Malta Last update: 2018 1 MEMBER STATES' ANNUAL TOURISM

Country: Malta

Last update: 2018

MEMBER STATES' ANNUAL TOURISM REPORTING TEMPLATE

Article 3 of Council Decision 86/664/EEC

of 22 December 1986 establishing a consultation

and cooperation procedure in the field of tourism stipulates that:

"...each Member State shall send the Commission, once a year, a report on the most

significant measures it has taken and, as far as possible, on measures it is considering taking

in the provision of services for tourists which could have consequences for travellers from the

other Member States. The Commission shall inform the other Member States thereof".

The following reporting form aims at facilitating compliance with this Council Decision.

SECTION 1 TOURISM ORGANISATION AND GOVERNANCE

This section is aimed at reporting on the following:

 Administrative organisation

 Territorial organisation

 Organisation and links between the national tourism authority and the provinces

/ regions

 Organisation and links between the national tourism authority and industry

associations, stakeholders and customers

1.1. Please provide a short description of the administrative and territorial organisation

of public bodies responsible for tourism, indicating the relationship and cooperation

between national, regional and local bodies of the core responsibilities and competences

of each department (Max. 3000 characters)

Ministry for Tourism

The mission of Malta’s Ministry for Tourism is to establish and execute a tourism policy,

which is based on the principles of sustainable tourism development – aimed at contributing

to economic growth whilst respecting the heritage and environment of the Maltese islands.

The Ministry is responsible for:

 Formulating long-term tourism policies based on a suitable, sustainable framework;

 Effectively delivering tourism policies; and

 Monitoring its implementation at national level.

The following are the main entities, contributing directly or indirectly to the tourism industry,

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Country: Malta

Last update: 2018

falling under the responsibility of the remit of the Ministry for Tourism:

Malta Tourism Authority (MTA)

Acting as the tourism industry’s regulator and motivator, the MTA maintains and manages

significant partnerships with all tourism stakeholders and advises the Government on the

planning and development of the tourism industry as well as on the infrastructure supporting

the industry. The MTA is Malta’s main brand promoter and works to promote Malta as a

tourism destination. Its mission also includes licensing, monitoring and control of

accommodation and catering establishments, travel agencies, incoming tourism agencies and

destination management companies, tourist guides and organised excursion operators.

Conventions Malta

Conventions Malta was set up in 2015, within the MTA, in order to promote Malta, Gozo and

Comino as a destination for foreign conventions and congresses. It focuses on research and

planning, marketing and promotion, product development and quality assurance. Conventions

Malta offers free of charge, unbiased information and assistance to event organisers looking

or planning to host their next event on our shores. Conventions Malta does not operate on a

commercial basis.

The Institute of Tourism Studies (ITS)

The ITS is an institution of higher education. Its mission is to provide quality learning to

achieve excellence in tourism. It focuses its resources towards the development of inclusive

academic and vocational programmes.

The Mediterranean Conference Centre (MCC)

The MCC, offers versatile spaces for a vast range of events: theatrical performances,

banquets, exhibitions, product launches, conferences and conventions. It provides the

necessary infrastructure and ancillary conference facilities to host especially large-scale

events.

The Foundation for Tourism Zone Development

The Foundation for Tourism Zone Development works to improve the tourism product and

takes care of major projects in various tourism zones.

The Grand Harbour Regeneration Corporation (GHRC)

The GHRC, is a project management services company which focuses on ensuring that

Malta’s capital city, Valletta, the Grand Harbour and its immediate surroundings, retain their

distinctive quality. The GHRC has implemented several major national projects.

Malta Marittima

The agency brings industry and government stakeholders together, to promote the

development of marine and maritime industries in Malta.

The Malta Film Commission

The Commission supports the local filmmaking community and strengthens the film servicing

sector. Since 2013, the implementation of new strategy has led to an unprecedented growth in

the local industry, with over 50 productions filmed in Malta resulting in more than €200

million in foreign direct investment to Malta’s economy. The Commission’s efforts resulted

in positive financing incentives, for e.g., the Malta Film Fund and a Co-Production Fund. The

Malta Film Commission has also instituted policies within its framework to be better

Country: Malta

Last update: 2018

equipped to harness the potential of screen tourism together with MTA.

Initiatives carried out between the MFC and the MTA include:

 A project to erect signs around Valletta, and eventually around all the Maltese islands,

identifying film locations and the planning of a movie map.

Masterclass training for licensed tourist guides about Malta's film heritage.

1.2. Please provide an organisation chart reflecting the above described administrative and

territorial organisation.

1.3. Please list and describe briefly the relationship and main areas of cooperation

between national/regional public tourism bodies and the most significant / active

private organisations / stakeholders / industry associations /unions / consumer

organisations. (Max. 1500 characters)

The Ministry for Tourism and the MTA maintain close ties with:

 The airline industry: Connectivity plays a crucial role on the growth of air traffic,

the economy and tourism.

 The Malta Air Traffic Services (MATS) is the Air Navigation Service Provider for

Malta.

