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Between the 24 and 26th of February a delegation from the Malta Chamber of SMEs visited Tunisia to build stronger business ties and explore new opportunities.

Over three days, the SME Chamber delegation met with key officials, including Trade Minister Samir Abid and CEPEX CEO Mourad Ben Hassine, to discuss ways to boost trade and investment between the two countries.

They also connected with the Foreign Investment Promotion Agency (FIPA) to learn more about Tunisia’s business climate and investment incentives.

The visit was packed with B2B and B2G meetings, allowing Maltese and Tunisian businesses to exchange ideas and explore potential partnerships. In Sousse, the delegation visited Novation City, where they discussed innovation and industry trends, followed by structured networking sessions at CCI Sousse.

The delegation was composed of Mr Paul Abela, Mr Philip Fenech, Mr Joe Zerafa, Ms Joan Haber, Mr Dino Fino, Mr Karmenu Zamit, Mr Mario Debono, Mr Sergio Camilleri, Mr Beppe Muscat, Mr Joe Attard and Mr Jamie Tanti.
They also met Mr.Ben Anaya Huile, where they got a firsthand look at Tunisia’s olive oil production and export potential, reinforcing the many ways businesses from both nations can collaborate.

The SME Chamber would like to thank particularly H.E. Joseph Mario Sammut for his assistance throughout the visit.

The Malta Food Agency will soon be launching a platform aimed at reducing food waste while supporting communities and consumers. This initiative focuses on food products nearing their expiry dates by promoting establishments that significantly reduce their prices for consumers’ benefit. Additionally, businesses will have the option to upload details of food products approaching their expiry dates onto a new digital platform, where they can be donated to registered voluntary organisations.

The official launch is scheduled for the 10th of March, and interested businesses, particularly food retailers, are encouraged to participate.

If you are interested in attending kindly send an email on by not later than the 3rd of March 2025.

The Ministry for Education, Sport, Youth, Research and Innovation (MEYR), in consultation with the Malta College of Arts Science & Technology (MCAST), and the Malta Chamber of SMEs, would like to announce that it is currently receiving project proposals under the MCAST Research Fellowship Scheme.

The Malta Chamber of SMEs presented its official feedback on the proposed Malta Labour Migration Policy, emphasising the need for a balanced, practical, and business-friendly approach. Recognising labour shortages as a critical challenge, the SME Chamber advocates for policy adjustments that ensure efficiency without imposing undue burdens on businesses.

Key recommendations include extending work permit renewal periods from one to two years, revising fee structures to support new businesses, and enhancing direct access to Third-Country Nationals (TCNs).

The SME Chamber also calls for flexibility in workforce application limits, reconsideration of nationality quotas, and a streamlined recruitment process. It stresses the need for clearer definitions, reduced bureaucracy, and fairer employer obligations.

Moreover, proposals for seasonal work expansion, integration courses, and strategic partnerships aim to enhance workforce sustainability.

Ultimately, the SME Chamber urges a dynamic policy that supports both economic growth and fair labour practices, ensuring Malta remains competitive and attractive for investment.

Click here to download the full consultation document

SME Chamber President Mr. Paul Abela and Deputy President Mr. Philip Fenech met with MCESD President Architect David Xuereb as part of ongoing consultations regarding MCESD.

The discussion focused on key economic and business matters, reinforcing collaboration to support SMEs and enhance economic development in Malta.

 

Micro Invest Applications are now open! And we may assist you!

Did you know that you are entitled to claim between €50,000 and €70,000 or 45% of costs incurred as a business in Tax Credits?

The scheme operates retrospectively, and one can claim costs incurred in the previous year.

The upcoming deadline for self-employed to submit their applications is on the 26th March 2025 while the upcoming deadline for companies is the 28th of May 2025 .

Eligible costs include, amongst others:

• Increase in Wage Costs 
• Furbishing and refurbishing of Business Premises (including part of)
• Investment Costs (such as Computer hardware or development costs)
• Motor Vehicle Costs (commercial type vehicles)
• Security Systems
• Point of Sale Upgrades
• Website

The Malta Chamber of SMEs can take care of all the paperwork for you and make sure your application is submitted correctly, against a minimal administrative fee. Should you wish further information, please do not hesitate to get in touch with Ms. Bernice Sammut on 

Each participating SME owner will receive a €75 voucher

The Malta Stock Exchange Institute is organising an online focus group on February 13th from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Family-owned SME owners, as well as policymakers and politicians, are invited to participate in this session.

The focus group will bring together SME owners and key decision-makers in a collaborative 2-hour online discussion on the complexities of succession planning, while also addressing key challenges such as professionalization, financial stability, and innovation.

As a token of appreciation for their time and valuable insights on succession planning, each participating SME owner will receive a €75 voucher.

If you’re interested in joining the focus group, please send an email to .

 

This was a valuable opportunity for businesses looking to elevate their companies from good to great. Special thanks to Kastellvp for the insightful tips!

We have more exciting opportunities coming your way during 2025! Stay tuned as we organise more awesome events in the coming weeks.