The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry

Libya Action Committee discusses Visa issues

Tue, 15 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Libya Action Committee within the Malta Chamber has been in ongoing discussions on the matter of Libya visas, in order to compile a number of concrete measures to propose to Government for immediate implementation. In a letter sent to the Prime Minister this week, the Committee requested an urgent meeting to discuss this pressing issue. At this meeting, the Committee intends to make a number of proposals and practical suggestions with a view to enhancing the possibilities of Maltese entrepreneurs participating in business opportunities presented by the reconstruction of Libya.

Members will be kept informed of further developments.

Malta Chamber in the Media

Mon, 14 May 2012 09:54:01 GMT

Malta Chamber Council Member and Chairman of the Energy and Environment Committee Perit David Xuereb participated in TVAM, a current affairs programme on TVM. The programme focused on parking issues, mainly related to their shortfall in most of Malta with particular reference to Sliema and Valletta. Perit Xuereb referred to the right of mobility for all individuals and remarked that this should be encouraged and facilitated. He also said that people should feely move in and out of their residence and their place of work/pleasure/entertainment without being too worried about travel and parking frustrations.

Perit Xuereb explained that in terms of development, all developers and entrepreneurs were first expected to provide on-site parking to ensure proper accommodation and access. When this is restricted for various technical/planning reasons, then developers are compelled to pay a contribution to parking funds administered by MEPA, namely the Commuted Payment Parking Scheme (CPPS) and the Urban Improvement Fund (UIF).

In line with the position of the Malta Chamber, he argued that these funds should be suitably used without further delay, with the intention of ensuring ease of access and mobility, and not necessarily focused on car-parking. Perit Xuereb also suggested that MEPA, Transport Malta and the social partners discuss and conclude which preferred solutions should be adopted in order to address the issues we face now and expect to face in the future, rather than address these using outdated solutions. The Malta Chamber has drawn these conclusions from its consultation meetings with MEPA and the Ministry for Tourism, Culture and the Environment.

The programme also included various on-line reactions from the public which were discussed in-promptu during the programme.

Malta Customs Export Systems Information Session

Mon, 14 May 2012 09:47:03 GMT

On 8th May, the Customs Department delivered an information session at the Malta Chamber regarding the Malta Customs Export System. This export system is called the ESKORT Risk Analysis System and is currently going through some changes in order to become compatible with TARIC and the European law system.

Mr Paul Bonello opened the information session by explaining that the enhanced system will result in various changes. The new system will require exporters to input declarations themselves, which declarations will be acknowledged and given an immediate result. This is unlike the current system, where a number of hours are required to be given a result. To make sure the implementation of the enhanced system is a smooth process courses for exporters who require further information on inputting declarations on the system are being offered by the Department of Customs.

Ms Laura Cutajar delivered a presentation about the new enhancements in detail. She confirmed that at present, the export declaration is not being validated by TARIC. A validation rule has been implemented in the new risk module which will invalidate all export declarations having export restrictions which are not declared. Post audit checks will be performed on export declarations if and when required, thus emphasising that certificates must be kept for a minimum of three years. Ms Cutajar went on to give possible scenarios of validation codes.

The target date for the launch of the enhanced system is 1st June 2012. More information will be made available on the Department of Custom's portal, www.maltacustoms.gov.mt

Malta Chamber discusses MEPA Administered Funds with Minister de Marco

Mon, 07 May 2012 08:53:25 GMT

Malta Chamber President Mr. Tancred Tabone met with Minister for Tourism, Culture and the Environment, Hon. Mario de Marco and MEPA Chairman Mr. Austin Walker to discuss MEPA administered funds, namely the Commuted Payment Parking Scheme (CPPS) and the Urban Improvement Fund (UIF). Mr. Tabone was accompanied by Council Member and Chairman of the Energy and Environment Committee, Perit David Xuereb and Director General Mr. Kevin J. Borg. Representatives from GRTU also attended the meeting.

In principle, the Malta Chamber delegation agreed with the amalgamation of the CPPS and UIF, given that the funds are collected for the same purpose. However, it insisted that the funds are to be used to address the very reason for which they are collected, that is, parking and not for other reasons.

Regarding funds already collected, the Malta Chamber continued to insist that they should only be used for the creation of alternative parking spaces in problem areas.

Updates on Libya Visas

Mon, 07 May 2012 08:50:00 GMT

This week, Malta Chamber Council Member and President of the Libya Maltese Chamber, Mr. Frank V. Farrugia and Director General Mr. Kevin J. Borg met with Ms Mikaela Fenech Pace, Head of the Strategic Policy Secretariat, in the Office of the Prime Minister to discuss a number of pending issues related to doing business with Libya, including visas. It was agreed that the Malta Chamber’s Libya Action Committee would compile a list of formal proposals recommending how to facilitate the system. These proposals would be sent to the Secretariat, for urgent consideration and discussion.

Malta Chamber participates in Business Forum on Youth Employment

Mon, 07 May 2012 08:48:27 GMT

Malta Chamber Director General Ing. Ray Muscat participated in a Business Forum organised by the Partit Laburista, as part of its May Day celebrations. The topic of the discussion was work as the right of every individual, with a focus on youth employment.

The panel was made up of representatives from other constituted bodies, including Ingthe General Workers Union, Malta Employers Assocation, For.UM, Malta Union of Midwives and Nurses and the Women’s Confederation. The discussion was moderated by PL Executive Secretary Ms Lydia Abela.

During his intervention, Ing. Muscat said that the economy was a moving target with new sectors emerging all the time. He said that the current system was allowing for students to leave school without the necessary skills in an economy which was constantly changing. In this regard, education and economic policy must run parallel to each other, in order to help children and youths find employment when they leave school. He also remarked that employees in traditional sectors cannot always be re-educated and find employment in emerging sectors. In this case, it was critical that these sectors were not left to decline as they employ hundreds of workers, but assisted to diversify their operations.

During this event, it was stated that if elected to Government, the PL would set up a scheme for those who had left school before the age of 16 to be provided with re-training based on employment and abilities, should they still be unemployed after six months of leaving school.

Malta Chamber addresses Conference on SMEs

Mon, 07 May 2012 08:46:58 GMT

On 2nd May, Internationalisation Manager Mr. Klaus Pedersen spoke during the BoV Networking Forum Conference entitled "SMEs - are they still of relevance in a globalised market?"

During his speech, Mr. Pedersen spoke of the effects of globalisation on local SMEs and the importance of internationalisation as a result thereof. He explained that when globalisation is discussed, the effects on SMEs are often overlooked as the geopolitical and macro-economic consequences are in focus. Through globalisation, SME make up a smaller and smaller part of an increasingly complex value-chain. They are suddenly competing with the whole world, which is both a threat and an opportunity to compete in a larger market.

Mr. Pedersen also argued for the need for a holistic effort to promote internationalisation of SMEs. By building smarter support systems designed for a globalised world. In this regarded he advocated the increased use of the internet as a business tool, integrating the efforts of stakeholders, as well as measuring internationalisation needs through alternative means to trade surveys, such as the Malta Chamber’s internationalisation survey.

He also stressed the importance of FDIs in the Maltese economy, and the need to encourage these companies to integrate in the local economy and to shift more of their core-activities to Malta.

The conference was also addressed by Minister for for Fair Competition, Small Business and Consumers, the Hon. Jason Azzopardi, Bank of Valletta CEO Mr. Charles Borg and Chief Officer (Credit) Mr. Albert Frendo, Malta Enterprise Chief Officer (Office of Trade Investment & Enterprise Support), Mr. Joe Schembri and Mr. Chris Pace, JP Advertising.

At this event, Minister Azzopardi underlined the importance of SMEs for the current administration and the numerous initiatives undertaken. He said that initiatives such as the micro invest (tax credit) and micro credit schemes had been beneficial to over a thousand SMEs. He added that coupled with these measures, Government was implementing activities related to the reduction of red tape and bureaucracy, amongst which was the current consultation about the reforms on trade licensing regulations.

Malta Chamber President addresses Austrian State Visit Business Forum

Wed, 02 May 2012 08:44:00 GMT

Malta Chamber President Mr. Tancred Tabone participated in a Business Forum, organised on the occasion of the State Visit of H.E Dr. Heinz Fischer, Federal President of Austria.

Speaking alongside the Presidents of Malta and Austria, Mr. Tabone remarked that both Malta and Austria faced a similar situation in international trade, which in both cases is dictated by geographical realities. “Austria’s position has forced it to be open and active in its economic interactions with its neighbours – otherwise, it would become isolated. Likewise with Malta: as a small island, our businesses have always been faced with the need to either internationalise or perish,” he explained.
Mr. Tabone emphasised the Malta Chamber’s belief that both business communities could come together and create synergies that would be of benefit to all, referring in particular to opportunities and challenges faced in North Africa. “Malta has, historically, gained vast experience in dealing with our business counterparts in Libya,” he said. “Thus, we can play an important role as a catalyst or even as an intermediary for Austrian companies to penetrate and participate in business opportunities presented in North African markets.”

He then commented on the strengthening of business relations between Malta and Austria, mentioning various successful investments into Malta by Austrian companies, such as Malta International Airport and the growing presence of Austrian banks. Mr. Tabone also referred to the role of the Malta Chamber in bringing the two business communities closer together, highlighting the participation of the Malta Chamber in delegations to Austria in 2010, where relations with the Vienna Chamber of Commerce and the Austrian Federal Chamber were first initiated.

Good relations with Austria continued to expand with the signing of an agreement between the Malta Chamber Foundation and Quality Austria in 2011. The agreement is aimed at conducting and promoting courses accredited by Quality Austria in the areas of: Quality Management, Environment and Health and Safety.

“Business relations between Malta and Austria are developing well, at both the practical and institutional levels. The Malta Chamber will continue to play a central role in these developments by working with our Austrian counterparts, especially the Austrian Federal Chamber and their international arm – Advantage Austria – which has been crucial in all these developments,” stated Mr. Tabone.

Networking Events and one-to-one meetings

During a Business Breakfast held on the same day, Malta Chamber Internationalisation Manager Mr. Klaus Pedersen delivered a presentation on the role of the Malta Chamber to the Austrian delegates. Presentations were also given by Malta Enterprise and Finance Malta. This was followed by a networking event and one-to-one meetings between Austrian and Maltese businesses.

Agreement signed with Austrian Chambers

Wed, 02 May 2012 08:41:00 GMT

Meeting between Stakeholders

Representatives of he Malta Chamber and the Malta Chamber Foundation held a meeting with Dr Michael Berger, from Advantage Austria, the internationalisation branch of the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber (AFEC) and Dr. Rudolf Ruzicka, the Institute for Economic Promotion (WIFI), which is the educational branch of the Austrian Chamber.

Mr. Berger and Dr. Ruzicka explained that the educational arm of the AFEC, WIFI International supports Austrian companies by carrying out seminars and management training programmes on topics needed by the economy worldwide. The aim is to promote the target countries’ economic development. In the process, WIFI international helps to establish contacts for the Austrian economy and is often the initiator for business collaborations due to its internationalisation aspect. Through its international collaborations within the frame of EU projects, WIFI International further opens up new opportunities and worldwide contacts for the export economy.

Signing of the MoU

The Malta Chamber, the Malta Chamber Foundation and the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber signed a Memorandum of Understanding, with the aim of strengthening the relationship between the three institutions and viewing the development and enlargement of trade relationship between companies from Malta and from Austria.

The agreement was signed by Malta Chamber President Mr Tancred Tabone, Malta Chamber Foundation Chair Mrs Helga Ellul and Dr Richard Schenz, Vice President of the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber.

The three organisations agreed to promote and facilitate effective cooperation in relation to trade, economic and industrial activities, by aiming to increase the bilateral trade volume and furthermore to encourage the cooperation between companies from both countries by increasing the number of joint ventures and direct foreign investments.

They also agreed to introduce programmes and to establish appropriate means to facilitate and expand business networks, exchange visits of delegations, trade and economic missions, and increase awareness in a varied number of fields, through educational programmes and information sessions and specialised events. The Austrian Chamber will also be providing the Malta Chamber Foundation with its know-how in the sector of staff training and development of skills.

Malta Chamber in the Media

Wed, 02 May 2012 08:35:47 GMT

Malta Chamber Director General Mr. Kevin J. Borg was invited to give a comment to NET TV, following the announcement of of a consultation process on proposed amendments to commercial licenses regulations.

Mr. Borg said that the Malta Chamber supported any initiative that simplified procedures for the benefit of local businesses, especially SMEs. By reducing bureaucracy, companies would be able to devote more time to work and earn more income.
Mr. Borg said that the Malta Chamber had been following this matter and had recently discussed it with Minister Jason Azzopardi. In the ensuing public consultation, the Malta Chamber will be pronouncing itself in favour.

Better regulation vital for competitiveness

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 10:31:42 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE 2012 04 23 The Malta Chamber notes with satisfaction the commencement of a consultation process on proposed amendments of commercial licenses regulations, announced by the Ministry for Fair Competition, SMEs and Consumers, Hon. Jason Azzopardi.

The Malta Chamber has been following this matter closely in recent weeks within its efforts in the area of better regulation. In this regard, it has for a number of years been making strong representations to reduce administrative burdens on businesses, particularly SMEs who are the worst affected by red tape. The Malta Chamber has reiterated its position for a more transparent and efficient process, which will save time and reduce costs for business.

The Malta Chamber hopes that any legislative change or administrative burden reduction is trickled down to clients facing staff in Government entities, to ensure a smooth transition to more efficient practices. In this regard, the recent establishment of Business First is a further step in the right direction.

The Malta Chamber will be participating in this consultation on behalf of it members and augurs that Government will be in a position to continue to simplify regulations and reduce administrative burdens for businesses. This would result in enabling Malta Chamber members to get on with business and generate prosperity for our Islands.

Linking Enterprise Visit at the Faculty of Engineering

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 08:46:00 GMT

The Manufacturers and Other Industries Economic Group (MEG) in collaboration with the University of Malta organised a Linking Enterprise visit at the Faculty of Engineering on 19th April. The Malta Chamber delegation, led by the Chairman of the MEG, Mr Matthias Fauser included Vice President Mr. William Wait and Director General Ing. Ray Muscat, as well as representatives from some of the major manufacturing plants on the Island. The main purpose of this event was to introduce these companies to the services offered by the Faculty of Engineering.

During the visit, those in attendance had the opportunity to view the Faculty's facilities, which included a tour of various departments such as systems and control engineering, mechanical engineering, Industrial electrical power conversion and industrial and manufacturing engineering.

Prior to the visit the delegation was introduced to the Pro-Rector for research, Prof Richard Muscat who thanked the Malta Chamber for coordinating the event. He also encouraged further research in the industrial field. Mr Fauser said that the Malta Chamber strongly believes that such an initiative would create more awareness of the research facilities at the University, which will contribute towards the strengthening of the links between Industry and academia, something which both organisations would like to foster. He insisted that this visit was the beginning of an ongoing collaboration between the University of Malta and the Malta Chamber.

Members present insisted on the need for the University to become more business friendly and to begin rendering services to industry and the general business community at a commercial level. They underlined that timeliness was a very important aspect in this regard.

Dr Ing. John C. Betts, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering also delivered a presentation about the Faculty’s departments and the potential services which could be rendered to the Industrial sector. Dr Betts said that the faculty was trying its utmost to gear up to service Industry in a more efficient manner. He stated that the courses offered by the Faculty had become very popular and approximately 515 students were following courses at under and post graduate level.

Malta Chamber to establish Maltese-Qatari Business Council

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 11:22:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2012 04 20 The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry is pleased to announce that it will shortly be establishing a Joint Business Council, together with the Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry. An agreement to this effect was signed this week by Malta Chamber President Mr. Tancred Tabone and Mr Khalifs Bin Jassim Bin Mohd. Al-Thani, Chairman of the Qatar Chamber in the presence of His Highness the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.

Relations between Malta and Qatar have grown over the years, and this has been reflected in the relations between the Malta Chamber and their Qatari counterparts. Indeed, the Malta Chamber has been involved in various business missions to Qatar, back in 2009, the Malta Chamber was represented during a state visit to your country. This was followed with a business delegation from Malta to Qatar in 2010, where Deputy President, Mr. Stefano Mallia signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Qatar Chamber. The Malta Chamber will also be forming part of the delegation leaving for Qatar this week.

Commenting on the agreement, Mr. Tabone stated that “The business communities of Qatar and Malta felt the need to step up their relations even further and establish a co-operative body on a private initiative to facilitate continuous interaction between them so as to increase trade and economic co-operation.”

He explained that “In this regard, we have agreed to set up a joint business council in order to carry out business promotional activities in trade, investment, technology transfer, services, and other industrial sectors. The Council will provide a regular and recognised forum for discussion on promotion of these activities between the business communities of both countries.”

The Malta Chamber has already established four active Business Councils, the Scandinavian Business Forum, the German Maltese Business Council, the Tunisian-Maltese Business Council, and the Egyptian Business Council. “We believe that Business Councils are an effective vehicle to assist companies in their internationalisation efforts and with its strong links to business, both locally and abroad, the Malta Chamber is centrally placed to establish and run these entities,” concluded Mr. Tabone.

Malta Chamber wins first prize for National Enterprise Support

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 16:07:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2012 04 18 The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry was awarded first prize in the National Enterprise Support Awards 2011, an event sponsored by Government and the European Commission, in recognition of those entities and organisations who have made exceptional efforts to assist SMEs.

The Malta Chamber was awarded for its Internationalisation Project entitled "Enhancing Regional Chamber Networks in the Euro-Med Region". This project is supported by the Malta Business Bureau and FIMBank.

Following this award, the Malta Chamber will also be representing Malta with this project at the European Enterprise Support Awards next October.

Through this project, the Malta Chamber has so far established nodes in a number of European and North African countries, with more agreements in the pipeline. This year, these ties are being strenghtened further, exploiting them with active measures to support the Malta Chamber’s objective to help members expand their businesses abroad. As part of this project, the Malta Chamber has also renewed its active participation in ASCAME – the network of Mediterranean Chambers in which each country is represented by a regional Chamber.

“The reason for the Malta Chamber to exist is to support the local business community,” said Mr. Tabone. He continued, “We accept this award with great pride as it gives official recognition to the fact that the Malta Chamber leads the way in supporting entrepreneurs – both large and small. This award gives us added impetus for the future in ensuring continuous improvement and the creation of further value-added services for our members.”

Whilst congratulating the Malta Chamber, Minister for Fair Competition, Small Business and Consumers, Hon. Jason Azzopardi stated that “The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry has over the years worked tirelessly to increase cooperation between enterprises, this award seals these endeavours whilst providing the Malta Chamber with the needed encouragement to strive ahead with their goals.”

Board of Management discusses matters of interest to SMEs with Minister

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 11:14:25 GMT

The Board of Management led by Mr Tancred Tabone held a meeting with the Hon Dr Jason Azzopardi, Minister for Fair Competition, Small Business and Consumers on 11th April.

The meeting discussed a number of pressing items for members of the Malta Chamber, particularly SMEs. These included:

The Malta Chamber’s participation on the Consumer Affairs Council
Recent amendments to trading regulations on public holidays
SME testing of new legislation
New simplification procedures for trading licences
Eco-Contribution refunds and audits held for the purposes of exemptions.

The Minister took note of the Malta Chamber’s opinions with regard to the above and promised to act on a number of concerns which were brought to his attention.

Mr Tabone also invited the Minister to a dialogue session with SMEs at the Malta Chamber.

Malta Chamber Discusses Caritas Proposals at MCESD

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 11:12:31 GMT

The Malta Chamber attended an MCESD meeting which was attended by representatives of Caritas who presented the findings of their recent report on Poverty. The Malta Chamber was represented by President Mr. Tancred Tabone and Board of Management Officer Mr. John Huber.

During the meeting, Mr. Tabone referred to the proposal made in the report to increase the minimum wage and explained that this will lead to an increase in all wages across the board. He maintained that the proposal to increase the minimum wage is clearly unsustainable and any socio-economic benefits of increasing the minimum wage will be short-lived. Above all, Mr. Tabone explained that wage is a function of productivity and not spending power.

He also said that there are other alternatives that can be taken to safeguard the welfare of people and the risk of poverty - the principal amongst these are social benefits. If poverty is a social problem, it should be addressed by social security.
The Malta Chamber President explained that the problem of poverty in Malta was contained to circa 6000 people and this was a manageable situation for a population exceeding 400,000. He insisted that no solution should be proposed that would create wider and ,more serious repercussions to the rest of the economy.

Mr. Tabone concluded that by interfering with basic economic fundamentals, we risk the collapse of our socio-economic structure. Investment may and will go elsewhere and the country will not generate the wealth it needs to sustain our social security structure - the safety net.

Verification checks – Eco contribution exemption in terms of LN84 of 2010

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 09:25:00 GMT

In a letter to the Permanent Secretary for Tourism, Culture and Sustainable Development, Malta Chamber President Mr. Tancred Tabone registered the complaints of a number of members who have been chosen to undergo verification by the Approving Body representing various Ministries.

The Malta Chamber disapproves of this process for a number of reasons. Firstly because these audits are being carried out in an overzealous manner for several years, where the eco- contribution matter was mismanaged by the authorities as a result of which law-abiding companies paid eco-contribution on top of private waste packaging schemes. In the process they were subjected to unfair competition from operators who did not abide by the same environmental and other obligations. In this regard, Mr. Tabone stated that the refunds due to these companies, at law, remain unpaid.

Mr. Tabone emphasised the Malta Chamber’s concern about the selective verification checks and the way these had been carried out. The documents necessary for this verification include amongst others the samples of packaging waste that was recovered through authorised schemes during the period 1st July 2009 to 31st December 2010. The sample required was for each product (SKU) covered by eco-contribution exemption application and the samples needed to include both outer and inner packaging materials.

The Malta Chamber believes that this will create, not only an administrative burden, but in many instances a financial one since these operators have to open every item they sell which fall under this category and show it to the same auditors. To its knowledge, this was not part of the requirement in Legal Notice 84 of 2010 which established the exemptions from the payment of eco contribution by these producers. The Malta Chamber would have also expected a proper consultation prior to undertaking these audits with such urgency.

In the absence of this, Mr. Tabone requested a meeting as a matter of urgency for the Approving Body to explain its position. Malta Chamber members will be kept abreast of any further developments.

Business Delegation from Austria

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 09:23:29 GMT

On 24th-26th April, His Excellency, President Heinz Fischer of Austria will be leading a delegation to Malta, which will include representatives of 23 Austrian companies. These include companies from the following sectors:

Renewable Energy
IT
Hotel Equipment
Consultancy
Education
Advertising
Machinery & Equipment
Wood Packaging

Brief profiles of the participating companies are available on request.

A Business Forum will be held in the afternoon of Wednesday 25th April, where one-to-one meetings will be organised between the visiting Austrian companies and Maltese companies. The Business Forum will be followed by a reception hosted by the Presidents of Malta and Austria, to which companies who confirm their participation in the Business Forum and the one-to-one meetings will be invited.

The Malta Chamber, in collaboration with the Austrian Chambers, the Austrian Embassy in Malta and Malta Enterprise, invite members to express their interest in participating in this event, contacting Ms Diane Seychell on email: diane.seychell@maltachamber.org.mt

Second Business First Council meeting

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 09:21:26 GMT

Mr Andre Fenech, Malta Chamber Policy Development Manager, attended the second Business First Council meeting. This Council is formed by all the major employer representative bodies and Malta Enterprise officials. Business First was established with the intention of creating a one-stop-shop concept which will service established business operators and start-ups with a number of requirements such as licensing and EU funding.

The session was chaired by Mr Joe Schembri, Chief Officer: Trade, Investment & Enterprise Support at Malta Enterprise. During this meeting, a presentation was delivered on the initial results of the first two months of service of the Business First unit. The initial figures show very positive indications that business operators are using the service. It was also shown that the majority of companies are enquiring about the MicroInvest scheme, general Business First services and information about the ERDF schemes. It was also shown that hundreds of different companies have availed themselves of the services. The Malta Chamber will continue to promote and support this initiative. It augurs that more members will make use of this valid service which is the first point of single contact for business operators.

For more information about Business First, kindly visit the website on www.businessfirst.com.mt/en or call on 144.

Malta Chamber signs MoU with Federation of Israeli Chambers

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 10:11:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2012 04 03 The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Federation of Israeli Chambers of Commerce. The Memorandum of Understanding was signed by Mr. Uriel Lynn, President of the Federation of Israeli Chambers of Commerce and by Mr. Mario Spiteri, Council Member of the Malta Chamber.

The signing took place recently during a Business Forum in Tel Aviv, Israel, as part of a Business Mission to Israel organised by Malta Enterprise with the support of various organisations, including the Malta Chamber.

The Memorandum of Understanding is intended to foster the development and diversification of economic cooperation and the widening of commercial exchanges between Malta and Israel. It also aims to encourage and facilitate the promotion of commercial exchanges and the conclusion of commercial and economic cooperation agreements and contracts between companies and enterprises of the two countries.

Persisting with Imposition is in No One’s Interest

Mon, 02 Apr 2012 08:52:21 GMT

Article issued on 29th March 2012 in the Times Business as an Opinion

The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry supports gender equality and agrees with the objective of increasing women’s participation in decision making positions. However, it does not agree with the heavy-handed manner in which the European Commission, in particular Vice-President Viviane Reding, is persisting with the introduction of quotas or legislation to stimulate womens’ presence on boards of public listed companies.

The Malta Chamber believes that setting such mandatory quotas will force entrepreneurs to be sidetracked from making the right decisions in the interest of their companies. With quotas taking precedence over skills and competencies, women candidates may be given jobs on the merit of their gender rather than on the basis of academic qualifications and merit.

This is counter productive for womens’ long term career progression. It is neither in the interest of business. In fact, international experience has already shown that quotas may not necessarily work.

To take a specific case, in Norway, where 40 per cent of directors must be women, the Professional Boards Forum reported that the ‘increased number of women on boards has diminished company performance and reduced the number of female senior executives.’ In the UK, 15 per cent of FTSE 100 executive committee members are women. This is equal to Norway’s percentage despite the set quota. In Sweden, where there are no quotas, 25 per cent of board members are women, while 21% of executive level employees are women. This model shows that increased female participation at decision making level can be achieved on merit, without the need for quotas and by ensuring a holistic approach is in place.

Moreover, a report by McKinsey published in March this year revealed that “there are now more women on corporate boards [in Europe]. But women’s representation is lower where, perhaps, it matters most – on executive committees”. Commissioner Reding’s approach to populate boardrooms with token skirts is pointless because, whilst numerical targets may be reached at the very top, further down, women in their thirties are finding it hard to reconcile executive positions with their family commitments. Reding’s approach is therefore deemed piecemeal and short-sighted.

Last July, when Viviane Reding first launched her “Women on the Board Pledge for Europe”, the Malta Chamber had already gone on record to state that quotas will not solve the compatibility of work and family life. Official statistics present a telling picture of the situation in Malta. The employment rate of women aged between 15-24 currently stands at 42 per cent, while for those aged 25-34 it rises closer to European averages at 65 per cent. The rate declines to 30 per cent thereafter reflecting (a) the difficulties to reconcile career and family commitments and (b) the fact that historically, Maltese society did not encourage women to study or work. Recent NSO figures also show that employed women average 35 hours of work per week which is 6 hours less than men and that more than two-thirds of women aged 15-64 had a secondary level of education. Besides, 17 per cent had a post-secondary level of education and a further 14 per cent had reached a tertiary level of education.

It is clear, at least locally, that Malta must address the issues that are hindering women from occupying employment and high-positions post-motherhood. In this regard, rather than quotas, the Malta Chamber believes there is more merit in diversity and in a more holistic approach. This will aim to raise the number of women in the workplace at the decision making level, whilst offering full support for them to do so. In this regard, more attention needs to be given to supply-side measures to achieve better work-life balance, such as the establishment of easily accessible and affordable child care facilities and school-hours extension. Such nation-wide measures provide peace of mind and flexibility at the place of work without burdening parents or private employers.

In his report on the scarce representation of women at the top of British business, Lord Davies said “It is imperative that boards are made up of competent high calibre individuals who together offer a mix of skills, experiences and backgrounds. Board appointments must always be made on merit, with the best qualified person getting the job,” with quotas not being the answer.

This opinion is also reinforced by women’s organisations in the UK. The Women’s Business Forum (UK) surveyed its members in the beginning of March when it emerged that 82 per cent were opposed to Reding’s quota plan. Heather Jackson, the organisation’s Founder and CEO commented, “My members are too damn good at their jobs to want to be seen as tokens”.

Writing in The Sunday Times of London on March 11, Eleanor Mills said that “For the EU to open the door to positive discrimination would be a mistake. Research from America demonstrates that such policies often backfire and reinforce the prejudices and problems they were meant to erase. Women don’t want or need that kind of special pleading. We want to rise to the top on merit.” She closed off her article with a final message to Reding: “Thanks. But no thanks.“
Likewise, the Malta Chamber believes that merit, experience and achievement should be the most important qualifications

for any post and most definitely not gender. It believes that it is neither in the interest of business nor women to force matters otherwise. The Malta Chamber urges the European Commission to take heed of the above advice and pursue its gender equality objectives in a manner which is acceptable to both women and business.

Malta Chamber in the Media

Mon, 02 Apr 2012 08:49:57 GMT

Malta Chamber Director General, Mr. Kevin J. Borg participated in current affairs radio programme ‘Ghandi Xi Nghid’, hosted by Dr. Andrew Azzopardi. This programme focused on poverty, with particular reference to the recent study published by Caritas.
The panel of guests also included Fr Edgar Busuttil, from the Centre for Faith and Justice, Mr. Joe Gerada, Specialist in Social Affairs and FHRD CEO and Mr. Leonid McKay, Lead Author, Research Caritas.

During the programme, Mr. Borg said that it was a fact that poverty exists in certain unfortunate cases. However, poverty can be alleviated through employment. By working and continuously educating oneself and learning new skills, people can rise to the next level and enhance their standard of living. Education and work help to safeguard people against falling below the poverty line. Mr. Borg added that education in Malta was free and there were many opportunities online for self education.
He claimed that genuine cases needed to be addressed by social benefits, which were also generous in Malta. He expressed caution here and said that handouts across the board were ofter counter-productive. He said that , it was the role of the social partners and government entities to focus on helping these people in particular. It needed to be ensured that there was no abuse and that genuine cases were helped in full.

On the issue of raising the minimum wage, Mr. Borg said that this was a simplistic solution to the problem of poverty. He said the solution was much more profound and involved investment and education to enable the country to earn itself a better standard of living. Due to a concertina effect, raising the minimum wage will lead to the revision of all wages at higher grades. The problem with this recommendation was that it is detaching wages from the productivity of the individual. Wages were tied to the workers' productivity and definitely not to their purchasing power. Detaching wages from productivity was very dangerous indeed.

He also said that the problem of illiteracy needed to be addressed. Individuals leaving school without the necessary skills was a passport to poverty. In this regard, there was a need to identify the root source of the problem, rather than make knee-jerk attempts to solve the symptoms, when it was too late.

Asked whether companies were using the ‘international crisis’ as an excuse against raising wages, Mr. Borg stressed that this was definitely not the case and this was evidenced by official statistics. In 2009-2011 – when the world was facing serious economic issues, external demand fell, but instead of panicking and downsizing their operations, companies chose to retain their employees, due to the social aspect, as well as to ensure that they retained their competitive edge for when demand picked up again. Mr. Borg said that even though GDP decreased during this period, wages did not, to the detriment of profitability.

Consultation meeting on Neighbourhood Noise White Paper

Mon, 02 Apr 2012 08:48:16 GMT

Malta Chamber Policy Development Manager Mr Andre' Fenech attended a consultation meeting organised by MEUSAC about the recently published White Paper on the prevention, abatement and control of neighbourhood noise.

The well attended session was opened by the Hon Dr Mario de Marco, Minister for Tourism, Environment and Culture. Dr de Marco explained that the authorities felt the need to prepare a white paper on the subject of noise, following an extensive consultation held during the preparation of the National Environment Policy. During the preparation of this policy, most of the feedback received from the general public, concerned the issue of noise. As such it was felt that a specific consultation would be held on the subject. The Minister said that the main suggestions being proposed included amongst others, the formation of a consultative board to discuss matters related to noise and the creation of a call centre similar to a helpline for the general public.

Dr Simone Borg, Head of the Environmental Law Department at the University of Malta, gave more details on the white paper. She explained that the purpose of the white paper was to present the findings of an assessment carried out on behalf of the Ministry and to analyse the institutional, regulatory and legal context related to the control of various forms of noise. It was also pointed out that the main shortcomings in the present system include the fragmentation of institutional responsibilities and lack of ownership, lack of empowerment of some of the entities involved under the existing legislation and lack of clarity in the current legislative framework.

Several issues were raised by the floor, including amongst others the lack of enforcement of current laws, especially in entertainment areas such as Paceville, the subjective element of noise and the need to educate the general public and enforcers on the harmful effect of this type of pollution.

The white paper may be downloaded from www.tsdu.gov.mt/noise and the consultation process closes on 30th April.

For more information please contact, Mr Andre Fenech on tel: 22 032 312 or e-mail andre.fenech@maltachamber.org.mt

TAF Reimbursement Process Information Session

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 08:50:03 GMT

The Employment and Training Corporation has finalised a new and simplified reimbursement process for training grants under the Training Aid Framework. In this context, the Malta Chamber Business Education Committee and the ETC held a well attended information session to brief members on how to apply for the grant payment they had applied for over the past year/s. Participants were welcomed by Malta Chamber Director General Ing. Ray Muscat.

The Malta Chamber has followed this issue on behalf of its members, through ongoing discussions with ETC, where it expressed its concern with regards to the extensive delays in the TAF reimbursement process. During these meetings it was agreed that the TAF programme would be altered to make it simpler both for applicant undertakings and ETC. As the situation stands, the uptake of the scheme was very positive, however, a substantial amount of allocated training grants remain unclaimed.

The information session was addressed by Ms Mariella Vella and Ms Katya Dingli, from the TAF Unit, ETC, who said that payment would be made upon demonstration of successful completion and presentation of relevant documentation as specified in the application and implementation guidelines. For payment purposes, training programmes to be reimbursed must end by no later than 30th June 2013. Reimbursement documentation for training programmes ending in June must be submitted no later than end September 2013.

They also described how to fill in the request for reimbursement and gave a number of important tips such as:

Make sure that all details are included in the invoice(s) and receipt(s)
Receipt covers all items included in the invoice (even if the latter are not claimed under TAF)
Cost of training is consistent when comparing quotation with invoice and receipt
ID card number of trainees are inputted correctly on Staff Cost Calculators and payslips
Basic pay of trainee is easily identified
An email is to be sent to the TAF unit when the payslips do not include the number of hours worked
Attendance sheets are endorsed by both the trainer and trainee for each session
When using the four weekly staff cost calculator NI is to be inputted manually
Retain a copy of all the documents submitted to the TAF unit until 2020
Trainees’ wage costs cannot exceed other eligible costs (i.e. tuition fee, travel costs, and guidance and counselling)

Members were also given the opportunity to voice their concerns at the end of the session.

Any queries may be directed to Ms Jeanelle Catania on email: jeanelle.catania@maltachamber.org.mt

Meeting with the German Association for e-mobility

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 08:47:36 GMT

On 16th March, the Malta Chamber met with a delegation from "Bundesverband eMobilität", a German Association created for the promotion of e-mobility - electrically powered transport. The delegation was led by Mr. Michael Hofmann, Finance Director of the Association. Mr Hofmann was accompanied by representatives of two member companies, Mr. Tito R. Das from Schroff, manufacturers of solutions for electronic installations and Mr. C. Friedrich Fahlberg from German E-Cars.

Representing the Malta Chamber was Manufacturers Economic Group Chairman and member of the German-Maltese Business Council, Mr. Matthias Fauser, and Director General Mr. Kevin J. Borg, as well as Internationalisation Manager Mr. Klaus Pedersen. Malta Chamber members who had expressed interest in the topic of e-mobility were invited to attend.

Mr. Hofmann explained that they formed part of a larger delegation from "Bundesverband eMobilität" which was in Malta on a fact finding mission, to explore Malta's potential as a test-bed for projects in the e-mobility sector. The delegation had already had meetings with various entities, including the Ministry for Resources and Rural Affairs and Transport Malta. There was general consensus that Malta is a near-ideal place for projects to test the viability of electrical vehicles. The feed-back the delegation had received was very encouraging. Mr. Hofmann suggested holding roundtable talks about the subject because, although the various entities seemed to have many ideas on the topic, there did not appear to be an exchange of ideas, insight and information between these entities.

Air Malta: a pivotal role in Malta’s economic development – Malta Chamber

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 10:38:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE 2012 02 23 In a recent letter to the EU Commission, as part of the consultation process for approval of Air Malta’s rescue package, The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry argued strongly that Air Malta played a pivotal role in Malta’s economic and social development. The airline’s international route network, built by sustained investment over the years, is vital for the country’s economic development.

Air Malta’s growth has been closely linked to the growth of the Maltese economy and specifically to its tourism industry. Malta’s hotel, restaurant and catering sector employs 8.6% of the employed population – the highest for any EU-27 country and double the European average (4.3%). These figures exclude the additional employment opportunities generated indirectly by tourism, in food and beverage manufacturing, wholesale and retail, transport, recreation and entertainment.

Having the right mix of legacy and low cost carriers is essential to Malta because they cater for different markets. Malta Chamber members cannot risk losing the national airline and depend on other operators that enter and exit markets at short notice. Put differently, Malta’s long-term strategic interest and future economic development cannot be allowed to depend exclusively on the short-term profit motives of internationally-owned airlines.

Beyond tourism, the airline also offers a lifeline to the manufacturing industry. Reliable and timely supply of components and raw materials is essential to modern just-in-time manufacturing and integrated supply-chains. Pharmaceuticals, microelectronics, electrical components and printed security documentation are all totally reliant on inward/outward air-freight. Besides, the airline provides an equally important role to emerging sectors of the economy such as real-estate, yachting, education, logistics and remote gaming.

The Malta Chamber believes that the Maltese people and businesses depend on their national airline to a degree which is significantly higher than that of other EU Member States. Air Malta is the only air carrier which is offering a range of essential services to the Maltese business community which is seemingly not attractive enough in terms of revenues to other airlines. An island state with a limited internal market needs this link to help stimulate commerce and tourism. The Malta Chamber trusts that Air Malta will continue to be a key and strong player in the development of tourism and foreign trade to and from our islands.

The Malta Chamber – the Home of Business

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 08:28:00 GMT

It was my pleasure to welcome all of you who attended our Annual General Meeting. Throughout the course of the past twelve months we have proved our relevance to the country and more specifically to the business community. We have not shied away from expressing our views before the authorities. We can safely state that ours is today the largest and most influential private organisation and that the Malta Chamber IS the home of business.

The past twelve months posed a number of difficult challenges which necessitated our intervention on a number of issues.

Focusing on Business

We needed to remind the authorities to focus on business. Throughout the year, much time and effort was spent by our leaders debating issues not fundamental to growth creation. Whilst all this was taking place, the Arab World was up in arms to our south, and the situation to our north, was being described by Chancellor Angela Merkel as Europe’s toughest hour since WWII.

We made strong representations to our political leaders to stop detracting the country’s attention from the real issues at stake. At the same time, we also appealed to the business community to remain focused. As entrepreneurs, we need to concentrate on growth and we know that success depends on how competitive our businesses are.

Competitiveness Issues and Pending Reforms

During our AGM I referred to developments regarding the revision of the COLA mechanism, banking of hours and family friendly measures. I also highlighted pending economic reforms such as the restructuring of Air Malta and Pensions.

During my speech, I also stressed various issues that require urgent closure in the interests of national competitiveness. Here I referred to the discussions on the pending Rent and Service Charges. Too much time and effort has been devoted to this so far, with our Board of Management working closely with the Manufacturing Economic Group Board.

We also need closure, once and for all, on the Eco-Contribution refunds. This time last year, a legal notice was finally published to regulate the payment of such refunds. But a year down the line from the legal notice and seven years after the first refunds became due; we are nowhere near receiving them. We appeal to Government for urgent closure of this saga.

In addressing the issue of the black economy, I stated the Malta Chamber’s support of the announced amalgamation of the departments responsible for Inland Revenue, VAT, Customs and Tax Compliance. After this finally materialises, it is hoped that resources will no longer be fragmented and scarce. Consequently, we bona fide traders, might no longer face continuous and selective inspections because, so far, we represented the most convenient approach for enforcement officers.

Libya Crisis

During my speech, I could not but mention the Malta Chamber’s efforts during the Libya Crisis. We immediately set out to mitigate the difficulties that this crisis brought about for our affected members. Upon my election, we established a low-key but very high level task-force made up of the largest Maltese investor companies in Libya. We were in continuous contact with Government and were soon able to request direct and indirect financial assistance to mitigate cash-flow pressures for affected business.

Internationalisation

On the internationalisation front, I stated that during 2011 we were proud to launch the German Maltese Business Council. This follows on the success of our other two equally active entities, Scandinavian Business Forum and the Tunisian Maltese Business Council. Efforts also continued on a project aimed at Enhancing Regional Business Networks in the Euro-Med Region with the kind support of FIMBank and the Malta Business Bureau.

Malta Chamber Foundation

Another important development I mentioned was the setting up of the Malta Chamber Foundation. In line with the decision we took at the EGM last March, we have now established the Foundation with the principal aims of identifying relevant EU funding opportunities and co-ordinating educational programmes. We have already registered considerable progress, particularly in the field of education where an agreement was signed with Quality Austria, providing for the delivery of specialised business courses.

Conclusion

It was certainly no easy year for business but, despite the challenges, we managed a number of significant milestones for the benefit of business. Make no mistake, the coming months will be equally hard and we, the business community, must be up for the challenge.

Our Chamber also aims to rise to the challenge by improving our service offered to the business community. I look forward to another year of hard endeavour, leading the Malta Chamber to further success for the benefit of members.

Tancred Tabone

Meeting about the draft Tourism Policy

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 08:23:00 GMT

A meeting involving a number of stakeholders in the Tourism and Leisure sectors within the Malta Chamber membership was held on 13th March. Head of the Tourism and Sustainable Development Unit within the Ministry for Tourism, Culture and the Environment, Dr Marie Louise Mangion, delivered a presentation about this document.

Dr Mangion explained that the strategy's main aim is to address the challenges of this sector during the next five years. She noted that developments in the Tourism sector were being strongly linked to the sustainability of the country's environment. It was further explained that a holistic approach to the sector was essential and the strategy itself focused on international trends, social, economic and environmental impact.

