Malta's 2026 Budget Fuels Innovation and iGaming Expansion
- saskiavanvredenbur
- 3 days ago
- 1 min read
Malta's 2026 Budget demonstrates the country's commitment to strengthening its position as a global leader in iGaming and digital innovation - part of its strategy to drive economic growth and attract international investment.
Prime Minister Robert Abela and Finance Minister Clyde Caruana unveiled a forward-thinking proposal featuring innovative initiatives designed to enhance Malta's competitive edge in digital innovation, gaming, and technology-driven business sectors.
The government projects robust GDP growth of approximately 4.1%, significantly outpacing the EU average of just 1%, underscoring Malta's economic dynamism and sound fiscal management.
Prime Minister Abela emphasised: "We are building an economy that looks beyond short-term gains. Malta's strength lies in its ability to adapt and invest - from digital innovation to clean energy and creative industries."
Powering iGaming and Esports Excellence
Malta's 2026 Budget reinforces the country's position as Europe's premier gaming jurisdiction with substantial investments - €400,000 for the Malta iGaming Incubator, €4 million for new esports projects, and €900,000 to help Maltese businesses develop intellectual property.
The Malta Gaming Authority continues to demonstrate exceptional performance, generating €83 million in revenues last year and achieving an impressive €71 million surplus, showcasing the sector's robust health and professional management.
A new innovative framework tailored for gaming and other value-adding sectors will be introduced, complemented by the European Digital Innovation Hub. This cutting-edge facility will provide SMEs and start-ups with access to AI capabilities, high-performance computing, and cloud resources, positioning Malta at the forefront of technological advancement.
Finance Minister Caruana noted: "This Budget continues Malta's commitment to sustainable growth by investing in innovation, technology, and skills. We are building an economy that rewards enterprise and creativity."
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