
Malta, Jordan reach cooperation agreement
Malta and Jordan have signed new agreements to boost cooperation across sectors such as tourism, education, culture, water, and energy. The deals were signed during Prime Minister Robert Abela’s official visit to Amman, where he met with King Abdullah II. Abela described the visit as a key moment in the countries’ longstanding friendship and said the new framework will bring technical teams together to identify areas of mutual benefit. “In this spirit of partnership, we aim to continue enhancing our cooperation in various areas, and today we are advancing collaboration in tourism, education, culture, as well as in water and energy cooperation. The Framework Agreement for Cooperation being signed today will bring together technical teams from both our countries to identify areas of mutual interest that can benefit us all,” Abela said. (Maltatoday)
PN, PL trade barbs on cost of living
The Nationalist Party has warned that the cost of living in Malta continues to rise faster than in many other countries, with April statistics showing further increases, particularly in food prices. The PN blamed the crisis on the Labour government’s economic model, calling it a failure after 12 years, and criticised what it described as reckless public spending. It argued that while families and businesses struggle, the government remains out of touch and has no real solutions. The PN reiterated its proposals, including tax exemptions on part-time and overtime work, tax-free COLA, and support for importers and exporters. It also called for a new economic model focused on quality jobs and fair wages. In response, the Labour Party said it remains the only social guarantee for families, highlighting its commitment to wealth creation and targeted support. It accused the PN of opposing key measures aimed at easing cost-of-living pressures.