It was also pointed out that the strategy looked at particular niche markets that could be developed further such as culture, sport, eco tourism and international conference organisation. The policy also augments the importance of segments such as English as a Foreign Language (EFL) schools and diving.

Members present raised several points which included amongst others the fact that the yachting sector was not mentioned in the document and that the country was losing out to other neighbouring regions due to the lack of berthing facilities. Other arguments raised, included the need to improve the country's sport infrastructure which would increase tourists in this segments during the shoulder months and the need for more inter-ministerial communication when big activities/conferences were held. Another topic raised was the need to improve marketing and ease visa requirements for non-EU markets such as Russia, Ukraine and the Far East. Malta Chamber Director General Mr. Kevin J. Borg further expressed the need for the Malta Chamber to be represented on the MTA board as today it represented a wide array of economic players in the sector.

In the coming days, the Malta Chamber will be formulating its position on this policy. If you have any feedback or suggestions to make, kindly contact the Malta Chamber's Policy Development Manager, Mr Andre Fenech on email:andre.fenech@maltachamber.org.mt or tel: 22 032 312

The draft policy can be downloaded from the following website: https://secure2.gov.mt/tsdu/home?l=1

Meeting with DG Enterprise – Competitiveness Report 2012

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 08:22:14 GMT

Malta Chamber Director General Ing. Ray Muscat attended a meeting organised by the European Commission Representation with Maltese business stakeholders. The aim of the meeting was to assist the Commission in the drafting of the report on Member States Competitiveness Performance and Policies 2012, and was addressed by officials from DG Enterprise responsible for the Europe 2020 Strategy, national competitiveness policies as well as SMEs in Malta.

During the meeting, Ing. Muscat stated that there were a number of positive developments as regards the Small Business Act in Malta; however, there was still room for improvement. He said that the establishment of the Enterprise Consultative Council (EEC) was encouraging, although it was recommended that this Council meets more regularly. Furthermore, the EEC should also invest time to undertake more detailed analysis and discussions on the economic developments of the various sub-sectors of the economy.

Ing. Muscat also commended Government for coming up with a good portfolio of enterprise support schemes that facilitate access to finance, such as micro finance, loan guarantees and JEREMIE. He added that in order to improve on this, such schemes should be more integrated between entities and along the development path of enterprises. He also noted that the setting up of BusinessFirst and the fact that the SBA had been transposed into an Act in Maltese legislation were also positive developments.

Ing. Muscat also referred to the Late Payments Directive, where he said that this still need to be transposed into Maltese law. He gave the example of the road contractors, who are still awaiting payment for emergency road works that have been commissioned by the Water Services Corporation and Enemalta Corporation.

He also highlighted the importance of Impact Assessments on new regulations and legislation and how these would affect SMEs. So far, such assessments were not being carried out by various Government entities.

Referring to internationalisation, Ing. Muscat stated that there needed to be more public investment on market intelligence, research and preparation before business missions abroad, as well as follow ups after such visits.

He added that another issue was the bureaucracy involved in accessing ERDF and ESF Funding, particularly training aid.

AGM 2012 - Malta Chamber urges authorities to focus on competitiveness

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 15:19:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2012 03 16 “2011 was certainly no easy year for business but, despite the challenges, we managed a number of significant milestones for the benefit of business. Make no mistake, the coming months will be equally hard and we, the business community, must be up for the challenge,” stated Mr. Tancred Tabone, President of The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry. Mr. Tabone was speaking during the Annual General Meeting of the Malta Chamber, held yesterday.

During the AGM, Mr. Tabone referred to a number of competitiveness issues and pending reforms which are hindering business and our economy. In this regard, he appealed once more to the authorities who need to ensure that they do their part to match our quest for competitiveness. “There are a number of structural issues to our competitiveness that remain unresolved. In our opinion, one of the principal amongst these is the issue of COLA. The MCESD working group in which we actively participated agreed to the inclusion of productivity as a new element in the COLA formula under review. However, we are still waiting for its implementation and we shall keep pressing for urgent closure,” he stated.

Mr. Tabone also highlighted various issues that require urgent closure in the interests of national competitiveness. He referred to the discussions on the pending Rent and Service Charges, which remains a pending issue, to the detriment of the manufacturing sector.

“We also need closure, once and for all, on the Eco-Contribution refunds. This time last year, a legal notice was finally published to regulate the payment of such refunds. But a year down the line from the legal notice and seven years after the first refunds became due; we are nowhere near receiving them. We appeal to Government for urgent closure of this saga,” stated Mr. Tabone.

In conclusion, Mr. Tabone stated that throughout the course of the past twelve months, the Malta Chamber has proved its relevance to the country and more specifically to the business community. “I look forward to another year of hard endeavour, leading the Malta Chamber to further success for the benefit of members,” he said, adding that the Malta Chamber would continue to urge our political leaders to focus on the real issues at stake. “Furthermore, the Malta Chamber also appeals to the business community to remain focused. As entrepreneurs, we need to concentrate on growth and we know that success depends on how competitive our businesses are,” he concluded.

Current EU Funding and Malta Government Incentives available for Enterprises

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 08:45:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber held an information session on the EU funding and local incentives available for enterprises. The well attended event was opened by Malta Chamber President, Mr. Tancred Tabone, who said that the topic was an important one for the Malta Chamber and the local business community.

“The recent launch of another €8.5million in grants, under the European Regional Development Funds (ERDF), administered by Malta Enterprise, is testament that the authorities are continuing to heed our calls to support local enterprise, especially those falling under the SME category,” he said. “In this respect, the Malta Chamber has always supported Malta Enterprise’s role in making it easier for local business to access EU funding to further enhance their growth levels.”

Mr. Tabone said that the Malta Chamber was continuously committed to the needs of SMEs. “This week, we made a number of recommendations to the Vice President of the European Commission, Antonio Tajani during an event where he addressed the local business community. We emphasised the need for a stronger commitment from the Commission’s part towards the elimination of undue bureaucracy for SMEs. In the case of applying for EU funding, SMEs are burdened in a disproportionate way in view of their size as bureaucracy tends to stifle an SME’s opportunity in embarking on similar projects,” he explained. “Further to this, we also emphasised the need for projects that support SME internationalisation in markets that are closer to us and more relevant to the local business community such as North Africa.”

Mr. Tabone was followed by the Minister for Fair Competition, Small Business and Consumer Affairs, Dr. Jason Azzopardi, who said that the Government was continously working hard to make small and medium enterprises aware of the various schemes it offered.

He said that it had been announced that the Microinvest scheme which was planned to terminate at the end of this month, would be extended by a year due to an overwhelming demand which included around 936 applications. “This is a success for us and we will continue to encourage other small and medium enterprises to apply for such a scheme. Until now more than 4.7million euros have been approved for this scheme,” he explained.

Mr. Karl Herrera, Manager – Incentives Development and Mr. George Francalanza from Malta Enterprise, spoke about the fourth Call for ERDF Schemes (part of the 20 Million for Industry) and Business First respectively. Mr. Herrera gave an overview of the various schemes related to Competitiveness, Start-up, Innovation, Environment, E-Business and R&D, as well as the pertinent eligibility criteria.

Mr. Mark Scicluna Bartoli, Head of EU Business Development at Bank of Valletta then gave a presentation on preparing an EU funding proposal, where he described the EU Project Implementation Cycle and the processes of application, implementation, and claims procedures. He then went on to make a number of basic recommendations, such as investing time and effort to compile a detailed and complete application form, describing how the project was additional to ones current daily operations and elaborating on the innovative nature of the proposed project.

He was followed by Mr. Bruno Robino, the European Investment Fund, Head for Southern Europe, who described the financial engineering instruments intended to improve the access to finance for SMEs.

Mr. Peter James Sant, from the EU Business Development Unit within Bank of Valletta then discussed the JEREMIE scheme. He said that JEREMIE in Malta was a revolving risk sharing finance mechanism between the Government, European Investment Fund and the Bank of Valletta. Through an injection of € 10 million EU and government funds the Bank leveraged a € 51 million JEREMIE Fund for enterprise. Benefits for enterprises include reduced collateral obligations, advantageous interest rates and a maximum loan of up to €510,000. Targeted sectors include:

ICT
Specialised Tourism Functions
Manufacturing
Green Energy
Accommodation and Food Services
Wholesale and Retail

Finally, Mr. Steven Galea, CPA, gave a presentation citing different case studies on how the JEREMIE scheme could be utilised. Participants were also given the opportunity to voice their questions, after which a small reception was held.

The event was organised with the cooperation of Bank of Valletta and Malta Enterprise.

Photo Credit: DOI

The presentations can be found here:

Malta Chamber President Interviewed for MT Magazine: Made in Malta

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 08:40:00 GMT

Malta Chamber President Mr. Tancred Tabone was interviewed by Ms Kelcey Hoffman and Mr. Gustavo Alba, Regional Director and Editorial Director respectively for Star Communications. This organisation is in the process of producing MT Magazine, which will be distributed with CNBC Business Magazine. The latter magazine has approximately 670,000 readers across 33 countries worldwide.

Mr. Tabone spoke on a number of issues, beginning by giving a general outlook on the Maltese economy. He said that Malta had managed to weather the global recession well and was only in recession for three quarters in 2009. Since then it had managed to register moderate growth.

He also gave an overview of the Malta Chamber’s Internationalisation activities, highlighting the franchise project, the establishment of business councils, support of Malta Enterprise business delegations and the organisation of Malta Chamber-led visits, the Regional Chambers Project, as well as the Malta Chamber’s affiliations with EUROCHAMBRES, BUSINESSEUROPE AND ASCAME.

Mr. Tabone described the trends and developments in various sectors including manufacturing and financial services. He also referred to initiatives by Government such as Business First, a concept the Malta Chamber was in favour of as it promised to cut down administrative delays for business.

Referring to the global financial crisis and Malta’s position and level of competitiveness amidst various downgrades, Mr. Tabone said that like the Maltese Government, the Malta Chamber believed that a closer examination of Malta’s economy and patterns of trade might have resulted in a different outcome.

In conclusion, Mr. Tabone said that the Malta Chamber was confident that the country can prevail over the bleak international scenario as long as it continues to enhance its competitive position and continued to bank on its flexibility. The wide diversification of the Maltese economy across several sectors, the resourcefulness of the people, and the strong partnership between public and private sectors were important safeguards against economic perils.

Malta Chamber in the Media

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 08:38:35 GMT

Malta Chamber President Mr. Tancred Tabone gave a comment to Net News, regarding Government’s recent announcement that electricity tariffs would remain stable, in spite of the rising price of oil. Mr. Tabone said that the Malta Chamber appreciated that this decision was being taken in the interest of national competitiveness and the safeguarding of employment. He also said that such stability was crucial for the local business community and for employment in general, particularly in export-oriented sectors.

Commissioner Tajani invites Malta Chamber President on Mission for Growth

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 16:15:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE 2012 03 07 The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry President Mr. Tancred Tabone has been invited by EU Vice President Antonio Tajani to participate in a European business delegation to Sao Paulo, Brazil on 23-24 April 2012. Mr. Tajani, who is also Commissioner for Industry and Entrepreneurship, extended this invitation during a high profile business event held this week by the Malta Business Bureau, where he was the keynote speaker.

The purpose of this visit is to promote European business interests and strengthen ties between Brazil and EU companies and will involve match-making events as well as discussions with investment agencies. The delegation will be led by Mr. Daniel Calleja Crespo, DG Enterprise Director-General and Commission SME Envoy. Following the visit to Sao Paolo, the delegation will be led on a ‘Mission for Growth’ in Montevideo, Uruguay, Buenos Aires, Argentina and Santiago de Chile, Chile between 25th-27th April, to discuss how to foster industrial cooperation with politicians and entrepreneurs of the host countries.

Key industrial sectors that will be targeted during these visits include green economy, biotechnology, key enabling technologies, mining, construction, shipping and tourism.

“This invitation is most significant for the Malta Chamber as it ties in with our mission for SMEs and internationalisation of Maltese business,” said Mr Tabone. “In fact, our Chamber has recently taken active measures to assist our SMEs, both locally and at an EU level. This invitation provides us with an opportunity to widen the scope of our priorities in SME internationalisation further. In fact, the Mission for Growth also provides scope for European SMEs to come together for the purposes of tackling new markets beyond the European Union,” he continued.

“This opportunity also places us in closer partnership with BUSINESSEUROPE and EUROCHAMBRES, where we are active members and who are leading players in the Mission,” concluded Mr Tabone.

Malta Chamber appeals to Commissioner Tajani to further assist SMEs

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 08:24:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2012 03 05 “With Malta’s domestic market being limited, SMEs are faced with the need to internationalise at a very early stage. This is why the internationalisation of SMEs is constantly at the top of the Malta Chamber’s agenda,” stated Mr. Tancred Tabone, President of The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry. Mr. Tabone was speaking during a high profile business breakfast organised by the Malta Business Bureau (MBB), whose main speaker was Vice President Mr. Antonio Tajani, EU Commissioner for Industry and Entrepreneurship.

Studies show that Malta tops the EU rankings in terms of the percentage of SMEs with direct imports. “This confirms the fact that we are a nation of importers and even the smallest of our companies are engaged in cross-border trading within the Single Market and beyond, often sourcing even from the Far East,” explained Mr. Tabone.

The same study shows that Malta places second in terms of the percentage of internationalised SMEs - with a figure in excess of 80 per cent. These figures need to be placed in context that only 25% of EU SMEs engage in export activity in the Internal Market and 13% are internationally active outside the EU. Malta’s figures confirm the notion of an inverse relation between the size of the SME’s home country population and its level of international activity. For this reason, once a Maltese SME has reached a certain level of growth, its only option to grow further is to venture abroad.

“This was the prime reason why our business community was so strongly in favour of EU membership for Malta, when surveyed in 2003. Furthermore, they have remained pro-Europe to this present day as we approach a decade of membership,” stated Mr. Tabone.

Mr. Tabone stated the Malta Chamber’s agreement with the Commission’s decision to emphasise the promotion of SME internationalisation through clusters and networks. “We regard this as one of the more important policy developments. Clusters and network organisations need to be recognised in Malta as important facilitators and become more integrated into business support schemes aimed at enhancing SME internationalisation.”

When addressing the Commissioner, Mr. Tabone also expressed the Malta Chamber’s surprise with the lack of concrete support for SMEs affected by the Libya Crisis after it appealed for help by means of a letter to the President of the European Commission, exactly one year ago. “On this occasion, we asked for help to SMEs who experienced a sudden halt in business and payments - whilst being exposed to foreign principals and needing to maintain payroll costs – even for social reasons,” he explained.

Mr. Tabone stated that our country continues to face high instability in this region. He appealed once again to the European Union to look into possible mechanisms to support European SMEs in the event of serious crises erupting again in Malta’s neighbouring region. “This mechanism should serve to prevent the severe financial hardship inflicted on those SMEs concerned, mainly because they were determined to retain their human resources to ensure they could continue to serve this market once the conflict was over,” he concluded.

Strengthening ties for creation of a Regional Chamber Network.

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 09:21:28 GMT

During a recent trip to Barcelona, Malta Chamber Director General Mr. Kevin J. Borg and Internationalisation Manager Mr. Klaus Pedersen continued to strengthen ties with the Barcelona Chamber through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding, as part of the establishment of a Regional Chamber Network. This project is being supported by FIMbank and the Malta Business Bureau. The preparatory work for the Regional Chamber Network was completed in 2011, with the establishment of nodes in Spain, Tunisia, Egypt, Slovak Republic, Luxembourg and Belgium with more planned in Italy and the UK. This year, the Malta Chamber shall strengthen these ties further, exploiting them with active measures to support our objective to help members expand their businesses abroad.

About the Barcelona Chamber

The Barcelona Chamber is a representative institution, independent and democratic, ensuring the promotion of economic and business activity and sustainable development of the territory. The Barcelona Chamber represents 250,000 companies in 40 sectors and employs approximately 1000 people. Focused on competitiveness, internationalisation and training, the Chamber’s numerous departments provide a vast array of services related to infrastructure, ICT, international affairs, business services and competitiveness and training. The Chamber has 10 branches that bring the organisation to all companies in the area.

Pensions: Pacing the Reform

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 10:00:00 GMT

In a White Paper released last week, the European Commission made some worthy recommendations with respect to Malta’s pension reform - at the same time, it insisted that Malta steps up the pace of its reforms.

It was encouraging to note that the Maltese Government has since welcomed the Commission’s White Paper. In fairness, we openly acknowledged recent measures aimed at reforming our pension system. These were implemented by means of the new Social Security Act, published in 2006 by virtue of which the retirement age was systematically increased to 65. This was a bold step and one which was much needed in terms of the sustainability of our system. In fact, Malta managed to implement this step seamlessly as opposed to other European States where similar measures were met with violent protests. The new law provided for other less radical measures which took the form of “parametric changes” to the Pay-As-You-Go system. The most significant of these kicked in on 1st January 2011 with an annual increase in the maximum pensionable income.

The Malta Chamber has always been at the forefront of national consultation on this matter where, given the sensitivities involved, it has always promoted the national interest. In fact, in the 1990s it published two separate technical studies and has ever since adopted a pragmatic approach to pension reform. It has done so in recognition of the need and the urgency for reform. It has certainly never stood in the way of the authorities to devise and implement the needed measures. Within this context, it has consistently emphasized that authorities prioritise those measures which are neutral to the country’s competitiveness because unless the economy is competitive, it cannot grow and if it does not grow, we cannot solve our pension dilemma. Besides, if part of the solution to the pensions dilemma is to encourage more women to work, we need to create more work for women.

As we stated in our 1993 study, “A growing population which is envisaged to live longer and expecting to live well demands a large flow of resources which have to be generated before they can be consumed”. The issues mentioned in our past studies are still valid to this day and should be seriously considered in the light of the present reform. What the European Commission said in its recent White Paper is, in fact, very much in line with what our Chamber has been insisting for all along. Amongst other recommendations, the European Commission said that Malta;

Should encourage private pensions schemes
Complement the above with optimised tax and other incentive schemes
Stop promoting “early retirement schemes”

Our Chamber published a concise and direct position paper in reaction to the 2010 Pensions Working Group report last July. Here, the Malta Chamber acknowledged that as things stand, the numbers do not add up and that the way forward is about continued economic growth and the development of the third pillar.

We also urged the immediate introduction of voluntary (third-pillar) pensions to supplement the present system. We called for fiscal incentives and a sound regulatory system to ensure maximum take-up. At the same time, we were unable to take a stand with regards to the compulsory Second Pillar because no details have been made known on its possible implementation. In line with the above-mentioned stand, it is hoped that the implementation of the voluntary Third Pillar scheme would be successful enough to postpone the need for the compulsory measure which could have serious social and economic implications.

At the time, I also went on record to state that “whilst the reform is underway, conflicting decisions such as policies facilitating early retirement in the public sector, must at all costs be avoided.” These increase the financial burden on the State and diminish the number of social security contributors.

The Malta Chamber is by no means seeking vindication for its researched advice it has consistently given in the national interest. Neither is it seeking to be critical. As a realistic and responsible organisation, the Malta Chamber is mindful of the urgency of the situation and the grave repercussions of the delay in implementing further reform.

To this end, the Malta Chamber looks forward to the announced Pensions Working Group’s post-consultation report to Government and subsequent decisions. As a key stakeholder, the Malta Chamber awaits a blue-print with clear time-frames and other relevant information in order to ensure that business is in a position to plan adequately.

Amongst other measures, in the blue-print, the Malta Chamber expects an announcement on the third-tier pensions which make voluntary pension schemes possible with attractive fiscal incentives. This is relatively straight-forward to implement. Besides, they have been repeatedly suggested by the Malta Chamber, the World Bank, the European Commission and the economic and demographic realities we are facing.

Tancred Tabone

This article was carried in the Times of Malta on 24th February 2012.

Minister Fenech addresses MCESD on Economic Developments

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 09:57:03 GMT

The Malta Chamber was represented at a MCESD meeting which was addressed by the Minister of Finance, the Economy and Investment, Hon. Tonio Fenech. The Minister gave a presentation about the latest economic developments and outlook for the Maltese economy. At this meeting, the Malta Chamber was represented by Board of Management Officer Mr. John Huber and Directors General Mr. Kevin J. Borg and Ing. Ray Muscat.

The Minister referred to the recent assessments about the Maltese economy, and its relatively clean bill of health as reported by the EU Commission and the International Monetary Fund. As reported in the press, the Minister also argued that if Moody’s and Standard and Poor’s had carried out a more detailed analysis of Malta’s economy and the patterns of international trade, a downgrade for Malta – on the basis of its links to the eurozone and the risk of contagion - would not have been justified.

During the meeting, the Malta Chamber stressed that the country needed to remain competitive, as was recommended by all independent entities. The Malta Chamber also queried the progress of implementation of certain proposals it had submitted in advance of the last budget, in particular the revision of the COLA mechanism and the inclusion of productivity in its formula.

Malta Chamber: ACTA Protects Jobs and Investment

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 10:35:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE 2012 02 22 The Malta Chamber has studied closely the proposed Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement (ACTA). Following this analysis, the Malta Chamber cannot but conclude that the proposed Agreement safeguards the interests of legitimate businesses and the creation of sustainable jobs.

The proposed Agreement strengthens the fight against piracy, both in the real and virtual worlds. On the other hand, it does not introduce any new internet policing requirements beyond any existing provisions in EU and Member State legislation. It must therefore be stressed that this Agreement will not create any additional legislation at the EU level, rather, it will support the enforcement of legislation that already exists.

Concerns were also raised by the generic medicines industry that the original agreement could create confusion between counterfeits and the marketing of generic medicines, by extending sanctions aimed at copyright and piracy to the area of patent disputes. However, these concerns were also settled following negotiations on behalf of the industry. The amended agreement will not impact the legitimate generic medicines industry.

In the past days, the Malta Chamber actively participated in pan-European discussions on the matter through its affiliations in BUSINESSEUROPE and EUROCHAMBRES. The discussion at BUSINESSEUROPE resulted in agreement that working towards the elimination of piracy and counterfeit is a priority as these seriously harm enterprises, including SMEs. Besides, consumers may also be innocently harmed in the process. ACTA is being seen by business organisations across most of Europe as an important tool to protect Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) and enforce already existing practices in the field of customs cooperation, civil and criminal enforcement.

On the same wavelength, EUROCHAMBRES notes that ACTA can be an efficient tool to tackle Intellectual Property violations. It adds that the current international framework for IPR issues is insufficient because counterfeiting and piracy are constantly on the rise. Furthermore, it points out that discussions on enforcement in international fora are making insufficient progress.

A possible rejection of ACTA by the European Parliament and / or the refusal of a Member State to sign the agreement would set a negative precedent in Europe in terms of IPR protection. This would represent a further setback in terms of Europe’s catch-up with other blocs in the area of research, technology, development and innovation. This means that its competitiveness and future growth prospects would be threatened further.

The Malta Chamber urges all the other social partners to support ACTA as this is a clear tool aimed at protecting legitimate businesses which have often invested millions of Euros and created thousands of jobs. Such a tool will also create the right environment for innovation and growth, two critical ingredients which are required for the well-being of our economy.

Moody’s Outlook on the Maltese Economy

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 08:16:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry took note of Moody’s second successive downgrade of Malta's government bond rating this week and its negative outlook for the coming months.

Moody’s latest assessment echoes the one given by Standard and Poor’s only a month ago. Both agencies, in fact, cited the continuous pressures in the euro-area as their main reasons for Malta’s downgrade. The agencies are sceptical on the effectiveness of policy-making at the European level in solving these pressures. Consequently, they both chose to downgrade Malta due to its close integration to the euro-zone and high risk of contagion.

The similar and independent assessments of the Maltese economy point clearly to two policy strategies; namely, the need to :
1)   Bring our financial house in order
2)   Enhance our competitiveness to secure growth

1)   Bring our Public Finances in Order

Credit ratings are ultimately issued for government borrowing purposes. There is little doubt that the country has reached the point when it must place its financial house in order. Malta’s debt metrics are under International scrutiny and they must be effectively tackled. Besides, Malta’s Constitution is in the process of amendment to incorporate the fiscal compact decision taken by euro-zone leaders. To this end, the Malta Chamber repeats its call for prudent fiscal consolidation.

Whilst it is certainly in favour of fiscal consolidation, the Malta Chamber advocates for it with utmost caution. Consolidation must bring about no economic shocks resulting from over-ambitious measures to collect tax and/or negative multiplier effects from any public spending cuts. Higher taxation would further damage national competitiveness and chances of growth, possibly leading to a difficult vicious circle. On the other hand, Malta must concentrate on fair and efficient fiscal enforcement. In this regard, it is encouraged by the amalgamation of the departments responsible for Inland Revenue, VAT, Customs and Tax Compliance. Malta must seek to bring its financial house in order by ensuring that the productive and tax-abiding section of the economy does not carry the burden of a large part of the population intent on living on free-meals whilst failing to contribute their fair share to the tax coffers. The European Commission recently estimated Malta’s shadow economy to stand at 26 per cent of GDP and amongst the highest in the euro-area.

2) Enhance our competitiveness to secure growth

Malta’s growth prospects for 2012 are undoubtedly threatened by a lower expected external demand for goods and services as a result of the austerity measures being implemented across Europe.
The country, therefore, needs a concerted effort to improve its competitiveness position to ensure it is capable to grow its economy within this highly uncertain external environment. To this end, it must take heed of the IMF’s recommendations to :

diversify the economy further into high value-added activities
reduce the economy’s dependence on energy imports
strengthen female participation and labour force skills
ensure better alignment of wage and productivity developments

The IMF is right in warranting continued vigilance and warning that Malta’s resilience to date cannot be taken for granted. Its last three recommendations are recognized bottlenecks to growth which continuously hinder our competitiveness and limit our chances of export-led growth. The Malta Chamber has long identified them and has spoken openly about the need to address them effectively. The IMF and the major credit rating agencies are correct in pointing out that Malta cannot expect to achieve sustainable growth unless it recognises these deficiencies and makes a concerted effort to put them right.

Growth Projections

Growth is, indeed, at the core of Moody’s (and others’) recent assessments. The primary concern for Malta lies with the sustainability of our growth forecasts. Moody’s has re-stated that “real output growth is likely to be significantly lower than the government’s forecast of over 2%”. The IMF similarly reported that it expected a 1 per cent rate of GDP growth for Malta this year.

Growth projections are crucial because with them, rest the sustainability of our public finances. This, in turn, affects our social welfare, health and education structures – the affordability of which is often put into question. Moreover, if our growth projections fail to materialize, the country would not be in a position to sustain adequate investment in the infrastructure which is necessary to foster private initiative. This would risk leading the country into stagnation and into a dangerous vicious circle.

The Malta Chamber, once again, stresses that growth must be placed at the forefront of the national decision-making process and that Malta’s competitiveness and growth projections are not politicised. Our political leaders must go beyond rhetoric and accusations and tackle the situation head-on. The Malta Chamber believes the country is still in time to overcome the bleak international scenario. The coming months present a golden opportunity for political leaders and the social partners to agree on swift and effective measures to secure growth. We are small but strong and flexible enough to prevail.

Tancred Tabone

This article appeared as a Talking Point in The Times on 16th February 2012.

Malta Chamber Foundation and CSB Group hold Course in Corporate Law

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 08:13:00 GMT

This week, the first course organised by the Malta Chamber Foundation and CSB Group was successfully completed. The course was targeted at managers, accountants, auditors, lawyers, corporate services officers and directors. The course tutor was Dr. Doran Magri Demajo – Advocate at CSB Group, who covered a number of subjects that fall under the Companies Act, including:

Partnerships & Limited Liability Companies

Formation procedures
Memorandum & Articles of Association
Liability of partners
Meaning and effect of limited liability
Meaning and effect of separate legal personality
Meetings and Resolutions
Call on shares
Transfer of shares

Company Officers

Appointment/removal, duties and powers of Company Secretary
Appointment/removal, duties and powers of Directors

Insolvency

Voluntary liquidation
Compulsory liquidation
Company recovery procedure

Alongside the course content, participants were also provided with practical examples as well as the opportunity for discussion and feedback. At the end of the course, participants were presented with two certificates, a Certificate of Attendance and another for Continuing Professional Development (CPE). The course was accredited with 10 hours of Structured CPE by the Malta Institute of Accountants.

Malta Chamber: Resolve current impasse for the benefit of the economy

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 14:25:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2012 02 17 The Malta Chamber is very concerned about the industrial action announced by the Union Haddiema Maqghudin (UHM) at Gozo Channel. Without going into the merits of the issue, the Malta Chamber urges that a swift solution needs to be found to the current impasse.

As one of the busiest times of year, Carnival weekend is a boost to the Gozitan economy. Disruption of the Gozo Channel service will only serve to lose much needed business and hurt the economy. Furthermore, within a highly uncertain external environment, we must look for ways to strengthen our competitiveness and growth, rather than allowing internal issues to undermine the economy.

The Malta Chamber augurs that a resolution to the satisfaction of both parties is found, for the benefit of all concerned. Indeed, this is needed urgently.

Malta Chamber Foundation and Quality Austria hold Train-the-Trainer Course

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 09:14:00 GMT

Last week, the Malta Chamber Foundation, in collaboration with Quality Austria organised a train-the-trainer course for Quality Management Representatives. This course was organised following the signing of a collaboration agreement in November last year, aiming to provide educational courses in various areas.

The course was delivered by Ing. Joseph Garscha, a Quality Austria certified tutor and author of the well-known publications:

Organisation Development by doing Process Management
Systematic Auditing
Strategic Concept for ‘Expats/Inpats/Repats’

This training course, held between the 6th and the 9th of February, gave the comprehensive knowledge base necessary for maintaining and improving a management system. During the 30 hours of training, Ing. Garscha outlined the content of the ISO 9001 standard and its correct interpretation as well as methods of process and project management. The goal of the course was to put participants in the position to understand their organisation as a system and to recognise the functions and potentials of management systems.

The course covered a number of topics, including:

basic quality management concepts
process management
methods and tools of system management
quality management systems based on ISO 9001
documentation of quality management systems

Following an assessment, the 17 participants were awarded a certificate that acknowledged their successful participation in the course. This augurs well for forthcoming courses organised by the Malta Chamber Foundation, in collaboration with Quality Austria.

Quality Austria is the market leader in the provision of accredited training courses, mainly in the area of quality management. Quality Austria is a member of the most important international quality organizations, such as IQNet, EOQ, EFQM, VDA-QMC, IATF. The organisation is represented in more than 50 countries in Central and Eastern Europe, Asia, South America, North Africa. Over the past years, the organisation has trained more than 135,000 participants during its courses, seminars and workshops.

Malta Chamber opposes shops opening on public holidays

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 14:19:13 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2012 02 08 The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry is not in favour of a concession, as suggested by others, for shop owners to open on February 10, the feast of St. Paul’s Shipwreck. Neither is it in favour of shops opening during public holidays and Sundays.

This is consistent with the Malta Chamber's stand on the matter. In fact, it reacted in exactly the same manner in April last year when another call was made for shops to open on May 1st.

The Malta Chamber’s stand is derived from the fact that opening on Sundays and Public Holidays will increase costs for shop owners and operators but the long-term effect on turnover is bound to be negligible. The position is therefore being taken in the interest of the shop-owners community – most of whom are SMEs and microenterprises – and their employees. As far as the Malta Chamber is concerned, public holidays and national feasts are a day of rest for both employers and their employees and this should be respected.

Let Us Retain Focus for a Prosperous Future

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 09:02:00 GMT

Our political leaders have made repeated statements to recognize the private sector as the “motor of the economy”. At the same time, they have also declared that the role of the public sector is to support, regulate and ensure the necessary legal and physical infrastructure. These statements of support are welcomed by our members with the hope that both leaders mean business. At the same time, the Malta Chamber appeals to the political leaders to pursue their interests with the least possible harm to the business community.

As a start, they must ensure that promises made to the country and the private sector in particular, are realizable and sustainable. Promises are to be made within the country’s financial constraints and the general regulatory parameters laid down for us as members of the European Union and the euro-area.

A clear, stable and efficient legal and regulatory framework is a sine-qua-non for investment. Therefore, political leaders must remain clear at all times about their future plans for the country. For the private sector to invest and create jobs, it must be confident that laws and policies are stable and certainly not subject to drastic or retro-active change. To this end we, the business community, can draw encouragement from the fact that there is general consensus on matters which are of direct and fundamental interest to our members such as industrial policy, consumer and competition policy, financial services and tourism. It was also encouraging to note, last year, that a Bill was passed unanimously in Parliament to pave the way for a consolidation of public revenue departments.

Irrespective of the few distractions we have been served with as of late – both locally and abroad - the business community needs to remain well focused. As entrepreneurs, we know that our survival and success depend only on how competitive our businesses are. We must prioritise on those factors that give us the edge over competition and remain focused irrespective of external decisions that may be taken and which we know are beyond our control.

To a certain extent, this was an underlining message coming through recent reports by International Institutions on the Maltese Economy, namely Standard and Poor’s and the IMF. These reports strongly recommend that, in the face of a deteriorating external environment, Malta should focus on those factors that strengthen competitiveness.

Industry and political leaders have often worked closely in the past in the interest of preserving our competitiveness. The experience gained in monitoring and responding quickly and effectively to the turmoil in 2009 served us in good stead. As we did then, both sectors must remain mutually reinforcing at all times because the external environment, in particular, dictates so. It is the role of our politicians to set the right tone for healthy economic growth. We, as entrepreneurs, will respond with our tangible projects and investment. If we are mutually reinforcing, business can retain and fulfil its role as the lifeblood of our nation.

Reports by International Institutions on the Maltese Economy

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 09:00:21 GMT

Last week, Malta Chamber Director General Mr. Kevin J. Borg gave a presentation to the Malta Chamber Council regarding the recent reports by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Fitch and Standard & Poor’s (S&P) on the Maltese economy.

IMF Report

The IMF’s report stated that after a strong recovery in 2010, the Maltese economy continued to perform relatively well. Despite the recent downgrade in certain credit ratings, sovereign bond spreads remain contained as government debt is predominantly held domestically. Furthermore, the sensitivity of the Maltese banking sector to sovereign risk events in Europe is low given very low exposures.

Whilst spillovers from the euro area crisis remained contained during 2011, real GDP grew by 2¼ percent in the first 3 quarters (2011) and labour market indicators improved. This reflects to some extent improvements in external competitiveness — evidenced by Malta’s rising market share in services exports.

Malta now faces a worsening external environment that has created new risks and headwinds to growth and financial stability. Malta’s high degree of trade openness and very large financial sector heighten contagion risks. Real export growth is expected to fall and domestic sources may not be sufficient to offset the drop. However, the main challenge of 2012 is to navigate a highly uncertain macroeconomic environment. IMF pointed out that Banking and Insurance companies appeared healthy with relatively sound capital and liquidity rations, but the sector’s sheer size (above 8 times GDP) and large foreign ownership represent a number of risks to financial stability and fiscal sustainability. It emphasised the need to continuous competitiveness enhancement stating that Malta’s resilience to date cannot be taken for granted—continued vigilance is required. This enforces the need to balance concerns over a slowing economy with prudent fiscal management.

In this context, the IMF proposes the following policy priorities:

Ensuring fiscal sustainability while supporting growth
Improving financial system soundness
Improving competitiveness to secure sustained growth
Diversify the economy further into high value-added activities
Reducing the economy’s dependence on energy imports
Strengthening female participation and labour force skills
Ensure better alignment of wage and productivity

Standard & Poor's

S&P lowered Malta’s long-term sovereign credit rating from A to A- , with a negative outlook on long term rating and the short-term rating lowered from A-1 to A-2. The downgrade reflects S&P’s opinion of the impact of deepening political, financial, and monetary problems within the euro zone, with which Malta is closely integrated.

S&P highlighted a number of points in Malta’s favour, including relatively strong public institutions and commitment to stabilising the net general government debt ratio near the current (2011) 63% of GDP. Relative to its size, Malta also has a relatively diversified economy that includes manufacturing, tourism and financial services.

On the downside, S&P referred to the relatively large contingent liabilities, which stem from both Malta’s large financial system and Enemalta. Like the IMF, this report mentioned structural issues, such as very low female participation in the workforce and relatively weak competitiveness. These hinder Malta's (medium/long-term) growth prospects and constrains the ratings.

The negative outlook on the LTR indicates at least a 1:3 chance of S&P lowering the rating again in 2012/13, if:

Growth deteriorates beyond baseline estimates,
Net borrowing requirement increases.
The cost of borrowing exceeds certain benchmarks.

The rating will remain unchanged if there is stability in growth outlook, fiscal deficit and overall level of general government debt.

Finance Minister Introduces Business First to Malta Chamber Members

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 08:56:39 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE 2012 01 27 “The Business First initiative is, in itself, a very valid and positive concept which we fully endorse. It will offer a one-stop-shop service to facilitate administrative procedures required for the setting up of a business in Malta, as well as to provide guidance and information to established companies in relations to government-induced processes,” said Mr. Tancred Tabone, President of the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry.

Mr. Tabone was speaking during the launch of Business First at the Exchange Buildings – the first event in an outreach campaign to the local business community. A meeting for Malta Chamber members was held yesterday for this purpose and was further addressed by the Minister of Finance, the Hon. Tonio Fenech and by Malta Enterprise Executive Chairman, Mr. Alan Camilleri.

“The Malta Chamber was the first entity to promote the idea of extending the then called Government Services Unit to all undertakings on the island, thereby creating a one-stop-shop for business,” Mr. Tabone said. “I am also satisfied to note that the Malta Chamber forms part of the recently set-up Business First Council, whose aim is to ensure that the introduction of the services is smooth and that service delivery continues to improve.”

Mr. Tabone stated that the Malta Chamber was also consulted on the setting-up of Business First and it strongly recommended that certain services related to MEPA would also be included amongst the list of services on offer. “This recommendation followed from direct feedback we receive from local SMEs which form the backbone of our membership and larger companies who are also affected by administrative burdens,” he explained.

Mr. Tabone stated that as a separate initiative, this service will need to be coupled by a commitment from other Government departments and authorities to reduce their administrative burdens on companies, especially SMEs.

Besides these efforts, the role of Business First shall be to eliminate the need for companies to run around all the different departments concerned to fulfil their administrative obligations. We are encouraged by the fact that Malta Enterprise shall act as the catalyst in bringing together Public Sector entities to become more business friendly. We look forward to contribute to the success of Business First to allow our members to concentrate their time and effort on creating jobs and growth.

Minister de Marco launches EU LIFE+ Investing in Water Project

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 08:49:00 GMT

The EU LIFE+ Investing in Water Project was launched last week by Minister Mario de Marco at the Exchange Buildings in Valletta, during an event attended by representatives from many businesses and hotels that are being offered help to save water.

Minister de Marco thanked project partners the Malta Business Bureau, the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry and the Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association for managing to secure EU funding support from the Life Plus programme. This, he remarked, was a particularly challenging endeavour in its own right since this project competed with over 700 other proposals from other countries, of which only a quarter was actually selected for funding last year.

The project is providing enterprises with expertise to identify water savings solutions, based on analysis of their water consumption. Although the project has only just been launched, several hotels and businesses have already engaged the project to identify solutions allowing them to save water.

Addressing attendees, Mr John A. Huber, President of the Malta Business Bureau, the lead project partner, explained that: “The project partnership looks forward to helping these enterprises and many more to reduce water consumption, and consequently their utility bills. This will also reduce pressure on Malta's scarce fresh water reserves.”

Malta is acknowledged as one of the top ten countries worldwide for water scarcity. Groundwater is the only source of fresh water; however, it is unsustainably exploited. In fact, 48% more groundwater is extracted than is recharged on an annual basis.

Mr. Tancred Tabone, President of the Malta Chamber stated that: “The project will be of direct benefit to business and hotels as the reduction in water consumption will also lower their operating costs. Water conservation should be one of the main priorities for all business operations as the desalination of water is directly linked to our electricity consumption and subsequent tariffs.”

Mr Anthony Zahra, President of project partner the Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association, concluded by stating: “The project integrates business interests and environmental protection, while providing an expert service at no cost to businesses. We feel the project is an excellent example of how business and environmental protection can go hand in hand for the benefit of all.” This is the first national initiative of this scale addressing the sustainable use of water in Malta to be carried out by a local partnership. The project started in October 2011 and will run until March 2014. Over the course of these 30 months the project aims to help interested businesses and hotels reduce their service water consumption by at least 10%.

These services are brought to local companies free of charge by leading project partner the Malta Business Bureau, supported by partners The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry, and the Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association. The project receives 50% co-financing under the European Community’s LIFE funding programme, with the Office of the Prime Minister as the main co-financier, further co-financing and sponsorship from Easydry Malta, APS Bank, Island Hotels Group, and MSV LIFE.

For further information please contact:

Geoffrey Saliba,
EU LIFE+ Investing in
Water Project Manager

on email: gsaliba@mbb.org.mt
Tel: 21 251 719

IMF Visit Malta Chamber

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 08:35:00 GMT

Last week, Malta Chamber Officer Mr. Andrew Mamo and Directors General Mr. Kevin J. Borg and Ing. Ray Muscat welcomed representatives from the European Department within the International Monetary Fund, Ms Marta Ruiz-Arranz, Senior Economist, and economists Ms. Piyaporn Nikki Sodsriwiboon, Ms Jeta Menkulasi, Ms Carel Oosthuizen and Mr. Nico Valcx. The meeting was also attended by the Malta Chamber’s economic consultant.

The visit was in line with the IMF’s mandate, to monitor economic and financial developments in member countries in order to ensure the stability of the international financial system. In this regard, the IMF delegation requested a meeting with Malta Chamber representatives, in order to gauge the economic outlook, labour market developments and reforms. During the meeting a number of issues were discussed, mainly Malta’s competitiveness in relation to various operating costs faced by business.

Malta Chamber represented on Business First Council

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 08:28:00 GMT

As from 23rd January, Business First will begin offering a one-stop-shop service to facilitate administrative procedures required for the setting up of a business in Malta and to provide information on Malta Enterprise schemes and services. The service will be co-ordinated by Malta Enterprise.

In conjunction with this new initiative, Malta Enterprise has set up a Business First Council, which is made up of representatives from the Malta Chamber, the GRTU, the Gozo Business Chamber and the MHRA, to ensure that the introduction of the services is smooth and that service delivery continues to improve.

In this regard, the Malta Chamber appointed Director General Mr. Kevin J. Borg as its representative on this Council. The first meeting of the Business First Council was held this week, where the representatives were addressed by Malta Enterprise Chairman, Mr. Alan Camilleri.

Further information on this initiative will be given to members during an information session at the Malta Chamber on 26th January.

