MCESD Agrees to Commission Study on AI’s Impact on Malta’s Labour Market

The Maltese Council for Economic and Social Development (MCESD) has, in principle, agreed to commission a study examining how artificial intelligence (AI) will affect Malta’s labour market. This follows a request from Parliamentary Secretary for Social Dialogue, Andy Ellul, at the council’s most recent meeting.

The study will research how AI can be better utilised by Maltese businesses and its wider implications for the local workforce.

Speaking at the opening of the meeting, Parliamentary Secretary Ellul highlighted how government investments in the sector continue to develop the skills of Maltese and Gozitan workers, thereby improving their overall quality of life. He explained that AI’s influence is expanding across all sectors, and this study forms part of a continuous effort to evaluate how AI impacts both employment and the country more broadly.

Ellul stressed that AI could be a key pillar in the government’s long-term vision, including the wider adoption of remote working and the “Right to Disconnect”—part of a larger set of measures aimed at strengthening work-life balance.

He praised the productive discussion at the MCESD and acknowledged the constructive engagement of social partners. “The government plays a crucial role in raising discussion on issues that directly affect people’s lives,” he said, “whether one agrees with them or not, these debates are essential.”

Social partners recognised that while AI presents opportunities, it also poses challenges for Malta’s economy and labour market. There was unanimous agreement on the need for the country to be prepared for changes across various sectors, and that it is essential to study these forthcoming transformations.

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