Tracking economy for Malta — coverage from the newsroom in Valletta.
Tourism · EconomyMalta welcomed 2.13M tourists in H1 2026—18% more visitors but shorter stays (5.6 nights avg). Gozo struggles with day-trippers, infrastructure strains year-round.
Economy · TransportationThree crew killed in Red Sea ship attack as Houthi threats force costly reroutes. Malta's maritime sector faces surging freight costs and insurance premiums.
Economy · National NewsRed Sea and Hormuz crises drive 25-40% shipping cost increases. How global conflicts affect grocery bills, medicine delivery, and fuel prices for Malta residents.
Economy · TechMalta invested €140.2m in R&D in 2024, but remains near EU bottom with just 0.51% GDP spending. Learn why this matters for tech jobs and innovation.
EconomyLearn Key Institute opens Msida campus in 2026, expanding Malta's higher education options. Affordable degrees from €6,000 yearly, work permits for international students, and €100M AI investment.
Economy · National NewsGovernment officer jailed 39 months for forging contractor cheques, stealing €18K on Qrendi project. Essential lessons for Malta homeowners commissioning builds.
Immigration · EconomyHuman trafficking surges 47% with AI and crypto enabling scam centers. Malta's financial hub status exposes residents to new risks as enforcement gaps widen.
Economy · TechBNF Bank's August 2026 disruption blocked transfers for days. Most services restored but international access issues linger. Second major outage since 2025.
Culture · EconomyMalta's entertainment industry faces an unpaid fees crisis. Eurovision stars including Ira Losco take legal action. Learn what this means for creative workers.