National reform programme 2008-2010 Malta - European Commission

Microeconomic Pillar
The turbulent economic conditions being faced globally are posing a series of challenges to
Malta’s competitive environment. The Maltese Government is embarking on a number of
measures and reforms with a view to mitigate the impact of these challenges whilst at the
same time ensuring that Malta improves its attractiveness to foreign investors.
Within this context, Malta’s microeconomic pillar proposes actions which address unlocking
business potential, investment in knowledge and innovation, energy and climate change.
Further action is anticipated on:
• integrating a strategic approach to better regulation initiatives;
• strengthening competition;
• further aid schemes for new and existing businesses;
• facilitating business start-up as much as possible;
• refining the tourism product;
• investing in R&D infrastructures and initiatives;
• implementing the National ICT Strategy; and
• liberalisation of land public transportation.
In addition, Malta intends to continue focusing its efforts towards improving the environment
dimension of the country. Within this context, Government is embarking on a number of
initiatives which promote the generation of energy from renewable sources. Furthermore, the
Government also aims to diversify from its dependency on fossil fuels for the generation of its
power towards more sustainable and cleaner sources.
Unlocking Business Potential
Fostering the right environment in which businesses can operate is of fundamental
importance in pursuing the Lisbon objectives. The Maltese Government is committed towards
ensuring a competitive business environment and has embarked on a number of initiatives to
ensure that this objective is achieved.
In addition to the actions undertaken in addressing the Country Specific Recommendations
and Points to Watch namely, strengthening of the competition authority and the introduction of
a one stop shop, the new NRP is also focusing on new initiatives relating to:
• Better Regulation;
• the Small Business Act;
• Tourism;
• Public Land Transport Reform;
• Intellectual Property; and
• Services Directive.
Better Regulation – From ‘Red Tape’ to ‘Red Carpet Treatment
The Maltese Government believes that Better Regulation is a crucial element in improving
Malta’s competitiveness. Government’s vision aims to eliminate “red tape” whilst transforming
services to business and citizens into “red carpet” treatment.
Malta National Reform Programme 2008-2010 - 58 -