Business Profile
Economy: The agricultural sector is small, with potatoes the only major export commodity. Although Malta is an island, the fishing industry is also relatively insignificant. With few natural resources, governments have sought to develop the economy through tourism and export-dedicated manufacturing. Tourism now accounts for over a quarter of Malta's foreign exchange earnings. The industrial sector includes textiles, footwear and clothing (the most important of the new industries), plastics, printing, electronic components and electrical equipment. The old naval dockyards used by the British have now converted to operate as a commercial shipyard. Malta has developed close economic links with Libya, which has invested heavily in property and commerce on the island as well as supplying the bulk of the oil that meets the island's energy needs. France has become the principal market for exports, followed by the USA, Germany, Singapore, the UK and Italy. The main economic policy issue under debate in Malta is relations with the EU and the country's application for membership. The conservative Nationalist Party (PN) favours joining while the Maltese Labour Party is strongly opposed to membership. After a sudden withdrawal in 1996 of its original application, the PN administration reapplied in 1998, (it is now in the 'second wave'of potential applicants and may expect to join around 2010).
Business: English is widely spoken in business circles and, on the whole, Maltese business people have a conservative approach to business protocol. Punctuality is expected and appreciated and dress must be smart. The best months for business visits are October to May. Office hours: Mon-Fri 0830-1245 and 1430-1730, Sat 0830-1200. Some smaller offices close 1300-1600, opening again later.
Commercial Information: The following organisations can offer advice: Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Palazzo Parisio, Merchants Street, Valletta (tel: 242 191; fax: 237 822); or Malta Chamber of Commerce, Exchange Buildings, Republic Street, Valletta VLT 05 (tel: 233 873 or 247 233; fax: 245 223; e-mail: info@chamber.org.mt; website: www.chamber.org.mt).
Conferences/Conventions: The Conference Division of the Malta Tourism Authority can loan a free promotional video to conference and incentive organisers and is happy to assist with all initial enquiries. For further information, contact the Conference and Incentive Travel Division, 280 Republic Street, Valletta CMR 02 (tel: 234 448; fax: 239 077 or 220 401; e-mail: cit@visitmalta.com; website: www.visitmalta.com/CIT/).
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