 The Malta International Airport (MIA) is Malta’s only airport and plays a crucial

role in providing an enjoyable visitor experience.

 The Institute of Tourism Studies (ITS) is the government’s tourism education

institution and plays an important role in training the hospitality industry personnel.

 Malta Marittima (MMA) promotes the development of the marine and maritime

Country: Malta

Last update: 2018

industries in the Maltese Islands.

 The Institute for Tourism, Travel and Culture at the University of Malta: The

Institute established a strong international research and consultancy portfolio.

 The National Commission for Persons with Disability (CRPD): The Commission

provides guidance on improving accessible tourism.

 The Planning Authority: The Authority is responsible for land use and regulation.

 The Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association (MHRA) represents hotel or

restaurant entrepreneurs.

 The Federated Association of Travel & Tourism Agents (FATTA) represents

travel and tourism agents and is an important stakeholder in tourism.

 The Professional Diving Schools Association of Malta, Gozo & Comino (PDSA)

provides information related to scuba diving.

 The Federation of English Language Teaching Organisations (FELTOM)

constitutes an important stakeholder pertaining to the teaching of the English

language, an important tourism niche.

 The General Retailers and Traders Union (GRTU) represents a wide range of

business sectors such as accommodation, transporters, catering/restaurants and foods,

and supermarkets and acts as the voice of small businesses.

 Heritage Malta (the national agency for museums, conservation practice and cultural

heritage) ensures that cultural heritage sites entrusted to it are protected and made

accessible to the public.

 The Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority (MCCAA) safeguards

consumers’ interests and enhances their welfare.

 The Gozo Tourism Association The association incorporates all sectors in the

tourism industry including the hotels, restaurants, diving centres, self-catering

establishments, estate agents, tourist attractions and other sectors related to or having

a direct interest in tourism.

 The Malta Union of Tourist Guides.

 The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry. Its principal mission

is to actively represent companies from all economic sectors and ensure that

entrepreneurs enjoy the best competitive environment and regulatory conditions

possible for the conduct of business.

 Gozo Business Chamber is open to anyone who operates a business in Gozo or from

Gozo. It promotes the common interests of business operators in Gozo

 Yachting Malta is a public private partnership between the Government of Malta and

the Royal Malta Yacht Club and its primary role is to identify and attract high profile

yachting events to the Maltese Islands, including sailing regattas, power racing, boat

shows, yachting awards & conferences.

 Malta Enterprise is the country’s economic development agency, tasked with

attracting new foreign direct investment as well as facilitating the growth of existing

operations.

Country: Malta

Last update: 2018

1.4. What is the existing national/regional specific legislation on tourism? (Max. 500

characters)

Enacted in 1999, the MALTA TRAVEL AND TOURISM SERVICES ACT (CHAPTER 409)

makes provision for:

 the promotion of tourism;

 the regulation of tourism services and operations;

 the establishment of an authority with powers;

 other related matters.

The current MALTA TRAVEL AND TOURISM SERVICES ACT (CHAPTER 409) constitutes

ACT XII of 1999, as amended by Acts XXVI of 2000 and VI of 2001, Legal Notices 512 of

2004 and 426 of 2007; and Acts XXIII of 2009, and XII and XXXIV of 2016.

Moreover, the following are the corresponding Subsidiary Legislation to the MALTA TRAVEL

AND TOURISM SERVICES ACT (CHAPTER 409):

 Subsidiary Legislation 409.02 – Protection of Consumers (Timeshare, Long-Term

Holiday Product, Resale and Exchange Contracts) Regulations (Legal Notice 109 of

2011);

 Subsidiary Legislation 409.03 – Fees Payable on the Filing of Judicial Acts in

connection with Appeals Regulations (Legal Notice 115 of 2001, as amended by

Legal Notice 426 of 2007);

 Subsidiary Legislation 409.04 – Tourism Accommodation Establishments

Regulations (Legal Notice 351 of 2012, as amended by Legal Notice 407 of 2014);

 Subsidiary Legislation 409.05 – Fees (Tourism) Regulations (Legal Notice 125 of

2002, as amended by Legal Notices 184 of 2002, 100 and 157 of 2003, 87 and 284 of

2005, 426 of 2007, and 4 and 148 of 2013);

 Subsidiary Legislation 409.06 – Malta Tourism Authority (Special Procedure)

Regulations (Legal Notice 126 of 2002, as amended by Legal Notices 185 of 2002

and 426 of 2007);

 Subsidiary Legislation 409.07 – Tourism Appeals Board Regulations (Legal Notice

127 of 2002);

 Subsidiary Legislation 409.08 – Tourism Operations (General) Regulations (Legal

Notice 128 of 2002, as amended by Legal Notices 186 of 2002, 409 of 2004, 85 of

2005, 426 of 2007, 270 of 2009 and 289 of 2010);

 Subsidiary Legislation 409.09 – Travel Operators and Organised Excursion

Operators Regulations (Legal Notice 129 of 2002);

 Subsidiary Legislation 409.10 – Host Family Accommodation Regulations (Legal

Notice 130 of 2002);

