“By adopting progressive economic policies, today we are in a much stronger position than countries that went for the short-term attractiveness of austerity,” Prime Minister Robert Abela said. Malta enters 2025 with record investor confidence and 90% growth in planned investments, as nearly eight in ten foreign investors now view Malta as an attractive destination.

Malta Attracts Record Investor Confidence with 90% Planning Growth

Malta is entering 2025 with renewed strength and growing confidence from both the public and the business community. The EY Malta Attractiveness Survey 2025, published today, shows that 79 per cent of foreign investors now view Malta as an attractive destination for business, up sharply from 54 per cent last year.

Nine out of ten investors plan to maintain or expand their operations in Malta over the next year, confirming their long-term trust in the country’s economic environment. Only one per cent said they intend to exit.

During the conference, Prime Minister Robert Abela said: “By adopting progressive economic policies, today we are in a much stronger position than countries that went for the short-term attractiveness of austerity.”

He added that the support we gave families and business meant that we managed to protect the productive capacity of our nation.

Malta’s economy continues to outperform the European average. Real GDP grew by six per cent in 2024 and is projected to rise by four per cent in 2025. Tourism remains a major driver, with 3.5 million visitors recorded in 2024, nearly 20 per cent more than before the pandemic. Unemployment is at a record low of 2.5 per cent, while inflation has stabilised around the European Central Bank’s two per cent target.

Investors highlighted Malta’s corporate tax framework, stable social climate and strong digital infrastructure as leading advantages. Confidence in the transparency and predictability of Malta’s legal and regulatory system also improved significantly, marking a clear step forward in competitiveness.

Technology and innovation are at the heart of this renewed optimism. Malta’s appeal as a tech hub has strengthened, with 71 per cent of investors rating it as competitive or better than other European countries. Artificial intelligence is seen as the leading opportunity, with more than four in ten investors planning AI-related investments in 2025.

Growth remains broad-based, spanning tourism, gaming, fintech, aviation and maritime services. New direct air links, including routes to the United States, are expected to open higher-value markets for business and tourism alike.

The overall message from this year’s survey is one of confidence and progress. Malta is proving that a small economy can continue to achieve big results through stability, innovation and adaptability.