Malta Chamber Partnership Agreement with Creditinfo

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 15:52:44 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE 2012 01 16 With a volatile business environment in Europe and throughout the world, managing our risks and thus improving one’s cash flow has become extremely fundamental for the survival of any business.

The Malta Chamber is pleased to announce a partnership agreement with Creditinfo whereby all Malta Chamber members will be eligible to benefit from special packages on all services offered by Creditinfo during 2012, with a special member’s discount.

Over the next twelve months all Malta Chamber members can avail themselves of the following:-

Free access to Creditinfo’s online Reports throughout the month of January;
A Creditinfo helpline to handle enquiries;
15% to 30% discount depending from the size of package purchased – 4 packages to choose from starting from as little as € 170 (excluding VAT) which includes Membership Discount. Packages vary to members needs but all include Company Analysis Reports, Credit Reports, Monitoring and International Reports.

“The Malta Chamber is pleased to have partnered with Creditinfo on this initiative,” stated Malta Chamber President Mr. Tancred Tabone. “As part of the Malta Chamber efforts to assist members through these volatile times and help them to trade in confidence locally and abroad, the information provided by Creditinfo will benefit members by decreasing their business risk through well informed decisions.”

Creditinfo believes the partnership with The Malta Chamber is important in these times of uncertainty as business needs as much support as possible to flourish. Simon Camilleri, Country Manager for Creditinfo Malta stated “both organisations are working to support local enterprise while minimising risk in an effort to encourage trade home and abroad.”

Members are advised to contact email: lorrieann.vella@maltachamber.org.mt or sales@creditinfo.com.mt . tel: 21312344 for further information.

Business First: Introducing Innovative Solutions for Funding and SME Support

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 08:30:00 GMT

Business owners or those wishing to set up a new enterprise will be able to apply for more than 50 Government services under one roof as from the end of January through Business First, which shall act as Government’s one-stop-shop for business.

The service is aimed at both local entrepreneurs as well as foreign investors wishing to set up in the country, catering for enterprises of all sizes including micro, small and medium enterprises and the larger companies.

It will also provide a centralised location for the registration of formalities and assistance in applying for a vast range of services. This will avoid unnecessary running between various departments or entities, with the entrepreneurs thus being able to focus even more on the core activities of their business operations.

In this regard, the Malta Chamber, in collaboration with Malta Enterprise will be holding an information session about Business First on Thursday 26th January 2012 at 4.00pm at the Exchange Buildings.

Programme

Opening Address by Minister for Finance, the Economy and Investment, Hon. Tonio Fenech
Opening Address by Malta Chamber President, Mr. Tancred Tabone
Address by Malta Enterprise Chairman Mr. Alan Camilleri on Business First and Malta Enterprise services
Presentation by Malta Enterprise on Business First and upcoming ERDF scheme calls
Presentation by Mr. Albert Frendo, Chief Officer Credit, Bank of Valletta on JEREMIE

Interested members may register by contacting Ms Dorianne Bonanno on email: dorianne.bonanno@maltachamber.org.mt or tel: 21233873.

Head of German Federal Employment Agency visits Malta Chamber

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 08:27:00 GMT

Last week, German Maltese Business Council (GMBC) Chairman Mr. Karl Aquilina welcomed Mr. Frank Weise, Chairman of the Board of the Federal Employment Agency (BA) in Germany to the Exchange Buildings. Mr. Weise was accompanied by Dr. Wolfgang Muller, Director, BA, ETC CEO Mr. Claudio Farrugia, Mr Felix Borg, ETC Head (Operations and Corporate Services) and Ms Josephine Farrugia, also from the ETC. Also attending the meeting were Director General Mr. Kevin J. Borg, GMBC member Mr. Ivan Mifsud, Internationalisation Manager Mr. Klaus Pedersen and Mr. Olaf Rieck, Chief Economic Counsellor from the German Embassy.

The Federal Employment Agency is the labour market's biggest service provider. As a public body with self-governance it acts independently within the framework of applicable law. It is composed of the head office in Nuremberg, 10 Regional Directorates, 178 Employment Agencies and approximately 610 branch offices.

During the meeting, Mr. Borg gave an introduction to the Malta Chamber, while Mr. Aquilina gave a short presentation introducing the role and structure of the German Maltese Business Council. He was followed by Mr. Rieck who gave an overview of German business and investment in Malta and expressed his support to the GMBC.

Mr. Weise said he was pleased to visit and learn from other countries, big as well as small, and that the German Employment Agency already had an excellent working relationship with Malta. In fact, the agency already sends individuals to Malta for training on a regular basis.

Linking Industrial needs and VET to optimise Human Capital

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 08:17:00 GMT

Last week, Malta Chamber Director General Ing. Ray Muscat and Executive Miss Jeanelle Catania participated in a seminar organised by MCAST to launch over 100 free training courses. These learning opportunities are the second phase of a project co-financed by the European Social Fund, entitled Linking Industrial Needs and Vocational Education and Training (VET), which MCAST is coordinating in collaboration with the Institute of Tourism Studies, the Malta Qualifications Council, and with the support of the Malta Chamber.

The specific purpose of the project is to:

Analyse the trends and developments in industry specifically in the Pharmaceuticals and Chemicals, Financial Services, ICT, Furniture, Printing, Infrastructure, Food, Beverages, Maritime and Plastics sectors;

Identify the potential skill gaps and shortages of the present workforce in the abovementioned fields;
Provide training and address shortages identified, thus improving the adaptability of the workforce.

During the panel discussion, Ing. Muscat stated that lifelong learning is indeed crucial; however, it is employability which should be emphasised rather than employee protection. Flexibility and security are not opposite poles: In today’s world, no employer can ensure job security, but employers can help employees in making them more employable, through transferrable skills. In this regard, the Malta Chamber appreciates the importance of lifelong learning so much so that it has created training and qualifications from the ground up. He also emphasised the importance of sector driven bottom-up education and collaboration between industry and educational institutions, with successful examples such as the Diploma in Manufacturing Excellence and Diploma in Green Energy.

Ing. Muscat remarked on the importance of continuous dialogue between stakeholders and asked whether all the entities involved were using the same definition for the term ‘lifelong learning’. He added that the Malta Chamber believed in the support and validation of informal learning.

Ing. Muscat stated that the transition from unsustainable sectors needs to be carefully managed and a one-size fits all across Malta should be avoided. Through proper re-skilling, employees were finding opportunities in other sectors.

Other panel members included Prof. Maurice Grech, MCAST Principal, Mr. Joe Tanti, MBB CEO and Vice Chairman of the ITS Board of Directors, and Dr. Philip von Brockdorff, MQC and NCHE Chief Executive. The panel discussion was moderated by Dr. Gordon Cordina.

The Year Ahead

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 08:16:33 GMT

Europe-wide, leaders have stated that the year ahead will be a challenging one. The outlook for the eurozone is by no means encouraging and this does not augur well for Malta, given the openness of our economy. Yes, our economy is vulnerable to the fate of our trading partners; however, it is also dynamic.

Malta must once again show its dynamism in facing the latest challenge. As we did then, we must use our small size to our advantage. Government and stakeholders must be proactive and work together to safeguard jobs and competitiveness. We need to intervene early where support is necessary to ensure we are in a position to safeguard investment and employment. Our Chamber’s proposals for the 2012 Budget included a number of concrete suggestions aimed at generating economic growth in specific sectors. We were pleased to note that some of these suggestions were included in the Budget Speech, particularly those aimed at supporting SMEs and those aimed at encouraging R&D and the internationalisation of business.

Our country needs to devise sound plans to meet for further eventualities. Concrete plans for our country need to take into account the advice of the business community and other stakeholders, to ensure no proposed measures affect our island economy disproportionately. For instance, talk of a Europe-wide financial transaction tax is slowly gathering momentum. The Malta Chamber, after consulting its Financial Services Business Section, has already expressed its opposition to the introduction of this tax on the basis that this will affect our economy disproportionately.

I firmly believe that the best way to shore up our defences against the continued financial turbulence is to ensure that our people are productive and innovative, as well as careful with their money. In his New Year’s speech, the President of the Republic appealed to the public for financial prudence and whilst this is a positive virtue, it must be further clarified.

People must also be well informed to fully understand the consequences of their expenditure and of indebtedness. They must be educated on the levels of expenditure they are able to afford and how they can spend their money more efficiently.

It is important to note that taking a step back collectively can also have its negative economic repercussions. Money is the lifeblood of any economy and the importance of circulation must be emphasised. We need to encourage its circulation since the economy cannot breathe without it.

In truth, Malta has a long tradition of sound financial management. Across all levels - government, the banking system and ordinary citizens – Malta has historically acted most prudently in managing resources at its disposal. We Maltese have traditionally been guided by the “save to spend” notion – as opposed to “borrow to spend”. Indeed, this national trait has proved to be our country’s salvation from the financial turbulence affecting the globe since 2008.

In the coming months the Malta Chamber shall work towards a concerted effort amongst all stakeholders and social partners to ensure that the country implements the right policies conducive to enhance our competitiveness. There is no denying that competitiveness brings growth and growth is the best defence against economic malady. If a country grows and manages its resources judiciously, it will be in a position to overcome any economic challenges that may lie ahead.

Tancred Tabone

Exemptions from Eco-Contribution on Packaging Waste

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 08:11:00 GMT

Members are advised that the Approving Body (Eco-Contributions), set up in terms of Legal Notice No. 84/2010, is receiving applications for Eco-Contribution Exemption from the Producers for the period 1st January 2012 to 31st December 2012. Application forms for these exemptions may be downloaded from www.mrra.gov.mt

Application forms have to be submitted to the Approving Body, Ministry for Resources and Rural Affairs, Block B, Francesco Buonamici Street, Floriana, FRN 1700, by not later than Monday 16th January 2012.

Council Dinner with the Prime Minister

Mon, 02 Jan 2012 08:28:00 GMT

On 16th December, together with the Malta Chamber Council, I welcomed Prime Minister Dr. Lawrence Gonzi to a dinner which has now become a fixture in our calendar and part of our tradition.

During my address, I thanked the Prime Minister on behalf of members for working closely with the Malta Chamber throughout the year and for providing the necessary strategic direction. I remarked that during 2011, Malta’s international reputation was raised even further, particularly as a result of the prudent and sensible manner in which Government managed the Libyan crisis. The Prime Minister replied that things were now relatively calm, although there were still some issues to iron out. He encouraged Maltese entrepreneurs to ensure they are able to gain lost ground.

Referring to the current problems in the eurozone, I said that this crisis has put into doubt the very essence of the European Union, creating unprecedented uncertainty. Through a collaborative effort between government and employers, our country is facing up to this turbulence. As a result, businesses – both large and small - continued to invest, creating wealth and jobs. This contrasts starkly with the situation in many of our trading nations who are witnessing stagnation, austerity measures and social strife. The Prime Minister agreed, commenting that Malta avoided similar situations because the private sector and government worked closely together to safeguard jobs. He praised the resourcefulness and resilience of the private sector and said that this was what was keeping the economy in check.

It was positive and heartening to hear the Prime Minister single out the Malta Chamber as a valuable partner in the contribution of ideas and professional advice on policy formulation.

In this regard, I highlighted the various issues where the Malta Chamber contributed its sound professional advice on matters of prime economic importance, such as the Libya Crisis, Pension Reform, Revision of the COLA mechanism, Family Friendly Measures, Budget Consultations and Rents and Service Charges for the manufacturing industry.

Many of these issues were also discussed during the dialogue session where the Prime Minister addressed members at the start of my Presidency. Indeed, I continued to emphasise that the best way forward for this country is through healthy and reasoned dialogue between all stakeholders.

The Prime Minister praised the Malta Chamber for organising the dialogue session which was useful for our members to voice their concerns and this feedback was very valuable for him – he suggested that a similar session be repeated in the near future.

As entrepreneurs, we look to the immediate future with optimism though we are cautious and vigilant of our surrounding climate. We know our economy is resilient but it is one of the most open economies in the EU and is therefore particularly vulnerable to the fate of other economies around us.

The Malta Chamber views the recent events taking place in Brussels with a degree of preoccupation. The EU seems to be lurching from one crisis summit to another without seemingly able to take decisive action. Analysts already commented that this agreement might not be enough to solve the matter. Therefore, our country needs to devise sound plans to meet for further eventualities. I stressed that these plans need to take into account the advice of the business community and other stakeholders to ensure no proposed measures affect our island economy disproportionately. This continued dialogue is also necessary to enable proper planning, allowing us to remain one step ahead of competition at all times.

In the light of this, I pledged our Chamber’s eagerness to participate actively in discussions leading to the formulation of policies directed at rendering our country more competitive and prosperous. As always, we have the interest of the country at heart and we are willing to contribute to ensure our companies operate in the right environment for growth. If we succeed and grow, we can generate the prosperity that our people so rightly deserve.

To conclude, I wish all members a Happy Christmas and request your renewed support in the New Year.

Tancred Tabone

Meeting on Market Surveillance

Mon, 02 Jan 2012 08:27:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber's Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) task force organised a meeting with several Government departments to discuss the matter of market surveillance and free movement of goods. Representatives from the Department for Environmental Health, the Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority, VAT and Customs Departments were present for this meeting.

The Malta Chamber's delegation led by FMCG Chairman, Mr. Norman Aquilina, explained that the Malta Chamber had already held similar meetings in the past to seek further cooperation in reducing abuse in free movement of goods and which was contributing to Malta’s black economy. He argued that since Malta's membership in the EU, the local market had been affected by illicit trade which so far the authorities had done very little to stop. He explained that local operators were rendered uncompetitive in view of the legislative compliance they needed to adhere to, while rogue traders were bypassing all fiscal and legislative requirements to the detriment of the consumer and the bona fide trader.

Director General, Mr. Kevin J. Borg added that the Malta Chamber had been raising this matter for a number of years. He stated that local operators were willing to compete, as long as the market was a fair one within a level playing field.

Members of the task force raised several issues, amongst them the legislation relating to labeling requirements, Intrastat rules and counterfeit products. It was agreed that this collaboration would be continued and all stakeholders would find better means to communicate and act upon any reports about similar illegalities. Mr Aquilina concluded the meeting by stating that the authorities will have the Malta Chamber's support on this matter but further noted that the Government needs to put this long lasting issue higher on its agenda.

Training Aid Framework Reimbursements

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 07:50:00 GMT

Last week, Malta Chamber Director General Ing. Ray Muscat and Executive Miss Jeanelle Catania met with representatives from the ETC and the Planning and Priorities Co-ordination Division, regarding the issue of the Training Aid Framework (TAF) reimbursements. The aim of the meeting was to discuss how to encourage participants in the TAF scheme, in particular Malta Chamber members, to claim their reimbursement. As the situation stands, the uptake of the scheme was very positive, however, a substantial amount of allocated training grants remain unclaimed.

The Malta Chamber encourages those members who have participated in the TAF scheme to submit their reimbursement forms, in order to claim their grant. As part of its service to members, the Malta Chamber will be following up with individual members to assist them with any queries they may have and to ascertain that they receive their reimbursement.

For further information or queries, please contact Ms Jeanelle Catania on tel: 21 233873 or email: jeanelle.catania@maltachamber.org.mt

The Maltese Tunisian Business Council on third business mission to Tunisia

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 13:07:09 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE 2011 12 16: For the third time this year, the Chairman of the Maltese-Tunisian Business Council Mr. Simon Alden, travelled to Tunisia, as part of a business delegation. The Maltese-Tunisian Maltese Business Council is an independent committee within the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry, which has a Memorandum of Understanding with UTICA (a business organisation in Tunisia) to form a joint business council. Since its' formation, this entity has been very active and initiated and participated in several visits to Tunisia, as well as receiving delegations from Tunisia visiting Malta.

Several members of the Business Council also participated in the trade mission organised by Malta Enterprise. The mission was the second Malta Enterprise led mission to Tunisia this year. As was the case during the last mission, the visit was organised with the indispensable assistance of the Maltese Embassy in Tunis, which took a leading role in organising one-to-one meetings between the Maltese business persons and their Tunisian counterparts.

“The Maltese-Tunisian Business Council is very pleased to have worked closely with Malta Enterprise and the Maltese Embassy in Tunis over the past year to raise awareness about the business opportunities which exist for Maltese businesses in this neighbouring market,” stated Mr. Alden.

“Evidently, the changes which Tunisia is going through following its' Jasmine Revolution will present challenges to companies doing business in the country, but will also present the well prepared and persistent businesses with great opportunities.”

The Maltese-Tunisian Business Council will continue to initiate activities aimed at increasing business exchanges between the two countries and will continue to expand its' network of businesses and stakeholders with a shared interest in this goal.

Malta Chamber calls for urgent MCESD Discussion on Eurozone Developments

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 09:31:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE 2011 12 14: The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry has requested a special MCESD meeting to discuss the outcome and implications of the recent European Union Summit which was held in Brussels and during which it was agreed that 26 Member States would sign up to a fiscal compact agreement.

Malta Chamber President, Tancred Tabone communicated with the MCESD Chairman earlier this week requesting that the all social partners are briefed on the prevailing situation, possibly by the Prime Minister.

The Malta Chamber stated that the emerging situation was bringing about an evolution of the EU in general and the euro-area in particular. The decision to implement a tighter fiscal regime in the euro-area is bound to have implications on the fiscal flexibility of the government as well as on the future of the financial services sector. “It is important for business to know first hand what developments are taking place to be in a position to plan adequately and alter business strategies accordingly“ said Mr Tabone. “We feel that the gravity of the situation is such that a direct dialogue with the Prime Minister himself is required” he concluded.

In the past months, the Malta Chamber has been following closely the unfolding situation both through the Malta Business Bureau office in Brussels as well as through its representative in the European Economic and Social Committee. It has also actively participated in MEUSAC where it was informed of the various positions taken by the Maltese government.

Mr Tabone concluded, “ We need to be fully informed of what is taking place at an EU level. This will help us as social partners to prepare common positions aimed at safeguarding our competitiveness and attractiveness to investors.”

President’s Annual Reception 2011

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 16:01:00 GMT

On 6th December, President Mr. Tancred Tabone welcomed members to the Exchange Buildings for the end of year Annual Reception. The event was well attended, once more giving members and staff an informal networking opportunity.

Among the guests were H.E the President of Malta, Dr. George Abela, the Hon. Tonio Fenech, Minister of Finance, the Economy and Investment, as well as Leader of the Opposition, Dr. Joseph Muscat. A number of Ambassadors attended the event, including H.E. the High Commissioner of Australia, Ms. Anne Marie Quinane, H.E. Dr. Petra Mara Schneebauer, Ambassador of the Republic of Austria, H.E. the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium, Mr. Jean-Francois Delahaut and H.E. the Ambassador of Germany Huber Leo Joachim Ziegler. The Ambassadors for Greece, Italy, the Netherlands, Russia, and Spain also attended.

During the event, the Malta Chamber Staff, presented Dr. Abela with a cheque for €550. The money was raised by the Malta Chamber Staff, in aid of L-Istrina.

The event was held in Sir Agostino Portelli Hall.

Visa Issues Discussed

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 16:00:00 GMT

Internationalisation Committee Chairman, Mr Peter Grima and Director General Mr Kevin J Borg held a meeting with the Head of the Central Visa Unit in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Mr Paul Demajo Albanese.

The objective of the meeting held on 6th December was to maintain an open line of communication between the Central Visa Unit and the Malta Chamber. The Malta Chamber is particularly interested in ensuring that the Unit is adequately empowered and resourced to handle the specific needs of Maltese companies seeking to bring in visitors, while in no way compromising the checks and balances of the current system.

The parties offered their mutual support in the facilitation of visas for incoming/outgoing business travellers. To this end, the Malta Chamber suggested the further promotion of agency agreements with third parties to handle visa applications for all Schengen countries. This ensures the minimisation of distances applicants often have to travel in relation to obtaining their visa.

The Central Visa Unit confirmed there were presently no concrete plans for the further harmonisation of application procedures between Schengen member states

Malta Chamber signs MoUs with Australian Chambers

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 12:57:52 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2011 12 09 During a recent business delegation to Australia, The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry signed two Memoranda of Understanding with the New South Wales Business Chamber as well as the Victorian Employers Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The delegation was organised by Malta Enterprise and supported by the Malta Chamber.

The MoUs were signed by Mr. John Huber, Malta Chamber Board of Management Officer, together with Mr. Ian Bennett, Senior Manager - International Trade NSW for the New South Wales Business Chamber and Ms Patricia Griffiths, Head of International Trade - VECCI Global, for the Victorian Employers Chamber.

The signing was made following a detailed presentation to members of the Australian business community during the programme of activities of the business mission to Sydney and Melbourne.

Through this co-operation agreement, both Chambers have agreed to co-operate actively with the principal aim of promoting trade, investment and business co-operation opportunities amongst the business communities in the respective countries. In order to implement these objectives, the Chambers agreed to:

Ensure constant exchange of information in the economic field
Organise and facilitate the exchange of business delegations, businessmen and chamber delegations
Facilitate business symposia, workshops and seminars

“I am very pleased that we have once more managed to sign productive agreements with Chambers abroad,” said Malta Chamber President, Mr. Tancred Tabone. “In fact, these agreements will create a lot of value to our members wishing to explore the Australian market, which although distant, is a very interesting one for Maltese business as this delegation showed. We believe that these latest agreements will continue to expand our international network which in turn will enhance our internationalisation efforts.”

2012 business climate to be characterised by prudence and uncertainty

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 11:51:56 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2011 12 07 For the twelfth consecutive year, The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry participated in the annual pan-European benchmarking exercise organised by EUROCHAMBRES. This perception survey is carried out across 25 European countries and focuses on business perception according to a number of indicators which include employment, investment, domestic sales, exports and business confidence. This year’s report highlights export markets as the main source of optimism for 2012. Otherwise the perception for 2012 are characterised by restricted investment, stable employment and constrained domestic sales.

The EUROCHAMBRES Economic Survey (EES) indicates that the ongoing effects of the economic downturn and the eurozone debt crisis have undermined business confidence and prospects across and far beyond the single currency area. Indeed, the survey-wide average for the business confidence indicator is negative for only the second time in the EES' 19 year history.

Within the local context the situation differs between the Services and Manufacturing sectors. The local report shows that the Maltese economy has so far held its ground in the face of the international financial and trade upheavals it has had to face. But every economic sector is responding to its particular trade environment with different degrees of success. Overall, the Services sectors appear buoyant in their performance and expectations – although they may be focusing more on consolidating their shares in the respective markets in which they operate. On the other hand, manufacturing sectors are finding it somewhat harder to cope and they are the areas that continue to require support.

The number of firms responding to the survey projecting new investment and employment are slowing down in 2012. This is especially true for manufacturing respondents.

Malta Chamber President, Tancred Tabone, commented that: "It is important to gauge our perceptions with the European benchmarks provided by the Eurochambres initiative. The perceptions captured often materialise and we call on our stakeholders to take heed of these signals."

The results of the employment indicator suggest that while fewer new jobs will be created next year, most businesses are intent on maintaining current levels of staff. Domestic sales predictions are estimated to be lower for next year, most probably mirroring the careful spending approach of end consumers, whilst investment levels would also appear to be on the decrease for next year.

Export predictions for 2012 stand out from a scenario that is otherwise largely defined by prudence and uncertainty. Strikingly, this export optimism is to a large degree led by respondents from the manufacturing sector. This shows that the sector is still upbeat about entering new markets during the forthcoming year.

Maternity Leave discussed at MCESD

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 08:26:46 GMT

The Malta Chamber participated in a special MCESD meeting called to discuss the extension of maternity leave as announced in the Budget Speech. Here, we made the necessary representations on behalf of private sector employers and SMEs.

Firstly, we complained at the manner in which the matter was handled whereby MCESD was faced with a decision at its last meeting preceding the Budget, with no apparent option but to accept. We also voiced our disappointment at how social dialogue on the matter was further hindered by certain organisations choosing to discuss the matter in the media before doing so at MCESD.

We clarified, the Malta Chamber is not opposed to the principle of Maternity Leave but we are against extending it further. According to a study we commissioned through the Malta Business Bureau, the benefits of extending maternity leave would be relatively marginal in comparison to the costs especially because a significant extent of maternity leave is already available. This is substantiated by the fact that 60 per cent of women of child bearing age are already in employment. As a Chamber, we questioned whether the extension could further increase female participation in this age bracket.

As the Malta Chamber had been consistently maintaining, there are far more effective measures to stimulate female participation than extending maternity leave. Besides being more effective, these alternative measures minimize costs and negative repercussions on business and the economy. The measures we are promoting are implementable on a national scale and minimize the need for measures at enterprise level, enticing absence from work. These include, Support to Promote Child-Care Centres; Extension of School Hours; and Banking of Hours. Besides, broad agreement to prioritise this nationwide approach as opposed to enterprise-specific measures was reached within a special working group formed by MCESD to discuss family friendly measures.

We argued that we were far from convinced that workers are easily substitutable for temporary periods especially in the case of highly skilled workers and SMEs. In fact, we questioned whether this measure was subjected to the “SME Test” as required by the Small Business Act (Act XI 2011). The “SME Test” is meant to safeguard small business against over-regulation which affects small businesses in a disproportionate manner. In certain cases, depending on the nature of the work involved, the absence of a single worker in a microenterprise for a significant length of time could threaten to halt the business operation altogether.

We insisted that it was important to distinguish that extending Maternity Leave had financial cost and disruptive ramifications on business. In terms of the financial costs, we voiced our strong concern that whilst Government announced it would be covering the increase in cost for the additional weeks beyond 14, this commitment was not binding in the future. The Malta Chamber is further perturbed by the suggestion from certain quarters that employers should immediately pay the difference between the salary and the €160 allowance which the Government has promised to pay during the additional weeks of maternity leave.

We reminded the other social partners that it was only in Malta, that employers paid the full cost of maternity leave. In most European states, the cost of maternity leave payments were either paid by government or shared through social security schemes.

In this context, we questioned the drastic change in the Government position on the matter since 2009 when this was being discussed at EU level. Then, Government foresaw considerable difficulties with the idea of extending the length of maternity leave by another four weeks due to the prevailing economic climate. We argued that, unfortunately, since then, the global economic climate has not ameliorated. Thus, any decision to go overboard with social measures that have not yet been implemented in competing countries would be ill-timed and not in Malta’s interest.

Implementing this rash decision would mean a case of shifting our priorities the wrong way round. The Malta Chamber insists we must prioritise wealth creation before wealth distribution. The country cannot afford to depart from such important principles if it wants to safeguard its economy and the social welfare model it has managed to build for itself and from which we all benefit.

Tancred Tabone

Malta Chamber urges Parliamentary Secretary to Tackle Lack of Berthing Facilities

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 08:24:33 GMT

During a recent MCESD meeting focusing on the Tourism sector, Malta Chamber Board of Management Officer Mr. John Huber made an intervention on behalf of the Yachting Business Section. During his intervention, Mr. Huber explained to Parliamentary Secretary Dr. Mario de Marco that the lack of available berths was hampering growth in a lucrative niche of tourism. Mr. Huber urged Dr. de Marco to ensure that the continuous representations on the part of Malta Chamber to increase berthing facilities in Maltese yacht marinas were heeded and carried out without further delay.

Malta Chamber participates in High Level Conference on Industrial Competitiveness

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 08:23:21 GMT

"The crisis was a wake-up call for all of us, Europe needs a new industrial policy to cope with the third industrial revolution." These were the words of Vice President for the European Commission (EC) Antonio Tajani, during his key note speech at an International Conference organised on the occasion of the first anniversary of the Europe 2020 Industrial Policy flagship initiative. Mr Andre Fenech, Policy Development Manager represented the Malta Chamber, accompanied by Mr Omar Cutajar, Permanent Representative of the Malta Business Bureau in Brussels.

Mr Tajani said that innovation was a big challenge and that European Union members should go for excellence and quality, whilst upskilling workers was also fundamental. He added that the Commission and member states must improve the environment European firms were operating in. He concluded that the implementation of the Small Business Act was also key for the continent's SMEs.

The conference continued with a number of panel discussions with several high profile speakers including Mr Carlo Bozotti, CEO at ST Micro Electronics, Philippe Aghion from Harvard University Stephen Odell, CEO of Ford Europe, Jyri Hakamies, Finnish Minister for Economic Affairs and Xavier Rolet CEO of the London Stock Exchange Group.

The panelists discussed how the EU can win the globalisation situation in relation to other emerging blocks such as China and India, reinforcing industrial competitiveness across the EU member states and integrating industrial innovation into the Industrial policy.

Speakers also spoke about the importance of the Integrated Industrial policy, which focuses on making regulations less burdensome at both EU and local level, strengthening the single market, developing a new industrial innovation policy and commercialisation of new research and technology, enabling industry to seize the benefits of open trade and investment and facilitating a smooth and cost efficient transition to a resources efficient economy.

For more information on this conference kindly refer to the following link:
http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise/policies/industrial-competitiveness/industrial-policy/industrial_policy_for_globalisation_era_en.htm

Malta Chamber meets MUBE

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 08:20:53 GMT

Last week, Malta Chamber President Mr. Tancred Tabone and the Board of Management welcomed a delegation from the Malta Union of Bank Employees, led by President Mr. William Portelli. A number of issues were discussed, including the social model and family friendly measures, in the light of the maternity leave extension announced during the Budget Speech. Both parties agreed that efficient ways were needed to encourage female participation in the labour market in order to expand the economy. The Malta Chamber maintained however that extending maternity leave was not the answer. This discussion was held within the context of the importance of social dialogue in general and the enhancement of relations between social partners.

MCESD - Discussion on Tourism

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 08:04:22 GMT

The President and Director General attended a meeting of the MCESD which had been convened for the purpose of discussing the performance of tourism during 2011. The Hon. Mario de Marco, Parliamentary Secretary for Tourism, the Environment and Culture delivered a presentation showing positive results for tourism on all counts, including: tourist arrivals, earnings from tourism, bed nights sold and cruise liner business. Those present discussed short and medium term threats for the industry as well as opportunities for improvement in 2012 and beyond.

Increase in Bunker Tax

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 13:39:48 GMT

The President of the Malta Chamber, Mr. Tancred Tabone, Mr. Kevin J. Borg, Director General - Policy and Communications, and Miss Johanna Calleja, Manager - Administration and Facilities met with members of the Shipping and Bunkering Business Section on 23rd November 2011. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the increase in Bunker Tax as announced in the Government Budget for 2012.

The President spoke about draft legislation introduced following the budget which would empower Government to charge up to €10 per metric ton in tax for bunkers supplied both inside and outside territorial waters. Bill 94 of 2011 detailed the HS Codes affected. The President had made strong representations with Government on this issue in terms of the economic arguments showing that the objectives behind this measure would fail because ships could bunker elsewhere. On this basis, members of the Shipping and Bunkering Business Section agreed that this tax should be challenged.

Amplifying the Competitiveness of Manufacturing in Malta' Conference

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 13:26:00 GMT

On the 23rd of November Director General Ing. Ray Muscat and Research Executive Ms. Marylyn Hili participated in the conference organised by the Malta Council for Science and Technology on the subject of Amplifying the Competitiveness of Manufacturing in Malta. The MCST is managing an EU-funded project on Manufacturing Research with the aim of catalysing the local manufacturing industry in its transformation to higher value-added activities through awareness-raising and participation in research projects. The event was opened by the Hon. Jeffrey Pullicino Orlando, Chairman of the Council and Dr. Nicholas Sammut, Vice Chairman and CEO. During the conference, a panel of prominent local and foreign speakers spoke about different aspects of research in manufacturing with particular focus on the local industry. On behalf of the Malta Chamber, Ing. Ray Muscat delivered a presentation which tackled and gave an overview of industry views of research for competitiveness. Following the speeches, participants were divided into working groups for intensive discussions on various aspects of the subject. Recommendations were noted for consideration by MCST.

Update Meeting on Factory Rental & Service Charges

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 11:36:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber held a very well attended Information Meeting for Members on Factory Rents and Service Charge on Tuesday 22nd November 2011. President Tancred Tabone opened the meeting and was followed by Matthias Fauser, Chairman of the Manufacturers and Other Industries Economic Group. Mr. Fauser provided background of what had happened to date and announced the names of the representatives of the Malta Chamber who would be participating in the two joint committees to be set up between ME/MIP and Malta Chamber. One Committee Rents – would discuss and decide on how the rents were going to be established, and one on the Service Charge – would be responsible to decide on what was to be included under the said charge. Following this presentation the President opened the floor for a general discussion. The main points that were made follow:

Rents

The President said that Malta Enterprise / MIP had given the Malta Chamber a presentation on how the rents were being worked out. The Malta Chamber had agreed on the parameters but had not agreed on the weightings. The Malta Chamber was in agreement that some rents, especially the old ones, needed to be revised. No Rents would be imposed and everything would be decided upon through mutual agreement in the Rents Committee.

Service Charge

The President said that the service charge would cover maintenance and upkeep but not capital charges. The Service Charge Committee was responsible to discuss and decide upon what was to be included under the service charge. Once again, everything would be arrived at through mutual agreement. The authorities would decide on the minimum standards and services to be applicable but the decisions on how to maintain these standards, and on what contractors to engage to do so, pertained to the associations. The rate of €3.50 per square meter was the maximum applicable. Funds earned from the service charge would be administered by the industrial estate associations and any balance not be spent in one year would be refunded or carried over in the budget for the following year, as decided by the association concerned.

Associations

The President said that it was now crucial for all estates to set up an association. Those factories not forming part of an association and those industrial estates without an association would have to pay the full €3.50 per square meter service charge.

Malta Chamber Vice President Mr. William Wait founder member of the Bulebel association, BIETA, invited members interested in setting up an association in their industrial estate to contact him and he would be prepared to pass on a copy of the BIETA statute, share his experience, and offer advice to get them started. Some members said that they were on the main road or were surrounded by public roads and queried why they should be made to pay a service charge. The reply was that the Service Charge committee still had to decide on what was to be included under the said charge but even factories on the periphery of industrial estates would benefit from common services such as signage, day care centres, medical/nursing centres etc. Once again, it would be up to the association concerned to decide on how much these peripheral factories were to pay.

Various members said that they had received contracts from MIP, some of them even in the last couple of weeks, with intimidatory deadlines to sign at the new rates. Mr. Fauser made it clear that there should be no increases until the committees finalized their work and that the old rates should remain applicable until such date. The President recommended that these members pass their cases onto the Malta Chamber for it to take up on their behalf through its representatives on the Malta Enterprise Board.

New Contracts

Members present said that they were finalizing contracts for new factories with high factory rents and €3.50 per square meter Service Charge and requested advice on how to proceed. The President advised them to insert a clause in the contract that the rent would be revised in line with the Rent Committee decisions and that the service charge would be based on the amount actually spent by the association of the industrial estate concerned with a maximum of €3.50 per square meter. The members asked whether the Malta Chamber lawyer could draft the said clause for them.

Conclusion

The President said that, overall, the Malta Chamber had made a sizeable achievement in its negotiations with the authorities to date. It was now important for the Rent and the Service Charge Committees to start their work and for the firms to start forming their industrial estate associations. The Malta Chamber would keep members informed of developments in due course.

Composition of Rent Committee

Mr. Stefano Mallia
(Malta Chamber, Deputy President),

Large Enterprise
Mr. Matthias Fauser (Playmobil, Hal Far)

Medium Enterprise
Mr. Charles Brincat (Carlo Gavazzi, Bulebel), Mr. Joe Pace (Consolidated Biscuits, Mriehel)

Small Enterprise

Mr. Robert Abela (Traplas, Kordin), Mr. Kenneth Caruana (Thermoplastics, Marsa), Mr. Tonio Bugeja (Sputnik, San Gwann), Ing. Ray Muscat (Malta Chamber, Director General)

Composition of Service Charge Committee

Mr. Julian Mamo (Malta Chamber, Council Member)

Large Enterprise
Mr. Matthias Fauser (Playmobil, Hal Far), Mr. William Wait (Toly, Bulebel)

Medium Enterprise
Ms. Marisa Xuereb (Raesch Quarz, Mosta),

Small Enterprise

Mr. Jason Cole (Colta Tipped Tools, Kordin), Mr. Joseph Gingell (Jaguar Industri, Marsa), Mr. Alexander Zammit (Zamco Caterware, San Gwann), Ing. Ray Muscat (Malta Chamber, Director General)

Malta Chamber welcomes HRH Price Edward, Earl of Wessex

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 07:56:00 GMT

Last week, Banif Bank held a business breakfast at the Exchange Buildings, in honour of HRH Prince Edward, the Earl of Wessex. HRH Prince Edward was welcomed by Mr. Joaquim F. Silva Pinto, CEO, Banif Bank Malta, together with Malta Chamber President Mr. Tancred Tabone.

On arrival at the Malta Chamber, HRH Prince Edward was invited to sign the Malta Chamber guestbook, where he was also presented with a gift by the Malta Chamber President. He was then greeted by a number of guests, who had accepted Banif’s invitation to the Breakfast Meeting it was hosting in the Sir Agostino Portelli Hall.

During his speech, Mr. Tabone remarked that by visiting the Malta Chamber, HRH Prince Edward was following in the footsteps of Her Majesty the Queen, whose visit in 1948 marked the 100th Anniversary of the Malta Chamber, and also in the footsteps of His Royal Highness the Duke of York, who was the Malta Chamber’s guest at in 1998, which coincided with the Malta Chamber’s 150th Anniversary.

“The Malta Chamber is delighted that, in 2012, the International Forum for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award will be held in Malta and we wish the organisers every success,” he said.

After Mr. Tabone welcomed all guests to the Malta Chamber, Banif CEO Mr. Silva Pinto announced Banif’s Sponsorship of the International Forum 2012. “Investing in the future of our society is one of the pillars of the Bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR),” remarked Mr Silva Pinto. “The Bank’s sponsorship of the International Forum 2012 is a tangible way of showing its commitment to support the local community”.

To mark the occasion, Banif was also launching a special product offer, tailored to encourage youths participating in the President’s Award, to manage their money wisely and save for their future. He then presented the official letter of sponsorship to Mr. Kenneth DeMartino, Chairman of the Organising Committee of the International Forum 2012.

HRH Prince Edward thanked Banif Bank for their support, stating that it is with the Bank’s support, amongst others, that young people will have the opportunity to obtain the life skills they need to progress. He added that the fact that the employers were also represented during the event was also significant.

HRH Prince Edward was in Malta as a special guest of the President’s Award Malta, in preparation for the forthcoming International Award Forum to be held in November 2012.

HSBC Malta signs Support Agreement with Malta Chamber

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 07:54:00 GMT

A Partner Support Agreement was signed between The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry and HSBC Bank Malta. The agreement was signed by Malta Chamber President Mr. Tancred Tabone and Mr. Michel Cordina, Head of Commercial Banking at HSBC Malta.

This agreement specifically supports the Malta Chamber’s mission to help members to expand their business abroad. “HSBC is an ideal partner for internationalisation, being a global bank with presence in over 87 countries,” said Mr. Tabone. “With HSBC’s assistance over the past years we have built an Internationalisation Desk with two full-time staff. Our Internationalisation services are demand-driven and are inspired by an ongoing membership profiling exercise through which we know where and in what manner, our members are internationalising their business,” explained Mr. Tabone.

Through HSBC’s ongoing support, the Malta Chamber has participated in a number of initiatives, including a partnership with Malta Enterprise in the launch and implementation of a project dedicated to franchise, through which over 50 companies benefitted. “We also participate in all Malta Enterprise-led business missions, as well as organising our first mission to Tunisia last June,” stated Mr. Tabone. “Furthermore, we have also established four Business Councils, for Egypt, Tunisia, Scandinavia and most recently, Germany.”

Mr Cordina said: “Through this agreement we continue to support the Malta Chamber and Maltese entrepreneurs in general doing business overseas. HSBC Commercial Banking reaches far and wide, with a customer base of 3.2 million businesses, ranging from newly-created start-ups to large corporates, and over 7,500 relationship managers to look after their needs and connect them with the partners they need from around the world to grow their business.”

Collaboration Agreement with Quality Austria

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 07:52:00 GMT

On the 10th of November, Mrs Helga Ellul, Malta Chamber Foundation Chairman and Ms Jeanelle Catania, Foundation Executive, held a number of meetings with Quality Austria in Vienna that led to the signing of a collaboration agreement aiming at providing educational courses in various areas.

Quality Austria is the market leader in the provision of accredited training courses, mainly in the area of quality management. Quality Austria is a member of the most important international quality organizations, such as IQNet, EOQ, EFQM, VDA-QMC, IATF. The organisation is represented in more than 50 countries in Central and Eastern Europe, Asia, South America, North Africa, and over the past years, the organisation has trained more than 135,000 participants during its courses, seminars and workshops.

It is envisaged that a series of train-the-trainer courses will be organised to provide prospective local certified trainers knowledge about the philosophy of Quality Austria, the training methodology that should be applied, and the appropriate use of the training materials that will be supplied by Quality Austria. This will enable the Malta Chamber Foundation to have its pool of experts that would be capable of providing Quality Austria certified courses in the selected areas.

Commencement of Air Malta Flight Operations to Libya

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 07:50:00 GMT

Prior to the announcement that Air Malta will resume operations to Libya at the end of the month, the Libya Action Committee expressed grave concern about the fact that Air Malta is yet to commence its service. In a letter to the Prime Minister, the Chamber President said that this matter was not in line with the country’s consistent aspirations to serve as an international platform for business opportunities in Libya.

The Malta Chamber said that this amounted to lost business opportunities to the benefit, competing countries whose airlines were already flying directly to Libya. The Malta Chamber recommended that Tripoli be given priority over Benghazi in this regard.

Online Gambling Sector Needs More Legal Certainty

Fri, 18 Nov 2011 09:00:45 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE 2011 11 18 The European Economic and Social Committee has called for more legal certainty in the Online gambling sector. The EESC has formally put forward its views on the sector in the Opinion which was drawn up by Maltese rapporteur Stefano Mallia. The Opinion was adopted at EESC Plenary by a vast majority with just four votes against out of 134 votes cast.

Online gambling is not considered to be an ordinary economic activity and therefore is currently not subject to the rules of the internal market. This has resulted in a wide variety of approaches being adopted by the different Member States. Such approaches vary from a complete ban, to monopolies, to a system of licences. This unfortunately is creating a lot of uncertainty within the industry. Operators need to have more legal certainty when setting up shop in any of the EU Member States so that they can then carry out the necessary investments.

Mr. Mallia warned about the ‘real danger that the online gaming industry will be driven into the hands of black market operators, leaving consumers exposed to fraud and abuse’. In a green paper published by the European Commission, it has been established that some 85% of all online gambling websites are illegal, meaning that they have no kind of license and are therefore not subject to any kind of controls or monitoring.