 Subsidiary Legislation 409.11 – Holiday Premises Regulations (Legal Notice 131 of

2002, as amended by Legal Notice 86 of 2005);

 Subsidiary Legislation 409.12 – Tourist Guides Regulations (Legal Notice 288 of

2010, as amended by Legal Notices 426 of 2012, 161 of 2013 and 270 of 2016);

 Subsidiary Legislation 409.13 – Recreational Diving Services Regulations (Legal

Notice 359 of 2012);

 Subsidiary Legislation 409.14 – Bed and Breakfast (Operations) in Tourist

Country: Malta

Last update: 2018

Accommodation Establishments Regulations (Legal Notice 174 of 2004, as amended

by Legal Notice 426 of 2007, revoked by Legal Notice 351 of 2012);

 Subsidiary Legislation 409.15 – Catering Establishments Regulations (Legal Notice

175 of 2004, as amended by Legal Notices 426 of 2007 and 290 of 2010);

 Subsidiary Legislation 409.16 – Timeshare and Timeshare-like Products Promotion

(Licensing of OPC representatives) Regulations (Legal Notice 287 of 2010);

 Subsidiary Legislation 409.17 – Injunctions for the Protection of the Interests of

Consumers (Package Travel and Protection of Buyers in Contracts for Time

Sharing of Immovable Property) Regulations (Legal Notice 282 of 2006, as amended

by Legal Notice 426 of 2007);

 Subsidiary Legislation 409.18 – Package Travel Insolvency Fund Regulations (Legal

Notice 315 of 2016).

 Subsidiary Legislation 409.19 – Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements

Regulations (Legal Notice 94 of 2018).

The MALTA TRAVEL AND TOURISM SERVICES ACT and the corresponding Subsidiary

Legalisation can be accessed on the following link:

http://justiceservices.gov.mt/LOM.aspx?pageid=27&mode=chrono&gotoID=409

SECTION 2 - MEMBER STATE ECONOMIC DATA AND TOURISM BUDGETS

This section is intended to provide an overview of the key statistical information about the

general tourism economic environment of the Member States.

The statistical data provided in the tables below shall cover the year 2017 and, if available,

2018.

The data collected through these sections could also feed into the Virtual Tourism

Observatory.

Please use the Excel templates provided below in order to facilitate coherence and

comparability of the data.

Please note that you are only requested to fill in data that is available in your country.

Please insert "N/A" for those that you are not able to provide.

Data Sheet MS

Annual Reports template 2018

SECTION 3 NATIONAL TOURISM POLICY AND STRATEGIES

This section aims at collecting information on the Member States general strategic vision as

well as the specific objectives of their tourism policies.

3.1. Please provide information in bullet points on the key mission, main medium and

long-term objectives and the main targets of your national tourism policy. (Max.

1500 characters)

Country: Malta

Last update: 2018

The Malta National Tourism Policy 2015-2020 is based on a longer-term Tourism Vision

2030. The Vision aims to promote and manage year-round tourism growth, based on the dual

principles of sustainability and competitiveness. The three main pillars within the National

Tourism Policy 2015-2020, are namely:

 The constant improvement of tourism products and services through product

development and quality assurance initiatives;

 Managing Visitor Numbers and

 Reducing Seasonality.

The specific objectives of the policy, include:

(A) Economic goals of tourism:

 Creating more sustainable year-round jobs;

 Increasing foreign income and value-added to the economy;

 Providing a fair return on investment to private investment;

 Contributing to public finances;

 Delivering economic growth in Gozo;

 Continuing to stimulate route expansion;

(B) Environmental goals of tourism:

 Ameliorating environmental standards across all levels;

 Take account of the environmental impact of activities on water, land and biodiversity;

 Improving the environmental quality of tourism zones through better landscaping,

monitoring and enforcement;

 Improving the quality of tourism jobs and job prospects across the sector;

 Providing a forum for the exchange and sharing of ideas and cultural attitudes;

 Creating more awareness of Malta’s history and culture;

 Supporting the growth, expansion and certification of local crafts and Malta’s

intangible cultural heritage;

 Managing tourism growth and change within the limits of what is socially tolerated

and acceptable

The MTA has recently reviewed its market segmentation strategy by moving away from the

assumption that tourists travel for a single travel motivation such as sun, culture or learning a

language but are rather inspired to visit a destination on the basis of a combination of various

motivations. The main targets in the Malta’s Tourism Policy are to identify:

 different groupings who possess common features according to Nationality and

country of residence;

 different motivational groupings who possess common behavioural features which can

subsequently be addressed with appropriate and effective marketing messages.

Country: Malta

Last update: 2018

3.2. Do you have a multi-annual national tourism strategy specific / relevant for

tourism in place? If yes, please describe in bullet points the main medium and long-

term objectives of the strategy as well as who is responsible for its implementation.

