Prime Minister Abela at MHRA Budget 2026 Consultation, “Protect Everyone’s Investment While Focusing on Quality”

During a Budget 2026 consultation with the Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association (MHRA), Prime Minister Robert Abela emphasised that the Government will continue to protect everyone’s investment while steering the sector towards quality. He reiterated the Government’s commitment to strengthening the tourism sector, which remains a cornerstone of Malta’s national economy.

Highlighting the implementation of the National Tourism Strategy alongside the Malta 2050 Vision, the Prime Minister stressed that both initiatives prioritise quality over quantity. The focus, he said, is to attract tourists who value an authentic Maltese experience and who contribute positively to the local economy and communities.

Dr Abela noted that during the first eight months of this year, Malta recorded an 18.2% increase in tourist expenditure compared to the previous year. Additionally, Eurostat ranked Malta first in overnight stays, which rose by 12.7% in the first half of 2025. He stated that these results encourage the Government to continue policies that promote high-quality and sustainable tourism.

The Prime Minister described the MHRA as a key stakeholder in enhancing Malta’s tourism offering, emphasising the country’s growing connectivity. Starting next year, Malta will also see direct flights from the United States with Delta Airlines. This summer, Malta offered nearly 110 direct routes, alongside the entry of several new airlines.

The consultation meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Ian Borg, Ministers Clint Camilleri, Byron Camilleri and Chris Bonnet, Parliamentary Secretary Glenn Bedingfield, and Chief of Staff at the Office of the Prime Minister, Colonel Mark Mallia.

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