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Malta’s 2050 vision unveiled: Less construction, more financial services
Malta’s Vision 2050 outlines a shift from rapid construction growth to a more balanced economy focused on financial services, high-end manufacturing, and aviation. Over the next 25 years, seven key sectors—shipping, aviation, financial services, manufacturing, tourism, gaming, and construction—are expected to grow 140%, reaching €18b by 2035. While GDP is forecast to rise to €38b, growth will slow from 10% to 5%. Key developments include a new maritime terminal, expanded fintech, and smart, vertical construction. Tourism and land reclamation will also play major roles. The plan features 90 initiatives and is open to public consultation until September, with implementation overseen by the prime minister to ensure a future focused on well-being, sustainability, and innovation. (Times of Malta)
Government to amend cannabis law
The government will amend cannabis laws and the Authority for the Responsible Use of Cannabis (ARUC) framework. Key changes include redefining cannabis to classify CBD as a non-psychoactive, non-narcotic substance, clarifying distinctions between psychoactive and non-psychoactive cannabinoids. This aims to address confusion around CBD flowers, which police currently treat as narcotics. Stricter rules for cannabis associations will be introduced, including tighter financial oversight and clearer distance requirements from schools and sports facilities. ARUC will regulate cannabis quantities based on membership, and penalties for minors and violations will increase sharply. Jurisdiction for cannabis offenses will shift to the Court of Magistrates. ARUC becomes the main regulator, except for medical cannabis, which remains under the Medicines Authority. (Maltatoday)
Government to invest in Longevity Medicine Clinics starting next year
Starting next year, the Maltese Government will invest in Longevity Medicine Clinics to shift healthcare from treatment to prevention, focusing on delaying age-related diseases. Health Minister Jo Etienne Abela announced the initiative on World Health Day, which spotlighted maternal care. He also raised concerns about Malta’s declining fertility rate and revealed plans to enhance the Mother and Child Unit at Mater Dei Hospital. The government will lower the bowel cancer screening age from 50 to 40 for earlier detection. Public Health Superintendent Charmaine Gauci highlighted rising maternal age and health risks, and emphasised equal healthcare access. MPs stressed the need to address lifestyle-related health risks, expand cancer screening, and invest further in Malta’s maternal healthcare workforce. (TVM)
Morning Briefing
Archbishop Scicluna warns against euthanasia and assisted suicide
Archbishop Charles Scicluna has urged society to distinguish between supporting the elderly in their final days and endorsing euthanasia or assisted suicide. Speaking at the launch of the Church’s ethical guidelines for elderly care in religious homes, he emphasized the need to let people die in peace without imposing a duty to die. Citing Pope Francis, he stressed the importance of accompanying the frail with dignity, rather than hastening death. The Archbishop warned against allowing personal or societal selfishness to dictate when a life should end. While opposing euthanasia, he left the broader discussion to social consciousness. His sentiments were echoed by Mgr. Prof. Emmanuel Agius, Dr. Antoine Vella, and President Emeritus Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca. (Maltatoday)
Government claims that 66% of Electoral Manifesto has been completed
Minister Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi said that the government has implemented 66% of its electoral manifesto within three years, demonstrating commitment to fulfilling promises. He pointed to early successes, such as amending IVF laws within the first 100 days. He also noted that 60% of budget measures stem from the manifesto. A dedicated ministry and office within the Prime Minister’s Office oversee progress through monthly reports, ensuring accountability. Since 2013, every administration has maintained a minister responsible for manifesto implementation.(TVM)
GWU supports European unions in defence of Minimum wage directive
The General Workers’ Union (GWU) has joined European unions in urging the EU to protect fair wages and collective bargaining as Denmark and Sweden challenge the Adequate Minimum Wage Directive in the EU’s Court of Justice. GWU Secretary General Josef Bugeja called the directive a “massive leap forward” in achieving the EU’s social goals, stressing that it must be upheld. Once fully implemented, the directive will raise wages for over 20 million low-paid workers and strengthen collective bargaining in 19 member states. Bugeja described it as a “lifeline” for struggling workers, essential for reducing wage inequality and in-work poverty across Europe. (Maltatoday)