How is the implementation monitored and how often? (Max. 2000 characters)

The National Tourism Policy is a multi-annual strategy which lists medium and long-term

objectives in line with the Government’s vision for the tourism industry. Being the main

organisation responsible for the execution of the tourism policy in the Maltese Islands, the

MTA works in conjunction with the wider set of government entities as well as private sector

stakeholders to participate in effective actions related to the planning and product

development of the tourism industry.

The main objectives of the national strategy are:

 Managing Visitor Numbers

 Raising the level of Quality across the entire tourism value chain

 Reducing Seasonality

The main policy areas which the Tourism Policy focuses on are:

 Connectivity to and within the Maltese Islands;

 Marketing for the Maltese Islands

 Supply side of Tourism

Moreover, the MTA executes an Annual Marketing Plan which focuses on the strengthening

and consolidation of tourism flows from Malta’s core markets. Its tourism marketing strategy

envisages the growth of secondary markets and thus the development of new, emerging ones.

The Plan is constructed on a direct relationship between airline accessibility linking Malta to

its tourism main markets and the flows originating from such markets.

The MTA has reviewed its market segmentation strategy by moving away from the

assumption that tourists travel for a single travel motivation such as sun, culture or learning a

language but are rather inspired to visit a destination based on a combination of various

motivations, as follows:

 Business travellers;

 English language learners;

 Health and wellness seekers;

 Romantic getaway seekers

 Culture and sun seekers;

 High sun seekers;

 Novelty seekers;

 Familiarity seekers;

 Culture enthusiasts;

Country: Malta

Last update: 2018

 Active recreationists.

The implementation of the national strategy is monitored by the Malta Tourism Authority

which constantly adapts its tactics to the rapidly changing competitive environment in which

tourism operates. MTA thus responds to challenges and opportunities in a timely manner

through mechanisms in place at Senior Management level.

4. TOURISM CHALLENGES, MEASURES AND INITIATIVES

This section aims at collecting information on the challenges the Member states and the

tourism industry has to deal with as well as the measures put in place to tackle them.

4.1. Please identify the key challenges for the tourism sector in your country and

indicate their importance /priority in the table below.

CHALLENGES

IMPORTANCE / PRIORITY

HIGH

MEDIUM

LOW

Diversification of the tourism offer

Protection of the cultural heritage

Protection of the natural heritage

ICT and innovation, digitalisation

Collaborative economy in the tourism sector

Connectivity and transport

Employment in tourism – improving the

perception of the sector as a career opportunity

Improving education and skills in tourism

Combatting seasonality

Demographic changes

Improving accessibility of tourism

Improving socio-economic data in tourism

Economic crisis and recovery

Improving investment in the sector

Improving the sustainability of tourism offer

Combatting climate change

Improving the quality of tourism offer

Developing responsible tourism practices

Competition against other destinations

Administrative / regulatory burden, bureaucracy,

improvement of the business environment

Other, please specify

Country: Malta

Last update: 2018

4.2. Please describe briefly the main measures in your country aimed at tackling the

key high-priority challenges indicated above. (Max. 2000 characters)

 Bearing in mind the importance of bolstering competitiveness in the tourism sector and

the aviation sector, the Ministry for Tourism, the MTA and the airlines are working

together to further enhance Malta’s airline connectivity. In 2018 6.6 million passenger

movements was recorded and the number of routes increased from 91 routes in 2017 to

110 routes in 2018.

 GHRC continued with the upgrading and embellishment in Valletta with the

completion of the Triton Square and the Biskuttin area. The Triton Fountain, a

landmark at the centre of the Square, was also restored. Triton Square is now the

leading entry point to the Valletta City Gate and an open space for social and cultural

events. During 2018, works were also being carried out at the Valletta Ditch, a public

garden. The Ministry for Tourism and the MTA aim to improve Malta’s overall

tourism product by regenerating areas to provide alternative attractions for

tourists and address overcrowding issues in tourism hotspots. At Marsamxett area,

several projects reached advanced stage of completion including the restoration of the

bastions, Tal-Blata Belvedere, restoration of Tal-Pilar Church and the domes at St

Augustine and the Carmelite Churches. MOT is regenerating various zones that are not

considered touristic such as Birżebbugia and Marsaxlokk. MOT is also working with

various entities to ameliorate the traffic situation and accessibility of the Valletta

Waterfront area by increasing traffic signage and parking as a way of improving the

attractiveness of the Waterfront.

 To protect the cultural and natural heritage - we have undertaken a number of

restoration projects and rural projects aimed at improving the rural environment,

utilising EU funds. An increased number of sites have been designated Natura 2000

sites contributing to the valorisation of the natural heritage of the Maltese islands.

Natura 2000 sites constitute around 13% of Malta’s land base area. The Ministry for

Tourism and the MTA are also continuing to improve Malta’s beach offer through the

management of beaches along Blue Flag principles. The sustainable management

approach resulted in the achievement of international and national quality awards. The

total number of beaches awarded the Blue Flag in both Malta and Gozo were 12 by

end of 2018

 Safeguarding the natural environment and reducing energy consumption constitute a

priority. Malta has an eco-certification scheme - a national sustainability scheme for

hotels and farmhouses which has been recognised by the Global Sustainable Tourism

Council (GSTC) since 2013. The eco-certification of hotels includes measures which

promote the efficient use of resources –which enable businesses to increase their

competitivity both through the promotion of sustainable measures and savings.