Mr. Mallia said ‘this is extremely serious, especially when you consider that there are millions of consumers entering these sites every week’. As things stand today consumers will find it very hard to identify which sites are legal and which are not. Furthermore when entering illegal sites consumer are fully exposed to serious crimes such as fraud and ID theft.

Therefore, the EESC opinion strongly recommends that an EU framework of Consumer legislation is put into place to protect all EU consumers of online gambling services. The legislation should set a minimum (not low) standard of consumer protection whilst at the same time allowing individual Member States the margin to additionally develop higher levels of protection should they wish to do so. ‘If a Member State feels that it should afford its citizens a higher level of protection than that established by EU legislation then it should be allowed to do so. At least in this manner, consumers across the EU will be guaranteed a level of protection which is common across the EU. Presently such a guarantee does not exist’.

The Malta Chamber President Tancred Tabone expressed the Malta Chamber’s satisfaction that a Maltese member of the EESC was appointed as rapporteur on such a delicate matter. Mr. Tabone said ‘we all know how important the online gaming industry is for Malta and therefore it is in our national interest that the industry develops in a coherent manner across the EU. I think the EESC opinion as drawn up by Mr. Mallia provides an important contribution in this direction. This is a real a concrete example of how we can make our presence in the different EU institutions count’.

Budget 2012: an innovative approach to the property sector

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 10:11:39 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE 2011 11 17 The Real Estate Business Section of The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry is encouraged by the fact that the 2012 Budget speech took a different and innovative approach towards the property sector. This approach is in line with proposals it put forward together with the Federation of Estate Agents, the Malta Developers Association, the Federation of Building Contractors and the Chamber of Architects. The proposals were presented during a Business Breakfast on the State of The Property Industry last October.

The Section welcomes the change in mindset and applauds the incentives offered to people or companies that restore and/or renovate Scheduled and derelict properties in Urban Conservation Areas. The concept of rewarding investors who are preserving our national heritage is commendable and should be extended further. This is a system already adopted in other European Union countries with great success.

The widening of the permitted use of types of properties in UCAs, whilst remaining compatible with residential zones, is again an issue which local stakeholders have worked incessantly to convince Government to change and reflect today's needs.
Furthermore, the introduction of a Final Withholding Tax system on residential and commercial rentals is definitely a step in the right direction, albeit it is a small start. This is a change that the Malta Chamber’s Real Estate Section has actively promoted and we encourage the Minister to extend this innovative taxation system to all residential rentals.

The Malta Chamber’s Real Estate Business Section also commends the measure aimed at facilitating the transfer of property between heirs to consolidate ownership and avoid buildings becoming derelict. This is to be achieved by the two-year exemption on the relevant Duty on Documents.

In the coming days, the Real Estate Business Section shall continue to evaluate the 2012 Budget Speech and elaborate on the above reaction through the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry.

Malta Chamber: A Stable Budget in the Context of International Turbulence

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 07:57:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2011 11 14 The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry is encouraged by the fact that the 2012 Budget speech is aimed at promoting economic growth and consolidating public finances without creating economic shocks namely no increases in tax and utility rates. This is important in the light of the turbulent international realities which Chancellor Merkel this evening described as Europe’s toughest hour since WWII. This is also in line with the objectives for the budget proposed by the Malta Chamber during consultations. In our opinion, this position is also in line with prioritizing wealth generation.

Competitiveness to Ensure Growth

It is pertinent to note a number of measures aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of Malta’s major growth promoters, namely

Small and Medium Enterprises

Extension of Micro Invest Scheme providing tax credits for productive investments
The creation of the new MicroGuarantee scheme The fourth call for European Regional and Development Fund (ERDF) which will be launched to the tune of €8m
Further improvement in private industrial zones

Manufacturing

In addition to the above, it is positive to note an allocation of €14.2 million in incentives to industry, the upgrading of Bulebel and Hal Far Industrial zones, with an investment of €16.7 million. The investment of €30m on the BioMalta campus, in the pharmaceutical and life sciences sector.

It is encouraging to note that the authorities have accepted the Malta Chamber’s recommendation to enter into further discussions about the service charge.

The Malta Chamber commends the announced scheme allowing high-volume energy users to convert accumulated tax credits into grants to invest in solutions for energy saving and energy generation from renewable sources. In this regard, the Malta Chamber awaits the ratios and further implementation details.

Tourism

With regards to the Tourism sector, the Malta Chamber is encouraged to note the increase in the MTA’s marketing budget to €36m, €4.2m in further embellishments on new projects and €10m to aid private operators for the improvement of tourist projects and marketing. It still needs to be evaluated whether this amount is sufficient.

Other Industries

We further note the positive assistance schemes being offered to promote emerging areas such as the creative and digital gaming sectors.

Enhancing Female Participation

The Malta Chamber is disappointed with the manner in which the matter of maternity leave extension was raised abruptly during the final MCESD meeting preceding the Budget. The Malta Chamber believes that this proposal requires serious evaluation as well as an in-depth discussion with all social partners prior to its implementation.

With regards to encouraging female participation, the Malta Chamber believes in nationwide measures to support families achieve an enhanced work-life balance such as child-care centres and schools offering extended hours. The Malta Chamber notes further progress in this regard and warrants further steps forward including the adoption of Banking of Hours. Such nation-wide measures would significantly reduce the need for “patch-up” solutions at company level such as maternity leave and career breaks.

The newly announced tax bands for working parents are also perceived as a step in the right direction.

COLA

The Malta Chamber is disappointed that the country has wasted yet another opportunity to address the COLA formula. This is required to complement Malta’s competitiveness position whilst being retained as an instrument to compensate workers for loss of disposable income due to inflation. To this end, as a matter of priority, it continues to insist that the formula used for calculation of COLA incorporates a measure of productivity as has been already agreed within the pertinent MCESD working group.

In conclusion, in the coming days, the Malta Chamber shall be examining the contents of the Budget Speech in greater detail and in the context of the set of budget documents published. The Malta Chamber will then be in a position to ascertain the effects of the announced measures in the context of medium term economic and social objectives.

Malta Chamber hosts Republic of Korea Business Forum: Synergies and Business Opportunities

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 07:55:00 GMT

On 11th November, Malta Chamber President Mr. Tancred Tabone welcomed a delegation of Korean businesspeople to the Exchange Buildings, for a Business Forum on Synergies and Business Opportunities. The visit of the delegation to Malta was organised by Malta’s Honorary Consul to South Korea.

During his speech, Mr. Tabone said this was an important day for our 164 year-old organisation. “In fact, we are thrilled to host such a high-powered delegation of multi-national companies from the Korean Republic,” he said. The businessmen represented companies such as Hanjin Shipping, Hyosung Corporation, Hyundai, LG Electronics, and Samsung. He went on to give a brief overview of the Malta Chamber as the the largest employer and business organisation on the island, delving into its role, services and infrastructure.

“The Korean Market is a distant one for the typical Maltese entrepreneur. This is reflected in Malta’s official trade statistics, with Korea receiving only 1.6% of Maltese exports and Malta receiving 2.3% of Korean imports,” explained Mr. Tabone. “Furthermore, our internal research shows that Maltese companies deal mostly with nearby markets, such as Europe and North Africa. However, this does not mean that South Korea is not an interesting market for us.”

Mr. Tabone explained that we need to work together if we are to consolidate business and investment ties. “Business consolidation is supported by a number of factors, such as Malta’s membership within the European Union, its links and expertise in dealing with North Africa, and our Double Taxation Agreement.”

Mr. Tabone said that the Malta Chamber is eager to co-operate with its Korean counterparts in the field of exchange of information and match-making, namely, the possibility of Malta serving as a soft-landing zone for Korean companies in Libya, and co-operation between firms at both ends for the purposes of securing North African business. In concluding, Mr. Tabone offered the Malta Chamber’s support in discussing further steps for business facilitation.

The event was also addressed by Executive Chairman of Malta Enteprise, Mr. Alan Camilleri, FinanceMalta Chairman Mr. Kenneth Farrugia, and Mr. Dominic Micallef from the Malta Tourism Authority. A number of one-to-one meetings with Maltese businessmen were also held.

Consultation Meeting on Green Public Procurement

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 07:52:00 GMT

On 10th November, the Malta Chamber held a Consultation Meeting on Green Public Procurement, one of the measures in the draft National Environment Policy. In this respect, the government has recently adopted a National Action Plan on Green Public Procurement, which will lead to the application of environmental standards in the public procurement of goods, works and services. Malta Chamber Policy Manager Mr. Andre Fenech opened the session.

During the first presentation, which was given by Mr. Sergei Golovkin Manager, Environmental Initiatives (OPM) it was stated that the GPP Task Force aims to ensure that 50 per cent of public procurement is compliant with EU GPP common criteria. In this regard, the GPP Action Plan establishes a framework for the implementation of GPP in Malta, promoting good purchasing practices, reducing their environmental impacts, and maximising on economic opportunities. In order to avoid market distortions and other possible adverse effects on the local supply markets, the Action Plan adopts an incremental approach.

The application of environmental standards in public procurement will apply to all public tenders falling within the scope of Public Procurement Regulations (LN 296 of 2010) irrespective of tender type (supply, works or service), value (departmental, tenders above EU thresholds), tendering procedure (open, restricted, negotiated, etc) or the nature of the contracting authority.

The second presentation, given by Mr. Joseph Caruana, Tourism and Sustainable Development Unit (OPM) was dedicated to the application of the new criteria and targets. The aims of the criteria include:

To use less environmental harmful methods of production
To use less environmental harmful chemicals of products
To minimise solid, water and energy waste during use
To reduce the production of air and noise pollution during use
To promote the procurement of plants for gardening purposes which are able to grow in local conditions to minimise water consumption or soil degradation
To promote renewable energy use and water catchment.

In essence, the GPP targets for a number of items and services as listed below will be binding as from next year (listed as year 1) with moving targets in 2013 and 2014.

Members requiring further information may contact Policy Manager Mr. Andre Fenech, on email: andre.fenech@maltachamber.org.mt

Malta Chamber supports Employee Supported Volunteering Conference

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 07:50:00 GMT

On the 28th of October, the Malta Chamber supported a conference held by the Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector on Employee Supported Volunteering at the Grand Hotel Excelsior. The aim of the conference was to bring together the business community and the voluntary sector in a market place, where both parties could discuss possible cooperation as part of the private sector’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). The concept is directed at moving away from traditional voluntary work and towards offering professional services which are much needed by the voluntary sector.

The conference was opened by the Hon. Clyde Puli, Parliamentary Secretary for Youth and Sport, in the Ministry of Education, Employment and the Family. Ms. Claudia Taylor East, member of the MCVS chaired the conference and the key note speaker was Dr. Elena Korf, from the International Business Leaders Forum, who delivered a presentation and a discussion on ‘Understanding Employee Volunteering’.

Furthermore, Ms. Monique Falzon from SOS Malta also presented the research findings from the EPSEV project ‘Empowering Private Sector Employees through Volunteering. Two corporate organisations already engaged in CSR activities together with a voluntary organisation also shared their experiences of good practices in their respective fields. After an interactive session amongst the entities present, the conference was closed by the Chairman of MCVS, Mr. Robert Farrugia.

Time to Move On and Focus on the Right Priorities

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 09:05:52 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2011 11 10: “Further to the vote of confidence in Parliament, business expects our political leaders to re-focus on the right priorities and not become too distracted by issues which are strictly local. Of course the public transport reform is important but we must also recognise that the international economic situation requires our full attention and more,” declared Mr. Tancred Tabone, President of the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry.

The country needs to focus on the issues at hand, particularly in the light of the economy’s vulnerability to the turmoil that continues to surround us. What continues to take place in Greece and indeed the current events in Italy are a stark reminder that international instability has become the norm and that the economic scenario is changing on a daily basis.

It is a generally recognised fact that Malta has, so far, withstood recent storms well enough but Parliament and our political leaders must not allow any further distractions upon themselves. We would be foolish to allow ourselves to fall into some kind of comfort zone wherein we start to believe that we are immune to all that is happening around us.

Unlike many of our neighbouring countries, our country is thankfully faring well in a number of economic sectors. This is largely due to some key structural reforms that have taken place over the years and to an enterprising private sector. It is also due to the responsible behaviour of the social partners in general. The Malta Chamber would like to remind our political leaders that during the brief period of recession a considerable number of employers went through significant hardships to safeguard jobs and protect human capital.

There is however no guarantee that these same employers will be able to do so again.

The situation is an extremely delicate one and we must, act carefully to ensure that we do not to create a crisis when one does not exist. This is very important in a world of fickle markets increasingly driven more by sentiment then reason.

The country needs to concentrate its efforts on ensuring economic growth and stability. Government will next week present the 2012 budget during which it is expected to lay out its plans to reign in public finances whilst at the same time tackling critical issues such as the restructuring of Air Malta and rising fuel costs. The Malta Chamber also expects Government to introduce measures that will continue to attract foreign investment whilst also enhancing our national competitiveness. Raising tax levels or introducing new taxes during 2012 are not an option.

Mr Tabone repeated an appeal he made earlier this year, “Let us get back to business. Our country boasts a resilient and dynamic private sector, one which is well capable of creating wealth and prosperity for Malta. The private sector, however, needs the entire country to pull in the same direction. We must ensure our country prevails over the global situation. The whole country will benefit if we unite and concentrate on business. Otherwise, we will ALL stand to lose.”

Malta Chamber delivers presentation to Parliament’s Family Affairs Committee

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 07:58:00 GMT

Last week the Malta Chamber was invited to give a presentation on its position regarding Family Friendly Measures to Parliament’s Standing Committee on Family Affairs. Representing the Malta Chamber were President Mr. Tancred Tabone and Director General Mr. Kevin J. Borg. The Committee Members include Members of Parliament Dr. Jean-Pierre Farrugia, who is the Chairman, Mr. Charlò Bonnici, Dr. Justyne Caruana, Ms Marie Louise Coleiro Preca, and Mr. Jesmond Mugliett.

This was the second of a series of meetings on the issue. The first meeting’s guests were Principal Permanent Secretary Godwin Grima and members of the Public Administration Human Resources Office at the Office of the Prime Minister. During the meeting, a presentation on the history of family-friendly measures for both mothers and fathers was given, including their introduction and uptake in order to reconcile employees’ work and family responsibilities.

During the meeting, Mr. Borg gave an overview of the Malta Chamber’s position on family friendly measures, stating that nation-wide measures must precede those at enterprise level. He explained that national policy must place particular emphasis on measures that:

Promote family friendly measures that increase work and productivity
Have a nation-wide effect.

It was also proposed that authorities implement the extension of school hours on a wider scale, as well as support to promote child care centres and the banking of hours.

Mr. Borg stated that these measures would minimise the need for additional family friendly measures to be adopted at enterprise level, which would create negative side effects on business. He added that measures which are required at company level should remain at the discretion of business.

The Malta Chamber believes that Government should provide appropriate incentives to the private sector to encourage take-up of voluntary measures. Such incentives can fully or partially offset the costs incurred by businesses, in the introduction of new measures.

The Malta Chamber suggested that the way forward should not only include continued dialogue between social partners, but also between social partners and government.

Malta Chamber discusses Budget position on current affairs programme

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 07:56:00 GMT

This week, Malta Chamber Deputy President Mr. Stefano Mallia participated in TVAM, a news programme hosted by journalist Ms Daphne Cassar. During the programme Mr. Mallia was asked to give the Malta Chamber’s views on the upcoming Budget for 2012. He explained the Malta Chamber position, which states that the prime objective of the forthcoming budget must be to ascertain the right environment for the private sector to generate economic growth. He also delved into particular policy issues such as COLA, the importance of tackling the black market, as well as the need for economic stability.

Malta Chamber participates in ‘Sehemna fl-Ewropa’

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 07:54:00 GMT

Last week, Malta Chamber Director General Ing. Ray Muscat participated in ‘Sehemna fl-Ewropa’, a radio programme produced by MEUSAC on Radju Malta. The programme which deals with European issues is currently focusing on the Europe 2020 targets. This edition in particular was dedicated to Research and Innovation. Dr. Ing. Nicholas Sammut, Chairperson of the Malta Council for Science and Technology was also a guest speaker.

The European Union states that research and innovation are the basis of a more competitive European economy, and that it addresses the principle social challenges such as climate change, energy and resource efficiency, as well as health and population changes.

During the programme, Ing. Muscat spoke about the work of the Malta Chamber’s RTDI Committee. He also described the current state of research, innovation and enterprise in Malta. Ing. Muscat also referred to the 2020 targets, and how Maltese companies can be more innovative in order to reach these targets. He emphasised that the 2020 target for Malta of the percentage R&D investment of the Gross Domestic Product, which has been set at 0.67%, was seen to be low and the country needs to be more forward looking and ambitious to stimulate future economic growth.

Budget 2012 Consultations

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 07:57:00 GMT

Following its submissions for the Budget 2012, the Malta Chamber participated in further consultations taking place within the Malta Council for Economic and Social Development. Deputy President, Mr. Stefano Mallia and Director-General, Mr. Kevin J. Borg took part in a meeting of the MCESD on Friday, 28th October 2011 in the presence of the Hon. Tonio Fenech, Minister of Finance, the Economy and Investment.

At this meeting, the Malta Chamber presented a summary of its proposals for the forthcoming budget. It maintained that the next budget needed to ascertain fiscal consolidation through the elimination of abuse and tax evasion. At the same time, Government needed to ensure the right environment for the private sector to generate economic growth. The Malta Chamber's proposals had been based on three pillars, these were: a holistic approach to competitiveness; prioritising wealth creation over wealth generation and active measures to promote growth. The Malta Chamber insisted that the private sector could no longer afford higher taxation and that all government-induced costs needed to be justified. On the active front, the Malta Chamber presented concrete proposals in the area of internationalization, access to finance and RTDI. Proposals aimed at stimulating the country's economic growth promoters were also made, in particular with respect to manufacturing, tourism, services, as well as construction and real estate.

Consultation session on draft WEEE plan

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 07:54:00 GMT

On Friday the 21st of October, the Malta Chamber of Commerce Enterprise and Industry, in collaboration with WEEE Recycle (a MEPA authorised waste management scheme), organised an information and consultation session. The aim of this session was to explain the salient points of the consultation paper on the draft waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) plan and to receive feedback from the business community on the draft plan which the authorities have recently published. Mr Andre Fenech, Malta Chamber Policy Development Manager welcomed those in attendance and explained that in principle the Malta Chamber was in agreement with what was being proposed and explained the need for the authorities to give a clear direction of where they want to go in relation to waste management.

Amongst other things, the draft plan explains the obligations of organisations importing electrical equipment into the Maltese market, the targets of WEEE to be recovered/recycled, the revision of the Eco-Contribution Act to cover all the categories of EEE products and the exemptions from the payment of eco contribution on such products for companies joining an authorised waste management scheme or those willing to self comply to the law. Mr. Kevin Mercieca, from MEPA and Ing. Mario Schembri, from Green Dot were the main speakers at the session. After the session those who wished to give their views on the subject were welcome to do so and such feedback was noted.

For more information, kindly contact Mr Andre Fenech on e-mail address: andre.fenech@maltachamber.org.mt or on tel. no. 21 233 873

Seminar on Employers and Voluntary Work

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 07:50:00 GMT

On 26th October, Malta Chamber Policy Development Manager Mr Andre Fenech was invited by the Pastoral Commission for Work to speak at a seminar entitled "Il-Hidma Volontarja u min ihaddem". The purpose of this seminar was to discuss a paper published by the same commission on the subject which gives the Catholic Church's views on voluntary work and its link to employers and business. Other constituted bodies and NGOs such as Trade Unions and Employer Bodies were also present. During his intervention, Mr Fenech said that the Malta Chamber was at the forefront of the promotion of voluntary work within companies and the concept of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

He explained that the Malta Chamber believes in the importance of a bottom up approach for workers to get involved in such activities so that the employees feel closer to their companies identity. He also mentioned that the owners' ethical values and the importance these carried for CSR to be implemented in the companies' operations. He also stressed the need for recognition of these employees and other volunteers and said that it was important for companies to communicate these activities, the need to exchange experiences and good practices amongst business and the importance of more information dissemination to companies that CSR could represent opportunities rather than being a burden.

Malta Chamber congratulates President on new appointment

Thu, 27 Oct 2011 10:12:50 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2011 10 27: The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry congratulates its President, Mr. Tancred Tabone on his recent election as Chairman of the Conservatorio Vincenzo Bugeia. He is also Chairman of Forestals Group of Companies, and Director of various companies and Malta Enterprise.

The Trust of the Conservatorio Vincenzo Bugeia was established in 1880 by the Marquis Vincenzo Bugeia with the aim of helping children in need. These aims are attained through the bequest of the Marquis which is administered by a Board of Trustees.

Commenting on his appointment, Mr. Tabone said that he was accepting this post with honour in view of the Conservatorio's philanthropic mission. "My aim at the helm of the Conservatorio is to run the organisation more efficiently in a manner which befits Marquis Vincenzo Bugeia's original gesture in the interest of helping children in need and ensuring a smooth transition into society and the working world.”

The Board of Trustees, now chaired by Mr. Tancred Tabone, is made up of the following:
Dr. Richard Manche', Dr. John A. Consiglio, Baron Gino Trapani Galea, Dr. Taygeta Firman, Mr. David Xuereb, Mr. Andrew Mamo, and Mr. Gino Cutajar. The Secretary is Mr. Mark Micallef.

Declaration on restoring confidence in Europe’s economy

Wed, 26 Oct 2011 09:01:57 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2011 10 26: The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry has continued to participate in discussions focusing on the problems within the euro area. In this regard, the organisation took part in EUROCHAMBRES’S 110th Plenary Assembly, held in Brussels earlier this week. The Malta Chamber was represented by Director General, Mr. Kevin J. Borg.

The Assembly issued a communication to policy makers, in the context of the challenges which the current economic situation is placing on the European business community. EUROCHAMBRES stated that whilst seeking to rectify the financial difficulties should remain priority, this must be accompanied by policies to deliver growth that will in turn create jobs and drive the economic recovery.

In this context, the Presidency of EUROCHAMBRES, highlighted the following economic and financial priorities to European policy makers:

Safeguard the euro, a key factor in the future growth and competitiveness of European businesses and a cornerstone of EU integration and the internal market.
Stimulate access to finance for businesses, particularly SMEs. This entails encouraging bank lending in the short term, notably through enhancing the role of loan and equity guarantee funds at both national and European level, while also developing attractive and viable alternative sources of funding through.
Ensure that new financial regulations, either individually or cumulatively, do not impact negatively on bank lending to businesses.
Accelerate delivery of the many remaining elements of the EU internal market. Exceptional measures also should be taken to render the internal market more business-friendly, for example the recent Commission proposal to accelerate the implementation of the recast Late Payments Directive.

If policy makers set in place an environment that favours growth, job creation and innovation, the real economy can and will get Europe out of the crisis.

As a member of EUROCHAMBRES, the Malta Chamber fully supports this position. “Growth in Europe is key to ensure economic prospects in Malta are safeguarded” said Malta Chamber President, Mr. Tancred Tabone. “Malta is in a sensitive position because it has a small and open economy. Given Malta’s fiscal consolidation targets, economic growth represents the only way for the country to prevail in these difficult circumstances,” concluded Mr Tabone.

Launching the German-Maltese Business Council

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 14:26:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2011 10 25:“Business Councils are a very effective vehicle to assist companies in their internationalisation efforts, and with its strong links to business, both locally and abroad, the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry is centrally placed to establish and run these entities,” said Mr. Tancred Tabone, Malta Chamber President, during the launch of the German-Maltese Business Council.

“This is the fourth Business Council we are launching. Like the Scandinavian and Tunisian entities, this Business Council is driven by demand from members themselves who indicated the need for it through our ongoing surveys.”

The German-Maltese Business Council (GMBC) was formed towards the end of 2010, however, its official launch was held this week. The seminar was addressed by a distinguished line up of speakers including the Minister of Finance, the Economy and Investment, the Hon. Tonio Fenech, the German Ambassador, H.E Dr. Hubert Ziegler, Malta Chamber President Mr. Tancred Tabone, Mr. Karl Aquilina, GMBC Chairman, Mrs. Helga Ellul, CEO of Playmobil and Mr. Richard Vogel, CEO of TUI Cruises.

The launch event took the form of a seminar and a “Flavours of Germany” networking exhibition and reception.

GMBC Chairman Mr. Karl Aquilina explained that the mission of the newly established Council was to promote, facilitate and enhance business exchanges between Malta and Germany by being the focal point for businesses, organisations and other stakeholders on German-Maltese business. “To achieve this, we have been building a resource of contacts and know-how within the Malta Chamber and its vast network of local and international contacts. We shall strive to provide focused information about the German market and business opportunities in Germany,” he said.

“Germany is an economic superpower and a very large country. We intend to break it down to a manageable size for the local business community. From early 2012, we shall start holding specific seminars about Germany’s main economic regions,” he said, adding that an event related to the financial sector was also in the pipeline.

A presentation was also given on strengthening relations between Malta and Germany, by Playmobil CEO and Malta Chamber Past President Mrs. Helga Ellul, who shared her firsthand experiences. She remarked that German investment played an important part in the evolution of the manufacturing industry in Malta, “German companies have contributed to positive work experiences, good salaries, training and career progression for many Maltese people. However, the world out there is very competitive. We must continue to earn our success and we must continue to improve our competitiveness.”

The keynote speech was delivered by Mr. Richard Vogel, CEO of TUI Cruises. Mr. Vogel said that thanks to its location in the Mediterranean, Malta was an attractive cruise destination, the entrance to the Grand Harbour alone offered spectacular views. He explained that Malta was a popular destination for German Cruise guests who enjoyed a wide range of cultural events and the fact that Malta can be reached quickly and reliably by air from Germany. In fact, Germans made up the third largest group of visitors, after Britons and Italians. “TUI Cruises was the first cruise line to appoint Valletta as base port for a cruise summer season, with 27 passenger exchanges during the season. In total about 53,050 people had the chance to discover Malta,” he said.

Mr. Vogel took the opportunity of the GMBC launch to announce that Valletta Cruise Port would be the homeport for TUI Cruises for 2013.

The launch event of the GMBC was supported by Lufthansa, BMW Group Malta, Simonds Farsons Cisk plc, Prominent Fluid Controls Ltd., Salvo Grima Group Ltd., Playmobil, Orange Cruises, Mifsud Brothers and the German Tourism Authority.

The Malta Chamber presents its Pre-Budget Proposals

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 07:57:00 GMT

Last week, the Malta Chamber presented its Pre-Budget Proposals document to the Minister of Finance, the Economy and Investment, Hon. Tonio Fenech.

The Malta Chamber is of the firm opinion that the prime objective of the forthcoming budget must be to ascertain the right environment for the private sector to generate economic growth. Private sector contribution to growth will then complement the measures taken within the public sector to enhance efficiency and productivity. Both sectors must ensure complete alignment and perform mutually reinforcing actions.

In this regard, the Malta Chamber presented its proposals under three sections as follows:

A holistic approach to competitiveness: Remedial measures required to correct certain persisting bottlenecks to growth
Proposals in the area of prioritising wealth creation over wealth generation
Active measures to promote growth, according to sector.

Members interested in obtaining the full position may contact Ms Lorrieann Vella on email: lorrieann.vella@maltachamber.org.mt

Meeting with the Libyan Ambassador

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 07:56:00 GMT

This week, Malta Chamber President Mr. Tancred Tabone, accompanied by Director General Mr. Kevin J. Borg visited Libyan Ambassador H.E Dr. Saadun Suayeh at the Libyan Embassy.

Mr. Tabone commended the Ambassador for this handling of the Libyan crisis and in fulfilling a highly sensitive role. He also thanked the Ambassador for shifting his efforts to the way forward, and involving Malta in this direction.
The President remarked that Malta took a high-profile, however, low-key role during the conflict. In this regard, the Malta Chamber was in continuous contact with the Prime Minister, the Minister of Finance, the Economy and Investment and Malta Enterprise, in order to seek support for members who were directly affected due to operations in Libya.

Mr. Tabone acknowledged that Libya’s needs and priorities were humanitarian, especially due to health and medical issues. He explained that Malta and Maltese businesses were very willing to support Libya in the best way possible.

On the way forward, the Malta Chamber will retain the high level ground and will also support the Libyan Maltese Chamber. The Malta Chamber will also be supporting the Maltese delegation to Libya being organised by Malta Enterprise, as well as the Commercial Offices in Tripoli and Benghazi. Mr. Tabone explained that the Malta Chamber is also requesting interested members to express their interest in consolidation of efforts, to serve the Libyan Market.

Visa Issues

During the meeting, the Malta Chamber also enquired about Visas (Libya to Malta), as these had recently stopped. The Ambassador confirmed that if an applicant had an invitation or authorisation from Libya or recommendation from Malta, that person would be eligible for a Visa.

Malta Chamber participates in Intrapriza Malta

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 07:54:00 GMT

Last week, the Malta Chamber participated in Intrapriza Malta, the SME Week Fair held at the Malta Fairs and Conventions Centre. During this event, the Malta Chamber ‘s staff collaborated with the staff of the Malta Business Bureau and the Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association in order to provide information about the three organisations to visitors.

Malta Chamber in the Media

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 07:52:00 GMT

Last week, Malta Chamber Director General Mr. Kevin J. Borg participated in ‘L-Istampa Kollha, a live discussion programme hosted by Chris Scicluna and broadcast on Radio Malta. This programme in particular was dedicated to the preparations for the 2012 Budget, whilst focusing on various aspects such as the Cost of Living Adjustment. Via a telephone interview, Mr. Borg discussed the Malta Chamber’s views regarding the COLA mechanism, as well as the recommendations that it had put forward through MCESD and its Pre-Budget position. Mr. Alfred Camilleri, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Finance, the Economy and Investment was the Programme’s main guest in the studio.

In another programme within the same series, Mr. Borg gave his views on the Libya situation and the Malta Chamber’s role vis-à-vis the assistance given to companies with operations in the country.

Better Regulation meeting with Constituted Bodies

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 07:50:00 GMT

Mr Andre' Fenech, the Malta Chamber's Policy Development Manager attended a consultation meeting organised by the Better Regulation Unit, within the Management Efficiency Unit (MEU) which is responsible for the Better Regulation initiatives in Malta. The aim of the meeting was for the MEU to explain the implementation of an ESF Project entitled Developing the Maltese Public Sector’s capacity to implement Better Regulation.

During this information meeting, MEU representatives provided participants with an overview of the Better Regulation Principles as well as an outline of the Standard Cost Model Methodology used to quantify the administrative burdens arising out of the Information Obligations.

The simplification initiatives taken so far by the various Ministries and Entities were explained and the resultant savings were communicated. The constituted bodies were urged to identify and forward any suggesting of simplification of information obligations which their members feel were imposing unnecessary burdens on business. Mr Fenech sais that the Malta Chamber had always been at the forefront of these discussions and hoped to continue cooperating with Government to simplify regulations and reduce administrative burdens for businesses which would result in an increase in the economic activity on the Islands.

The stakeholders present were also informed that similar information meetings would be carried out on a regular basis in the coming months and that more focused meetings would be held with the affected sectors.

Employee Supported Volunteering – Conference

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 09:56:00 GMT

European Year of Volunteering

Employee Supported Volunteering – Conference

Grand Hotel Excelsior – 28^th October, 2011

The Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector (MCVS) together with The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry, is organising a conference themed: ‘Employee Supported Volunteering’ which is partly funded by the European Commission.

The conference aims to bring together the business community and the voluntary sector in a market place, where both parties will discuss possible cooperation as part of the private sector’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). The concept aims to move away from traditional voluntary work and move towards offering professional services which are much needed by the voluntary sector. This concept is already happening with some larger corporate entities and is being promoted at European level.

The key note speaker for the conference is Dr. Elena Korf from the International Business Leaders Forum, who will be discussing ‘Understanding Employee Volunteering’. Dr Korf will also close the conference with her conclusions on ‘The Way forward’.

The following themes will be covered:

Understanding Corporate volunteering
The Benefits of Corporate Volunteering – Private Sector/Private Sector Employees
Main Approaches and Models of Corporate Volunteering
How to set up Corporate Volunteering schemes
Success Stories and Case Studies

Ms. Monique Falzon from SOS Malta will also present the research findings from the EPSEV project ‘Empowering Private Sector Employees through Volunteering (EPSEV) project.

Two corporate organisations already offering CSR and two voluntary organisations will also be sharing their experiences of good practices in their respective fields.

The full programme can be found here.

The registration form can be found here.

European Decisions are Key to Restoring Confidence and Growth

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 13:02:21 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2011 10 21 BUSINESSEUROPE and the leaders of its 41 member federations from 35 European countries urge the European Union to put an end to the political indecision which is fuelling financial market instability and undermining consumer and business confidence.

The efforts of entrepreneurs across Europe risk being undermined by continuing political uncertainty. By acting early and in a co-ordinated, consistent and decisive way, policy-makers can reduce instability in financial markets and in turn, help restore business and consumer confidence.

In this regard BUSINESSEUROPE makes three main points to the European Council which will be held on 23rd October:

Safeguarding the Euro is an absolute must. EU leaders can make an immediate difference by committing to support efforts to recapitalise banks.
We need to continue to strengthen economic governance to help drive fiscal consolidation and structural reforms in Member States.
Government leaders are asked to focus on taking forward a small number of Commission proposals which can really help drive growth.

As a member of BUSINESSEUROPE, the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry fully supports the organisation’s stand. “On a local level, Malta’s own growth prospects are being threatened due to the bleak international outlook. External demand for goods and services is vulnerable to the effects of austerity measures that are rife in countries which constitute our principal target markets,” stated Mr. Tancred Tabone, President of the Malta Chamber. “We must ensure growth and stability and ascertain the right environment for the private sector to generate economic growth.”

The Malta Chamber states that the euro is a fundamental pillar of European integration. “We must acknowledge that it has brought great benefits to companies and citizens across Europe. Therefore, the euro requires solidarity and cohesion between the countries that share it as a currency,” said Mr. Tabone. “We need to move towards restoring confidence and growth within the European Union, with the end result being reinstatement of stability in the financial market.”

L-Industrija tal-propjeta – fejn sejra?

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 07:53:00 GMT

Last week, the Malta Chamber Real Estate Business Section Chairman Mr. Trafford Busuttil participated in a Business Breakfast event focusing on the property industry. The event was organised by the Federation of Building and Civil Engineering Contractors (FOBC), the Kamra tal-Periti (Chamber of Architects and Civil Engineers - KTP), the Malta Developers Association (MDA), and the Malta Chamber Real Estate Business Section.

During his presentation, Mr. Busuttil referred to Vision 2015. “This document clearly states that the property sector has a direct effect on economic development. It also states that this has social repercussions as regards Housing Affordability, and encourages Government to create new schemes to enhance this, through collaboration with the private sector. However, in order to reach these aims, the property sector needs to be strong, and capable of offering a quality product and competitive prices,” he said.

According to the last census, there are 53,000 empty properties in Malta, excluding holiday homes. “This means an increase of 50% over the last ten years.” said Mr. Busuttil. “This shows that we have a resource which is not generating economic activity. The value of this resource is around €7 billion. If we assume that the average income on this capital stock is 5%, this means that the Maltese economy is losing around €380 million a year!”

He also highlighted other problems currently being faced by the sector, such as low income on rental properties in comparison to other European countries, as well as issues caused by the rent reform, where owners do not have the right to evict defaulting tenants.

In this regard, the Real Estate Business Section proposes:

Amendments to the present rent laws, granting owners greater rights to evict defaulting tenants.
Abolition of the MTA one month licence fee for long lets.
Final withholding tax of 10% on rental income for residential properties. Thus creating a tax regime that will entice vacant property owners to place their property on the market, releasing over a period of time €380 million into the Maltese economy.

During his intervention, the Minister of Finance, the Economy and Investment, Hon Tonio Fenech stated that the capital projects currently underway are assisting the sector to grow and creating opportunities for economic development and employment. He spoke about the need for balance within our economic sectors, in order to ensure sustainability. The Minister also referred to schemes created to encourage foreigners to invest in Malta, such as the Highly Qualified Persons Scheme, that is attracting people from the financial services and online gaming sector.

The event also included presentations by Mr. Angelo Xuereb, FOBC President, Perit Vincent Cassar, KTP President and MDA President, Michael Falzon.

Malta Chamber participates in Apenach Conference

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 07:50:00 GMT

Last week, Malta Chamber Director General Mr. Kevin J. Borg addressed an conference organised by the General Workers’ Union. The conference brought to an end a two year project which involved trade unions from France, Portugal, Italy, Belgium and Malta together with four universities coming from the same countries excluding France.

The aim of the project, entitled Apenach (Acting Preventively by Anticipating Change) was to strengthen strategies with regard to practices of thinking ahead when it comes to managing change and restructuring measures in the companies, sectors and areas affected.

During his intervention, Mr. Borg said that approaching restructuring professionally and scientifically was vital and was indeed a crucial way forward because it ensured we were planning and taking important decisions from a position of knowledge as opposed to working on general observations and hunches.

“Companies need to continuously look outside their internal dimension to see what opportunities and threats may exist in their external environment in terms of costs, trends, competition behaviour and consumer patterns,” said Mr. Borg. “It must never be assumed that something is happening too far away to affect us. Business needs to continuously respond to the changing realities taking place around them and they need to respond swiftly.”

Mr. Borg explained that restructuring from a Maltese point of view bears extra significance since it is an important pre-requisite to expansion. “Expansion for Maltese companies is complicated by the fact that this necessitates internationalisation. Once you decide you want to expand you need to make sure you are fully prepared for the step because the risks and stakes are so much higher.”

In conclusion, Mr. Borg underlined the importance of social partners coming together to assist in restructuring Maltese business and the economy. “We would do well to continue, communicating, co-operating and working together in the interest of creating wealth and jobs.”

The Conference was also addressed by a number of speakers, including the Parliamentary Secretary Dr. Chris Said, University Rector Prof. Juanito Camilleri, GWU General Secretary Mr. Tony Zarb, representatives from the EU Commission, ETUC and the various universities and trade unions involved in the project.

TUI Cruises CEO to participate in German-Maltese Business Council Launch

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 10:39:00 GMT

TUI Cruises CEO Mr. Richard J. Vogel will be participating in the launch of the German-Maltese Business Council, within the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry on October 20th, 2011.

Since the founding of the company in 2008, Mr. Vogel has been the Chief Executive of TUI Cruises GmbH, a joint venture between TUI AG and Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. The company owns and currently operates two cruise ships, the 1,914-passenger vessel, Mein Schiff and the 1,886-passenger vessel, Mein Schiff 2. The company has signed an agreement with STX Finland for the delivery of a third ship in 2014, which will carry 2,500 passengers.

Mr. Vogel began his career in the TUI Group in 2005 as the Head of Special Projects. Previously he was senior vice president for marketing and sales for the Aida brand, operated by the Seetours shipping line, a subsidiary of the Carnival Corporation. From 1998 to 2004 Mr. Vogel was a member of the managing board of the Deutscher Reiseburo und Reiseveranstalter Verband (DRV – the German Travel Association).

Commenting on the launch, GMBC Chairman Mr. Karl Aquilina said: “It is our goal to promote, facilitate and enhance business exchanges between Malta and Germany, by being the focal point for businesses, organisations and other stakeholders regarding German/Maltese business. We also intend to create a solid and viable network of individuals with a common interest in achieving this goal.”

“Business councils provide the ideal forum to connect Maltese business people with international companies based in Malta, in order to share experiences, information and intelligence.”

Participation in the event is free for members of the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry. Interested participants may contact Ms Dorianne Bonanno on dorianne.bonanno@maltachamber.org.mt for further details and registration.

The German-Maltese Business Council is supported by the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in Malta.

The event will be held at The Malta Chamber and is supported by the Lufthansa and BMW.

Risk Capital and Access to Finance in Malta

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 14:35:20 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2011 10 11: “Raising the right kind of finance to start a business or expand operations is still a major challenge for a variety of reasons. Enlarging the possibilities of finance for SMEs is and will remain a key element in the future to turn Europe’s economic fortunes”. This was stated by Tancred Tabone, President of The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry during a seminar entitled ‘Risk Capital and Access to Finance in Malta’ organised by the Malta Chamber in collaboration with Bank of Valletta.

“The latest statistics show that last year, over 62,000 enterprises in Malta employed less than nine people, thus making access to finance all the more important. In fact, the vast majority of the Malta Chamber’s membership is SMEs, which fall under our active SME Committee,” continued Mr. Tabone.

“Bank of Valletta’s JEREMIE Financing Package offers advantageous interest rates and enhanced collateral requirements” said Peter James Sant, Senior Manager on EU and SME Affairs at Bank of Valletta. “Bank of Valletta was selected as the sole Maltese financial intermediary to handle the JEREMIE initiative by the European Investment Fund following a competitive tender. The objective of the JEREMIE package is that of further enhancing the access to finance for Maltese and Gozitan Micro Enterprises and SMEs.

Also participating as keynote speakers were Dr. Joanna Drake, Director, SMEs and Entrepreneurship, within the EU Commission, and Mr. Bruno Robino, Head of Region (Southern Countries), within the European Investment Fund.

Attention all Importers and Manufacturers of Electrical and Electronic Equipment

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 07:52:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber in collaboration with WEEE Recycle (a MEPA authorised waste management scheme) are organising an information and consultation session on Friday the 21st of October at 2pm at the Exchange Buildings, Valletta.

The authorities have recently published a draft plan on the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) and are requesting feedback on this Plan. The Draft Plan explains, amongst other things:

the obligations of organisations importing electrical equipment onto the Maltese market
the targets of WEEE to be recovered/recycled
the situation vis-a-vis eco-contribution exemptions.

This plan can be found on the following link: http://www.mepa.org.mt/public-consultation

The aim of this meeting is to explain the salient points of the draft plan and obtain feedback from the business community.

Members interested in attending are asked to register with Ms Marylyn Hili on e-mail address marylyn.hili@maltachamber.org.mt or on Tel: 22 032 317.

For more information, kindly contact the Malta Chamber's Policy Development Manager, Mr Andre Fenech on Tel: 22 032 312.

Conference on Sustainable Partnerships

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 07:50:00 GMT

During an event organised by MEUSAC and the Malta Business Bureau on 29th September, Malta Chamber Officer and President of the Malta Business Bureau Mr John Huber underscored the Maltese business sector’s belief in the need of a mind-set shift within the policy parameters charting the development of public-private partnerships.

