Why We Must Incentivise Foreign-Owned Maltese Start-ups

Joseph Zammit Tabona, chair of Malta's Financial Services Advisory Council, recognises that Malta has become an attractive launchpad for international start-ups, drawn by the island's English-speaking environment, competitive incentives, excellent climate, and outstanding quality of life. However, he sees a valuable opportunity to transform these initial attractions into lasting commitments.

"Malta has successfully attracted start-ups from around the world. Now we have the exciting challenge of encouraging them to establish deep roots here and grow into major success stories," says Zammit Tabona. To achieve this, he proposes that Malta Enterprise could serve as a catalyst by creating specialised innovation hubs where start-ups collaborate more intensively and become magnets for local entrepreneurs to join this dynamic ecosystem.

This focus on innovation and entrepreneurship forms part of the broader MFSAC strategy, which has made impressive progress since its establishment in 2021. From 175 original action points refined to 76 carefully selected projects, the Council has achieved a remarkable 70% completion rate, with 29 projects already finished.

Driving Malta's Financial Services Excellence

"There are 15 working groups and countless talented professionals working together with one mission: to strengthen Malta's position as a leading financial services jurisdiction," Zammit Tabona explains. "The collective spirit driving this success exemplifies Malta's greatest strength."

The strategy is opening doors to exciting emerging sectors where Malta holds distinct competitive advantages. Family offices represent a particularly promising opportunity. "Malta is exceptionally well positioned to attract this sophisticated business – just look at the impressive number of super-yachts registered here. We already host several highly respected family offices, giving us an excellent foundation for growth."

Aircraft leasing is another sector experiencing impressive momentum in Malta. "Our leading legal firms have been successfully taking on significant international work, building valuable expertise. We're optimistic the legislation will be finalised by year's end, further strengthening Malta's position."

Joseph Zammit Tabona, chair of Malta's Financial Services Advisory Council, sees a valuable opportunity to transform these initial attractions into lasting commitments.

Building Malta's Talent Pipeline

Attracting and developing exceptional talent remains central to the strategy. The Council is conducting a comprehensive study with Identità Malta, the National Skills Council, and the Malta Institute of Accountants to identify sectors with the greatest opportunities. "This will significantly enhance the HR and education pillars of our strategy," notes Zammit Tabona.

"The remarkable economic activity Malta has achieved would never have been possible without our openness to international talent," he emphasises, highlighting the island's cosmopolitan appeal as a strength.

A Bright Future Ahead

Malta's impressive recovery from FATF greylisting demonstrates the nation's resilience and determination. Recent recognition confirms this progress.

For Zammit Tabona, the priority now is amplifying Malta's success story internationally. "We

must continue investing in international engagement and networking. The more effectively we communicate our achievements, the more the global business community will recognise Malta's exceptional potential."

By strengthening support for start-ups through innovation hubs and ecosystem integration, while continuing to excel in emerging sectors like family offices and aircraft leasing, Malta is positioning itself for sustained success. "Our financial sector will continue to shine brightly on the world stage, showcasing Malta's unique combination of heritage, innovation, and excellence."