 A new breed of accommodation establishments has been developed through the

conversion of town and village properties which are being converted into boutique

type hotels and guest houses. The MTA supports entrepreneurs who would like to

convert old buildings into boutique hotels by going through the planning and

application stages with entrepreneurs.

Country: Malta

Last update: 2018

 Reiterating the importance of ensuring high-quality tourist accommodation, the

Ministry for Tourism and the MTA are also assisting the expansion of Malta’s

accommodation capacity by creating the right regulatory regime to encourage hotel

expansion and refurbishment.

 With regards to employment and improving skills, the Ministry for Tourism, together

with the ITS, have been working on matching between supply and demand in the

hospitality labour market.

 The Ministry for Tourism and MTA are also actively engaged in organising high-

quality events which are aimed at attracting different niches of tourists and thereby

assisting in diversifying the tourism product. The events also attract tourists in the off-

peak months thereby also assisting in combatting the issue of seasonality. Examples of

these are yachting events, music festivals targeted at different genres, e.g. baroque

music festival or jazz festival, MTV music festival, opera, family-oriented events, as

well as sports events.

 Conventions Malta, under MTA promotes Malta, Gozo and Comino as a destination

for foreign conventions and congresses. The organization of these events increases the

diversification of the tourism product and also combats seasonality as many events are

organized in the off-peak season.

 Government is also investing heavily in road infrastructure in order to improve the

general environment, facilitate travel and simultaneously raise the quality of the

tourism product.

 The Ministry for Tourism is engaged in discussions with platforms in order to provide

more clarity and ensure that the requirements of our legislation are respected.

4.3. Please identify if any of the above-mentioned challenges relate to any legislative

measures at EU level, and how. (Max. 1000 characters)

Challenges for the industry related to any legislative measures at EU level include:

 Challenges at times arise between Malta and third countries in operating bilaterally air

transport, as once a mandate is given to the EC, a MS is forbidden from negotiating

bilaterally resulting in problems in air connectivity. Whilst recognising the difficulties

related to the Gibraltar issue, Malta highlights the importance of successful

negotiations of EU Air Transport Agreements with third countries, as Malta does not

have bilaterals with each state, the dragging on of negotiations becomes a major

barrier to trade and being an island dependent on connectivity by air it is hit harder

than any other Member State.

 Being an island, Malta can only be accessed by air or sea. Climate change policies do

not necessarily have to affect connectivity by increasing transport costs but should

encourage sustainability of tourism by stimulating R & D in more environmentally-

friendly technology and operations that would complement both goals – reducing

climate change and promoting sustainable tourism, in particular in those member

states dependent thereon.

 Employment in tourism might be supported by the recognition of professional

Country: Malta

Last update: 2018

qualifications in tourism and the harmonisation of rules regarding recognition of

qualifications. Other initiatives could include incentives aimed at promoting careers in

aviation and enhancing connectivity. There is a shortage of aviation staff worldwide

and yet there are no incentives/stipends for airline pilots.

 Accessing EU Funding and Financial Instruments is vital in terms of improving the

overall tourism product and undertaking new initiatives and studies in the tourism

sector.

4.4. Please identify and describe any measures implemented in your country to

increase tourism flows from other EU Member States and from third countries.

(Max. 1000 characters)

The MTA actively uses marketing strategies, with the objective of promoting Malta in a

variety of niches to diversify the tourism product and broaden the appeal to tourists from

various countries at different times of the year. It actively aims to improve connectivity and

studies the feasibility of penetrating new markets as well as continuing to build on the

traditional markets.

MTA has both overseas offices (such as in Germany and France) and overseas representatives

(such as in Russia and the United Arab Emirates) which assist it to build up a presence abroad.

Taking into consideration the need for effective information tools in different languages both

online and printed, the MTA has widened Malta’s online presence through the translation of

its website www.visitmalta.com into additional languages. So far, the VisitMalta.com portal is

available in 13 languages.

Country: Malta

Last update: 2018

4.5. Please describe how promotional measures implemented in your country make

use of / capitalise on the promotional campaigns carried out by the Commission

(i.e. Ready for Europe, Europe. Wonder is all around, European Destinations of

Excellence (EDEN), low-season tourism campaigns, etc.). (Max. 1000 characters)

As Malta expresses full support towards the implementation of projects that valorise the

unique environmental, social and cultural assets, the Ministry for Tourism has been

participating in the EDEN Awards since 2007. To date, the following are the EDEN Awards’

themes in which the Ministry was participant:

 Best emerging European rural destination of excellence (2007);

 Tourism and local intangible heritage (2008);

 Tourism and protected areas (2009);

 Aquatic tourism (2010);

 Tourism and regeneration of physical sites (2011);

 Accessible tourism (2013);

 Tourism and local gastronomy (2015);

 Tangible cultural offer (2016).

