Updated 1230
Malta Among Europe’s Most Affordable for Electricity, Eurostat Finds: Malta recorded some of the lowest electricity prices in Europe in the second half of 2025, according to Eurostat. Since 2020, the country has kept energy prices stable, contrasting with sharp increases across much of Europe. Adjusted for income and cost of living, Malta ranks as the most affordable EU member state, with countries like Romania and Czech Republic showing significantly higher costs. Energy Minister Miriam Dalli said the stability reflects a long-term strategy focused on consumer protection and investment in cleaner energy. (Maltatoday)
Outbound Travel by Maltese Residents Surges in Early 2026: New figures published by the National Statistics Office show a strong rise in outbound travel among Maltese residents during the first quarter of the year. Between January and March, residents undertook more than 205,000 trips abroad, an increase of 13.5 per cent compared to the same period in 2025. The data also indicates a sharper rise in overnight stays, which grew by 23.2 per cent to exceed 1.6 million nights. On average, travellers spent nearly eight nights abroad per trip, with most opting for non-rented accommodation such as staying with friends or relatives. The data confirms that Italy continues to be the most popular destination for Maltese travellers. Nearly one in three residents who travelled abroad between January and March chose Italy, reinforcing its long-standing appeal due to proximity, connectivity and cultural ties. (TVM News)
MUT Calls for AI as Core Subject in National Curriculum: The Malta Union of Teachers has proposed making Artificial Intelligence a compulsory element of Malta’s national curriculum, as part of a broader push to modernise the education system. In a set of recommendations issued ahead of the 30 May general election, the union argued that students must be equipped with skills relevant to an increasingly digital economy. At the same time, the MUT warned against excessive reliance on technology in classrooms, particularly at early education levels, calling for a more balanced and evidence-based approach. It also proposed the creation of a permanent, politically independent education commission to guide long-term strategy. The union’s proposals reflect growing international debate on how education systems should adapt to rapid technological change, while ensuring that core learning outcomes are not compromised by overdependence on digital tools. (The Malta Independent)
Morning Briefing
Chevron Secures Offshore Study Licence in Malta Waters
Global energy company Chevron has signed an exploration study agreement with the Maltese government covering four offshore areas south of the island, marking a renewed phase of interest in Malta’s hydrocarbon potential. The agreement, signed on 24 April, will see the company carry out geological and geophysical desktop studies using existing data, a preliminary step ahead of any potential drilling. Chevron described the move as part of its broader Mediterranean strategy, where it already operates across Greece, Cyprus and Egypt. The development could place Malta back on the regional energy map after years of limited activity in the sector. (Times of Malta)
Free Ferry Service Links Sliema, Bugibba and Gozo
A new fast ferry route connecting Sliema, Bugibba and Gozo has been launched, extending Malta’s free public transport model to additional maritime links. The service was inaugurated by Prime Minister Robert Abela, who confirmed that travel between Sliema and Bugibba will be offered at no cost. Journeys between the two localities are expected to take around 30 minutes, providing commuters with an alternative to road travel while strengthening links with Gozo. The route complements existing sea connections from Valletta and Ċirkewwa. Abela said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to expanding public services despite wider European trends towards austerity. The move is expected to improve accessibility and reduce pressure on Malta’s road network, although questions remain over the long-term financial sustainability of free transport across both land and sea. (Maltatoday)
PN Proposes €500m Maritime Fuel Hub at Hurd’s Bank
Opposition leader Alex Borg has unveiled plans for a €500 million Mediterranean Maritime Fuel Hub, aimed at establishing Malta as a regional centre for modern bunkering services. The proposal includes the development of an offshore terminal at Hurd’s Bank to accommodate LNG-powered vessels, a capability currently lacking in Malta. The Nationalist Party estimates the project could generate around €450 million within its first three years and create approximately 150 jobs, supported by a dedicated maritime academy. Funding is expected to come from a mix of European funds and private investment. A key element of the plan involves relocating the existing gas tanker from Marsaxlokk Bay to the offshore site, a move Borg said would address long-standing concerns while maintaining energy operations. The proposal positions the project as both an economic opportunity and a strategic shift in Malta’s maritime sector. (TVM News)
