During a visit to the ST Microelectronics factory, where pilot projects for advanced digital and robotic equipment in Industry 4.0 are in progress, Prime Minister Robert Abela highlighted Malta’s potential to become a leading center for European innovation and technology in the semiconductor sector.

This initiative is part of the Important Projects of Common European Interest (IPCEI) program, which supports advanced technology research and development. At the Kirkop ST plant, innovative technological products are being developed to improve microchip manufacturing. The Prime Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting innovation at facilities like ST, which employs 1,800 people in Malta, and expressed optimism about the company’s future.

During the visit, where 2.7 million microchips are processed daily, Abela noted that many devices, from smartphones to cars, contain microchips made in Malta, underscoring Malta’s significant role in global technology.

“This is how we modernize our economy and create quality jobs for Maltese and Gozitan students in the most advanced technology sectors,” Abela said, showcasing the government’s drive for economic development.

Prime Minister Abela praised ST’s dedication to Malta and highlighted ongoing investments by Malta Enterprise and INDIS. Accompanied by Minister Silvio Schembri, Abela observed state-of-the-art technology for testing and packaging microchips for automotive and industrial uses, as well as AI-driven automated manufacturing.

Abela asserted that Malta is actively engaged in the global semiconductor industry debate, advocating for industrial competitiveness and innovation at the European level. He noted Malta’s involvement in the IPCEI program for Microelectronics and Communication Technology and stressed the importance of collaboration between industry and research, highlighted by a recent agreement with IMEC.

The Prime Minister concluded that ST’s initiatives will strengthen Malta’s ecosystem for innovation and semiconductor technology, modernizing the economy and providing excellent opportunities for Maltese and Gozitans, especially the youth.

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