Malta is a vibrant location with the right conditions for start-ups to launch, grow and scale-up their products and services. The concentration of industry players and talent make it an ideal breeding ground for new businesses to flourish.
A diverse and growing economy
Malta’s economy consistently scores high and stable credit ratings and positive forecasts. The country punches above its weight in economic growth making it to the top ranks of the fastest growing economies within the European Union. The diverse economic landscape Malta offers, coupled with robust legislative frameworks, has made it remarkably resilient with booming industries such as financial services, fintech, i-gaming, digital games, life sciences, pharma, R&D, maritime, aviation, and other niche sectors such as medical cannabis, AI, Internet of Things, cyber security, and big data.
A stable jurisdiction with government support
Malta is a dynamic jurisdiction with a reputation as one of Europe’s preferred locations for doing business thanks to its long-term economic, political, and social stability. Malta draws further jurisdictional strength as an EU member state, as part of the Schengen zone and the Eurozone, and as a member of the Commonwealth. The government, with its business-friendly approach, provides ever-growing support to entrepreneurs and startups.
Start-ups are at the heart of the economic development being driven by Government. Through Malta Enterprise a dedicated package for start-ups including grants and other non-dilutive assistance are in place. Those setting up their business in Malta could also access EU funding through which research and development, talent and collaboration could be fostered.
Other assistance related to providing you access to world renowned accelerator programmes, mentors and advisory services are in place.
A dedicated team will hand hold you throughout the whole setting up process and will continue to assist you throughout your business journey.
Such assistance creates new opportunities and boosts confidence in launching a business in Malta and realising one’s entrepreneurial dreams.
Access to diverse markets
With a Startup in Malta, one would directly access the European Union’s internal market of over 500 million people. Malta’s connections, however, are not limited to just this and is an ideal launch pad for accessing growing markets in Africa and the Middle East. An existing dedicated Agency – Trade Malta – will assist you in your internationalisation journey.
Innovative regulatory framework and robust legislative framework
Malta has established a great reputation for developing appropriate and robust legal and regulatory frameworks that do not over-regulate to promote growth and innovation. This is a result of Malta’s business friendly approach consolidated over the years.
Professional services
Malta has a diverse range of support businesses, corporate service providers, accounting and auditing, law, and consultancy firms to help new entrants make the most of the opportunities. From world-renowned corporations to small businesses providing specialized services, one can find the startup support needed within a thriving business ecosystem.
Well-connected
With direct flights to major financial and commercial centres such as London, Frankfurt, Paris, Dubai, Istanbul, Amsterdam, and Madrid, Malta is well connected to every major European city as well as key destinations in North Africa and the Middle East. One can also find a business aviation industry with private jet operations that offer flexible travel options.
English speaking
The Maltese language is the national language of Malta, but English is an official language and it is widely used as a second language. It is not uncommon for people to speak English due to the language being the preferred one for doing business. Additionally, government services, laws, banking, educational set ups, media, and road signs are also available in English making it easier for expats in Malta.
Convenient time zone
Malta finds itself in a perfect time zone, the Central European Time which is one hour ahead of the Greenwich Mean Time. Office hours in Malta coincide with Asia in the morning, Europe throughout the day, and the Americas in the afternoon. Basing your team here makes you reach your global clients anywhere!
Attractive talent pool with a strong work ethic
The Maltese are known for their strong ambition and can-do attitude due to the British-influenced work ethic that has been passed down through generations. Malta provides highly qualified, experienced professionals who are well-educated in a wide range of specialisations. Malta has attracted thousands of expats as it has grown into a modern business hub, making it an expat worker hotspot.
Nowadays, more than 25% of those working in Malta are expats and come from all over the globe. This shows the attractiveness that Malta has amongst expats.
Furthermore, highly qualified expats can also benefit from specific personal taxation programmes that effectively reduce personal income tax to 15%.
Robust telecommunications and data infrastructure
Multiple investments in telecoms have put Malta at Europe’s forefront with the widest coverage of high-speed broadband internet coverage and 5G nationwide. It’s easy to work from anywhere when you’re in Malta, including at sea.
Modest costs
Known for a pro-business attitude it’s easy doing business in Malta. The cost of operations in Malta is modest and research shows that startup capital may last longer due to Malta being 20% to 30% cheaper than other European centres.
Malta – a perfect second home
The Mediterranean island-nation of Malta is rich in history, culture and natural beauty. It is also a safe and welcoming place that provides expats and their families with a high standard of living and peace of mind, letting entrepreneurs focus on their business.
It is the world’s second safest country and a welcoming nation where expats feel immediately at ease and secure. The country is a progressive society boasting the best LGBTIQ+ rights in Europe.
Malta’s healthcare system is among the best in the world, with public and private hospitals, local clinics, and public health centres providing excellent care. Malta also provides world-class education, with a variety of state, church, and private schools focusing on high academic achievement as well as extra-curricular personal development.
This is all presented with a backdrop of the Maltese unhurried lifestyle, 300 days of sunshine a year, and a place where there is always something to do for anyone.