 Promotion and Awareness raising project (2017)

Malta has also participated in the EU-China Bridge of Light campaign by lighting up Porte

des Bombes in March 2018.

4.6. Please identify and describe any measures /actions in your country which

contribute to maximising the potential of national policies for developing tourism

(e.g. ensuring that tourism interests are taken into account in the development of other

policies which may have impact on tourism). (Max.1000 characters)

The Government concentrates on ensuring year-round sustainable tourism growth by focusing

on the higher added value based on quality of service and products. The following are some

measures/actions aimed at supporting the tourism industry:

 Promoting Gozo as a unique destination;

 Developing a multitude of off-peak attractions to attract tourism volumes during the

low season. cultural destination by riding on the events surrounding Valletta 2018

European Capital of Culture.

 Promoting the Maltese Islands around the world as well as ensuring that there are

internationally renowned events throughout the year, so as to continue attracting the

younger generation, during the shoulder months of the year.

 Government is investing heavily in the road infrastructure to ameliorate the traffic

Country: Malta

Last update: 2018

situation and accessibility;

 Cleanliness, upkeep and maintenance is a priority to improve the general environment.

The Foundation of Tourism Zones was set up to focus on touristic areas in three

sections of the island, North, Central and South areas and coordinate its work with

various Ministries in order to create a better touristic experience for those visiting the

Island.

 Drafting regeneration plans for zones which are traditionally not considered touristic;

 Developing new tourism opportunities thanks to the development of new niche

markets;

 Further working on screen tourism as a driver for tourism and economic growth;

 Promoting Malta as MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences and events) destination;

 Working on an updated legislation governing the licensing and classification of

tourism service providers with a view to bringing the Maltese regulatory framework in

line with the most recent developments in tourism supply.

 The above measures and actions are in tandem with the objectives of the National

Tourism Policy 2015-2020 to improve the tourism product in a sustainable manner.

4.7. Please identify and describe any measures/actions in your country which

contribute to maximising the potential of EU Funds, including Financial

Instruments for developing tourism (e.g. information on main objectives, financing

opportunities, training courses, etc.). (Max. 1000 characters)

The following are measures/actions, undertaken by the Ministry for Tourism, contributing to

maximising the potential of EU Funds, including Financial Instruments for developing

tourism:

 Disseminating information related to activities and calls for proposals to the respective

entities;

 Encouraging entities to submit their proposals - with the aim of creating an added-

value to the tourism industry;

 Supporting the entities’ project leaders in the implementation of the projects; and

 Providing training to the Ministry’s officials, as well as to the entities’ officials.

4.8 Please describe shortly which EU programmes are used the most frequently and

for what purposes of tourism development in your country. (Max. 1000 characters)

The Ministry for Tourism and its entities utilise several EU programmes, with the aim of

supporting tourism:

 Under the ERDF, major renovation works at the MCC are being carried out to

improve visitor experience. The project, ‘Re-living the Sacra Infermeria’, consists of

the development and installation of a state-of-the-art augmented reality and virtual

reality system which will provide an innovative experience for visitors.

 ERDF funds are also being utilised in the Digital Tourism Platform project. The

Country: Malta

Last update: 2018

objective of this project is to create a platform to help tourists obtain information

which can be useful during their stay in Malta as well as to gather data which can be

used to implement marketing strategies. The project also involves the development of

an app which will provide augmented reality and virtual reality experiences for

tourists. In addition the project will also fund hardware which will be installed in

tourist information offices and around the Maltese islands to provide information for

tourists.

 Under the ERDF, major regeneration works at the Marsamxett area in Valletta are

being carried out. The aim is to direct more visitors to this zone which is rich in

culture and history. The project entails restoration of buildings and fortifications of

historical interest, the rehabilitation of social housing and the development of an app,

using augmented reality and virtual reality which will enable visitors to have an

innovative and interesting heritage trail experience. The project is being implemented

by the Grand Harbour Regeneration Corporation under the Ministry for Tourism.

 ITS and MTA have been benefitting from ERASMUS+ both in terms of staff and

student mobility.

 Under Horizon 2020, the Ministry for Tourism is participating in the project

CIVITAS DESTINATIONS which is targeted to build up an integrated approach to

address tourism and mobility.

 As stated in sub-section 4.5, the Ministry for Tourism participates actively in applying

for EDEN related calls which fall under the umbrella of COSME. In 2018, it

implemented ‘Valorising an eclectic tangible cultural offer (VETCO) – Consolidating

the European Cultural Offer’ whereby the Ministry for Tourism promoted the awarded

EDEN destinations by publishing informative leaflets and brochures.

Country: Malta

Last update: 2018

Sustainable and responsible tourism, whether talking about economic, social or

environmental sustainability, is a broad concept and may be interpreted in various ways

depending on the attributes of a Member State or region.

The following questions focus on sustainability and responsibility in tourism as described in

the 2007 Commission Communication

on an agenda for sustainable and competitive

European tourism.