Traditionally, public-private partnerships have seen the financing of major infrastructural developments. However, the framework for such agreements should be facilitated to target smaller-scale projects.”

The aim of the conference was to promote Public Private Partnerships (PPP) and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in Malta as well as to provide an opportunity for networking between the various stakeholders in the Maltese public and private sectors as well as civil society.

Mr Huber said that the EU had established clear guidelines that were aimed at increasing the uptake of PPP agreements with the aim of using these partnerships as a way to raise additional capital, provide alternative management skills, provide better value added to the consumer and the public, and ensure the optimal use of resources.

Malta Chamber Policy Development Manager Mr. Andre Fenech also delivered a presentation, on the benefits of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). Mr Fenech explained that CSR is about the company's commitment to be accountable to all its stakeholders. He said that the Malta Chamber believes that CSR should remain voluntary, should not be regulated and should remain business-driven. He further explained the importance of the exchange of experiences and good practices amongst businesses.

He added that many SMEs are already managed in a responsible way (at times unknowingly), are socially engaged and traditionally participate in the life of the local community. He insisted that the owners' ethical values often play a key role in the companies attitudes to CSR. Mr Fenech then explained in detail the way CSR should be communicated and how effective it can be, especially for smaller enterprises. Indeed, benefits include a higher level of customer satisfaction and loyalty, improved company, brand and product reputation, more motivated and productive employees and increased cost savings.

Malta Chamber and Banif Bank to set up Malta-Portugal Business Council

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 07:55:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry is proud to announce the signing of a Gold Partnership with Banif Bank. This is the first-ever Support Agreement between the two organisations. The agreement was signed by Malta Chamber President Mr. Tancred Tabone and Banif CEO Mr. Joaquim Silva Pinto.

Through this agreement, the Malta Chamber will provide new additional benefits to the local business community whilst extending support to the Portuguese economy and business. “In fact, our agreement provides for the creation of a Malta-Portugal Business Council within the Malta Chamber. This shall seek to explore and develop business opportunities for Malta in Portugal and vice versa,” said Mr. Tabone.

Mr. Tabone explained that the objectives behind this joint project are in line with the Malta Chamber’s mission to assist and encourage members to internationalise. “We have discovered through experience that Business Councils are a very effective vehicle to reach this aim,” he stated. “So far the Malta Chamber has established three business councils covering Scandinavia, Tunisia and Germany. All such Councils are very active – suffice to mention that the Tunisian Business Council organised our first outgoing business delegation last June,” said Mr. Tabone.

Whilst thanking Banif Bank for its support, Mr. Tabone remarked that the Malta Chamber treats Support Agreements as constructive alliances rather than mere “sponsorship deals”. “Nevertheless, it is through commendable actions such as Banif’s, that the Malta Chamber is able to generate benefit and value to the local business community,” he said.

The Malta Chamber is confident that the Malta-Portugal Business Council project and the remaining aspects of the agreement will be equally successful. “Meanwhile, we are proud that yet another international financial institution and multinational business player has chosen to associate itself with our Chamber as a collaborating partner of the highest tier,” Mr. Tabone concluded.

On his part, Mr. Joaquim F. Silva Pinto commented that Banif Bank was proud to be considered a worthy corporate partner for such a long-standing voluntarily-constituted body like the Malta Chamber. “We believe that the Malta Chamber’s declared mission to promote enterprise and growth for the benefit of the nation’s economy is worthy of our special backing and we are very pleased to have signed this Support Agreement as one of the Malta Chamber’s Gold Collaborating Partners,” declared Mr. Silva Pinto.

Mr. Silva Pinto added that one of Banif’s priorities, ever since establishing a presence in Malta, has always been to encourage and promote cross-border opportunities. “Banif was part of a Maltese business delegation that had accompanied H.E. The President of Malta to Portugal and had been instrumental in setting up meetings at the Chambers of Porto and Lisbon which led to a good number of serious business leads being established to the mutual benefit of both Maltese and Portuguese companies. Earlier this year, Banif Bank also invited a number of prominent Portuguese entrepreneurs to visit Malta for a seminar discussing local infrastructure opportunities,” he stated. Mr. Silva Pinto augured that through this Support Agreement, Banif will be able to continue tangibly contributing towards the Maltese economy.

Malta Chamber End of Summer Social Event

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 07:53:00 GMT

Last week, Malta Chamber President Mr. Tancred Tabone welcomed members to an informal social event at the Exchange Buildings. Mr. Tabone also welcomed a number of distinguished guests, including Prime Minister Dr. Lawrence Gonzi, as well as Members of Parliament Mr. Carmelo Abela (Spokesperson for Social Policy), Dr. Jose Herrera (Spokesperson for Justice) and Arch. Karmenu Vella (Spokesperson for Finance). The Malta Chamber would like to thank Attard and Co. and Quintano Foods for their kind sponsorship of this successful event.

Rebuilding Libya: What's Malta's role?

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 07:50:00 GMT

Last week, Malta Chamber Board of Management Officer and MBB President Mr. John Huber, Importers, Retailers and Distributors Economic Group Chairman Mr. Gino Cutajar and Director General Mr. Kevin J. Borg attended a Business Breakfast organised by The Times of Malta. The event focused on Malta’s possible role in the rebuilding of Libya, and was addressed by several high profile speakers including Prime Minister Dr. Lawrence Gonzi, Libyan Ambassador to Malta H.E Mr. Saadun Suayeh and Mr. Mohammed Sayeh, an official from the Libyan Transitional Council.

During his contribution to the debate, the Prime Minister stated that from a business point of view, there were many potential opportunities for Maltese companies in a number of sectors, such as manufacturing, financial services, IT, education, tourism and shipping.

Participants were given the opportunity to make their own interventions, during which Mr. Huber commended the Prime Minister for the way the crisis was handled. He stated that in line with the Malta Chamber’s internationalisation efforts, the organisation was ready to assist members to return to their Libyan operations. Throughout the crisis, in spite of its low profile, the Malta Chamber was in fact assisting at a high key level behind the scenes, by gathering information from the members affected and passing this information, as well as a number of recommendations, on to the authorities.

SBF - Malta to participate in Financial Times Stockholm Conference

Mon, 03 Oct 2011 09:02:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2011 09 26: Scandinavian Business Forum Malta (“SBFM”), a business council constituted within the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry, is pleased to announce that it has accepted an invitation from Financial Times Business, The Banker and FinanceMalta to participate at a half-day Conference on “Financial Services in Malta” which is to be held at the Grand Hotel in Stockholm, Sweden on 5 October 2011.

At the FT Stockholm Conference, SBFM will be represented by Dr Mark Fenech and by Mr Stefan Magnusson, Chairman and executive committee member respectively. Mr Magnusson, who is also CEO of Living Capital Group Ltd and who is a Swedish national currently resident in Malta, has also been selected by the Financial Times Business to sit on a panel at the Conference which is expected to discuss wealth management in Malta as an emerging regional hub.

SBFM’s active participation at the Stockholm FT Conference will be the first of its kind overseas since its official launch in November 2010.

Special Tax Status for High Net Worth Individuals

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 07:50:00 GMT

Last week, the Malta Chamber hosted a press conference given by the Minister for Finance, the Economy and Investment, the Hon. Tonio Fenech, to announce the new Special Tax Status for High Net Worth Individuals. This was formally known as the Permanent Residency Scheme. The well attended event was open to members.

During this meeting the Malta Chamber reiterated that the Malta Chamber has been following this important issue from the day the original Scheme was suspended. Indeed, it was the only organisation that followed this serious matter and pursued it with the authorities. Thus, it was fitting for the Press Conference to be held at our premises.

Since early January, the Malta Chamber has monitored the issue through numerous meetings with the Ministry, as well as frequent representations in the media. This issue had the backing of the entire Malta Chamber Council and not merely the main business sections directly affected. Indeed, the Malta Chamber believed this issue was a matter of concern for the economy as a whole and not just a few sectors, especially given the challenging economic climate of the last few years.

The Malta Chamber acknowledged the undesirable consequences that in some cases could have been allowed to materialise from the previous scheme. We agreed that the scheme be altered to safeguard the national interest but we did not agree with the manner in which the issue was handled and took so long to be resolved.

The Malta Chamber is now satisfied that the matter has been brought to closure and that we are out of the uncertainty period. We augur that the new scheme is a success. It is imperative that we restore confidence in our country as a serious destination and investment proposition.

The Malta Chamber is also satisfied that its recommendations for transitional arrangements have been taken on board. We are currently reviewing the mechanics of the new Scheme in order to give our detailed feedback. We shall also be organising information meetings for the benefit of members. The Malta Chamber will also maintain contact with the authorities for any action that may be needed.

Tancred Tabone

Press Conference on the Special Tax Status for High Net Worth Individual

Last week, the Malta Chamber hosted a press conference given by the Minister for Finance, the Economy and Investment, Hon. Tonio Fenech, to announce the new Special Tax Status for High Net Worth Individuals.

In the absence of the President who was attending Malta Chamber business abroad, the meeting was introduced by Malta Chamber Board of Management Officer Mr. John Huber. Mr. Huber outlined the Malta Chamber’s position (please see page one for further details), Minister Fenech stated that the objectives of the new rules included truly targeting and accepting High Net Worth Individuals, with only fit and proper applicants being accepted. He explained that the new Scheme aims to attract individuals who leave proper value to the country and limit social cost liabilities to future generations.

The Minister was followed by Mr. Mario Borg from the Inland Revenue Department, who gave a presentation on the new Scheme. Mr. Borg described the eligibility criteria for EU/EEA/Swiss Nationals, as well as Non-EU/Non-EEA/Non-Swiss Nationals.

Mr. Borg also explained the transitional arrangements for existing permanent residents and pending applications. He said that no new certificates shall be issued on or after 1 January 2011. Existing Permanent Residents will not lose their status but those who sell the property to which their permit refers must upgrade their qualifying property to the new thresholds. Existing PRs must also submit evidence of stable resources and health insurance, and also prove that the property where they reside is not occupied by persons other than the permit holder and his family members.

In the case of pending applications, applications received up to 14 September 2011 can opt to apply under the new rules. Furthermore, property already purchased in Malta by that date that qualified under the PR Scheme would be accepted as qualifying property under the new Rules.

Further Guidance Notes can be obtained from the Inland Revenue Department website: www.ird.gov.mt. Any further queries not covered by these notes are to be sent by email to: itu.mfei@gov.mt

Malta Chamber supports business delegation to Germany

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 13:55:02 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2011 09 16: The Malta Chamber supported Malta Enterprise in a business delegation to Germany held between the 12-15 September, as part of the Malta Chamber’s role in assisting members in their internationalisation efforts.

During the Business Forum held in Dusseldorf, the Malta Chamber President Mr. Tancred Tabone took part in a panel discussion which involved a number of participants, including Malta’s Ambassador to Germany, H.E. Karl Xuereb, Malta Enterprise Executive Chairman Mr. Alan Camilleri and representatives from the Chamber of Commerce (IHK) Düsseldorf, Deloitte, Lufthansa Technik and FTI Travel.

During the panel discussion Mr. Tabone described the role of the Malta Chamber, as well as the Malta Chamber’s healthy relations with the Maltese Ambassador to Germany and the Ambassador of Germany to Malta, with whom the Malta Chamber has worked closely in order to establish stronger relations between the two countries, as well as increase awareness for potential business opportunities and investment.

Mr. Tabone also highlighted the German-Maltese Business Council (GMBC), which was formed at the end of 2010. Mr. Armin Eckermann, a member of the GMBC Executive Committee also participated in the delegation.

Mr. Tabone explained that the GMBC was to be formally launched on 20th October 2011. The GMBC’s goal is to promote, facilitate and enhance business exchanges between Malta and Germany by being the focal point for businesses, organisations and other stakeholders regarding German/Maltese business. It also aims to create a solid and viable network of individuals/companies with a common interest in promoting Maltese-German relations. The GMBC will also be organising events, both in Malta and in Germany, to raise the level of awareness of business opportunities of both sides.

Mr. Tabone explained that such business councils provide the ideal forum to connect Maltese business people with international companies based in Malta so that they share experiences, information and intelligence.

During a seminar in Berlin, Mr. Tabone also gave a presentation to a number of potential German investors. H.E Karl Xuereb was also present at this event. Mr. Tabone explained the role of the Malta Chamber in facilitating business exchanges between the two countries, particularly as it was now offering international membership, through which foreign investors are guided through the local business environment.

Re-Opening of Maltese Embassy in Tripoli

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 13:02:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber congratulated Government on the timely re-opening of the Maltese Embassy in Tripoli. This message was expressed by the Malta Chamber President by means of a letter to the Prime Minister.

The Malta Chamber believes such a positive development represents a significant milestone for continued strong diplomatic and business relations between Malta and Libya. This development is also significant for business from a practical point of view, in terms of facilitating visa arrangements which are crucial for the conduct of business and investment. In this regard, the Malta Chamber recommends that Malta’s Embassy in Tripoli is soon supplemented with an effective trade and investment office.

To this end, the Malta Chamber also augurs the swift recommencement of Air Malta flights to Tripoli as soon as it is ascertained that this safe. Now that visa applications have been facilitated through the Maltese Embassy in Tripoli, regular flight connections to Libya would pave the way for the resumption of business for Maltese companies.

Meanwhile, the Malta Chamber has also recommended the organisation of a high-level political and business delegation to visit Tripoli at the earliest possible opportunity.

Reaction to the announcement of the High Net Worth Scheme

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 12:26:31 GMT

The Real Estate Section within the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry welcomes the introduction of a Scheme that is meant to attract foreigners to take up residence in Malta. The introduction was long overdue and the delay caused great uncertainty in the market, especially when other neighbouring Mediterranean countries were introducing far more advantageous schemes.

Despite the fact that the Permanent Residence Scheme was not designed to sell property in Malta, it went a long way to incentivise overseas nationals to purchase property in Malta and stabilise the property market, generating millions of Euro for both the private and the public sectors since its inception. Moreover, this occurred in a negative global economic climate and the fact that the property market in Malta remained relatively stable was a major contributor to the well being of the Maltese economy in turbulent times.

The Real Estate Section has serious reservations on certain thresholds that were introduced with the new Scheme as, in its view; these may impinge on the attractiveness of Malta’s offering. The Business Section fears that the announced thresholds can have negative repercussions on the property market in general with a ripple effect on all other service providers, not only to the property industry but also local business in general.

Whilst appreciating that the introduction of certain measures were necessary, the Section is apprehensive that the new rules may be too onerous. The Section also feels that the new cost of joining the Scheme is somewhat exorbitant.

Malta-Slovakia Business Forum hosted at the Malta Chamber

Tue, 13 Sep 2011 07:55:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber hosted a Business Forum to promote business between Malta and Slovakia on Wednesday 7th September 2011. The well attended event included a number of one-to-one meetings between Maltese and Slovakian companies. This was followed by the Business Forum whose guests of honour were the President of the Slovak Republic, Mr. Ivan Gašparovič and President of the Republic of Malta, Dr. George Abela.

The event was organised in collaboration with Malta Enterprise, and with the support and assistance of the Slovakian Embassy in Rome, the Slovak Chamber of Commerce and the Honorary Consul of Slovakia in Malta, Mr. Godwin E. Bencini.

Slovakian businesspeople participating in the one-to-one meetings included companies involved in the manufacturing of electricity transformers, importers of rubber and adhesive components and exporters of automated manufacturing systems, providers of IT-based systems for retail banking, advertising, travel and tourism, and food retail.

Malta Chamber President Tancred Tabone opened the Business Forum, by thanking H.E Mr. Ivan Gasparovic and H.E Dr. George Abela for their collaboration.

Mr. Tabone said that although trade between Malta and Slovakia has thus far been relatively modest, it has increased considerably in the last years. From 2008 to 2010, Maltese exports to Slovakia had increased from €0.6 million to €1.7 million and imports from Slovakia had increased from €1.7 million to €2.8 million.

“We are also keenly aware that Malta is an attractive place to invest for businesses from a number of different sectors, including financial services, ICT, pharmaceuticals and the Aero- Maritime Sector,” said Mr. Tabone. “This should be of interest to a number of Slovakian businesses, and these businesses will find willing and capable partners in the Maltese companies.”

Mr. Tabone remarked that the Malta Chamber hoped that this event would be the initial step towards concrete business exchanges between the visiting companies and the participating Maltese companies.

The business forum was addressed by H.E. Dr. George Abela and his counterpart H.E. Mr. Ivan Gašparovič. In his opening speech, H.E. Dr. George Abela said that the State Visit from Slovakia was a clear indication of the country’s intentions to enhance commercial relations between the two countries. He continued to say that Malta and Slovakia enjoy strong political relations and since Malta’s recognition of an independent Slovakia in 1993, there had been a number of high-level exchange visits.

Strategically located in the centre of the Mediterranean Sea, Malta’s geographical position made it an ideal hub for business transactions in the region. EU membership and the Euro adoption had also been economically beneficial and had simplified trade exchanges and investment flows between the two countries. Yet, although statistical figures indicated that bilateral trade exchanges more than tripled in the last five years, trade and economic cooperation between Malta and Slovakia remain well below what was desirable. There was ample scope to increase the trade level between the two countries.

Dr. Abela encouraged more Slovak business people to invest, do business and exploit Malta’s position as a financial, trading, logistics and high-tech manufacturing hub in Southern Europe, whilst hoping that the Business Forum would also provide an opportunity to exchange information about each other’s markets, business climate, and opportunities.

H.E. Mr. Ivan Gašparovič opened his speech by saying that this was the first visit ever of a Slovak Head of State to Malta. He agreed with Dr. Abela that that there can be a high degree of political trust between the two countries since both were located at strategic positions in the EU and both are in the euro zone. Slovakia’s combination of a good location from a logistic point of view, and skilled people make it an attractive location for foreign investors. Mr. Gašparovič said that Slovakia has potential in the financial services sector, an area where Malta had proved to be very successful. He concluded his speech by saying that last but not least Slovakia also had potential as a tourist destination for the Maltese, and therefore he hoped that this meeting would serve as an open invitation for Maltese people to visit Slovakia.

Further presentations were given on potential business opportunities, by Mr. Kristian Takac, State Secretary from the Slovakian Ministry of Economy, Mr. Martin Hrivik, Secretary General, Slovak Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Mr Kevin Chircop, Global Leader - Malta Enterprise and Mr. Peter Belinsky, General Director, The Slovak Tourist Board.

Malta Chamber signs MoU with Slovak Chamber

During the event, Mr. Tabone also signed a Memorandum of Understanding on behalf of the Malta Chamber, with The Slovak Chamber of Commerce and Industry, who were represented by Secretery General, Mr. Martin Hrivik.

Funding options for Research, Technology, Development and Innovation.

Tue, 13 Sep 2011 07:50:00 GMT

Malta Chamber Executives Ms Jeanelle Catania and Ms Marylyn Hili attended a workshop organised by the Malta Council for Science and Technology in conjunction with the University of Ulster (UK) on funding options for Research, Technology Development and Innovation. This workshop provided a forum for discussion where SMEs and RTDI programme managers voiced their opinions on the design of future RTDI programmes in Europe.

The session also provided information on the RTDI programme landscape in Malta and Europe, outlining the barriers and motivations of SMEs participating in such programmes. Dr. Ing. Nicholas Sammut, CEO and Vice-Chairman at MCST gave a welcoming speech, followed by a presentation from Dr. Eileen McGloin, who is the Senior Research Fellow at the Ulster Business School, University of Ulster (UK).

Dr. McGloin’s presentation featured an overview of MAPEER, which is a Framework Programme 7 (FP7) research project. Further to this, Ms. Maria Claire Tonna, FP7 Executive and Ms. Anthea Fabri, FP7 National Coordinator at MCST, gave a brief overview of the EU support programme for SMEs in Malta. Mr. Erik Flask, Director of the National Research and Innovation Programmes, gave the presentation on the RTDI Programme funding landscape and Mr. David Micallef from Malta Industrial Innovation for SMEs Ltd., highlighted some case studies of companies that participated in the R&D funded programmes.

The session was concluded with a discussion, where participants were given the opportunity to voice their queries. During this discussion it was evident that common obstacles are met when applying for various EU Programmes, among which are the following:

Administrative Burdens
Matching Finance
Awareness of Programmes
Financing
Skills and Knowledge
Collaboration / Access to networks

For further information about this seminar, kindly contact Ms Jeanelle Catania on e-mail address: jeanelle.catania@maltachamber.org.mt

New University Course in Pharmaceutical Technology

Mon, 05 Sep 2011 13:57:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2011 09 05 The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry is pleased to announce that following meetings between representatives of the Malta Chamber, the Rector and the Department of Pharmacy of the University of Malta a course, B.Sc. in Pharmaceutical Technology has been set-up. The need for this course was established through the Malta Chamber’s contacts with the business community and its evaluation of the country’s requirements in relation to education.

The intention is that this course will cater for the specific needs of a particular sector within the practice of the pharmacy profession, that is, medical representation that provides up-to-date information on innovation in the pharmaceutical and medical sectors. These graduates will be of great assistance to pharmacists in the exercise of their profession, particularly following the introduction of the Pharmacy of Your Choice scheme. The curriculum of this course has been structured in a way that will allow these graduates to practice in industry. Graduates from this course will not have a warrant to practice as pharmacists but will be able to assist the pharmacist in the exercise of his duties.

It is important to note that the curriculum for this course was reviewed by an external assessor and the report for this review was very positive indeed.

The course will be opening in October and those who have the required qualifications may apply to join this course.

Accessibility in Valletta

Fri, 02 Sep 2011 11:36:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2011 09 02 The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry notes with regret Minister Gatt’s view that 22 parking spaces in Valletta kept empty for a number of weeks is irrelevant. The logic of reserving parking spaces for members of parliament when parliament is in recess defies logic itself.

By systematically removing parking in Valletta, without providing the necessary alternatives, entering Valletta has become a nightmare. Furthermore, it is quite obvious to anyone who enters Valletta on a regular basis that the 3000 spaces mentioned by the Minister are clearly not sufficient. Thus, freeing up as many spaces as possible, however small the number is very relevant.

The Malta Chamber stands by its previous statement, and reiterates the importance of implementing the necessary measures to enable shoppers to commute to Valletta as conveniently as is physically possible. The business community is being asked to make many sacrifices for the duration of the works on City Gate and other areas in Valletta. This would have been a perfect opportunity to demonstrate solidarity with all business and shop owners in Valletta.

The Malta Chamber wishes to put on record that it is not requesting any reserved parking spaces nor does it intend to do so in the future.

Re-launch of the Diploma in Manufacturing Excellence

Tue, 30 Aug 2011 11:36:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber is delighted to announce that it is re-launching the ‘Diploma in Manufacturing Excellence’ for a third intake of students. This course, developed jointly with the Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology, covers various subjects, including manufacturing strategy, operations management, internationalisation in manufacturing, quality management and product development and innovation.

It is a fact that many employees who are of high value to their employers do not have formal certification for many of their skills. Through this Diploma, these employees will enhance their knowledge within the specified fields, and also attain recognition of their existing skills and experience obtained through informal learning.

For further information, please click here.

Malta Chamber Discussions with World Health Organisation.

Tue, 30 Aug 2011 07:52:00 GMT

Earlier last week, the Malta Chamber held discussions with the World Health Organisation (WHO) with regard to sourcing medical supplies from local companies, to supply humanitarian needs in Libya and North Africa. Naturally, this development would give rise to significant economic and business opportunities for the country.

The Malta Chamber confirmed that Malta would be ideally placed for this project primarily because of its:

Considerable experience of trading and dealing with Libya
Economic and financial stability with respect to some other countries neighbouring Libya,
Presence of a highly developed pharmaceutical sector in terms of both importation of originator drugs and the production of generics,
Laws and trade terms being identical to those applicable in the European Union

WHO also requested the contact details of Maltese companies in the pharmaceutical sector. In this regard, the central procurement department of WHO in Geneva will shortly be in touch with these members directly or through a foreign principal.
Should you require any further information on the matter, please contact Director General Mr. Kevin J. Borg on kevinj.borg@maltachamber.org.mt

Council discusses Pre-Budget Consultation Document

Tue, 30 Aug 2011 07:50:00 GMT

Last week, the Pre-Budget Consultation Document was discussed at a meeting of the Malta Chamber Council. The Malta Chamber is in the process of compiling its opinion which will be presented to Government in the coming months. The main objectives of the document are divided into these broad categories:

Maintaining Fiscal and Economic Sustainability
Enhancing Economic Growth
Optimising the Economic Contribution of Malta’s Human Resources
Developing Malta’s HR potential through education and training
More social inclusion
Further Investment in Infrastructure, transport and Communication
The Green Economy

Please contact Policy Development Manager, Mr. Andre Fenech on email: andre.fenech@maltachamber.org.mt should you wish to submit feedback or recommendations. The document can be found through the following link: http://finance.gov.mt/image.aspx?site=MFIN&ref=Pre Budget 2012 Document

Measures Needed to Enhance Accessibility to Valletta

Mon, 29 Aug 2011 11:31:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber has made a formal request with Transport Malta to relinquish the parking reserved for Members of Parliament during the summer and Christmas recesses, for use by the general public. As the situation stands, the public is denied use of these spaces, leaving them empty, while drivers must circle the City in search of a parking space, creating congestion and generating unnecessary emissions to the detriment of people and historic buildings.

Reserving parking spaces for MPs even during recess periods is unacceptable given the critical situation which is severely hampering the conduct of business. Freeing the spaces to the public during Parliament recess periods would alleviate the situation during summer and Christmas shopping periods. Ministers and Parliamentary Secretaries have drivers; therefore, their reserved spaces could be freed on a permanent basis to allow some further improvement all the year round.

The Malta Chamber has, on a number of occasions, communicated its concerns on the above to Transport Malta. However, these concerns and recommendations have not been heeded. Instead, parking spaces for the public have continued to be eliminated.

The Valletta business community looks forward to the completion of the projects being undertaken in the Capital as these promise to enhance the City and its environment to truly unprecedented levels. But, meanwhile, the business community in Valletta needs to thrive. Therefore, the Malta Chamber urges Transport Malta to implement the necessary measures to enable shoppers to commute to Valletta as conveniently as other shopping districts. Similar considerations apply to measures enabling deliveries and other services to all areas of Valletta.

Merit and Experience before Gender

Tue, 23 Aug 2011 07:57:00 GMT

Last week, the Malta Chamber received a communication from the Hon. Dr. Chris Said, Parliamentary Secretary for Consumers, Fair Competition, Local Councils and Public Dialogue, relaying a letter from Commissioner Viviane Reding to Minister Dolores Cristina on'Women on the Board Pledge for Europe'. In this letter Commissioner Reding refers to 'enhancing the presence of women in decision making, with particular focus on boards of listed companies doing business in the single market.'

In her letter, the Commissioner referred to target that need to be reached by 2015 and 2020 and warned that after reviewing the situation, she would consider proposing adequate legislation to ensure the targets are achieved.

In a reply to Dr. Said, President Tancred Tabone stated that the Malta Chamber supports gender equality and agrees wholeheartedly with the objective of increasing women's participation in private companies decision-making positions. Nevertheless, a mere 'presence' of women on boards does not necessarily result in participation, nor does it necessarily guarantee any desired positive contribution.

Consequently, the Malta Chamber does not believe that the Commissioner's objective is best achieved through quotas or legislation i.e. by imposition. For this reason the Malta Chamber did not agree on the targets set. It is an unfortunate reality that within the realm of Maltese business, there exists a general lack of women in top positions. Whilst culture has contributed to this state of affairs, the Malta Chamber believes that certain policies emerging from EU institutions were counter-productive in this regard. Suffice to mention the Pregnant Workers Directive. It is precisely for this reason that the Malta Chamber had denounced this proposal and, in turn, proposed more flexible arrangements between employers and employees. A systematic prolonging of maternity leave entitlement is not only detrimental to business competitiveness, it is most likely to intensify the glass-ceiling for women's career paths.

The Malta Chamber believes that merit, experience and achievement should be the most important qualifications for any post and most definitely not gender. It is not in the interest of business nor women to force matters otherwise, Mr. Tabone concluded.

VAT Deferrals for Companies Affected by Libya Crisis

Tue, 23 Aug 2011 07:55:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber this week corresponded with Minister Tonio Fenech to seek urgent clarification regarding a Legal Notice concerning VAT Deferrals for companies affected by the Libya crisis.

In the letter, the Malta Chamber referred to the VAT Department's interpretation of LN 235 which was not in line with its original intentions. Consequently the Malta Chamber reaffirmed that the Legal Notice needed to be interpreted in such a way as to allow subsequent deferral of VAT payments, in the event of further protraction of the crisis. The Malta Chamber accepted that certain checks and balances were necessary and recommended that the process would not
be rendered overly bureaucratic.

In its letter, the Malta Chamber that the Department's interpretation did not satisfy the Malta Chamber's initial request for support to affected companies. In fact, interpreted that way, the LN no longer offers any support, at a time when the difficulties faced by affected companies have intensified.

Members will be kept informed of further developments on this matter.

Libyan Action Committee meets Liaison to Benghazi

Tue, 16 Aug 2011 09:25:48 GMT

Last week, the Libya Action Committee met with Dr. Joseph Pirotta, who has been appointed as the Maltese Government's representative in Benghazi. Dr. Pirotta explained that he would be manning Malta's liaison office. At a later stage, an official from Malta Enterprise would be joining him to oversee commercial interests.

On behalf of the Malta Chamber Director General, Mr. Kevin J. Borg thanked Dr Pirotta for finding time to meet the Committee at short notice and highlighted the main issues currently faced by members affected by the Libyan crisis. These were:

Visas to Libyan Nationals
Pending invoices
Plan for an official business delegation
Government assistance to affected companies whilst business was at a standstill

In conclusion, Dr. Pirotta passed on his contact details in Benghazi. For the perusal of members. Those contact details are available by contacting Mr. Kevin J. Borg on kevinj.borg@maltachamber.org.mt

Pensions - continued economic growth, development of third pillar

Tue, 16 Aug 2011 09:18:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry has consistently followed the pressing matter of pension reform. It has, last week, submitted its researched and objective views on the 2010 Pensions Working Group report for consultation.

The Malta Chamber commented that the current pension system was clearly unsustainable. Besides, past decisions left very limited room for manoeuvrability in the Pay-As-You-Go (or so-called First Pillar) system. It is worth recalling that as a result of previous reforms:

Retirement age was raised to 65
National contribution rate has been raised to 10% (for both employers and employees)
Max pensionable income (ceiling) is steadily and constantly increasing (since January 2011)
Average Pension Replacement Rate must not be reduced to below current level (40%)

Way Forward

As far as the First Pillar pension is concerned, the numbers do not add up. We believe that the way forward is about continued economic growth and the development of the third pillar.

The Malta Chamber supports the introduction of voluntary (third-pillar) pensions to supplement the present system. Fiscal incentives and a sound regulatory system must be in place prior to implementation to maximise take-up. With these and other important safeguards, international experience has shown that the 3rd Pillar:

Increases the income of individuals once they are past retirement age
Alleviates the financial burden on the social security system
Stimulates private savings and creates new forms of business activity.

With regards to the compulsory Second Pillar, the Malta Chamber commented that this could have serious social and economic implications. Consequently, it was not in a position to consider this alternative until such time that precise details are made known about its possible implementation.

The Need for Economic Expansion

The Malta Chamber has been consistently stating that Malta must place income generation ahead of income distribution. In this regard, it firmly believes that the sustainability of pensions via the first and third pillars needs to be constantly supported by policies aimed at economic expansion. This would lead to higher employment generation for a better spread of the social security burden. Increasing the gainfully occupied population can be achieved by encouraging higher female participation or through the implementation of a careful and selective immigration policy to fill important gaps in high-value added sectors of the local economy.

Correct Reform Implementation

Given the importance of economic expansion even for pensions, the Malta Chamber warned that in addressing the matter, two extremely important factors must constantly underpin the decision making process, in order to ascertain social and economic balance.

Firstly, stakeholders need a blue-print with clear time-frames and all relevant information, in order to be in a position to plan adequately for the future. The time-frames will allow both employers and employees to take the necessary steps to fall in line with the necessary changes, as well as to ensure that any commitments entered into are not rendered unsustainable or unaffordable by any policy measure decided upon and announced at a later date.

The second important element is ensuring that the matter is tackled holistically. Pension reform is closely linked to other sensitive policies such as health, wage indexation, education and other areas that affect business and the economy. Therefore, the way forward must be charted in a holistic manner to ensure that the effects on stakeholders are well planned and complimentary rather than conflicting.

Whilst the reform is underway, conflicting decisions such as policies facilitating early retirement in the public sector, must at all costs be avoided.

Continued Dialogue With The Prime Minister

Tue, 09 Aug 2011 07:54:00 GMT

Earlier last week, I led the Board of Management to a meeting with the Prime Minister at Castille. The purpose of this meeting was to exchange views on business related matters - as we regularly do with the Prime Minister.

Naturally, our Chamber’s primary concern is economic growth in the country. This can only come about if we continuously enhance our national competitiveness. To this end, we discussed service charges for factories which are currently a pressing issue for our members in the Manufacturing and Other Industries Economic Group.

We referred to the issuing of renewal contracts to tenants by Malta Industrial Parks (MIP) with the inclusion of a prohibitive service charge incorporated into the deed. The Malta Chamber is not opposed to service charges or the upgrading of industrial zones, but it maintains that the imposed rates would generate amounts which are far greater than such embellishments would require. We stated that such action on the part of MIP was detrimental to Malta’s competitiveness.

We also referred to other factors affecting competitiveness and business as well as the economic situation facing Malta’s trading partners and the rest of the Euro-Mediterranean region. Naturally, we discussed developments in the Libya crisis and urged Government’s continued support for affected companies.

We also underlined the importance of bringing closure to a few matters affecting business such as Eco-Contribution refunds and Permanent Residency Schemes.

Throughout our meeting, the Prime Minister had encouraging words for the Malta Chamber and the manner in which it had established itself as the leading business organisation on the island after its merger in 2009. He complemented the Malta Chamber for the researched and constructive manner in which it consistently presented its opinions. This was highly appreciated by the country’s policy makers who constantly needed objective and factual feedback. To this end, he praised the Malta Chamber’s initiative in holding a dialogue session for members with him and looked forward to a follow-up session in the near future.

Tancred Tabone

Meeting with Foreign Affairs Minister on Libya

Tue, 09 Aug 2011 07:52:00 GMT

Malta Chamber President Mr Tancred Tabone and Director General Mr Kevin J Borg met with the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Tonio Borg on 4th August, in order to discuss a number of issues related to Libya.

Visas to Libyan Nationals

The Malta Chamber voiced concern on the reported difficulty for Libyans to apply for Limited Territorial Validity (LTV) visa to enterMalta. The Minister agreed to facilitate matters further by allowing visa applicants to complete all formalities from Libya(via Courier) and callat the Maltese Embassy in Tunisia only once at which time they would collect their visa.

Relations with Benghazi

The Minister updated the Malta Chamber on his visit to Benghazi in July. He said that the Maltese Liaison Office was to open in Benghazi on 7th August. To this end a meeting for members was held with Dr Joseph Pirotta before he departed to Benghazi where he will act as the Maltese Government's Liaison. This meeting was held at the the Malta Chamber on 5th August.

Facilitation of payments receivable from Libyan clients through the Sanctions Monitoring Board

On this issue, the Malta Chamber raised the issue of difficulties faced by Maltese businesses in receiving payments from Libya via Sanctions Monitoring Boards (SMB) in third countries. This was proving highly detrimental to companies which, as a result faced serious financial pressures.

To facilitate matters, the Minister offered to contact the Italian Foreign Office in order to confirm that clearance being requested by Maltese companies pre-dated the Libyan conflict and were therefore not in breach of the Sanctions.

Malta Chamber delegation meets officials on the MEPA administered funds

Tue, 09 Aug 2011 07:50:00 GMT

A Malta Chamber delegation led by the President, Mr Tancred Tabone was invited to a meeting at the Malta Environment and Planning Authority (MEPA) on a proposal about the creation of an Environmental Fund on 2nd August. The delegation was made up of Perit David Xuereb, Chairman of the Energy and Environment Committee, the Director General, Mr Kevin J. Borg and Policy Development Manager, Mr Andre Fenech.

The delegation met with Ms Sylvana DeBono, MEPA's board secretary and Dr Jesmond Schembri, Head of the Parliamentary Secretariat for Tourism, the Environment and Culture. It was explained that the (MEPA) was currently proposing the creation of an Environment Fund which is grounded on the provisions of Article 38 (3) of the Environment and Development Planning Act. This new fund would modify the operation of existing funding instruments operated by MEPA, namely the Commuted Payment Parking Scheme (CPPS), the Urban Improvement Fund (UIF) and the Environmental Initiatives in Partnership Projects (EIPP).

The objectives for this proposal are:

Improving effectiveness and efficiency in revenue collection and administration of the funds
Improving transparency in the decision-making process
Improving the linkages between policy priorities and priorities of the funds

Mr Tabone explained that Malta Chamber members would be concerned if the funds would not be used for their intended purpose, namely parking. He said that it was important that the 8 million euro fund which had been collected through the CPPS and other schemes were only used for this purpose to alleviate the critical situation that was arising in the main commercial centers such as Sliema and Valletta. He further noted that it was important that MEPA officials communicate these new changes to all interested stakeholders. For this purpose it was agreed that in the coming weeks the Malta Chamber in collaboration with MEPA would organise an information session for all members interested in this subject.

MEPA have launched a public consultation and all interested parties are being invited to submit their comments and recommendations by 30th September 2011. The Malta Chamber is currently gathering information from its members to draft its own recommendations. If you have any feedback on this matter, you are kindly requested to contact Mr Andre Fenech on andre.fenech@maltachamber.org.mt or on tel.no. 22 032 312.

Giving our members what they deserve

Tue, 02 Aug 2011 07:59:00 GMT

Last week, I met with Parliamentary Secretary, the Hon. Dr Mario de Marco to seek a lasting conclusion to the never ending saga of eco-contribution refunds.

This meeting was necessitated because, just as had happened with Eco-Contribution Exemptions, a Legal Notice was published and was not operational after several months because the necessary administrative back-up to the regulations were not in place. However, there were other reservations about the LN which needed to be ironed-out. In fact, at this meeting:

it was agreed that the necessary Application Forms for refunds will be made available forthwith. In fact, the Approving Body already shared draft samples for our review;
we highlighted that a 6-month period was not covered by the relevant exemptions/refunds regulations. The Parliamentary Secretary took note and agreed to rectify this without delay;
we objected strongly to the fact that the maximum refund was arbitrarily set at 80 per cent. This is unacceptable and certainly not in line with the spirit of the law and public political statements made in the past. The Parliamentary Secretary assured us he would look into the possibility of full refunds;
it was also agreed that in the event of a refund of waste recovery scheme expenses, these would be paid in full. This clarification was necessary because the LN states that a refund will be given of waste recovery scheme expenses or Eco-Contribution itself - whichever is the lower;
reference was also made to certain Non-Packaging Products that paid Eco-Contribution but so far are not due for any refund. These products paid a scheme for the recovery of the packaging element whilst no scheme was in place for the actual recovery of the product. In such cases, there still arose a partial double payment for which a formula/mechanism is required to derive an equitable refund.

In the interest of speeding up matters and bringing this matter to the rightful conclusion our members deserve, we also offered our advice and expertise in the matter.

Incidentally, another important and related matter emerged this week as the two waste packaging schemes crossed swords in the media. The two schemes suffered tough times because companies were not encouraged to join due to the inertia in setting in motion the Eco-Contribution refunds and exemptions. As a result, Malta has consistently underachieved in its waste recovery targets risking infringement procedures and hefty fines from the EU.

The Malta Chamber did not increase its popularity with members when it advised them to join a scheme (or self-comply), because Eco-Contribution exemptions and refunds were still not in place, causing companies to incur double payments whilst enforcement was almost non-existent. But the Malta Chamber was never swayed to advise members to take the law into their own hands. Whilst recommending compliance with all legal obligations, it insisted the authorities iron out their difficulties in implementing the necessary exemptions and refunds mechanisms. It also insisted that those who did not comply would be brought to book for distorting the market.

Fortunately, it seems that our members shall soon receive their due refunds and with that they would have finally received the justice they deserve.

Tancred Tabone

Customs Administrative Matters

Tue, 02 Aug 2011 07:54:00 GMT

Following the recent meeting held with the Customs Department to discuss the reduction of administrative burdens on business, the Malta Chamber sent a letter to Dr. Godwin Grima, Principal Permanent Secretary and Head of the Public Service, to contribute its recommendations regarding the initiatives being taken by the Customs
Department.

Introduction of 'Single Window'

During the meeting, Customs representatives informed the Malta Chamber of their efforts in establishing the so-that require services from other departments besides Customs such as Port Health, Plant Health and the Border Inspection Post. It was reported that Customs made premises available to these departments to facilitate quick release of goods. However,
these entities are not in a position to man these premises at all times due to resource restrictions. Ideally these entities are present at the BIP offices at the Freeport thus Customs Regulations on charges imposed for releasing of goods at business
premises

Customs Regulations on charges imposed for releasing of goods at business premises

The Malta Chamber also discussed certain complaints and documentation received from members relating to charges for overtime, travelling expenses and subsistence allowance incurred by business when releasing goods at their premises. It reported administrative burdens and costs, the Malta Chamber proposed a review of the Customs Regulations laying down similar anomalous charges.

Such charges need to be viewed holistically, taking into account all other costs that private companies are requested to pay at law. Consequently, these charges are a burden on competitiveness for bona fide operators and are a further encouragement to illicit trade - given the country's lack of market surveillance.

Online Payment System

The Malta Chamber also suggested the introduction of online payment services. This would eliminate the need for private operators to call physically at the Department to effect payments. This is presently contributing to a significant loss of time and productivity. The Malta Chamber recommended that Customs utilises the government payment gateway that is already in place for the purposes of other e-government services.

Malta Chamber in the Media

Tue, 02 Aug 2011 07:50:00 GMT

Last week, Malta Chamber Director General, Kevin J Borg gave a comment to NET TV, on the issue of economic stability within the Euro Area, in the light of the economic crisis and the challenges being faced by the euro zone.

Mr. Borg said that Malta had managed to overcome the international crisis and had a through direct assistance to those companies which were affected. At the same time, these companies invested in their own futures, a strategy which proved to be a success.

He explained that it was now important to proceed in a cautious manner due to the fact to those experienced by other countries, we need to guarantee that we need to concentrate on wealth generation ahead of wealth distribution. If we place wealth distribution first, we run the risk of going down the same road as other countries," he concluded.

