“Overlooking The 4-Day Week Implications Risks Damaging Malta’s Economy,” Says The Malta Chamber

The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry has expressed concern over the Opposition Leader’s recent proposal to introduce a 4-day work week, warning that such a shift requires “careful and open discussion.”

In its statement, the Chamber noted that while “the concept of a reduced work week is a topic of global debate,” Malta must “move beyond brief statements that raise more questions rather than give answers and sustainable solutions.”The organisation emphasised that “only through thorough and objective analysis can the interests of employers, employees, and the broader economy be safeguarded.”

The Chamber warned that “a shift to a 4-day work week would have significant negative effects in several key areas, including productivity, output, labour costs, and international competitiveness.”

It pointed out that sectors such as “manufacturing, hospitality, health and care homes – would face immediate challenges,” particularly given Malta’s “low productivity” and “significant dependence on foreign labour.”

Before any implementation, the Chamber called for “a comprehensive national socio-economic study” to fully assess the implications. It urged political leaders to avoid “descending into the traditional populist game,” stressing that “unsound measures and irresponsible proposals will be borne by taxpayers.”

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