MEIA Says Budget 2027 Funding Is Not Enough Without Cultural Sector Reform

The Malta Entertainment Industry and Arts Association (MEIA) has warned that Budget 2027 fails to adequately address the cultural sector’s longstanding challenges, despite recognising its growth and economic contribution.

In its reaction, MEIA argued that increased public spending alone will not ensure sustainability without structural reform, fairer resource distribution and better support for independent artists and organisations.

The association criticised culture’s limited attention in the national Budget, arguing that it should be recognised as a distinct economic and professional sector.

MEIA also highlighted the lack of a mechanism to reinvest tourism revenue into culture, despite the sector’s contribution to Malta’s tourism offering. It called for ring-fenced funding to reduce dependence on annual public allocations.

While acknowledging the €350,000 allocation for creative spaces, MEIA noted that the funding came a year later than anticipated and stressed the need for transparent governance and accessibility.

The association also raised concerns about the Arts Support Scheme remaining unchanged, unresolved VAT challenges, the lack of a promised cash rebate for cultural productions and insufficient incentives for private sponsorship and investment.

MEIA said the Budget continues to prioritise funding announcements over the systemic changes needed to strengthen the sector.

It added that it will continue seeking clarification on the implementation of announced measures while advocating for long-term support structures, fair working conditions and a more sustainable cultural ecosystem.

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Source: Malta Entertainment Industry and Arts Association (MEIA)