Libya Action Committee meets Minister Tonio Fenech

Mon, 25 Jul 2011 09:26:15 GMT

Malta Chamber President Tancred Tabone met with Minister Tonio Fenech this week, on behalf of the Libya Action Committee. He was accompanied by Committee member A. Lino Callus and Director General Kevin J. Borg. Malta Enterprise Chairman Alan Camilleri also attended.

The meeting was held in order to call for further support to businesses with operations in Libya. A number of issues related to the Legal Notice on the deferment of VAT for these companies were also ironed out.

New Diploma Course for Polymer Process Technicians

Mon, 25 Jul 2011 09:24:04 GMT

The Plastics & Rubber Manufacturers Business Section had expressed concern that the current technician level accreditation at MCAST was not enough for the needs required in the plastic and rubber processing industry. In this respect, representatives from the Business Section teamed up with MCAST and ETC to establish a new 3-year apprenticeship course for Polymer Process Technicians.

During the launch of the course, Director General Ing. Ray Muscat congratulated MCAST on behalf of the Malta Chamber for once again pro-actively addressing an industry driven demand which is being felt by the Plastics and Rubber sectors for specifically trained technicians through the apprenticeship scheme. Such targeted training is imperative to enable enterprises in the sector to be in a better position to face ever increasing market challenges and opportunities.

Such targeted education augurs well for further enhancing the healthy collaboration that already exists between MCAST and Industry. As the largest employer organisation in Malta, the Malta Chamber recognises the evolving nature of the business community, and MCAST and the ETC’s commitment to meeting these developments ensures that the necessary human resources are directed towards areas of economic growth.

Members are urged to express their interest on the number of apprentices that they are willing to employ even if they are not foreseeing an increase in employment in the coming months. This will address the shortage of skilled process technicians on the market.

If you are interested in employing apprentice/s or require further information please contact ETC by sending an email at jeanpierre.meilaq@gov.mt or by calling on 22201302.

Malta Chamber consulted on new Permanent Residency Schemes

Mon, 25 Jul 2011 09:21:50 GMT

Malta Chamber Officer John Huber met with Minister Tonio Fenech on Wednesday 20th July to discuss this ongoing matter. This meeting was held before the new Schemes were presented to Parliament. Minister Fenech informed Mr. Huber that the Legal Notice would be issued shortly. Members will be kept informed of any further developments.

Malta Chamber Discusses Pressing Issues with Customs

Tue, 19 Jul 2011 07:50:00 GMT

Malta Chamber representatives held a meeting with the Customs Department Director General on 12^th July to discuss issues affecting business. The Malta Chamber was represented by Mr. Gino Cutajar, Chairman of the Importers Economic Group, Mr. Michael Cutugno, representing the Manufacturers and Other Industries Economic Group, and Mr. Kevin J Borg, Director-General.

The meeting followed a series of correspondence with the Department on a number of issues including:

Customs charges imposed when Customs Officers released cargo at business premises
Facilitation of online payments of Customs dues and
Illicit importation

The Malta Chamber recently followed up complaints by members who were charged for items such as subsistence allowances, overtime and travelling expenses for the attendance of Customs personnel during normal working hours. In such cases, some operators ended up paying more than one euro per minute for a customs official’s time.

The meeting also discussed difficulties experienced recently by private operators in needing to call physically at the Department to effect payments. This contributed to a significant loss of time and therefore productivity. The Malta Chamber requested the introduction of an online payment system, similar to other Government services.

Both sides also discussed the introduction of the so-called “single window” for the clearance of goods that require services from other departments besides Customs such as Port Health, Plant Health and the Border Inspection Post. The possibility of migrating certain services to the Airfreight Section in Luqa – for mobility purposes – was also suggested by Customs for the consideration of the Malta Chamber.

Public Dialogue: Presentation of the priorities of the Polish Presidency of the EU Council

Tue, 19 Jul 2011 07:47:00 GMT

The Embassy of the Republic of Poland to Malta and the Malta-EU Steering and Action Committee organised a Public Dialogue that was held on 12th July.The event was held to discuss the programme of the Polish Presidency, as well as Malta’s priorities within the EU for the next six months.Malta Chamber Director General Kevin J Borg attended this event on behalf of the Malta Chamber. MBB President Mr. John Huber and CEO Mr. Joe Tanti also attended the event.

On July 1, Poland assumed the Presidency of the Council of the European Union for the first time. Poland is also the first of the three Member States that will preside over the Council of the European Union within the context of the “trio presidency”. Poland will be succeeded by Denmark and Cyprus respectively.

Poland regards its main task as president of the EU Council as being that of leading the European Union on a path to faster economic growth and an enhanced political community. In order to achieve these targets, the Polish Presidency will concentrate on three basic priorities: “European integration as the source of growth”, a “Secure Europe” and a “Europe benefiting from openness”.

The Priorities and Programme of the Polish Presidency were presented by His Excellency Wojciech Ponikiewski, Ambassador of the Republic of Poland to Malta. The Hon. Dr. Tonio Borg, Malta’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs provided an insight into Malta’s reactions, perspectives and priorities for this semester. The High Commissioner of Cyprus to Malta, His Excellency Leonidas Markides also intervened. This was followed by a question and answer session with contributions from the floor.

Suspension of Permanent Residency Scheme is damaging the economy - Malta Chamber

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 15:05:24 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2011 07 15: Since the suspension of the Permanent Residency Scheme in December 2010, the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry has demanded its swift reinstatement. Seven months later and despite various assurances, the new schemes have not been implemented. We now risk not having the new schemes in place until after Parliament resumes after the summer recess. This is very damaging to the country’s economy and its reputation with international investors.

Given the small and open characteristics of its economy, MaIta cannot afford to compromise its reputation. The whole country depends on international linkages and inflows in terms of business and investment. The Malta Chamber was and still is a strong advocate of EU membership because such membership has given us legislative stability. Through such stability private enterprise is able to plan ahead and take investment decisions based on legislative certainty. In fact based on this same approach the private sector and indeed the government itself has for the past few years undertaken various initiatives to attract foreign capital to Malta. The unilateral decision to suspend the whole scheme leaving all stakeholders in a state of limbo is unacceptable and is causing significant economic damage.

The Malta Chamber is of the firm opinion that the Maltese economy has no choice but that of adopting an export oriented approach to generate wealth from beyond our own local market which is small. Such an approach can offer the necessary advantages and support for the economy as a whole. Unfortunately, this approach seems to not have been taken up by the authorities. Export-oriented initiatives which boost the economy, such as the Permanent Residency Scheme, have been suspended without warning. To add insult to injury, excessive delays in its revision and reinstatement are causing hardships and loss of business across a number of sectors. The Malta Chamber has for the past months been in contact with the authorities with the aim of assisting in the proposed review of the Permanent Residency Scheme. These efforts have however not achieved the desired results. The Malta Chamber continues to expect a firm reply from government as to whether the Permanent Residency Scheme will indeed be launched again and if so when this will happen.

Malta Chamber and MEA welcome ALPA decision to call off strike

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 15:49:07 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2011 07 14: The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry and the Malta Employers Association welcome the decision taken by the Airline Pilots Association to call off the proposed strike action. This is a sound decision taken in the interest not only of the national airline but also in the interest of the economy as a whole. Indeed it is unfortunate that the threat of strike action had to be made because even this threat alone has impacted us negatively in terms of lost business.

The Malta Chamber and the MEA feel that the positive decision taken by ALPA should now provide the necessary impetus for the restructuring process to get well underway without further interruptions. The Malta Chamber President, Tancred Tabone, said ‘the restructuring exercise needs to be undertaken with urgency and transparency, to avoid further unnecessary misunderstandings and anxiety. Whilst respecting the commercial sensitivity of the operation it is important that the key decisions impacting jobs must be communicated clearly and unequivocally.’

MEA President Joshua Zammit said that ‘time is of essence. The Commission seems to still be evaluating the proposed restructuring plan but the airline cannot stand still. Every day that we delay puts the Airline in greater jeopardy. I also appeal to the political parties to steer away from creating controversy on the issue so that the Airline’s management can focus on the tasks ahead.’

Industrial Action should be avoided at all costs

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 15:47:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2011 07 13: The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry and the Malta Employers’ Association appealed to ALPA to withdraw any intention to strike and to meet with the management to seek solutions to the problems ailing Air Malta. Strike action will only damage the airline further and increase the possibility of closure which will not be in anyone’s interest, particularly other airline employees who risk losing their jobs as a result. The constituted bodies stated that solutions can only materialise through constructive discussion which involve all affected parties and augured that the meeting which is scheduled between the government and the unions will yield positive results.

Effective Implementation of the SBA: A Business Perspective

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 08:49:51 GMT

Last week, Malta Chamber Deputy President Mr. Stefano Mallia participated in a national conference organised by PKF Consultants, entitled ‘Regenerating Entrepreneurship’. Mr. Mallia tackled the subject of the implementation of the Small Business Act from the point of view of the business sector.

Mr. Mallia stated that the revised Small Business Act (SBA) marks a very important new stage in the political recognition of SMEs and above all of microenterprises. “We believe that all that remains is to move on to the “think small first" principle, guaranteeing partnership-based governance at all levels by involving SME representatives in policy discussions and in the legislative process from the outset,” he said.

Mr. Mallia explained that it is also of the outmost importance that we move from the ‘Think small first’ principle towards a more active ‘Act small first’ and that we truly embrace the need to implement these changes as quickly as possible. “Furthermore, the country should periodically analyse the general business environment in which SMEs have to operate. The aim of such an economic study would be to check the SMEs general sustainability and the level of competiveness within our country SMEs,” he said.

Mr. Mallia explained that it is important to study the situation of the different SMEs that exist in our economy which represent a myriad of sectors and situations. “All of these companies bring with them a number of realities and challenges which need to be addressed,” he said. “If the SBA implements what politicians have promised to achieve in the last years, we are hopeful that results can be achieved, nevertheless this can only be achieved if everyone pulls the same rope.”

The Malta Chamber believes that many steps have been taken towards improving the business climate in Malta. However, more needs to be done and all the parties concerned should be involved in the process. Government should join forces with companies and organisations which promote the needs of businesses to dramatically reduce the burdens faced by businesses, thus ensuring smooth operations and a market which is more attractive to both national and international investors.

Malta Chamber hosts Electrical and Electronics Engineering Exhibition

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 08:43:23 GMT

Innovative solar panel solutions, a synchronous firework-launching system and an infra-red heart rate detector were among the 100 plus technologies that the final year students at MCAST’s Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineering presented at this year’s Projects Exhibition. The 10th edition of this exhibition, hosted at the Exchange Buildings, was inaugurated by Ms. Dolores Cristina, Minister of Education, Employment and the Family, on Friday 1 July. Representing the Malta Chamber was Director General, Ing. Ray Muscat, and Executive Miss Jeanelle Catania.

Mr. John Sciberras, the Institute’s Director explained that it was no coincidence that the exhibition was held at the premises of the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry. “We are constantly collaborating with industry stakeholders to continually update our courses. This is the only way we can ensure that we are providing the necessary human resources for the ever-changing needs of our economy. In fact, following a consultation process with the Malta Chamber, we have recently started offering courses in renewable energy technologies. As from September, our Institute will be offering three new degree programmes, including one in Renewable Energy and Power Management.”

Malta Chamber Best Future Potential Award at Young Enterprise

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 08:33:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber has over the years been an active supporter of the Young Enterprise Programme. The Malta Chamber has always endorsed such initiatives that encourage and promote entrepreneurship with a professional approach by students and young people.

The Malta Chamber set up an adjudicating panel made up of Ms Marisa Xuereb and Mr. Paul Cauchi. The the criteria for the “Best Future Potential Award” assessed the young achievers on the following:

Strategic Vision;
Operational Vision;
Sustainability;
Commercial Viability & Market Potential;
Uniqueness, Innovativeness and Product Creativity.

Mr William Wait, Malta Chamber Vice President awarded the team ‘e-Corks’ during the ceremony which took place this week. e-Cork’s product is a C.O.B micro pen drive. It incorporates fast access time and durability into an environmentally friendly case made of cork. The product is shock proof and stylish, and by using cork for the cover, the use of toxic plastics is significantly reduced.

Further information on the winning team may be found on http://e-corks.com, while information on the Junior Achievement – Young Enterprise Malta Programme may be found on www.youngenterprise.org.mt. For any further details, kindly contact Ms Jeanelle Catania on jeanelle.catania@maltachamber.org.mt

Strike Action at this time is most irresponsible

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 13:16:31 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2011 07 06: The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry is in full support of the statement made by the Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association (MHRA). The Malta Chamber shares the grave concern expressed earlier today by the MHRA regarding the possible devastating effects of the irresponsible industrial action approved by the Airline Pilots Association (ALPA).

It is most unfortunate that, throughout the years, political motivation has often prevailed over economic logic in the running of Air Malta. This resulted in accumulated losses that have brought the airline to an unsustainable point. Whilst ALPA is justified in pointing this out, it is being most irresponsible by threatening a strike that will paralyse access in and out of the country and at the height of the tourism season. This could place hundreds of jobs at risk throughout the entire economy - in sectors which are intrinsically linked to tourism. Further jobs could be lost in manufacturing, retail and financial intermediation - not to mention tourism and the airline itself.

Air Malta needs a serious restructuring process. Indeed, it is the only route to save our national airline which serves as a primary economic and social lifeline. So far, the Malta Chamber has not been in a position to comment on the current process because – despite being the main business organisation on the Island – it was not invited to participate in any related discussions. Nevertheless, the Malta Chamber expresses its confidence and support in the Board and management team carrying out the restructuring that is sorely needed.

ALPA’s declared action is ill-timed and disproportionate. Therefore, it is deemed most irresponsible because the risks it poses on the entire country are far too large. Air Malta’s pilots must defend their position but act in a manner that allows the airline to survive. They must not be short-sighted and resort to the negotiating table in an effort to unblock the situation through reason rather than destruction.

Small Businesses Act Review

Tue, 05 Jul 2011 07:54:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber SME Committee held a meeting with the Hon. Dr. Jason Azzopardi, Parliamentary Secretary for Small Business and Land at the Ministry of Finance, the Economy and Investment. During this meeting, Dr Azzopardi was presented with the Malta Chamber position paper on the Small Businesses Act (SBA) Review. Locally, the SBA was enacted in Parliament on 28th June, and hence, most of the effectiveness of this legislation is yet to be measured. The main points arising from the Review that were discussed during the meeting included:

The SME test: Whenever national legislation affecting business is being drafted, this would serve to establish the added value that new legislation would provide for micro and small enterprises operating in the different sectors and whether policy action is effectively proportionate.
Common commencement date for national legislation: This would assist to pre-empt the challenges and obstacles that the forthcoming legislation would possibly cause.
Consolidation of various EU Funds: The Committee reiterated the need for various National Contact Points for the many funding programmes available, which should be consolidated in a central one-stop-shop for EU funded schemes.
One-stop-shop for enterprises: The importance of a one-stop-shop for enterprises (including start-ups) that aims to significantly reduce administrative overheads that needlessly hamper enterprises in Malta. Dr Azzopardi informed those present that the one-stop-shop will be launched in the coming weeks, and that this will be hosted at Malta Enterprise. Members stressed that unless a legal framework enabling all the competent authorities to collaborate is put in place, this objective will not materialise.
Corporate Identification Card: This would result in the setting-up of an appropriate mechanism of data sharing and filing between public sector entities thus reducing duplication.
Posting of Government officials within enterprises: The Committee welcomed the initiative that Government had taken to train a number of officials on the needs of enterprises, and suggested that such employees are posted with SMEs for a period of time to better appreciate the challenges that companies face on a daily basis.
TAF Reimbursements: The Committee also mentioned the considerable administrative burden on enterprises for companies submitting their interest in training grants available under the scheme, as well as the extensive delays in the reimbursement process. These delays are unacceptable and Government must take the appropriate urgent measures to ensure that this mismanagement of ESF funds is rectified without further delay.
ERDF Schemes: Applicants of the ERDF innovation scheme which closed in March 2010 are still awaiting a confirmation as to whether their project proposal had been accepted or otherwise. Members commented that once the deadlines are set, these must be strictly honoured as rapid growing markets do not allow innovating companies to wait for such funding. Furthermore, this is discouraging the uptake of such programmes.
Audit requirements: Committee Members noted the lack of harmonisation with regards to the submission of audited annual returns and accounting records that are being requested by the Income Tax Department and the MFSA respectively.

Consultation Session: The Future of Energy

Tue, 05 Jul 2011 07:52:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber Policy Development Manager, Mr. Andre Fenech and Research Executive, Ms Marylyn Hili, attended a MEUSAC consultation meeting regarding the Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) on an Energy Policy for Malta on Thursday 23rd June. The meeting was organised in collaboration with the Malta Resources Authority (MRA).

During the meeting MRA officials explained that the Ministry for Resources and Rural Affairs has drafted a proposal for a national energy policy for Malta, setting out the Government’s policy in the energy sector. The Policy is based on three main objectives:

Security of supply
Competitively priced high quality energy services
Environmental responsibility.

Further to this, it was explained that this policy fell within the scope of the SEA, as prescribed by law. These Regulations require that a SEA of a wide range of plans and programmes is carried out prior to their implementation. The objective of the SEA is to provide a high level of protection of the environment and to contribute to the integration of environmental considerations into the preparation and adoption of plans and programmes, with a view to promoting sustainable development. It was further explained that the consultation on this report, which includes the environmental impact of the programme and proposed mitigation effects will be ongoing throughout July.

More details on this event can be found on the MEUSAC website at: http://www.meusac.gov.mt/fme/1026/Default.aspx

Any feedback or queries regarding this subject can be directed to Mr. Andre Fenech on email: andre.fenech@maltachamber.org.mt or on tel. no. 22 032 312.

Co-operation with Embassy of Slovak Republic to Malta

Tue, 05 Jul 2011 07:50:00 GMT

Last week, Malta Chamber Director General, Mr. Kevin J. Borg welcomed H.E. Ms Mária Krasnohorská, Ambassador of the Slovak Republic to the Malta Chamber. Amongst other items, the forthcoming State Visit to Malta of the Slovak Head of State was discussed. The need to increase mutual awareness of Malta and Slovakia in order to encourage business and investment flows was also discussed.

The Malta Chamber pledged its full support to the Ambassador. Mr. Borg explained that the Malta Chamber is committed to assist both in terms of a successful outcome of the State Visit and also to increase awareness amongst the business community. He also suggested a potential seminar on Doing Business with the Slovak Republic, which would also assist the Malta Chamber in its mission to help members internationalise their business. To this end, Mr. Borg made immediate contact with Mr. Peter Mihok, President of the Slovak Chamber in order to solicit a reciprocal exchange of support.

Malta Chamber visits President of Malta

Tue, 28 Jun 2011 07:54:00 GMT

Last week, the Malta Chamber Board of Management and Directors General, led by President Mr. Tancred Tabone paid a courtesy visit to the President of Malta, H.E Dr. George Abela. The aim of the meeting was a courtesy visit, in order to introduce the new Board of Management, as well as to discuss issues of concern within the business community.

A number of issues were discussed, including competitiveness and social dialogue. Specific issues such as COLA and family friendly measures were also discussed. H.E Dr. Abela also referred to his philanthropic activities, with the Malta Chamber offering its support for potential new initiatives. He also shared his experiences in assisting people in need.

Malta Chamber hosts outgoing CBM governor

Tue, 28 Jun 2011 07:52:00 GMT

Last week, Malta Chamber President Mr. Tancred Tabone, together with the Board of Management, and Chairmen of the Economic Groups held a lunch in honour of outgoing CBM Governor, Mr. Michael C. Bonello.

Mr. Tabone thanked the Governor for his sterling service to our country and its economy throughout his tenure at the Central Bank. He pointed out that the Malta Chamber has worked very closely with the Central Bank over the last 12 years, in the run up to the adoption of the euro and in the promotion of economic growth and stability for Malta.

“We have always appreciated and supported your efforts to promote economic growth in this country. And economic growth - in a country with our unique characteristics - can only come about via export-led productive activities. This means our country needs to be economically stable and competitive because competition, in the world out there, is cut-throat,” said Mr. Tabone.

The outgoing Governor referred to a contribution he had made in The Commercial Courier back in the 1970s, where the main argument revolved around the premise that a country should not look beyond its means, in terms of wealth distribution. He also said that it is important that the country co-ordinates its efforts to enhance its competitiveness.

The President wished Mr. Bonello every success in his next venture. “I augur that we will continue to work towards lasting prosperity in our country and I hope that we may continue to co-operate closely to this end in the near future.”

Assistance to New and Small Exporters - "Gateway to Export"

Tue, 28 Jun 2011 07:50:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber Internationalisation Desk and Malta Enterprise conducted an information session about Malta Enterprise's programme "Gateway to Export" on 22nd June. This programme is designed to assist Maltese companies who wish to export their product or services. Gateway to Export is open to:

Companies with 50 employees or less
Have an annual turnover that does not exceed EUR 10 million
Have an existing export percentage below 20%.

Marvin Cushieri, Head of the Business & Investment Consultancy Unit gave a presentation about the programme, explaining that participating companies will benefit from:

Initial consultation to assess their potential
A course introducing a key-employee to basic pre-requisites for export
Further consultation to uncover potential assistance available within other programmes and schemes within Malta Enterprise
Further consultation to assist in the implementation of the company's plans as well as stock-taking of progress after 18 months.

The first 10 hours of consultation are free within the Business Advisory Services Scheme and following hours will be charged at a reduced rate of EUR 40 minus 30, 40 or 50 percent, depending on the size of the company.

Companies wishing to sign up for the programme are requested to go to the webpage: http://www.maltaenterprise.com/gatewaytoexport.aspx

The Malta Chamber Internationalisation Committee supports this programme, which seeks to combine hand-holding of companies venturing into export, with the assistance provided by other existing programmes and schemes within Malta Enterprise.

Malta Chamber meets Leader of the Opposition

Wed, 22 Jun 2011 12:35:00 GMT

Last week, a Malta Chamber delegation, led by President Mr. Tancred Tabone visited the Labour Party headquarters, which was held in order to introduce the Malta Chamber’s new Board of Management, and to discuss a number of topical issues that are affecting the business community. The delegation was welcomed by Labour Party Leader Joseph Muscat as well as a number of party spokespersons, including Dr. Carmelo Abela, Dr. Charles Mangion, Dr. Chris Cardona, and Mrs. Marlene Mizzi.

During the meeting, Mr. Tabone stated that the Malta Chamber is constantly concerned with the country’s competitiveness. “We believe that sustaining and further developing our competitiveness is what the country should be concentrating on,” he explained.

“The country cannot grow economically if it is not competitive. The reality of the situation, and which we need to accept, is that no one owes us a living. Wealth and a good standard of living can only grow through the efforts of the employee and the investor,” said Mr. Tabone.

“For this reason it is important that we are all on the same side, and that we don’t lose sight of our aims. We understand that our country’s social services are only sustainable as long as the economy is competitive enough to grow. We should concentrate on wealth generation ahead of wealth distribution, and how to attract further investment to the country.”

Mr. Tabone pointed out that the statement that ‘the private sector is the motor of the economy’ must be given more than just lip-service.”The private sector must be allowed to create wealth, whilst government provides strategic direction and a fiscal and regulatory environment that allows it to operate freely and competitively,” he said.

Amongst the topics discussed were the importance of having a skilled workforce, the effects of the Libya crisis on Maltese business, restructuring of Airmalta, the reduction of bureaucracy, and the importance of developing a greener economy.

Malta Chamber participates in B2B Networking Forum

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 07:54:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry participated in this week’s B2B Networking Forum, three days of conferences and networking events, organised by Network Events. Malta Chamber President Mr. Tancred Tabone took part in the conference on 15th June, which focused on ICT and Investment. In his speech, Mr. Tabone spoke about the need for financial expertise in the private enterprise, information support and business intelligence.

Mr. Tabone commented that business today has changed immensely, with competition being much fiercer and the environment being more complex, due to the affect of what happens globally in terms of standards, regulation and even competition. “Professionalism, business intelligence and sound ICT support are therefore pre-requisites for a successful business today,” he said.

“Business today is no longer a “hit and hope” matter. In today’s world, the entrepreneur needs to have the right professional preparation for a competitive and challenging business environment. This is particularly true if the business venture is in its early days because that is when it is most vulnerable,” Mr. Tabone explained. “Today’s entrepreneur not only has to deal with the initial capital requirements, but must also learn how to handle cash-flow – the life-blood of any company.”

The President stated that an important aspect of business intelligence is in “Knowing Your Client”. However, this is not the only prerequisite. “Knowing the competition is equally important. If you intend to succeed in business, it is all about being, at least, one step ahead of your competition. One particular recipe for keeping ahead is by continually reinventing yourself.”

Mr. Tabone remarked that an extremely important ingredient for the management of a successful business is the continued investment in ICT. ICT assists the company to keep track of its past performance, monitor its market shares continuously and to register the performances of individual lines.

In conclusion he pledged the support of the Malta Chamber to all private enterprise. “Our Chamber has also evolved with the times and nowadays our members know the value and support we provide via information and specialised expertise which is pooled and disseminated through our channels and services”

The Conference was also addressed by the Hon. Dr. Austin Gatt, Minister for Infrastructure and Communications,Mr. Claudio Grech, MITA and Mr. Victor Denaro, Executive IT at BOV.

The Malta Chamber also hosted the evening networking event, welcoming hundreds of businesspeople. Throughout the three day Forum, Malta Chamber staff also managed a desk promoting the organisation and the benefits of membership.

Council meets on Better Regulation and Family Friendly Measures

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 07:52:00 GMT

Last week, the Malta Chamber Council met to discuss two issues which are currently the subject of discussion amongst the social partners.

Better Regulation

The meeting began with a presentation given by Mr. John W. Aquilina, CEO and Dr. Paul DeBattista, Managing Consultant at the Management Efficiency Unit within the Office of the Prime Minister, on the initiatives that are being carried out by the Better Regulation Unit (BRU) to improve the public administration and to reduce administrative burdens on businesses. During the presentation they explained the Standard Cost Model (SCM) and how this is utilised to measure these burdens. Mr. Aquilina explained that the main aim of the BRU was to reduce administrative burdens on business by 15% by next year. With regards to the new legislation, the public administration will adopt smart regulations and will further improve the customer service provided by civil servants through quality management systems.

The main priority areas which have been chosen to reduce administrative burdens will include:

company law
pharmaceutical legislation
working environment
financial services
employment relations
Public procurement
VAT

He also explained that the main methods being used to achieve the target include:

Simplification
standards for regulators
meetings with stakeholders
training for 400 public officers
Development of line Ministry Better Regulation plans.

Following this presentation, Malta Chamber President, Mr. Tancred Tabone, explained that the Malta Chamber is willing to cooperate with the BRU on this matter and that the priority areas could be discussed with the different business sections and members that represent the majority of the Maltese Economic Groups and Business Sections.

Family Friendly Measures

Dr Gordon Cordina, who is currently chairing an MCESD working group on employment relations attended the same Council meeting to present the findings this Working Group, on the extension of Family-Friendly Measures in Private Enterprise. Dr Cordina explained that these proposals reflect an analysis of such measures in Malta, offered both within the framework of childcare and other support services and arrangements at the enterprise level. He elaborated that a number of key recommendations have been indicated within the context of EU employment policies, in order to help employees, especially women, to balance work and family commitments whilst ensuring that business competitiveness and employability are maintained. The Malta Chamber stated that, it was in favour of these measures adopted across the national level because they lessoned the need for other measures to be taken at Enterprise level and which were costly to business particularly in terms of disruption. It insisted that any new measures over and above current legal requirements are implemented purely on a voluntary basis.

Amongst the recommendations raised were:

enhancement of the availability and affordability of childcare centres
increasing the facilities available individual service provision through tax incentives
Providing after school support like activities that can be extended to the periods of schoolholidays, services that can be offered immediately within the existing school infrastructures.

Sanctions against certain Libyan port authorities

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 07:50:00 GMT

By means of COUNCIL DECISION 2011/332/CFSP of 7 June 2011 amending Decision 2011/137/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Libya, the ports of Tripoli, Khoms, Brega, Lanuf, Zawia, Zuwara have been brought within the scope of COUNCIL REGULATION (EU) No 204/2011 of 2 March 2011 concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Libya.

These ports are therefore now to be considered as ‘listed’ entities subject to restrictive measures meaning that, subject to certain exceptions, no business may be conducted with them. In practice this means that the Customs Department is no longer able to clear cargoes to these destinations. However, by way of exception, cargoes covered by contracts predating 7th June 2011 may be delivered to these ports prior to 15th July.

Note that this derogation does not apply to oil, gas and refined products. Cargoes will only benefit from this derogation if a copy of the contract predating the 7th June 2011 is submitted to Customs with the manifest. Materials and supplies for essential civilian needs, including food, agricultural, medical products and goods related to the provision of electricity, or for delivering or facilitating the delivery of humanitarian assistance, or for evacuations from Libya, are exempt from these restrictions.

EESC Vice President Visits Malta Chamber

Tue, 14 Jun 2011 08:02:00 GMT

Last week, President Mr. Tancred Tabone welcomed Vice President of the European Economic and Social Committee, Mr. Jacek Krawczyk. The meeting was held on the initiative of Deputy President Mr. Stefano Mallia, who is also a member of the EESC, representing Maltese employers. Directors General Ing. Ray Muscat and Mr. Kevin J. Borg were also present, as well as representatives from other organisations.

Mr. Krawczyk praised Malta’s contribution in the EESC in Group 1 (representing employers) over the years. Being Polish, he referred to the priorities of upcoming EU Polish Presidency.

The importance of tourism to the local economy was also highlighted, together with the importance of national airline. This was discussed within the context of tourism and aviation industry in Europe which is facing challenging conditions.

The Malta Chamber representatives expressed their opinion that the EU should be doing more for the needs of business, as it seemed detached from those same needs. Mr. Krawczyk agreed on this position, explaining that he came from the Polish Federation of Industry, who also held this same position. He explained that their Federation also had an office in Brussels, like the Malta Business Bureau and it was agreed that the two organisations should collaborate, enabling them to be more influential on the European front.

The issue of the uprising in North Africa was also discussed, with the Malta Chamber underlining the importance this has for Maltese business and business in other European countries. The Malta Chamber representatives stated that countries which are not in the immediate vicinity of North Africa should understand that this is a European problem and these countries shouldn’t detach themselves from it. The EESC Vice President agreed with this point, and stated that he would assist Malta and other countries including Greece and Italy, to ensure that they receive the deserved assistance. He agreed that the uprising in North Africa was as threatening to business as the financial crisis.

Malta Chamber Members’ Survey June 2011

Tue, 14 Jun 2011 08:01:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber is conscious of the need to be informed of the expectations of its members. To this effect, last year the Malta Chamber launched an on-line Members’ survey which it intends to hold on a regular six-monthly basis.

The scope of the survey is to ask participants to indicate the usefulness of the services provided and of the issues tackled. It seeks to establish the organization’s service performance relative to members’ expectations and asks for the ratings of specific activities that are undertaken by the Malta Chamber and its structures. Finally, the survey aims to investigate the Malta Chamber’s main channels of communication, namely the ChamberLink, the Commercial Courier and the Website, as the main means of keeping members effectively informed.

All the questions in the survey are optional, selection is to be made from option-groups and the whole survey should only take five minutes to complete. To participate, please select the link below and you will be directed to the on-line survey questionnaire.

https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/MFLR6SP

The Malta Chamber urges all its members to participate. The closing date is Friday 24 June 2011. The higher the participation and comprehensive feedback from members, the better positioned the Malta Chamber is to tailor its services to the needs and requirements of its members.

Help us to help you!

Secretariat

Entrepreneurship in Education

Tue, 14 Jun 2011 08:00:00 GMT

The Ministry of Education, Employment and the Family, in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance, the Economy and Investment launched the ‘Entrepreneurship through Education’ Scheme, to promote entrepreneurial qualities amongst students and to provide practical experience in entrepreneurial activity. State and Non-State Schools were encouraged to propose and implement projects which assist students to acquire the skills and motivation which will allow them to employ these entrepreneurial skills.

Seminar

In this regard, St. Nicholas College, which was awarded four projects, held a seminar at the Exchange Buildings, in collaboration with the Malta Chamber. Representing the Malta Chamber was Executive Miss Jeanelle Catania, who gave a presentation on the role of the Malta Chamber and the importance of entrepreneurship in education, from a business perspective. Miss Catania referred to the importance of promoting a positive perception of entrepreneurship amongst our students, as well as the appropriate teacher training, which would link students with the world of work. She stated that entrepreneurship should be taught at all levels, in order to create the right context for entrepreneurship to flourish.
The seminar was also addressed by a number of other speakers, including Parliamentary Secretary, Hon. Dr. Jason Azzopardi, Mr. Anthony Sammit, College Principal, Ms Lorna Farrugia, Young Enterprise and Ms. Leonie Baldacchino, University of Malta.

St. Nicholas College Projects

More than 50 Educators including Learning Support Assistants, Teachers and School Leaders, applied for the Programme. Five sessions were held at the College, covering topics such as introducing entrepreneurship, opportunity identification, idea generation, opportunity evaluation and developing, marking and selling a product or service.

A voice for our Members

Wed, 08 Jun 2011 08:36:00 GMT

Last week, I had the pleasure of welcoming the Prime Minister to the Exchange Buildings for an informal dialogue session with members. The Prime Minister very promptly accepted my invitation to address this event, evidencing the high regard held by the Malta Chamber with the country’s ultimate decision-maker. The Prime Minister, in fact, gave our members two hours from his tight schedule to meet our members in an open session and away from the television cameras and media attention. This gave our members a perfect opportunity to air their concerns and suggestions directly to the Prime Minister in a frank and open way.

I must say that our objective was met. In fact, during the session, we managed to discuss Government’s broad plans in the areas of business and the economy. Besides, we could also delve into some sector-specific subjects which our members were free to bring up according to their sectors’ urgent needs.

Reflecting back on the event, I feel that this was an excellent exercise in governance on the Prime Minister’s part. Members of government often declare that “private sector is the motor of the economy”. Dr. Gonzi gave living proof to us this week that he means more than words in that regard. He effectively replied to a number of queries and took genuine note of the numerous suggestions raised from the diverse sectors represented by our Chamber including manufacturing, financial services, yachting, waste management, tourism and importation. Suggestions were also raised on behalf of specific sector groups such as the Valletta Business Community and our members affected by the Libya Crisis which our Chamber has been actively representing.

Such open discussion is healthy for the business community and for government. Hence it is positive for the country. I am certain that our session will lead to certain improvements, where needed, for the benefit of all. The changes may not be ground-breaking but they will certainly be noticeable where they matter.

We are aware that our Chamber will not receive public credit for the benefit arising from our meeting but, ultimately, what we are after is ensuring the right business climate for the business community and stimulating positive change where needed.

As I stated, I am certain this week’s meeting with the Prime Minister will have served its full purpose. Whilst publicly thanking him for his time and effort to meet our members, I look forward to hosting him at The Exchange in the near future with a view to ensuring a regular dialogue and exchange of views to benefit the country and its path towards continued economic prosperity.

Tancred Tabone

For the full article regarding the meeting, please click here.

Extraordinary General Meeting

Wed, 08 Jun 2011 08:32:39 GMT

Two years following the merger, the Malta Chamber Council felt that in the interest of good governance, a number of revisions were due to be made to the Statute, in order to:

Incorporate certain decisions taken by Council in the last two years
Give clear direction in those cases where it was deemed missing
Address potential anomalies
Polish the text to avoid ambiguity.

In this regard, an Extraordinary General Meeting was held this week, in order to present a number of amendments to members for their consideration and approval. The following changes are just a few highlights of the proceedings.

International Membership

Art 3.2 and Art. 3.6 (a)(v): These amendments are intended to cater for a proposed new type of International Membership, which is dealt with under new Art. 3.11. This membership is similar to Associate Membership, with the difference that it will be limited to persons who are active abroad, and will be required to pay full membership. Malta Chamber staff will guide international members on the economic, political and business situation in Malta. Useful leads and references to contacts will be given on demand.

Vacancy in Council Posts

Art. 22. According to the current statute, whenever a post becomes vacant it is filled by the person who did not garner the majority support at the last election (i.e the runner up). The amendment approved is that in such cases the post of President is filled by the Deputy, that of Deputy by the Vice, and so forth.

Executive Boards and Co-option

Art. 5.1 (c)(new) Concerned at the fact that various Executive Board meeting have had to be postponed or cancelled due to lack of quorum, the approved amendment is that each Executive Board is now authorised to co-opt up to four other persons with limited rights.

Politicial Candidates

Art. 6.4. It was approved that candidature of political candidates is prohibited, to ensure independence from politics.

Committees

Art. 12.5 To date, the Statute did not provide for the establishment and running of Committees other than Executive Boards and Executive Committees. The approved amendment introduces a number of broad guidelines for such Committees.

Vodafone Malta signs Bronze Partnership Agreement with the Malta Chamber

Wed, 08 Jun 2011 08:28:51 GMT

The Malta Chamber is pleased to announce that Vodafone Malta has chosen to become a Bronze Partner of the organisation.

In his address, Malta Chamber President Mr. Tancred Tabone thanked Vodafone for its support. “Through this agreement, we aim to collaborate on various events, with the assistance and expertise Vodafone can offer in the telecommunications sector,” he said. “We are proud that an internationally renowned name in business has chosen to associate itself with our Chamber as a collaborating partner and in the process contribute to the common good. These acts by reputable companies are witness to the leading role the Malta Chamber plays in the national business arena.”

“As a leading communications provider, Vodafone invests in long-term partnerships because it believes that fostering and maintaining successful relationships is an effective means of doing business,” said Mr. Balesh Sharma, CEO at Vodafone Malta. “Vodafone Malta supports the aims and ideals of the chamber and this agreement reflects a continued belief in the need for Malta Chamber to uphold its mission to vigorously influence the formation of policy at national and European level towards the development of an enterprise culture, the creation of favourable economic conditions and the interests of the wider community."

Students’ Company Visits with a Focus on Careers

Wed, 08 Jun 2011 08:16:24 GMT

Last week marked the end of a number of Students’ Company Visits with a Focus on Careers. Saint Theresa College, in collaboration with a number of entities, including the Malta Chamber, secured a number of company visits, including Malta Chamber members, which spanned over a period of four weeks. 221 students participated in all, with the Malta Chamber and its members providing visits for 66 of these students. Other collaborating partners included the Chamber of Advocates, ETC, the Malta Tourism Authority, MCAST, Community Services and Mount Carmel Hospital.

During these visits students were given a clearer picture of the different sectors in the local market, familiarising themselves with the operations of the different companies and also given a good overview of the various careers available. To mark the occasion, students were given a certificate of participation during a ceremony at Saint Theresa College by Principal Dr. Frank Fabri, together with a representative from the relevant entity. Representing the Malta Chamber was Executive Miss Sara Buttigieg.

Participating member companies included Atlas Insurance PCC Ltd, Bank of Valletta plc, C Fino & Sons Ltd, Gasan Mamo Insurance Limited, Gutenberg Press Ltd, GO plc, HSBC Bank Malta plc, Playmobil Malta Ltd, PricewaterhouseCoopers, Simonds Farsons Cisk plc, The General Soft Drinks Co Ltd, Toly Products Ltd, Trelleborg Sealing Solutions (Malta) Ltd and World Aviation Group Ltd.

During the event, a college representative thanked the various entities who had taken part in this initiative. “This work exposure helped our students not only to recognise the different jobs and opportunities available to them, but also the importance of responsibility when you find yourself in the workplace,” she said.

In his closing speech, Principal Dr. Frank Fabri stated that he looks forward to organising the initiative again next year.

Outgoing Business Delegation to Tunisia

Mon, 30 May 2011 15:45:00 GMT

The Internationalisation Desk reminds members that a business delegation to Tunis is being organised from 15th - 19th June 2011 by the Malta Chamber and Malta Enterprise. The purpose of this fact finding and networking delegation is to cement the relationship between the Malta Chamber and its sister organisations in Tunis, while organising one-to-one meetings for participating companies.

The visit will coincide with the following three events in Tunis:

The Tunis Medindustrie Fair Industrial Partnership and Innovation: www.tunis-medindustrie.com
The Tunisian Investment Forum IT and Business Solutions: www.tunisiainvestmentforum.tn
The Fortronics Fair Electronics

This visit also aims to assess the new business climate in Tunisia following the recent events in the region. The intention is to create stronger links between the various business organisations as well as to explore potential business opportunities between businesses ofthe two countries.

Members interested in forming part of this delegation are asked to contact either diane.seychell@maltachamber.org.mt or klaus.pedersen@maltachamber.org.mt. Due to the dynamic developments which have led to the organisation of this business
mission, there is a very tight deadline of Wednesday 1 of June and the number of participants will be limited.

A successful Linking Enterprise event

Mon, 30 May 2011 15:44:44 GMT

The Malta Chamber held yet another successful edition of the Linking Enterprise programme. The event was hosted by Radisson Golden Sands Resort & Spa, with the aim of sharing the hotel’s best practice in environmental technologies which have been incorporated into the hotel’s operations, thus substantially reducing its energy and water usage.

Participants were welcomed by Perit David Xuereb, Chairman of the Energy and Environment Committee. Perit Xuereb gave a brief overview of the work of the Committee, and explained that its main role includes serving as a contact point between enterprises and institutions, as well as acting as a main hub for discussion on energy and environmental related subjects. These are tackled through activities such as information sessions and seminars, consultation with members, company visits, participation in EU projects, and also the creation of training programmes.

He added that the current priority areas of the Committee include waste management, renewable energy sources and energy efficiency, climate change, air quality, sustainable use of natural resources and water management.

Perit Xuereb was followed by Ing. Ray Vassallo, Chief Engineer at Radisson Golden Sands, who gave a presentation on the hotel’s use of environmentally friendly technologies to reduce the negative impact on the environment. Ing. Vassallo began from the basic premise that hotels consume large quantities of energy and water, which have a negative impact on the environment. Thus, the original design brief was to reduce energy requirements without affecting negatively guest comfort, property aesthetics and the environment.

The strategy adopted was reducing energy requirements by design and minimising energy requirements during operation. At this point Ing. Vassallo explained the different phases within the design stage, which include architectural, mechanical and electrical designs.

Ing. Vassallo also described the Building Management System (BMS), which facilitates monitoring and control. The systems managed by the BMS include air conditioning, room and corridor lighting, landscape lighting, hot water, Reverse Osmosis, sewage treatment and pools. He also highlighted future projects in the pipeline, including integrating BMS with reservations, air curtains, proximity sensors, and indoor pool covering.