4.9. Sustainable destination: What support is given to strengthen destination

management at the national /regional/local level (e.g. supportive policy

environment, knowledge networks, training programmes, technological support tools,

financial support, promotional activities, etc.)? (Max. 1000 characters)

In order to strengthen sustainability in the tourism sector, the Ministry for Tourism re-focuses

and adapts tourism policies that support measures to guarantee socio-economic benefits and

added-value to the Maltese Islands. Managing visitor numbers, raising the level of quality

across the entire tourism value chain and ensuring the spread of tourism throughout the year

are the basic principles, which promote a sustainable destination.

The following are various on-going initiatives, undertaken by the Ministry for Tourism and

the MTA, to promote sustainable growth of tourism activity in the medium to long term:

 Safeguarding the historical, cultural and natural environment to achieve sustainable

economic growth and preserve the local areas’ authenticity;

 Assessing the performance, benefits and pitfalls of specific tourism segments in

competing destinations;

 Innovating the tourism industry with the objective of overcoming fluctuations in tourist

arrivals and make Malta attractive all year round;

 Use of eco-certification for new hotel buildings and extension of existing hotels;

 Attracting more tourists to certain areas and limiting them in others to ensure proper

management of tourist capacity;

 Promoting the development of small-scale accommodation in heritage properties in

historic cities and old villages, to assist urban conservation areas to find alternative

uses for buildings;

 Promoting beach management and the Blue Flag award;

 Promoting underwater cultural heritage.

 Providing training through ITS and MTA to strengthen destination management and

the tourism product and service;

 Undertaking projects to improve the visitor experience through excellent IT facilities

and technological support e.g. using augmented reality projects and the development

of a digital tourism platform.

From a broader national perspective, the Maltese Government focuses on strong investment in

the upgrading of Malta’s energy, water management and conservation, waste management,

road networks and infrastructure, transport, health facilities and educational facilities - all of

which have a strong bearing on improved visitor satisfaction and a diversified tourism offer.

http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise/sectors/tourism/documents/communications/commission-communication-

2007/index_en.htm

Country: Malta

Last update: 2018

4.10. Sustainable businesses: What support is given to strengthen the sustainability

and competitiveness of tourism businesses (e.g. supportive policy environment,

knowledge networks, orientation of business support services to sustainability,

training, financial incentives, promotional activities, etc.)? (Max. 1000 characters)

The following are initiatives providing support to strengthen the sustainability and

competitiveness of tourism businesses:

 As part of the European Vocational Skills Week 2018, the ITS hosted an Industry-

Student Meet-up to give students the opportunity to meet and get to know various

reputable organisations, which could offer them a trial or a job interview whilst at the

same time benefitting from the opportunity to recruit well-trained staff.

 Malta Marittima, together with the University of Malta, is responsible for the

Maritime Proof of Concept initiative which aims to help researchers and entrepreneurs

to commercialise their ideas. The funds support the blue economy including the

tourism sector.

 Eco-certification – A total number of 28 tourist establishments were eco-certified by

the end of 2018. This encourages the tourism industry to innovate and increase quality

while cutting costs.

 Government also funded various schemes to encourage use of renewable sources of

energy and to minimize resources.

 Providing financial support to entrepreneurs through financial instruments and through

the provision of grants;

 In 2015, Government carried out the required amendments to the law to introduce the

Value-Added Tax (VAT) refund for tourists to promote spending. This scheme is still

on-going.

 The Hotels Height Limitation Adjustment Policy allows hotel development in

qualifying tourism areas to exceed the building height limitation by two floors where

the maximum allowable developable floor space had not been achieved or will not be

exceeded. This provides an opportunity to hotels to increase their profitability and

competitive edge.

4.11. Responsible tourism: What support is given to tourists and the tourism industry

to promote their responsible practices and choices (e.g. awareness raising,

sustainability in education, national marketing and media campaigns, promotion of

certification schemes, etc.)? (Max. 1000 characters)

The Ministry for Tourism and the MTA give support to both tourists and the tourism industry

to promote responsible practices and choices:

 Quality Assurance scheme for the MICE Sector – The scheme was launched in 2009

and is now well-established. In addition, MTA actively promotes corporate social

responsibility during MICE events, for e.g. by encouraging tree planting activities

among participants or by promoting donation campaigns in favour of charitable

institutions. The Quality Assurance scheme has been successfully extended to include

Country: Malta

Last update: 2018

Visitor Attractions and Restaurants. To date more than 160 entities have been certified

Quality Assured.

 Eco-certification – eco-certified establishments are promoted on the VisitMalta

website which is the main website and the official portal for the Maltese islands.

 Being existent since 2016, the key objective of the Environmental Contribution is to

improve quality along the tourism value chain - any person or entity providing tourist

accommodation on commercial basis is obliged to collect the contribution and pass it

on to the Government. Importantly, all revenue generated from this initiative is

directed solely and exclusively to improve the local infrastructure in touristic areas

around the Maltese Islands. The ‘Notice to Guests’ is available in numerous

languages (such as Maltese, French, Polish and Dutch) to provide a summary about

the Environmental Contribution. The ‘Notice to Guests’ can be viewed on the

following link: https://tourism.gov.mt/en/Pages/Notice-to-Guests.aspx .