Ing. Vassallo was followed by Ing. Jonathan Bonett, Camilleri & Cuschieri Consulting Engineers, who gave a more technical presentation on the hotel’s operational systems, focusing on air conditioning, potable water, and second class water.

The presentations were followed by a tour of the hotel, where participants were able to see the operations described in practice.

Business Sections Elections

Mon, 30 May 2011 15:44:15 GMT

In the past weeks, a number of Business Section Elections were held. The Malta Chamber congratulates elected members and augurs their success in their future initiatives and projects.

HealthCare Business Section

Mr. Raymond J. Vella -Chairman
Mr. David Stellini -Vice-Chairman
Mr. Reuben Demanuele
Mr. Marcel Mifsud
Mrs. Vanessa Said Salomone

Shipping and Bunkering Business Section

Mr. Ernest Sullivan -Chairman
Mr. Karl M. Gollcher -Vice-Chairman
Mr. Leslie Brooks
Mr. Michael Cooper
Mr. Peter Sullivan

Information Technology Business Section

Mr. Keith Fearne - Chairman
Mr. John Wood - Deputy Chairman
Mr. John Ambrogio
Ms. Claudine Cassar
Mr. Marcel Cutajar

Importers Business Section

Mr. Alfred Cuscheri -Chairman
Mr. Jonathan Cardona - Deputy Chairman
Mr. Josie Ellul Mercer

Real Estate Business Section

Mr. Trafford Busuttil – Chairman
Mr. Ian Michael Casolani – Deputy Chairman
Mr. Douglas Salt
Mrs. Sara Tabone Grech
Mr. Joe Mercieca

Meeting of the Monitoring Committee, Operational Programme II

Tue, 24 May 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Last week, Malta Chamber Director General, Ing. Ray Muscat attended a meeting of the Monitoring Committee, Operational Programme 2. The meeting also includes representatives from the Office of the Prime Minister, a number of ministries the social partners, and the ETC. Also present were representatives from the EU Commission. This programme is related to the Training Aid Framework scheme, an issue which the Malta Chamber has continued to follow closely, due to a number of concerns raised by members.

During the meeting, Ing. Muscat emphasised that the issues concerning the Training Aid Framework scheme, particularly the reimbursement process, need to be settled as soon as possible. Furthermore, he also pointed out that the authorities had originally promised a full review of the scheme, followed by a plan on the way forward.
Members will be kept informed on any further developments.

Eco-Innovation Information Meeting

Tue, 24 May 2011 07:55:00 GMT

In collaboration with BOV and the Malta Chamber, the National Contact Point (NCP) held an information session on the Eco- Innovation EU funding call which is now open for 2011 proposals on 17th May.

During his presentation, Mr. Pedro Fernandez Alvarez, Malta CIP National Contact Point, said that the Eco-Innovation EU funding call is addressed mainly to organisations that have developed an environmental product, service, management practice or process which has a proven track record, yet is not fully marketed due to residual risks. The Eco-innovation initiative is intended to overcome those barriers to further market penetration and turn these products and processes into Europe's future eco-innovation successes. Applications from SMEs are particularly encouraged. Around €35 million will be available to fund new projects this year. The Commission will fund up to 50% of the project’s eligible costs.

This call supports Eco-innovative projects in different sectors which aim at the prevention or reduction of environmental impacts or which contribute to the optimal use of resources. However, considering the environmental impact, more specific priorities have been set up which are: recycling materials, food and drink sector, sustainable building products and greening business.

This was followed by the queries and concerns of those who attended the session.

Mr. Peter Sant, Senior Manager, EU and SME Affairs, Bank of Valletta then gave an overview of the JEREMIE financial package. The JEREMIE framework is an initiative launched by the European Commission, in collaboration with Bank of Valletta Plc, to promote increased access to finance for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises.

Last Chance to Book: Linking Enterprise at Radisson Golden Sands

Mon, 23 May 2011 11:57:58 GMT

The next edition of Linking Enterprise will be held on 26th May 2011, hosted by Island Hotels Group at Radisson Blu (SAS) Spa & Resort, Golden Sands, and the first edition to be held within the hospitality and tourism sector. This edition will tackle best practices in energy and water efficiency and sustainable environmentally friendly processes, and will include a tour of the hotel and its different utility plants in operation.

Further information can be found here.

Please register by contacting Miss Dorianne Bonanno on email: dorianne.bonanno@maltachamber.org.mt.

Greater sensitivity needed in the Libya Crisis Issue

Tue, 17 May 2011 07:59:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber reiterates its support for the stand taken by local companies to repatriate their workers from Libya during the current uprising. In their actions, they have not placed their employees’ lives at risk even if this entails a very high cost to their business. On behalf of all Maltese businesses involved, the Malta Chamber is grateful for Government’s support in this complicated operation involving the co-ordinated effort of several stakeholders.

The Malta Chamber cannot fathom the statement made by former Prime Minister Karmenu Mifsud Bonnici as reported in the media when he called on Maltese workers to return to Libya because he said it was safe enough to do so whilst in the same breath he reportedly stated that he had seen schools, hospitals and offices hit by Nato bombs.

The latter part of Dr Mifsud Bonnici’s statement is confirmed by all international news agencies and channels, reporting that large explosions continue to rock the Libyan capital in yet another heavy night of Nato bombing – the heaviest for over a week.

The Malta Chamber calls for political responsibility in this delicate matter. The Malta Chamber has always maintained an apolitical role and has always refused to play politics especially when this involves endangering people’s lives.

In the Malta Chamber’s opinion, the former Prime Minister’s suggestion is not in the national interest and neither is it in the interest of business. Business in Malta risks being a major loser especially if the crisis in Libya drags on for much further. This shall invariably translate in job losses which would by far exceed the number of Maltese people employed directly in Libya. The authorities and politicians should therefore seek to minimise potential losses for Malta by acting and speaking more responsibly during the crisis and to safeguard people’s interests and their lives.

Meeting with DG Enterprise

Tue, 17 May 2011 07:58:00 GMT

This week, Malta Chamber Director General Ing. Ray Muscat met with Deputy Director of DG Enterprise, Mr. Daniel Calleja Crespo.

During the meeting Mr. Calleja Crespo stated that it was of utmost importance that the EU go back to the real economy. In this regard Ing. Muscat asked for an update regarding the Industrial Policy, Innovation Policy, as well as that for start-ups.
Mr. Calleja Crespo said that currently a review of the SME Policy was being carried out, with a focus on three pillars, the Small Business Act, Access to Finance, and SME Internationalisation. On the Small Business Act, Ing. Muscat stressed on the importance of simplification, and pointed out the fact that Malta is yet to have a corporate ID number system. On the issue of Access to Finance, he remarked that the European Investment Fund lacks a scheme designed for start-ups. He also pointed out the importance of incubation centres.

On the internationalisation of SMEs, Ing. Muscat said that market research and harmonisation of standards is still lacking, as well as the concept of a true one-stop-shop. He added that the EU is not capitalising on trade agreements with third countries. Ing. Muscat also pointed out the growing problem of access to materials, as well as the strengthening of the internal market.

Mr. Calleja Crespo announced that each country should have a national SME envoy. In Malta’s case, it will be Parliamentary Secretary for Land and Small Businesses, Hon. Dr. Jason Azzopardi.
Ms Sue Vella, Chief Operations Officer at Malta Enterprise, and Miss Mariella Scicluna, Executive, Malta Business Bureau and representatives from the Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association, the Gozo Business Chamber and GRTU also attended the meeting.

Malta Chamber participates in 8th Euro-Mediterranean Ministerial Meeting

Tue, 17 May 2011 07:56:00 GMT

Malta Chamber Director General Mr. Kevin J. Borg attended the Euro-Mediterranean Ministerial Meeting, comprising a roundtable discussion on 11th May, and a conference on 12th May. This meeting took place in the context of the profound changes occurring on the southern shore of the Mediterranean.

Participants in the roundtable discussion included a number of high profile guests such as ministers of industry from France and Egypt, trade and investment agency chairmen, representatives from a number of chambers of commerce and industry including Poland, Belgium, Italy, Syria and Tunisia, as well as pan-European organisations such as EUROCHAMBRES, who were represented by Mr. Dirk Vantyghem, International Relations Director. Malta was represented by Minister Hon. Tonio Fenech and Malta Enterprise Executive Chairman Mr. Alan Camilleri, besides Mr. Borg.

During the Conference, Commissioner for Industry and Entrepreneurship Mr. Antonio Tajani stated that the European Commission intends to strengthen the partnership between Europe and its Mediterranean neighbours with the aim of creating a regional single market. He also said that the EU had to give a clear signal that strong industrial cooperation and the
creation of a favourable environment for small and medium sized enterprises would be of mutual benefit to the two sides of the Mediterranean.

The conference included various sessions which covered topics such as improving the business environment for SMEs, economic cooperation and market access and sustainable enterprise development.

The Malta Chamber also participated in a MedAlliance meeting on the fringes of this event, which focused on the Invest In Med programme. This programme was launched by the European Union under the Barcelona Process to develop FDI and trade partnerships in the Euromed. The programme is run by the MedAlliance, a union of Euromed networks representing the private sector associations and the organisations supporting the development of business in the region, including chambers of commerce and industry, such as EUROCHAMBRES, of which the Malta Chamber is a member. All stakeholders at this
meeting insisted with the Commission for an extension of the Invest in Med programme.

Legal Notice on Eco-Contribution Refunds is Finally Published

Tue, 10 May 2011 08:06:00 GMT

As was announced at our last AGM, the Malta Chamber had been informed by the authorities that the LN to regulate the payment of Eco-Contribution refunds had finally completed all the necessary approval stages including the green light from Cabinet.

We stated at the AGM that the refunds saga should never have been allowed to drag for so long but we stated that this was a step in the right direction.

Since then, we reviewed the LN in detail as had been approved by Cabinet. Consequently, we highlighted a few concerns to the authorities. We pointed out that the LN stipulates that refunds would be payable for the period 1st January 2005 – 31st December 2008. We enquired as to what would happen to refunds due after that period and up to September of last year.

We also stated that, in our opinion, the percentage recovery rates outlined are too high. We felt this was an important claim particularly in the light of the fact that this LN is being introduced retroactively.

The Malta Chamber questioned why the maximum refund is fixed at 80 per cent. It also sought to clarify that the 80 per cent limit would not apply to a refund of waste management scheme expenses. This clarification was made specifically because the LN stipulates that Government would refund the Eco-Contribution or the waste management schemes expenses – whichever was the smaller. We insisted that if the waste management schemes expenses were in fact lower, these must then be paid in full.

We also commented on Non-Packaging Products for which a formula/mechanism has not yet been established to derive an equitable refund. Such products as tires and white goods are not classified as “packaging” yet are subject to Eco-Contribution on a per unit basis. We continue to maintain that if the relevant producer has participated in a waste management scheme for the recovery/recycling of the packaging element (of the product) a double payment would still have been incurred (on the packaging) - the extent of which needs to be quantified and made eligible for a refund.

No replies to our requests for clarification have been received since before the LN was formally published in the Government Gazette. We augur that the payment of such refunds, at least those stipulated by the LN, will commence in earnest whilst, in the interest of our members, we shall continue to seek the replies to our queries from the authorities.

Business Sections – Elections

Tue, 10 May 2011 08:01:00 GMT

Members are informed that the elections for the officers of a number of Business Sections of The Malta Chamber will be held in the next few weeks according to the schedule listed hereunder.

Each Business Section will be electing an Executive Committee of not more than five (5) persons who, after the meeting, will be choosing from among themselves a Chairman and a Deputy Chairman.

Members are urged to attend the meetings of their respective Business Sections to vote for the persons who will be representing them for the next two years.

Finally, members who do not form part of any Business Section are reminded that a minimum of ten Members may associate themselves in a Business Section for the purpose of representing their interests and they may do so by making a written application to the Chairman of their respective Economic Group.

Wines, Spirits, Beverages and Tobacco Business Section	Wednesday 11th May 2011 at 1.45 p.m.
Road Contractors Business Section	Monday 16th May 2011 at 5.00 p.m.
Yachting Services Business Section	Tuesday 17th May 2011 at 4.30 p.m.
Tourism Business Section	Thursday 19th May 2011 at 3.00 p.m.
Importers Business Section	Friday 20th May 2011 at 1.30 p.m.
Information & Communications Technology Business Section	Monday 23rd May 2011 at 4.30 p.m.
Financial Services Business Section	Thursday 19th of May at 4.30 p m

Informing Members about Arbitration

Tue, 10 May 2011 08:00:00 GMT

This week, the Malta Chamber, together with the Malta Arbitration Centre held an information session on the benefits of arbitration. The session was opened by Internationalisation Manager Mr. Klaus Pedersen.

In her presentation, the Registrar of the Malta Arbitration Centre (MAC), Dr Fiona Galea Farrugia described the legislation related to arbitration in Malta. In particular, the Arbitration Act, established in 1996 led to the creation of the Malta Arbitration Centre (MAC), which regulates domestic and international arbitration, establishes the powers of the Courts with respect to arbitration and regulates the recognition of Foreign Awards.

After describing the arbitral process proceedings, Dr. Galea Farrugia explained the principle advantages of arbitration. These include speed, as the procedure can move as fast as the parties wish. The The MAC has set various case types depending on the category of the dispute, which range from the short form (45 days) to the very complex form (nine months).

Arbitration is also cost effective, with MAC registry fees being 25% of Court Registry fees. The arbitral tribunal’s fees are additional and can be negotiated, representative’s/assistant’s fees can be negotiated and parties can represent themselves.

Arbitration also allows the parties to choose the arbitrators and they need not be from any particular profession or background.If an expert is chosen to arbitrate he/she can determine issue more efficiently and more effectively as he/she knows the subject matter.

Arbitration also offers confidentiality, as proceedings are not held in public (except in Mandatory Arbitrations). Awards are confidential unless the parties consent to the publication of the award and if there is recourse against the award, the Court limits itself to the minimum facts when delivering judgement, which is public. Enforcement of awards brings them into the public domain.

Informality is another benefit of arbitration, as the procedures are very much up to the parties to agree upon, failing which the Act and the Rules apply. The arbitrator meets the parties by agreement and wherever they agree to meet and the arbitral tribunal fixes time limits which are binding but which can be extended for good reasons.

Arbitration also offers finality, which means appeals can be resorted to, but only on points of law. Awards can also be set aside by the Court of Appeal and are executive titles when registered and can be enforced as judgements.

For further information please contact the Malta Arbitration Centre on tel: 21222557 or email: fiona.galeafarrugia@mac.com.mt.

Malta Chamber hosts high-level delegation from Austrian Financial Services

Mon, 02 May 2011 15:25:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber hosted a delegation of more than 20 Directors from a number of the most important banks, pension funds and insurance companies in Austria on Thursday 28th April. This mission was organised by Advantage Austria - the International arm of the Austrian Chamber of Commerce. The delegation was in Malta on a three day exploratory visit and was hosted by the Austrian Ambassador on the evening of Wednesday 27th April.

The event spanning the morning of Thursday 27th April, which was organised by the internationalisation desk of the Malta Chamber, was opened by Director General, Mr. Kevin J Borg. The delegation was then given a thorough introduction to the Maltese Economy, focusing specifically on the financial services sector.

The first speaker was the Global Leader from Malta Enterprise, Mr. Kevin Chircop, who spoke about the various trade- and investment incentives administered by Malta Enterprise. He was followed by a presentation by Mr. Peter Grima, Managing Director of First United Insurance and Senior Insurance Officer Mr. Marcus Spelge. The two gentlemen gave a thorough presentation of the advantages of being located in Malta from a company perspective, with a focus on the insurance sector. The presentation was given in both German and English.

Finally, Dr. Bernice Buttigieg of FinanceMalta, gave a presentation about Finance Malta and the attractiveness of Malta as a financial services centre and the regulatory framework.

The session was closed with a Q & A session and debate, where the issue of a possible follow up visit to introduce the corporate clients of these institutions to Malta was discussed.

The Internationalisation Desk also arranged for the delegation to meet Professor Bannister of the Malta Financial Services Authority on Friday 29th April, for a more detailed discussion about the regulatory framework for the financial services sector in Malta.

Malta Chamber Request for Proposals for Training and Education Services

Mon, 02 May 2011 15:24:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber is inviting expressions of interest from the membership for the development of Training and Education Services.

Interested members are encouraged to send their proposals to the Administration Manager, Ms Johanna Calleja, on e-mail address: johanna.calleja@maltachamber.org.mt, or by post to the following address:

The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry
The Exchange Buildings,
Republic Street,
Valletta, VLT1117

Expressions of interest are to be sent by not later than Friday 20th of May, close of business. Please click here for further information.

Business Concerns in dealing with Public Administration

Mon, 25 Apr 2011 15:49:33 GMT

Malta Chamber Director General Ing. Ray Muscat and Policy Manager Mr. Andre Fenech participated in an event organised by the Ministry for Finance, the Economy and Investment. The event was organised on 14th-15th April, with the Malta Chamber taking part on the second day, which focused on Policy in Practice. The first day focused on understanding SMEs and promoting a pro-business environment.

Mr. Fenech gave a presentation on business concerns and public administration, stating that one of the main concerns of the business community when dealing with the public sector is responsiveness and communication. As timeliness is essential for entrepreneurs, at the least, businesses expect an acknowledgement to their queries and a real attempt to address the concern. The public sector must be sensitive to concerns – especially those of SMEs.

Mr. Fenech also pointed out the problem of lack of information and consultation. Although the business community has seen improvements in consultative mechanisms, nevertheless, in many instances the consultation is not timely and there is usually a very short deadline to respond. Information to all involved is lacking, with a lack of capacity from stakeholders to tackle all issues.

On the issue of implementation and enforcement, Malta is the Member State with the best transposition record with only two Directives overdue. However, the business community perceives that in many instances the implementation and enforcement of EU and therefore local legislation leaves much to be desired. Examples include:

Market surveillance
Producer responsibility directives
Eco Contribution
Assistance schemes such as TAF/EAP/ ERDF/PVs

Accountability and lack of transparency is yet another issue that needs to be considered. The maze of Government departments and authorities and therefore jurisdiction creates a situation where those involved evade responsibility. Data does not seem to be shared and enterprises are burdened with the submission of repeated information.

Mr. Fenech stated that at best, better regulation policy has been fragmented in the last years, with results being few and far between. Hundreds of Legal Notices are published every year and although the majority are amendments to existing legislation, it is impractical to expect SMEs to keep abreast of what legislation is being introduced. Furthermore, government departments seem to have a shortage of technical people in particular areas.

Administrative burdens can be reduced through the Standard Cost Model (SCM), which has been implemented in numerous EU member states. It is designed to identify and quantify the Administrative Burdens (AB) arising from regulation. The process of reducing the AB costs with the SCM method can be divided in three steps:

Breaking down regulation into manageable components that can be measured
Measuring the administrative burdens
Simplifying regulation

Ing. Muscat took part in the panel discussion, which focused on small (Micro) businesses issues: “An Ideal Public Administration – a Business perspective”. During his intervention, Ing. Muscat focused on the issue of responsiveness and communication. He stated that business appreciates that public administration is driven by political policies, and that implementing policies professionally is not always so straightforward. However, the public sector needs to focus on responsiveness and the quality of working. People need to be trained to respond quicker, better, more effectively, with a sensitivity towards enterprise, depending on sectors, size of enterprise, or whether Maltese or foreign.

Ing. Muscat added that the economy is changing fast and to ensure responsiveness, the public sector needs to be aware of economic developments, new emerging sectors and other sectors being phased out, as what is good for a transitional sector, like furniture making, is totally different for ICT or pharmaceuticals.

Other panel members included Mr Vince Farrugia (GRTU), Mr Joshua Zammit (MEA), Mr George Schembri (MHRA), Mr George Francalanza (Malta Enterprise), and Mr John Aquilina (OPM).

Economic Group Elections

Mon, 25 Apr 2011 15:48:00 GMT

Following the first meetings of the Malta Chamber Economic Groups, the elections for the Economic Groups’ official posts were held.

Manufacturers and Other Industries Economic Group
Mr. Matthias Fauser    Chairman
Ing. Charles Brincat    Deputy Chairman

Services Providers Economic Group
Mr. Julian Mamo    Chairman
Mr. Ian Casolani    Deputy Chairman
Perit David Xuereb Vice Chairman

Importers, Distributors and Retailers Economic Group
Mr. Gino Cutajar             Chairman
Mr. Frank Farrugia          Deputy Chairman
Mr. Andrew W. J Mamo Vice Chairman

First Annual General Meeting of Maltese Chinese Chamber of Commerce

Mon, 25 Apr 2011 10:06:00 GMT

Members are invited to attend the first Annual General Meeting of the Maltese – Chinese Chamber of Commerce (MCCC) which is being held at the Exchange Buildings, Republic Street, Valletta on Thursday, 5th May at 3:00 p.m.

The MCCC will be of particular interest to those currently trading with China or would like to start trading with Chinese companies.

Nominations for elections to the Council must reach the MCCC by not later than 28th April, 2011. Each person being nominated for Council must be proposed, and seconded by fully paid up members.

AGM Agenda

Introduction of MCCC by Chairman of the Provisional Committee
Accept comments or questions from the floor about the MCCC, its structure, its statute and Council.
Approval of Statute
Waiving of Clause 5.1 and nominating three members from the floor to act as Electoral Commission and approved by simple majority of members present.

Membership

The MCCC is accepting applications for membership. The annual fee is €50 for individuals and €150 for companies. Persons interested in taking up membership of the MCCC may obtain an application form by contacting Miss Dorianne Bonanno on email: dorianne.bonanno@maltachamber.org.mt.

Application Forms

Malta Chamber participates in MCESD meeting on Inflation

Mon, 18 Apr 2011 14:32:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber, led by President Tancred Tabone, participated in an MCESD meeting called to discuss inflationary developments over the past months. Present for the meeting was Minister Tonio Fenech whose Ministry prepared a report for discussion during the meeting.

The report concluded that inflationary pressures in Malta were mainly influenced by energy prices and that overall inflation stood at comparable levels to other EU member states. The meeting discussed compensation measures for inflation at which point the Malta Chamber reiterated that is not yet determined how any compensation was to be financed. The Malta Chamber questioned the viability of such a measure, especially if fuel prices should continue to rise. The Malta Chamber was not in favour of a blanket allowance as its effect would be short-lived but it would undermine long-term competitiveness. The Malta Chamber insisted that any policy measures taken to improve people’s quality of life needed to be sustainable.

It was concluded that the effect of inflation on low-income vulnerable groups would be analysed before any decision be made to compensate.

CBM Governor quotes BUSINESSEUROPE in assessment for the economy

Mon, 18 Apr 2011 14:32:00 GMT

Malta Chamber Director General Mr. Kevin J Borg was invited to attend a presentation of the 2010 Central Bank of Malta Annual Report by the Governor on 12th April.

Mr. Bonello gave an overview and his assessment of the economy’s performance during 2010. In his assessment he suggested a number of policy measures aimed at enhancing economic growth. The suggestions included policies aimed at tackling certain structural weaknesses that impede further economic growth.
The Governor also referred to the BUSINESSEUROPE European Reform Barometer which confirmed his assessment on the economy in terms of where its strengths and weaknesses lie. Concentrating on the latter, he said that Malta needed to address pressing issues such as expenditure in Research and Development, labour costs relative to productivity and the labour participation rate and its share of the global export market.
On the other hand, Malta was doing well, relative to other European states in terms of operating surplus, high-tech exports and the unemployment rate.

Mr. Bonello repeated his views about the sustainability of the local health and welfare system and called for a re-think of Malta’s universal entitlement policy in favour of one that places more focus on ensuring the appropriate support for the needy.

In terms of labour costs, Mr. Bonello said that cumulative wage increases in Malta over the past years have surpassed productivity increases by a wide margin. Through COLA, harmful inflation translates into higher Unit Labour Cost whilst ignoring compensatory productivity activity. This is what we have in Malta and in the interest of our competitiveness; we need to fine-tune our wage setting process to one that reflects efficiency gains as well as past inflation.

Malta Chamber Board of Management and Council 2011/2013

Mon, 18 Apr 2011 14:31:49 GMT

Following a Council meeting held on Friday, 8th April 2011, the following members were elected to the Board of Management for 2011/2013:

President: Mr. Tancred Tabone
Deputy President: Mr. Stefano Mallia
Vice President: Mr. William Wait
Officer: Mr. John Huber
Officer: Mr. Andrew W. J Mamo
Officer: Mr. Anton Borg

The remaining Council Members are:

Mr. Norman Aquilina
Mr. Martin Borg
Mr. Charles Brincat
Mr. Ian Casolani
Mr. Gino Cutajar
Mr. Frank V. Farrugia
Mr. Matthias Fauser
Mr. Reginald Fava
Mr. Julian J. Mamo
Mr. Mario Spiteri
Mr. Sergio Vella
Mr. David Xuereb
Mr. Charles A. Zahra

The Economic Group and Business Section Elections will be held in the coming weeks.

Malta Chamber encouraged by BoV-JEREMIE Financing Package

Mon, 18 Apr 2011 09:18:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2011 04 13 The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry is encouraged by the launch of the BOV JEREMIE Financing Package for Micro Enterprises and SMEs. Such an initiative has been promoted by the Malta Chamber for a number of years, for its benefits to the business community and its focus on our micro enterprises and SMEs, which constitute the majority of companies on our islands. This initiative is expected to facilitate access to finance, which is considered to be one of the main obstacles for growth in SMEs and family businesses all over Europe including Malta.

Following the launch of the Financing Package last week, an introductory session on the package was held yesterday by Bank of Valletta at the Exchange Buildings for members of the Malta Chamber. This was the first opportunity for businesses and SMEs to make themselves aware of the new schemes offered by the Bank. Here, it was explained that the JEREMIE Initiative is a €50 million loan facility intended to improve the Access to Finance for SMEs. Through this financial package, SMEs will benefit from advantageous interest rates and reduced collateral requirements.

JEREMIE is a joint initiative launched by the European Commission (DG Regional Policy) and the European Investment Bank Group to improve access to finance for SMEs in the EU within the Structural Funds framework for the period 2007-2013.

Meeting with delegation from Max-Born College

Tue, 12 Apr 2011 08:03:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry welcomed lecturers with expertise on green technologies from the Max-Born College, a vocational institute in Germany on Wednesday 30th March. The main aim of this meeting was for this college to showcase the services they can offer to the business community and to share their best practices in the green technology field.

After giving a brief introduction on the Malta Chamber, Director General Ing. Ray Muscat invited the delegation to share their ideas. Prof. Maurice Grech, Principal of the Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology and Director of the Electrical & Electronics Engineering Institute, Mr. John Sciberras accompanied the delegation and emphasised that specialisation in teaching sustainable development would be a possible and feasible option to incorporate within MCAST’s curriculum. It was suggested that the Max-Born College teachers come to Malta and train teachers from MCAST in order to make this possible. Ing. Ray Muscat said that the Malta Chamber would be ready to collaborate on this initiative and proposed that information sessions targeting business operators could be organised when lecturers from the College were in Malta.

Perit David Xuereb, the Chairman of the Energy and Environment Committee and Ing. Ray Vassallo Vice President, Chamber of Engineers were also in attendance.

New Malta Chamber President

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 17:59:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2011 04 05: Mr Tancred Tabone was today elected President of the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry for 2011/2013 during the Malta Chamber’s first Council meeting. Mr. Tabone was elected unanimously.

Upon his election, Mr Tabone thanked his fellow Council members for their confidence and support and pledged his full commitment to reciprocate their trust. He expressed his belief in inclusive leadership and said he would strive to seek the widest possible participation of the Malta Chamber’s members.

He thanked the outgoing President, Mrs Helga Ellul, for her sterling contribution during her term. He stated that the transition towards his Presidency would be a seamless one as he intended to consolidate on the achievements and work undertaken by the outgoing Board of Management.

In fact, Mr. Tabone occupied the post of Deputy President in the previous Board of Management. Prior to that, he was President of the the Malta Chamber of Commerce and Enterprise and led the organisation through its merger together with the FOI.

In his business, he is presently Managing Director of Forestals Group of Companies. Besides, he is a Malta Enterprise Director and sits on MCESD as a Malta Chamber Representative.

Mr. Tabone has served as Director of the Malta Trade Fair Corporation, Chairman of the Malta Trade Fair Corporation, Director of the Water Services Corporation, Chairman of the Water Services Corporation, Chairman of Mediterranean Offshore Bunkering Company Ltd, and Chairman of Enemalta Corporation.

The Council of the Malta Chamber will meet again on 8th April in order to hold elections for the Board of Management.

Malta Chamber Foundation

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 08:30:00 GMT

Following the Extraordinary General Meeting held on Wednesday 23rd March, Malta Chamber members approved the setting up of the Malta Chamber Foundation. The overall purpose of this Foundation is to:

Enable the Malta Chamber to have an instrument which can solely focus on value-added services.
The development of new areas of business support to the Malta Chamber members.
Become registered with the Voluntary Organisations Act and therefore be eligible to participate in local and EU funding opportunities.

The aim of the Foundation will be to:

Promote and further the education, needs and values of business.
Promote corporate social responsibility of business towards the community, the environment, health & safety and the awareness and advancement thereof.
Organise, carry out, promote and assists in educational training, information seminars and conferences on thematic subjects.
Participate in local and EU funded projects, which aims are in line with the above aims and as may be set by the Board from time to time.

The Foundation will be run by a Board which will be appointed by the Malta Chamber Council, every two years following the Malta Chamber Council elections. This Board will consist of five members, one individual from each of the three Economic Groups, together with the Directors General. The Chairperson shall be one of the said Economic Group members.

Further information on the establishment of the Foundation will be communicated to members in due course.

Austrian Delegation in Malta

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 08:31:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber is pleased to announce that it will be hosting an Austrian business delegation on April 28th, 2011. The delegation will be made up of 20 high-profile directors from banks, pension funds and insurance companies. The delegates will be visiting Malta on a fact-finding mission to increase their knowledge about Malta’s financial services sector and climate. Finance Malta, Malta Enterprise and the Malta Financial Services Authority have been invited by the Malta Chamber to deliver presentations to the Austrian delegation on the day.

Members wishing to obtain further information about this are kindly requested to contact Internationalisation Manager, Klaus Pedersen on: klaus.pedersen@maltachamber.org.mt.

Extraordinary General Meeting

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 11:32:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry would like to inform members that it will be holding an Extraordinary General Meeting on Tuesday 5th April at 5.30pm, at the Exchange Buildings. Members are encouraged to attend. Park and Ride facilities will also be available between 5.00pm and 7.00pm.

Students’ Company Visits with a Focus on Careers

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 08:31:00 GMT

Last week marks the start of a number of Students’ Company Visits with a Focus on Careers. The Malta Chamber in collaboration with Saint Theresa College and with the help of a number of Malta Chamber members’ companies have secured twenty-nine company visits which span over a period of four weeks. During these visits companies will host a total number of 66 fourth form students, out of which 53 are female students and 13 are male.

During these visits students will get a clearer picture of the different sectors in the local market, familiarise themselves with the operations of the different companies and will also be given a good overview of the various careers available.

Participating companies include Atlas Insurance PCC Ltd, Bank of Valletta plc, C Fino & Sons Ltd, Gasan Mamo Insurance Limited, Gutenberg Press Ltd, GO plc, HSBC Bank Malta plc, Playmobil Malta Ltd, PricewaterhouseCoopers, Simonds Farsons Cisk plc, The General Soft Drinks Co Ltd, Toly Products Ltd, Trelleborg Sealing Solutions (Malta) Ltd and World Aviation Group Ltd.

Update on European Communications on Libya

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 08:28:00 GMT

Following the Malta Chamber’s communications with President Barroso, Eurochambres, and BusinessEurope regarding the situation in Libya, both Eurochambres and BusinessEurope have responded to our call.

BusinessEurope

BusinessEurope responded with a letter to Mr. Herman Van Rompuy, President of the European Council, with a call for European solidarity for the Mediterranean region. In his letter, BusinessEurope Director Mr. Philippe De Buck called for

Full deployment of EU crisis assistance and capabilities to deal with humanitarian problems to help the numerous displaced people.
Rapid EU action to reopen trade channels with the countries of the region to help restore economic stability and to help get businesses up and running again.
EU Delegations and Member State embassies should work with EU businesses in the region to help wherever they can. Where necessary, the EU should rapidly deploy technical assistance to ensure that trade infrastructure (e.g. ports) can operate quickly in stabilised countries.
No application of economy-wide embargoes which would rapidly impoverish the people of the region who are already suffering from food and other necessity shortages. Only targeted economic measures should be considered to deal with
Concrete support from the European Institutions to EU businesses that are facing considerable difficulties as a result of the Southern Mediterranean situation.
Accelerate investment in Infrastructure is essential to create employment and lay the foundation for future growth.

Eurochambres

In his correspondence to Malta Chamber President Mrs Helga Ellul, Eurochambres President Mr. Arnaldo Abruzzini stated that Eurochambres shares the Malta Chamber’s concerns regarding the Libya situation. He said that Eurochambres understands the effect the crisis has had on business in general, and the effect on people’s lives and safety in the region.

President Abruzzini added that the EU leadership will have to address the issues connected to the current situation, whilst bearing in mind the need to protect foreign investment and assets in Libya.

Annual General Meeting - the President's Address

Thu, 24 Mar 2011 08:58:00 GMT

Ladies and gentlemen, fellow members,

These last few weeks have highlighted the importance of Malta at the international level. The unfortunate developments in Libya have put Malta prominently in the spotlight. Our country played a key role in co-ordinating and getting thousands of workers from almost ninety countries out of Libya. The efforts of our people and institutions received worldwide acclaim.

These last few weeks have also placed our Chamber firmly in the limelight. We have immediately embarked on a data gathering exercise to help our members with businesses in Libya. Through our internationalisation database, we were immediately able to identify and contact our members with business interests in Libya. We participated in a number of meetings on the matter including two at Castille in the presence of the Prime Minister. There we reported on our members’ major concerns and also made some concrete proposals in terms of sustaining employment and cash-flow.

I immediately wrote to the President of the EU Commission, urging him to set in motion EU structures and mechanisms to provide concrete and urgent support to the Euro-Med countries facing considerable difficulties arising from the North Africa situation. We raised the matter as well with Commissioner John Dalli during the Business Breakfast organized by MBB earlier this month. Our Vice President Stefano Mallia also made strong representations within the European Economic and Social Committee.

But during the year various other issues were tackled.

Local Market Issues

We stepped up our efforts against repeated abuses in free movement of goods. This is of direct interest particularly in the areas of Importation, Distribution and Manufacturing. But it is also relevant to consumers. Therefore, we raised the issue prominently in our position paper on the Bill proposing the Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority.

Before that, we submitted a detailed and separate study to the authorities. In it we identified discrepancies in the local market leading to an unfair level field between companies which operate under full legal compliance and others that do not. The report identified certain inconsistencies in the system of Customs. We urged government to take urgent action especially through more effective market surveillance.

We insisted that the new Authority must ensure that goods and services placed on the market must be in full conformity with the necessary health, safety, statistical, environmental, regulatory and fiscal requirements. This is the only way to ensure that this new Authority would be granting equal protection to the consumer and the bona fide operator from the illicit trader.

Illicit traders cannot be allowed to continue abusing the market and consumers. Consumer health and safety is certainly at risk if fresh products are brought into Malta without the necessary health certification, if their chill-chain is broken, or if they are handled in the same trailer as, for example, detergents. Issues arise if products like medicines and baby food are not labelled in a language that can be understood by our local consumer. Issues also arise in cases of a product recall when there is no account of such "imports" and the country relies exclusively on self declaration.

We raised this concern before Commissioner John Dalli and he stated that the European Commission can support member states in areas of difficulties in implementing European regulations.

Eco-Contribution – An old Saga by Now

For the past year we continued actively in chasing to resolve the issues related to Refunds and Exemptions of Eco-Contribution. I am glad that last year we managed to set in motion the process of Exemptions. However I deeply regret the long delay. I have been informed that the relevant Legal Notice has personally been confirmed by the Hon Dr Mario De Marco. As you know we showed our frustration at every opportunity. In fact this issue even drew the attention and opinion of the Ombudsman. Let me state very clearly that, in the interest of fairness to bona fide firms as well as to the transparency and credibility of our legal and administrative structures, this matter should never have been allowed to drag so long.

ETC repayments

Another long drawn out issue is that related to the extensive delays in the reimbursement process for the Training Aid Framework (TAF) and the Employment Aid Programme (EAP). It is unacceptable for our members to be owed training funds, some dating back to before 2009. Not only does it create cash-flow issues but also it takes away the appetite for such training schemes. This is against the very spirit of our country to invest in its human resources and lifelong learning.

Holistic Approach to Competitiveness

One of the major issues this year highlighted the need for sustained economic growth for this country as a means to safeguard our jobs and our standard of living. In order to have growth we have insisted for a continuous enhancement of our competitiveness. Competitiveness is based on a number of factors including skills, technology, innovation and costs. We felt very strongly about this. The country’s needs to take a more holistic approach. There seems to be an attitude on the part of the authorities that business is always in a position to absorb further costs especially when these seem relatively insignificant. Costs, irrespective of whether they are big or small must always be justified. They must always be considered within the context of total cost. I say this with respect to non-labour costs such as utility rates, increase in factory rents that we have been dealing with recently but also in terms of items that influence labour costs such as pensions, COLA and family friendly measures.

COLA

On the subject of COLA, our consistent stand remains. This should stay as an important instrument to safeguard workers' disposable incomes. However, the mechanism needs to be reviewed. We need a mechanism to ascertain the country's competitiveness position. If wage increases continue to exceed productivity gains, Malta is becoming uncompetitive especially in certain sectors. We have been proposing that COLA be indexed to productivity as well as to inflation. Our proposal outlines that COLA should reflect sectoral GDP growth figures to ensure that COLA paid in all sectors would be linked to the productivity in that sector. We have also been insisting on a clear definition of "Exceptional Circumstances" which are already in the law and would permit an automatic triggering of mitigating factors for COLA, should the need arise.

Family Friendly Measures

As part of the MCESD committee we are also being consulted on a widening in scope of family friendly measures. Our business community has recognised the benefits of introducing, over the years, such measures as part of the corporate social responsibility culture. However, we oppose any introduction of further compulsory family-friendly measures besides those that are already legally binding. Family friendly measures must remain voluntary. They must take account of the circumstances facing individual companies. We are participating in discussions with other social partners to create incentives for the private sector to stimulate the voluntary up take of family friendly measures. We are insisting that there are other family friendly policies which do not have a negative cost implication. These are introduced as a matter of priority, such as extension of school hours and banking of hours. They are effective in stimulating labour market participation which is a must for our economy.

Pension Reform

Likewise, there are consultations on pension reforms taking place. We know the situation is urgent and it is no secret that the PAYG system is unsustainable. We are aware that these need to be supplemented by a voluntary third pillar and a mandatory second one.

We have asked for the necessary clarifications from the authorities in order to see the exact impact on different sectors of business. It will help us to formulate a better view of the situation. However, we made it clear that any further changes need to be outlined in a blue-print with clear time-frames for business to be in a position to plan ahead for such changes.

Social Dialogue

Most of the above mentioned matters of national affairs were discussed with our social partners within MEUSAC or MCESD meetings. During 2010, we were also actively engaged in discussing social dialogue and especially the functioning of MCESD. We are not opposed to the widening of the Council as long as this did not upset the current tried and tested formula. Any change will need the consensus of present members. We affirmed that our country should embrace policies that encourage consolidation of resources and discourage fragmentation and duplication of efforts.

We also proposed some practical recommendations for a better functioning of MCESD. Above all, we strongly criticised the fact that work done by the specific working groups, which studied areas such as COLA, were not being discussed prior to the last Budget. Hopefully we will be in time for this year’s Budget.
Committees

Let me quickly give you an overview of our committees; truly acting as a driving force to help us to provide value to our members in specific areas of business competence.

Quality Management

As you all know our Chamber succeeded in securing the ISO 9001 Certification this January. I am proud to say that the Malta Chamber is the first social partner to have succeeded in this achievement. We have to promote awareness of quality. The Committee also organised the 3rd Annual Business Excellence Conference last November to promote further awareness on the concepts of quality management. We now plan to undertake education and similar projects in the field of quality management for the benefit or our members. For our businesses to succeed we need to be more competitive and leaner, more efficient, innovate continuously and maintain quality at all times. Quality certainly paves the way for a company’s success abroad and this leads me to our Internationalisation Committee.

Internationalisation

We have continued to be active with the help of a dedicated committee. The major achievement in the area of franchise where together with Malta Enterprise and funded by the Commonwealth Secretariat, we explored the potential for internationalisation of franchise in Malta.

Our Internationalisation Desk was contracted to perform a market research study. With the support of HSBC – our partners in Internationalisation – last October we organised a national conference, with the participation of two UK specialists, Farrah Rose and Lorna Smith. The project is still ongoing and Ms Rose was back in Malta to perform preliminary “franchise health-checks” on 16 local companies. Hopefully the best performing companies announced in the Budget Speech by Minister Fenech will be able to benefit from the public funds being made available for further progress in their business plans.

Organisational Strengthening

In general, I am proud to say that our standing as a Chamber is being recognised not only by the authorities and the media, but also by the business community through membership and through support agreements. This year we have renewed our Gold agreements with Bank of Valletta and HSBC, as well as our agreement with Malta Motorways of the Sea and Regus Malta. We added FIMBank to our list of Collaborating Partners and shortly we will be adding yet another very important corporate name.

The support agreements are project-based and are in the early stages of two such projects which will derive benefits to all our members. With Bank of Valletta we have commenced a project aimed at promoting best practice in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). We need to underline to the business community that this not charity but it is a means by which a business can become more competitive. With FIMBank and MBB, we are embarking on a project which will create a network of regional chambers in the Euro-Med area. It will increase our Chamber’s capacity to facilitate member’s contacts in the bordering regions.

Our presence in Brussels - a quick look at our exposure in the EU

Last September, our Vice President Stefano Mallia was elected to the European Economic and Social Committee. This is a very important development for our Chamber because it enables us to represent the interests of our members at European level. Stefano already sits on the Board of Directors of Eurochambres and also on important internal committees of this pan-European organisation, including its Strategic Committee.

Together with fellow members of Management, this year I attended Eurochambres European Parliament of Enterprises, which is organised to allow businesses to replace the MEPs for a day in the European Parliament. It is done to give businesses to voice their opinions to the highest officials of the EP. I made the intervention on behalf of Maltese businesses.

We still are participating in Eurochambres projects such as CHANGE and Understanding China.