4.12. Please describe maximum three of the most significant planned / future tourism

measures (legislative or non-legislative) which envisage to impact travellers visiting

your country from other Member States or from outside Europe. (Max. 1000

characters)

The following are the three most significant planned / future measures, related to the tourism

industry, which envisage to impact travellers visiting the country from other Member States or

from outside Europe:

 The Proposal for a REGULATION OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF

THE COUNCIL establishing a European Travel Information and Authorisation

System (ETIAS) and amending Regulations (EU) No 515/2014, (EU) 2016/399, (EU)

2016/794 and (EU) 2016/1624 is expected to create a centralised system which will

constitute a vital tool in bringing added value in addressing current security issues and

closing the information gap on visa exempt third country nationals. Considering that

tourism and security are inextricably linked, the concept of ETIAS is therefore

expected to serve as a significant tool for Europe to further witness the flourishment of

the tourism industry.

 The revision of the Visa Code is one of the most anticipated measures, which is viewed

as having the potential to simplify the visa application procedures and thereby increase

tourism in the Schengen area. It is hoped that the increase in visa fees will enable the

necessary infrastructure to further facilitate the visa process and not act as a deterrent

for a small Member State which lacks the necessary representation in most States.

 The prospect of the exit of the UK and uncertainty caused by the prospect of a no-deal

from the European Union is having an impact on the tourism and aviation industries.

A withdrawal agreement would improve confidence and facilitate operations.

Negotiations on a future air transport agreement with the UK should be expedited as

much as possible.

Country: Malta

Last update: 2018

5. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

5.1. Please describe maximum 3 best practices of tourism measures implemented at

national, regional or local level (any type of activity). (Max. 2000 characters)

 The following are three best practices of tourism measures implemented at national

level:

 Improving flight connectivity: Considering the insularity suffered by small Island

Member States, accessibility and competitivity by air remains a top priority.

Increased availability of airline seats on Malta routes is an important variable for

source market diversification and increased hotel beds. Routes which have

connections, and which require inter-line agreements are more expensive than direct

long-haul flights and so any measures which can decrease costs are important. The

horizontal air service agreements which the EU makes with third countries are

important in enhancing accessibility from different destinations.

 Off-peak attractions: During 2018, Malta developed a multitude of off-peak

attractions to attract tourism volumes during the low season. Internationally renowned

events were organised throughout the year, so as to continue attracting the younger

generation, during the shoulder months of the year. Thanks to the incessant hard-work

of all the stakeholders, Malta is one of the least seasonal of the Mediterranean’s island

destinations.

 Diversifying Malta’s geographical source tourism markets: 2018 was a record year

for tourists with 2.6 million visiting the island. This was achieved by adding new air

routes which consolidated its core markets and opened new fringe markets as well.

The strategy is to sustain traditional markets such as the UK and Italy, while work was

done to reach tourists from other destinations in Europe and from non-European

countries including Japan, India, China and America. Last year saw a growth in the

vast majority of inbound source markets, with the largest increases being registered in

the USA, with the latter becoming one of the top 10 countries of origin for tourists

coming to Malta with around 50,000 American tourists coming to Malta during 2018.

The above have all contributed to extending the tourism season to effectively cover all twelve

months of the year by attracting low season growth at a rate stronger than high season growth.

5.2. Please describe, in a concise manner, in your view, what policy developments /

actions / activities would you expect from the Commission's tourism team that

would serve better (than the current ones) the EU Member States and the

industry. (Max. 2000 characters)

The following are some policy developments / actions / activities that Malta would expect

from the Commission’s tourism team that would serve better (than the current ones) the EU

Member States and the industry:

 Encouraging exchange of views to further foster a smart, sustainable and inclusive

Europe given the need to remain competitive and the importance to adapt to shifting

patterns in global tourism;

 Providing guidelines to airlines and airports on how to invest in future technologies to

improve their performance and disruption management - to remove as much

Country: Malta

Last update: 2018

uncertainty as possible during travel;

 Implementing the Single European Sky to increase efficiency in air traffic

management;

 Assisting in resolving issues of insularity and flight connectivity to enable businesses

and people to travel efficiently;

 Fostering more discussions in effectively tapping many overseas source markets and

strengthening Europe’s tourism brand image in various overseas markets such as

North and Latin America, and China;

 Visa facilitation with third countries;

 Proposing measures to reduce regulatory and administrative burden for businesses to

effectively respond to the current challenges in further stimulating competitiveness in

the European tourism industry; and

 Providing funding specifically aimed at tourism to assist the sector to become more

competitive, to promote itself in new destinations and third countries, to develop new

niche markets and promote sustainability

 Provide further financing for the restoration and upgrading of tourism related areas at

Valletta, the Cottonera region and other towns and villages in Malta and Gozo

 Assisting in taking a holistic integrated approach with a proper and adequate

economic, socio-cultural and environmental balance for a long-term sustainable

development of the coastal and maritime tourism sector.

THANK YOU