Go for Growth was the message promoted by BusinessEurope this year, and the Malta Chamber. We took part in this campaign, through media representations and a press conference. This strong message, which we totally support, stated that the key to success was to ensure that Europe meets the five key challenges. These are emerging from the crisis,

tackling demographic ageing,
fighting climate change,
ensuring access to energy and raw materials,
strengthening Europe’s role in the global community

I attended the Councils of Presidents of BusinessEurope, in Madrid and Brussels. It is important to be present at such an event as it brings together all the Presidents of the members of BusinessEurope.

In my limited time to address you today, I highlighted our most important activities and achievements. You will get an overall view from our Annual Report which has been published for today’s occasion and which has been circulated to you in the past week.

Conclusion

None of the achievements I have been talking about were possible through my actions or decisions. As in any business or co-operation, objectives can only be successfully driven and achieved, by a successful team and the dynamic participation and involvement of all the players. And that is what we have here at the Chamber. So before closing my final speech as your President, allow me to thank all the hardworking members with whom I have worked closely throughout the last year, especially the Board of Management, also our Council, the Economic Groups and their Chairmen, Business Sections and our Thematic Groups and last but not least our very dedicated staff.

I sincerely believe that with all your help, we as a Chamber have managed to rise to new levels in terms of:

Influencing local policy and also in
Providing value to our members in added services.

I hope I did not only make history in being the first president of the merger and also the first woman president in the over 162-year history of the Malta Chamber. But I also hope that I have lived up to everyone’s expectations and can certainly say that I have learned a lot and it was definitely a worthwhile experience in my professional life.

The Malta Chamber will always have a special place in my heart and I wish you a great future. As I said before, the Chamber is as strong as you want it to be. It needs your involvement, your contribution and your expertise. Only then will the Chamber be the strong voice of the Maltese Business Community.

I wish the best of luck to my successor.

Thank You.

More Talks with The Prime Minister on the Libya Crisis

Tue, 22 Mar 2011 08:22:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber permanent staff has been actively meeting members to gather information on their business concerns emerging from the crisis in Libya. These concerns and possible solutions were discussed with Malta Enterprise with whom we are co-ordinating our efforts in this regard. More importantly, however, the issues and proposals emerging from our contact with members were conveyed at Castille in the presence of the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister described the situation as very serious and appealed to all economic players to approach the matter sensibly.

At this meeting, the Malta Chamber made some concrete proposals aimed at alleviating the impact on affected companies particularly in terms of sustaining employment and cash-flow. We suggested a similar approach to the one successfully adopted during the financial crisis when support was afforded to safeguard employment. We also suggested temporary measures permitting breathing-space in tax collection. Besides, we also reported on current ERDF-funded projects aimed at assisting member companies top internationalise in Libya and requested these projects be temporarily suspended. Meanwhile, we also requested Government to keep a central register of pending invoices, investments, property, equipment and other assets owned by Maltese companies in Libya. This official list could be followed-up at a political level when the situation in Libya was restored to normality.

Above all, as we had requested separately to the President of the European Commission, we insisted with the Prime Minister to seek the support of other EU counterparts to seek solutions with a European dimension. need to put pressure on for a EU solution. We stated that this crisis was not solely affecting Malta or the Mediterranean but was going to impact all EU countries. Whilst the EU was discussing the political and diplomatic aspects of the issue, it also needs to tackle the economic side.

Government continues to be cautious in committing itself to assistance to companies in this regard. Certainly, no blanket measures are to be expected. Our Chamber shall continue to make the necessary representations on its members’ behalf and we shall continue to keep members informed on a regular basis.

First Graduates in Diploma in Manufacturing Excellence

Mon, 21 Mar 2011 14:27:00 GMT

This week, the Malta Chamber hosted the graduation ceremony for the first 25 graduates from sixteen manufacturing companies for the Diploma in Manufacturing Excellence.

The graduates were congratulated by President Mrs Helga Ellul, who said that it was a day to be proud, not only in her role as President of the Malta Chamber, but also as a Governor on the MCAST Board, as well as the CEO of Playmobil Malta. Mrs Ellul emphasised on the importance of employability, stating that such a diploma would improve the graduates’ CVs, and that they should be proud that they completed the course, whilst still managing a full time job. “Our employees receive the appropriate recognition through this Diploma, and also for their uncertified experience and competencies acquired through non-formal and informal learning,” she said.

In concluding, Mrs Ellul said that “Knowledge is owned by you. As employers we give you a salary for your knowledge, but this knowledge still belongs to you. And we will continue to learn.”

Also speaking at the graduation ceremony, Professor Maurice Grech, Principal and CEO of MCAST gave a brief account of the idea behind this initiative, which was born from the close collaboration between the College and the Malta Chamber, and the employers themselves. The course, accredited by the City and Guilds, was aimed at individuals who were already working at supervisory level in a manufacturing environment. The benefits for employers and employees were reciprocal and as a result the successful students have been prepared to participate and contribute to the development process of manufacturing at their place of work in the knowledge that, with the right level of maturity, one could progress to higher levels of responsibility.

Malta Chamber meets DG Enterprise

Mon, 21 Mar 2011 14:25:00 GMT

Earlier this week, Malta Chamber President Mrs Helga Ellul, together with Director General Ing. Ray Muscat met with officials from DG Enterprise, responsible for the Europe 2020 strategy, national competitiveness policies, as well as SMEs in Malta. Representatives from the Malta Employers’ Association, GRTU, MCESD, Kooperattivi Malta, Malta Association of Women in Business, and Dr. Gordon Cordina were also in attendance.

In October 2010 DG Enterprise launched one of the seven flagship projects of the Europe 2020 strategy on "Industrial Policy in a Globalisation Era". In this context, a report on Member States Competitiveness Performance and Policies was published and this will be updated annually.

During the meeting the Malta Chamber presented its position on Industrial Competitiveness, which includes the Malta Chamber’s recommendations on a number of issues, including innovation, research and development, sustainability and infrastructure, energy efficiency and better regulation. Members wishing to obtain a copy of this position should contact Miss Marylyn Hili on email: marylyn.hili@maltachamber.org.mt

Suspension of Permanent Residency Scheme risks damaging the economy

Mon, 21 Mar 2011 12:43:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2011 03 21: (on behalf of the Real Estate Business Section) “In the last two years the Permanent Residency Scheme and the spill over effects it has on our economy was one of the major factors that kept the economy ticking along successfully - and this despite all the turbulence of the global economic crisis,” said Mr. Ian Casolani, Chairman of the Real Estate Business Section within the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry. Mr. Casolani was speaking during a press conference, where the Real Estate Business Section was conveying its concerns regarding the Permanent Residency Scheme, which was suspended in December 2010, without warning or consultation, to the detriment of the industry.

In 2010 alone 151 non-EU citizens purchased property in Malta at a value of over €35million. This does not include EU nationals. “These people not only buy property, they furnish it, visit Malta regularly and spend money on entertainment – bringing friends and family to Malta, the list goes on,” explained Mr. Casolani. “So many people benefit, the furniture industry, builders, entertainment venues, and estate agents, amongst others. The tangible economic benefits are endless.”

He added that this was one sector of the local real estate market that was doing well at a time when the local market was depressed and many international overseas markets were in disarray.
“In the meantime, while the Scheme is suspended, Malta’s competitors such as Cyprus and Portugal are all creating incentives to bring foreign investment their way,” said Mr. Casolani. “Whereas we are about to turn it away after years of heavy investment to attract it in the first place.”

The industry was informed that the Scheme had been suspended due to certain abuses linked to the low minimum rental obligation, as well as concern that holders of Permanent Residence would automatically become long term residents after five years in Malta. In this regard, the Real Estate Business Section was quick to offer its proposals, which government agreed would curb such abuse.

Among its proposals, the Section recommended:

A looping system to restrict Permanent Residence holders from clocking the five yrs and becoming long term residents. Any tax incentives shall be lost if a non-EU national applies for long term residence and moreover, their tax liability in Malta become more onerous.
Permanent Residence holders are obliged to possess a substantial health insurance cover.
The low minimum rental obligation being immediately raised to €12k annually from the current inadequate €4150 p.a., in order to curb abuse.

Despite having reached agreement on the way forward, the suspension remains to be lifted. “In the meantime we are financially committed to attending fairs overseas without any information at hand on how a person can come to live in Malta. We continue to market Malta, without being able to answer even basic questions on our residency options and attractions,” explained Mr. John Huber, Officer within the Malta Chamber.

Mr. Casolani added that the Business Section has also been informed by reliable sources that the government is considering raising the minimum purchase price to the region of €500k – if not more – which will be as damaging to the economy as if it was closed down altogether.

The Business Section warned that already, potential buyers were already considering the alternative competing destinations. Furthermore, the situation regarding present applications remains unclear. This situation is exposing the economy to a number of risks, including thousands of jobs directly related to the construction and real estate sectors, besides those that depend on the spill over from this industry. “Malta’s reputation as a serious financial services centre is also at risk – especially in a situation where the goalposts can be changed or even removed without any notification.”
The Business Section stated that considerable damage has already been done. Should government not take responsibility and reactivate this scheme, then the damage will be irreparable and repercussions felt across the economy.

“The scheme not only needs to be reactivated as soon as possible, but any changes must be carried out swiftly and with full consultation with the industries directly affected.”

“We have spent the last three months in limbo – we need to restore this successful scheme as well as international confidence in our country as a serious destination and investment proposition,” concluded Mr. Casolani.

The Malta Chamber Real Estate Business Section is supported by:

The Federation of Estate Agents
The Malta Developers Association (MDA)
Special Designated Areas (Lifestyle Developments, SDAs)

Clarification

The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry clarifies that the Permanent Residency Scheme issue is not solely related to Real Estate. This was further evidenced at the press conference held by the Malta Chamber on Monday 23rd March, where sectors across the board were represented by Mr. Gino Cutajar, Chairman of the Importers, Retailers and Distributors Economic Group, and Mr. Julian Mamo, Chairman of the Services Providers Economic Group, as well as the Malta Chamber President, Mrs Helga Ellul.

With their presence, they underlined the fact that the Permanent Residency Scheme, which was suspended in December last year, provides economic benefits across the board, thus its suspension is a serious issue, detrimental to a number of sectors, including legal and financial services, tourism, as well as construction and real estate, not to mention philanthropic organisations.

Malta Chamber Council visits Parliament

Mon, 21 Mar 2011 09:21:00 GMT

This week, the Malta Chamber Council, led by President Mrs Helga Ellul were invited to visit Parliament. During the visit they were given a presentation about the functions of Parliament and the legislative process by Speaker Mr. Michael Frendo. The Malta Chamber delegation also met with the Parliamentary Whips, Hon. Mr. David Agius (PN), and Hon. Mr. Joe Mizzi (PL), together with Hon. Mr. Francis Zammit Dimech, in his capacity as chairman of the Standing Committee on Foreign and European Affairs.

Employment Aid Programme - Reimbursement Process Session

Mon, 21 Mar 2011 09:20:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber organised an information session related to the Employment Aid Programme (EAP). The EAP is an EU funded scheme aimed at promoting the integration of disadvantaged persons and jobseekers in the labour market. Furthermore, the scheme:

Facilitates access to employment and skills upgrading of those individuals furthest away from the labour market
Enhance the financial independence of disadvantaged persons and prevent social exclusion and marginalisation
Contribute to increase the country’s labour supply and achieve greater social cohesion

All employers, including partnerships, companies, or associations who are recruiting new employees can be eligible to participate in the programme. Through the EAP, employers receive a subsidy equivalent to 50% of the wage costs, ie, half the basic salary excluding bonuses, allowances, commission or overtime, together with half the employer’s national insurance. The duration of the subsidy varies according to the target groups, ranging from a minimum of 52 weeks to a maximum of 156 weeks for applications dated from 1st January 2011 onwards.

The aim of the information session was to assist companies applying under this scheme to compile the scheme’s reimbursement application forms. During the session, the Employment Aid Programme Unit advised participants that one-to-one services mentioned are available as follows:

Employers requiring assistance with the initial application form are encouraged to contact Ms. Monica Darmanin from MISCO on telephone number 2205 4501 or e-mail address mdarmanin@miscomalta.com.

EAP beneficiaries wishing to receive one-to-one guidance regarding their reimbursement requests may contact the MCESD on e-mail address eap@mcesd.org.mt

Further information regarding this scheme may be requested bye sending an e-mail to the EAP unit general email address eap.etc@gov.mt or may be contacted on 22201 219 /217 /235 /237.

Industrial Dispute at Enemalta Hugely Damaging to the Economy

Tue, 15 Mar 2011 13:11:15 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE 2011 03 15

The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry is concerned with the prolonging of events concerning industrial action at Enemalta.

The Malta Chamber understands that the industrial action was ordered after Enemalta transferred a handful of workers with a view to safeguard their long-term employment. In response to this, the Union issued directives to all its members at Enemalta to refrain from using ERP (Enterprise Resources Planning - which is the software used by all Enemalta operations) and the second prohibits communication (both internal or external).

Such industrial action is deemed disproportionate and most detrimental to innocent parties who are extraneous to the dispute including business and ordinary citizens.

Since these directives were ordered, business and ordinary citizens have, in fact, incurred extra costs, inconvenience and disruption. The directives have also led to a worsening of the bureacracy involved in MEPA permit application processes.

In the light of the above, the Malta Chamber also understands that the case stands before the Industrial Tribunal and augurs for the issue to be decided without delay. Meanwhile, the Malta Chamber appeals to the Union to suspend its directives during the hearing of this case.

Legal Notice on Eco-Contribution Refunds remains unpublished

Mon, 14 Mar 2011 09:26:00 GMT

Following a letter sent to the Parliamentary Secretary for Tourism, the Environment and Culture, Hon. Dr Mario de Marco on the issue of the promised Legal Notice on Eco-Contribution Refunds, which still remains unpublished, Dr. De Marco replied to the Malta Chamber, where he stated that the matter will be resolved imminently.

In her letter, President Mrs Helga Ellul voiced the Malta Chamber’s frustration over the fact that the longstanding issue is still yet to be resolved. She reminded Dr. De Marco of a meeting held on the subject with the Permanent Secretaries, Ministry of Finance, Economy and Investment, and the Ministry for Resources and Rural Affairs on 4th June 2010, where the Malta Chamber was advised that the Legal Notice was almost finalised.

Subsequently, the Malta Chamber had been informed that the Legal Notice was pending approval by the Attorney General. Since last December, after the Malta Chamber ascertained that the LN had been cleared by the Attorney General, we were told that the LN would be discussed and approved at the next meeting of the Eco-Contribution Appointed Body. The Malta Chamber has been chasing for updates with the Appointed Body virtually on a weekly basis, to no avail.

Meanwhile, the Ombudsman has published his opinion on the subject, effectively confirming the Malta Chamber’s calls for Eco-Contribution refunds/credits to be issued to compliant companies forthwith and that further delays were harming the cash-flow and operations of these companies. Yet despite the delays, promises and the Ombudsman’s opinion the business community continues to await the Legal Notice.

From the Malta Chamber’s point of view, it is imperative that the refunds of Eco-Contributions are paid forthwith to ensure transparency and credibility of the local legal structures as well as fulfillment of the promises made in terms of these refunds in the 2008 Budget Speech. The Malta Chamber will continue to follow developments with the authorities in order to ensure the matter is resolved as soon as possible.

Diploma in Manufacturing Excellence starting April 2011

Mon, 14 Mar 2011 09:22:00 GMT

Following the successful take-up of this Diploma, MCAST and the Malta Chamber will be once again undertaking the Diploma in Manufacturing Excellence. This eleven unit Diploma is supported by the main employers on the Island, and is directed to those employees in industry who have not followed a formal route of education and are interested in developing their skills and advance in the career ladder.

Starting Date: April 2011
Programme Duration: Two years, part-time
Course Registration: Registration closes on the 18 of March 2011
Accreditation: City & Guilds

Course Content

Energy and Water Management
Manufacturing Strategy
Lean Manufacturing
Operations Management
Financial Management
Internationalisation in Manufacturing
Product Development and Innovation
Manufacturing Management
Project Management
Quality Management

Assessment Criteria: The units will include practical assignments which have to be delivered at the end of each unit, together with a presentation.

Who should apply: The Manufacturing Excellence Diploma is directed to those employees in industry who have not followed a formal route of education and are interested to develop their skills and advance in the career ladder.

Course Fees: The fees are €2,560. Participants applying on their own initiative are eligible for tax credits, under the scheme 'Deductions and Tax Credits', administered by Malta Enterprise.

Registrations: Participants are to register their interest with Ms Deborah Vella, on contact number
2398 7100, or via e-mail on info@mcast.edu.mt

Malta Chamber stresses on problem of illegal trade

Mon, 14 Mar 2011 09:04:00 GMT

During the Business Breakfast organised last week by the Malta Business Bureau, Malta Chamber President Mrs Helga Ellul and Director General Mr. Kevin J Borg commented on the problem of illicit trading, which continues to be wide-spread in Malta. The concept of a Single Market was complicated in Malta with the introduction of a unique term in LN 226/07 for “Accompanied Commercial Vehicles”. Vehicles falling under this definition with a carrying capacity not exceeding 10 tonnes in volume are exempt from any obligation to engage stevedores, but must still fulfill their groupage obligations. This latest obligation is however not enforced leading to significant commercial importation entering into Malta through this loophole.

This was detrimental to government, bona fide operators and the consumer whose confidence in the market was not being assisted by the repercussions of the abuse. The Malta Chamber reiterated its stand that food labeling regulations were being continuously broken as were those related to food handling. The Malta Chamber also queried the issue of product recall, in cases of a product recall when no account was being kept of such "imports" and the country relied exclusively on self declaration.

Malta Chamber formally writes to Barroso calling for a strong European response to the crises in North Africa

Thu, 10 Mar 2011 08:56:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2011 03 09: In a letter to the President of the EU Commission, the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry has urged Mr. Barroso to put in motion an urgent and strong European response to the crises unfolding in North Africa, especially Libya.

In its letter the Malta Chamber said that the immediate impact of the unrest in North Africa has been the creation of a humanitarian crises with citizens from all the over the world fleeing or attempting to flee Libya. This has resulted in a huge surge in the number of people attempting to enter Europe illegally mainly via the Mediterranean Sea. The Malta Chamber said that this is putting the infrastructural, human and financial resources of neighbouring countries especially Italy and Malta under severe pressure.

In parallel with this wave of illegal immigration, the Malta Chamber pointed out that Malta has in effect acted as the logistical base for the transportation of thousands of citizens from over 90 countries. This too is putting Malta’s resources under severe strain.

The Malta Chamber emphasised, however, that this crisis also has a business dimension. The sudden business disruption across North Africa is inflicting serious business and financial consequences on European entrepreneurs. Certain businesses across Europe have specialised and developed their markets in North Africa to such an extent that they have become highly dependent on them. These companies are facing loss of contracts and business exposure within a scenario of exceptional uncertainty.

In the light of the above, the Malta Chamber has urged President Barroso to set in motion EU structures and mechanisms which provide concrete and urgent support to those Euro-Med countries that are currently facing considerable difficulties arising from the North Africa situation. The Chamber pointed out that what is happening does not only concern EU neighbouring states. Instability in the region will have an impact across the whole of the EU and therefore, the situation requires a strong European response which has so far been lacking. From the Malta Chamber’s point of view it is also a clear opportunity for the EU to show that it truly has the value of solidarity at its very core.

Meanwhile, the Malta Chamber through its employer representative, is also lobbying the European Economic and Social Committee to support this call and has also written to Eurochambres and BusinessEurope, (the leading pan-European organisations representing the employer organisations of Europe) to issue an urgent statement calling for concrete support from the European Institutions to the Euro-Med countries.

Malta Chamber Appeals for Treatment of Libyan Crisis on Business from a European Dimension

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 13:53:00 GMT

During a business breakfast meeting held on 4th March with European Commissioner John Dalli, the Malta Chamber appealed for the Libyan Crisis to be treated from a European Dimension. We asked Commissioner Dalli to discuss our appeal within the College of Commissioners.

The Malta Chamber has been in contact with local business over the past weeks and is aware of the distressing repercussions that entrepreneurs are experiencing on two separate levels, namely:

1) Social and humanitarian
2) Business and financial

Social and humanitarian

At the level of business, entrepreneurs were suddenly faced with the unpredictable challenge of repatriating their workers out of Libya. Now that this task has been successfully overcome, through Malta’s intervention, businesses have turned their attention towards tackling their next challenge. This is posed by the sudden halt in business which has left companies with thousands of European workers idle because they were specifically employed to perform an economic activity in a North African outpost. From the social and humanitarian dimension, these companies wish to maintain a stable income for their employees, despite the fact that these workers will remain idle until the conditions in the North African region return to normality. The Malta Chamber urges the European Union to exercise the principle of solidarity and mobilise its mechanisms and resources to safeguard jobs and incomes of these European citizens.

Business and financial

The sudden business disruption across North Africa, particularly Libya, inflicted serious business and financial consequences on European entrepreneurs. Certain businesses across Europe have specialised and developed their markets in North Africa to such an extent that they became increasingly highly dependent on them. These companies are facing loss of contracts and business exposure within a scenario of exceptional uncertainty. Besides, they are concerned about:

Protecting their interests and investments lying in Libya including property, equipment stocks and other assets
Recouping payments due on invoices issued to Libyan clients (both public and private companies) for work performed
Exposure to foreign principals on works in progress
Withdrawing monies from Libyan banks – which balances are decreasing in value with the devaluating Libyan dinar
Maintaining payroll costs – even for humanitarian reasons – as explained above

In the light of the above, we are also appealing to Eurochambres and BusinessEurope to issue an urgent statement calling for concrete support from the European Institutions to the Euro-Med countries that are currently facing considerable difficulties arising out of the North Africa situation.

The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry is convinced that through a co-ordinated approach, the European Union, particularly the most affected countries, will be better prepared to minimise the undesirable economic consequences of this unprecedented situation.

Meeting of the MEUSAC Core Group

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 13:51:00 GMT

Last Friday, Malta Chamber Directors General Mr. Kevin J. Borg and Ing. Ray Muscat attended a meeting of the MEUSAC Core Group to discuss a number of significant issues, including the National Reform Programme, the Single Market Act and Intellectual Property Rights.

On the issue of the Consultation Document regarding the National Reform Programme, the Malta Chamber representatives expressed their views on:

RDI targets in the document, which are deemed to be very low
The relation between labour productivity and wages
Increased female participation in the workplace, with special reference to the need of a holistic structure that includes extended school hours, banking of hours, temporary workers’ agencies and better childcare services.

On the issue of the Single Market Act, and the fifty proposals for improving work, business and exchanges, the Malta Chamber referred to aspects related to e-commerce and how operators in Malta were at a disadvantage, due to:

Disparities in VAT treatment between different jurisdictions across Europe.
Economies of scale, with Malta needing to develop warehouse and logistic/distribution centres to consolidate business from Malta and overcome the scale disadvantage. In this regard it was recommended that Malta Enterprise assist in the setting up of such logistic centres even within the Freeport to ensure Malta is a viable centre for electronic commerce.

It was also suggested that goods remain tax-free if intended for re-export.

The problems concerning lack of consensus on intellectual property rights issues across the EU were also discussed, with lack of agreement focusing on the language issue. The absence of an EU patent is stifling innovation in European business thereby weakening economic growth prospects. The Malta Chamber stressed the need to increase pressure on European institutions for improved consensus between them, in order to take more decisive action.

Furthermore, Malta needs to improve the focus of its lobbying with the European Parliament, as the institution’s power increases and extends into the social dimension. Malta must also lobby with other member states in order to strengthen its voice on a European level. The Malta Chamber emphasised that a set timeline is crucial, with 2014 being too far off.

With respect to the treatment of governance in terms of the Single Market, the Malta Chamber representatives commented that illicit trading was wide-spread in Malta. The concept of a Single Market was complicated in Malta with the introduction of a unique term in LN 226/07 for “Accompanied Commercial Vehicles”. Vehicles falling under this definition with a carrying capacity not exceeding 10 tonnes in volume are exempt from any obligation to engage stevedores, but must still fulfill their groupage obligations. This latest obligation is however not enforced leading to significant commercial importation entering into Malta through this loophole.

This was detrimental to government, bona fide operators and the consumer whose confidence in the market was not being assisted by the repercussions of the abuse. The Malta Chamber reiterated its stand that food labeling regulations were being continuously broken as were those related to food handling. The Malta Chamber also queried the issue of product recall, in cases of a product recall when no account was being kept of such "imports" and the country relied exclusively on self declaration.

Malta Chamber participates on radio programme

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 13:49:00 GMT

Malta Chamber Director General Mr. Kevin J. Borg participated in a radio programme on ONE radio, on the issue of the Enemalta situation and the recent credit rate downgrading of the Corporation by Standard and Poor’s.

Mr. Borg stated that following the announcement of the downgrading, the Malta Chamber stated its concern through the media. The downgrading will invariably impact on the Corporation’s cost of borrowing which is one of its major cost items. Given the full cost recovery approach, this development may exert additional pressure on fuel and utility prices.

The Malta Chamber insists that the country must now endeavour towards avoiding further increases in utility rates which would bring about loss of competitiveness and will also have social repercussions. It would also impact on the Retail Price Index and exert a second round effect on competitiveness through COLA.

Besides the impact on prices, the country must also ensure that this latest development does not hamper Enemalta’s current projects to strengthen the reliability of energy supply – which is crucial for Malta’s future economic development.

Other guests on the program were Mr. Tarcisio Mifsud, ex-financial controller of Enemalta, and Mr. Joe Vella Bonnici, economist.

Malta Chamber supporting the business community on Libya situation

Mon, 28 Feb 2011 12:20:36 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2011 02 28: Following its successful call for a Task Force on the escalating situation in Libya, the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry has called on the business community with business interests and investments in Libya to come forward and present their concerns. The Malta Chamber is in constant communication with the Ministry for Finance, the Economy and Investment and Malta Enterprise in order to pass on these concerns, whilst communicating its recommendations on how these concerns can be alleviated.

The Malta Chamber encourages businesses with Libyan interests to set an appointment in order to convey their concerns through our organisation to the authorities. The Malta Chamber will assist in determining the extent of the business risks involved and the resultant effect on the national economy.

The Malta Chamber wishes to express its appreciation to Government for its quick action in setting up the Task Force, and undertakes to support government's efforts and ensure better communication with the people and companies directly affected.

The Malta Chamber also wishes to congratulate Government for its efforts in dealing with such a delicate situation to ensure that Maltese people who were in Libya are safely evacuated to Malta. It also recognizes the humanitarian work done by so many Maltese to extend assistance to such a large number of nationals of over 90 states who had to be evacuated from Libya. It has noted with satisfaction the national consensus that there is in such a difficult time for Malta and the part played by the Leader of Opposition which helped towards this consensus and national unity.

The Malta Chamber supports the call made by Government to the EU and to the International Community for assistance to ensure that Malta can continue fulfilling its humanitarian role in the coming days and weeks in the light of the ever changing situation in Libya and reassures Government of its readiness to encourage in every way it can through its members to provide such humanitarian aid.

A word of thanks and appreciation from The Malta Chamber goes to Air Malta, Malta International Airport, Grimaldi Lines, Virtu Ferries, the Police and the Civil Protection Department, the medical team and all those who have worked beyond their call of duty to help out during this period.

In the meantime, companies requiring assistance may contact Malta Chamber Director General – Policy and Communications, Mr. Kevin J. Borg on email: kevinj.borg@maltachamber.org.mt to set a meeting.

Assisting your business concerns in Libya

Mon, 28 Feb 2011 09:40:00 GMT

Over the course of the past week, our Chamber has been proactively following the developments taking place in Libya. The Malta Chamber commends Government for its pro-active stance on assisting Maltese nationals to return to Malta.

On a business level, Libya is one of the most significant markets for Malta in terms of direct investment and exports of goods and services. Through the Internationalisation database of members, we were able to identify and contact our members with business interests in Libya. At the same time, we publicly requested the authorities to set up a Task Force to help the country co-ordinate its efforts better in terms of ensuring the protection of people wishing to travel back to Malta as well as investments and other business interests.

A meeting on the matter was held at Castille in the presence of the Prime Minister and the Minister of Finance, the Economy and Investment. The Prime Minister confirmed that the safety of Maltese nationals was Government’s first priority, a statement that the Malta Chamber is in full agreement with, but stated that business interests also needed to be safeguarded. He stated that a number of Ministers and Public Sector entities were being mobilised to deal with this matter. At this meeting, the Malta Chamber was invited to participate in a Task Force which was being set up by the Ministry of Finance and co-ordinated by Malta Enterprise.

Through this Task Force, the Malta Chamber is committed to advise the authorities with the urgent business concerns being faced by its members in terms of contract obligations, business exposure, protection of property/investment, credit due and similar issues.

Any members wishing to contact the Malta Chamber with difficulties, concerns or suggestions regarding the Libya situation are kindly requested to contact Mr. Kevin J Borg – Director-General, Policy and Communications on email kevinj.borg@maltachamber.org.mt

Update on Permanent Residency Scheme Issue

Mon, 28 Feb 2011 09:38:00 GMT

Following several meetings on the issue of the permanent residency scheme with the Ministry of Finance, the Economy and Investment, the Malta Chamber has escalated its actions and sent a letter together with its recommendations to the Prime Minister, in order to solicit urgent action.

In this letter, Malta Chamber President Mrs Helga Ellul stated that the fact that the application process for Permanent Residency Permits to non-EU nationals and now EU nationals had been suspended, is to the detriment of the Real Estate sector in Malta besides audit firms and consultants, lawyers and the tourism trade amongst others.

To this end, two meetings were held with the Ministry for Finance, the Economy and Investment since January. At these meetings, the Malta Chamber submitted proposals aimed at ironing out areas of the scheme which were open to abuse.

The Malta Chamber feels that the authorities have reacted in a disproportionate manner to isolated cases of abuse. The reaction is certainly risking Malta’s reputation as a financial centre besides potentially triggering a downward spiral in the property market.
Consequently, given the serious, far-reaching economic consequences on the Maltese economy, the Malta Chamber strongly recommends that the scheme be reinstated forthwith. Meanwhile, the Malta Chamber pledged its commitment to assist the authorities in fine-tuning the system to ensure it can continue to serve the Maltese economy with as little risk of abuse as possible.

Aligning skills for needs and demands of the economy

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 09:08:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2011 02 25: “The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry holds the links between business and academia in very high regard, and we are eager to provide students with practical case studies, to put their coursework into practice,” said Malta Chamber President Mrs Helga Ellul, during a presentation given to first year Bachelor of Commerce (Public Policy) students.

The Malta Chamber reiterates the importance of formalisation of links between education and business, and will continue to encourage and support initiatives by the University of Malta and other educational institutions in Malta, which expose our students, and future employers and employees to the workplace. ”We must strive to align the skills of our future workers with the needs and demands of the economy. If we are to continue to grow, we must persist in increasing the profile of our human resources,” stated Mrs Ellul. In this regard, government should be commended for its strategy for Malta’s future economic growth, in particular Vision 2015. “However, are we preparing our future workers for what is being created?”

During the session, Mrs Ellul described the Malta Chamber’s involvement in the working group aimed at evaluating the success or otherwise of the MATSEC system. Amongst its suggestions, the Malta Chamber has emphasised that the whole system needs to be modified periodically and developed further in order to respond to emerging labour needs and demands. The Malta Chamber has also stressed the need for a formal structure to expose teachers, career guidance teachers and students alike to the world of work. The Malta Chamber is concerned that teachers may not be appropriately exposed to the world of work and the different existing and emerging opportunities, thus teacher training in this regard would enhance the learning experience for students.

Furthermore, the Malta Chamber firmly believes in the inclusion of entrepreneurship programmes that encourage entrepreneurship, such as Young Enterprise.

Valletta - does Malta need a Second Silent City?

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 15:44:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2011 02 24: (on behalf of the Valletta Business Community Committee) A few years ago Government embarked on a commendable strategy to embellish and upgrade Valletta. But the process of change is not being efficiently managed and, from the business point of view, it seems that Valletta is gradually being transformed from a bustling capital into a soulless monument frequented only by those persons who have no choice but to enter Valletta.

The business issues pertaining exclusively to Valletta encouraged the Importers, Distributors and Retailers Economic Group of the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry, to bring together all businesses that operate in the Capital City across numerous sectors. For this purpose, the Malta Chamber’s Economic Group pioneered the setting up of the Valletta Business Community Committee, which now represents over 350 businesses. The Committee includes representatives from the Valletta Alive Foundation, the Republic Street Business Community Association and the Merchant’s Street Business Community Association.

In order to keep a finger on the pulse of business in Valletta, the Committee has surveyed the businesses it represents to gauge business activity over the festive period.

The study conducted in January showed a significant loss of business during the Christmas period. However, it is known that this loss is constant and not merely linked to the festive season, nor to the international recession. It is simply caused by the continuous elimination of parking spaces in Valletta. The business community has seen a continual reduction of parking spaces and an increase in restrictions, the introduction of the CVA, the Park and Ride, residents parking and parking spaces allotted for the exclusive use of Ministers and Members of Parliament, not to mention the continuous increase in reserved parking places. This is clearly detrimental to business in Valletta. The reformed public transport system will ameliorate matters as will the installation of lifts from the Valletta waterfront and the expansion of the Park and Ride facility. However, we fear that by the time these new resources are available, severe and irreversible damage will have been done.

If Government wants Valletta to survive as a living monument then it needs to come up with some urgent, practical solutions that make running a business more attractive. The Valletta Business Community Committee is willing to offer its experience and expertise to Government and wishes to be consulted on all issues that are of direct interest to the business community. The business community has continued to invest in our nation’s capital. The fact is that, whilst other convenient destinations are being developed, Valletta is becoming increasingly problematic. This will result in more and more businesses leaving Valletta and shops closing down. The lack of activity will result in Valletta losing its vibrancy. We already have one Silent City, we do not need another one.

Malta Chamber calls for Task Force on Libya situation

Wed, 23 Feb 2011 14:38:01 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2011 02 23: The Malta Chamber is deeply concerned with developments taking place in Libya. The primary concern is about the welfare of Maltese nationals and employees of companies with Maltese business interests in Libya. We are thankful to the Government, Air Malta and its employees who have gone beyond their call of duty to ensure the safe return of Maltese working in Libya.

Subsequently, we are concerned about the property of Maltese businesses and the protection of their investment. We are in contact with our members to determine the extent of the business risks involved and the resultant effect on the national economy.

Besides the immediate economic repercussions of loss of business, exports and employment, Maltese entrepreneurs have a long history of doing business in Libya. These well-established links have served as one of the core-competencies of many Maltese companies. They have also played a key-role when foreign companies and individuals choose to do business in- or via Malta. It is therefore vital that the Maltese government acts in a manner which will secure the continuation of good business relations with Libya, so that Malta may play a key-role in re-establishing trade, and investment flows will be necessary for the re-building of the country once the present turmoil is over.

The Malta Chamber has called for the setting up of a task force to ensure the country is on the ball in the situation. The task force must include the main stakeholders involved including key Ministries, authorities, Malta International Airport, Air Malta and other international transport providers. The aim of the task force must be to co-ordinate efforts, opinions and resources to protect the interest of business and minimise the impact of these momentous developments on our economy. The task force would support government's efforts and ensure better communication with the people and companies directly affected.

Meanwhile, the Malta Chamber has been invited to an urgent meeting at Castille to discuss the latest situation and for it to communicate its members’ concerns.

President discusses extension of school hours on TV programme

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 08:38:00 GMT

Malta Chamber President Mrs. Helga Ellul appeared on a recent edition of the TVM breakfast programme Bongu. She had been invited to participate in a panel discussion on the extension of school hours.

Mrs. Ellul stated that extending the time children spent in school on a daily basis did not necessarily require the participation of the school teacher. Extra-curricular activities such as sport, ballet and religious doctrine could be taught in schools rather than in various locations. This consolidation of resources would provide both parents and children with a calmer day, involve less frantic driving from one location to another and would allow parents piece of mind knowing that their children are in a safe environment and productively occupied.

Flexicurity - a Path to more and secure jobs

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 08:34:00 GMT

Malta Chamber Director General Mr. Kevin J Borg attended an EU-funded conference on Flexicurity, held in Bucharest, Romania, between 10th and 13th February. The conference was organised by N.F. Coresi in cooperation with EZA - European Centre for Workers’ Questions.

This conference was attended by forty-nine participants. More than half of these represented Romanian workers’ associations with the rest coming from 14 EU member states including Spain, Germany, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Lithuania and Poland.

The conference aimed to discuss flexicurity from the specific point of view of the Romanian economy which was struggling in many aspects with the international crisis and pay-cuts were experienced across a number of sectors including the public sector.

The Local Perspective

Mr. Kevin J. Borg referred to the various pillars that make up the structure of the Maltese economy which included high-end manufacturing, tourism, financial services, maritime and transhipment services, aircraft maintenance, retail, construction and real-estate.

He stated that the Maltese economy retained general stability throughout the international recession. He explained that this diversified structure contributed to Malta’s relative resilience throughout this recent challenging period on a global level.

Nevertheless, he clarified that due to the fact that Malta’s was a very small and open island economy, its wide spread of different economic activity was not sufficient for isolating the country from the effects of the international crisis.

In fact, from the early signs of the global recession’s effects in Malta, the authorities embarked on active measures to support those sectors. This focused approach contributed towards stabilising economic growth in Malta. In fact, official statistics showed that in 2009:

1)    Economic growth dipped slightly (by around 3 per cent), but
2)    Profitability levels decreased at a higher rate, whilst
3)    Employment levels remained stable

The above outcome reflects success in the achievement the authorities’ and social partners socio-economic objective of securing jobs.

Meanwhile, whilst the country continues to pursue the adoption of flexicurity measures, employers’ organisations in Malta are calling for greater flexibility such as more widespread application of banking of hours for intra-company worker flexibility and trade unions are calling for more binding parameters related to life-long learning and training opportunities.

A number of Active Labour Market policies were implemented in Malta with a view to enhance job security (and increase standard of living) through education by:

1)    Increasing higher education opportunities
2)    Sustained efforts to diminish school drop-out rates
3)    Motivating Life Long Learning and training

On the former, it was explained that students following tertiary education are afforded a government-funded stipend.

President awarded the Officers' Cross

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 08:31:26 GMT

Malta Chamber President Helga Ellul, has been awarded the German Officers's Cross of the Order of Merit. The decoration was presented to her by German Ambassador Bernd Braun on behalf of the President of the Federal Republic.

Ambassador Braun commented that Mrs. Ellul has always stressed education and training in her work. “These are areas”, he said, “which are of great importance not only for the further development of Playmobil Malta Ltd, but also for that of Malta.”The ambassador also underlined the "vital role" Mrs Ellul played in developing and strengthening German-Maltese relations.

The Malta Chamber would like to congratulate Mrs Ellul on this prestigious decoration.

Seminar: Personal Wealth Management

Mon, 14 Feb 2011 08:58:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber, together with Bank of Valletta Wealth Management Unit held a seminar on Personal Wealth Management on 24th February.

In her welcoming address, Malta Chamber President Mrs. Helga Ellul stated that experts in personal wealth management perform an important role for those who wish to make the most of their financial assets. “This goes beyond overseeing investments and includes handling individual monetary resources such as past stocks, mutual funds and bonds,” she said. “Furthermore, issues such as retirement planning, insurance needs and tax concerns can be set up in a more efficient manner. This also applies to money set aside for educational purposes, vacation home and family travel, asset protection or trust administration, inheritance issues, tax expertise or estate planning.”

“Consulting professionals in the field can make all the difference,” she concluded.

The seminar was addressed by Mr Mark Agius, BoV Head of Portfolio Management Services, who covered the advantages of personal wealth management. Dr. Andrew Chetcuti Ganado, BoV Head of Trustee Services then gave a presentation on trusts and estate planning.

The programme can be accessed here.

Business Delegation to Libya - NEW DATES

Mon, 14 Feb 2011 08:51:46 GMT

As members may be aware, the business delegation which was planned to leave for Libya and Algeria in January was postponed, due to unforeseen circumstances. Malta Enterprise is therefore re-issuing a call for participants in a trade mission to Libya, this time between 19th and 22nd March.

Members who were signed up to the previous delegation are kindly requested to re-apply, along with other members interested in participating in this mission. For more information, please contact Robert Falzon - robert.falzon@maltaenterprise.com or Klaus Pedersen - klaus.pedersen@maltachamber.org.mt

The Single Market Act

Mon, 14 Feb 2011 08:50:07 GMT

Recently, the Malta Chamber Economic Groups Chairmen together with Directors General met with the Malta Business Bureau staff for a brainstorming session on the Single Market Act.

On a general note the Malta Chamber concluded that local authorities must not accept EU proposals that have a direct bearing on business before it can be ensured that the proposal and related regulations can be effectively implemented and enforced.

During the meeting the Commission’s fifty proposals were discussed, within the perspective of Maltese business, including proposals regarding electronic commerce, European market surveillance, and legislative impact assessments and a directive introducing a common consolidated corporate tax base.

On the issue of eCommerce, the Malta Chamber stated that equality in tax treatment across the EU is imperative. Furthermore, there should be a concerted effort to encourage investment in private sector distribution centres in Malta, to conduct eCommerce from Malta to the rest the world.

On the issue of European market surveillance, the Malta Chamber agreed with the proposal that an action plan should be compiled, together with guidelines for customs controls for product safety. However, polices need to be backed by concrete action at operational level, particularly in Malta where market surveillance remains relatively weak.

A similar note of caution was expressed with respect to a proposal relating to the introduction of a common consolidated corporate tax base instrument.

Launch of the Maltese-Chinese Chamber of Commerce

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 08:30:00 GMT

An event was held at the Malta Chamber, to mark the launch of the Maltese-Chinese Chamber of Commerce on Monday 31st January, This event followed talks which the Malta Chamber had held with Mr. Reno Calleja of the Malta-China Friendship Society, Chev. Maurice Mizzi and Mr. Ian Mizzi, as well as His Excellency, Mr. Zhang Keyuan, China's Ambassador in Malta.

At the outset, Chev. Maurice Mizzi was proposed and seconded as Chairman of the event. Mr. Mizzi thanked and addressed the well attended event, including top-level businesspersons and institutional stakeholders. Mr. Mizzi stressed the importance of making an effort to understand Chinese culture when doing business in China and expressed his hope that this Chamber would be a point of reference for Maltese-Chinese business relations.

In her welcome address, Malta Chamber President Mrs. Helga Ellul stressed the great importance of China - not only as an outsourcing destination and a source of lower priced goods, but increasingly as the most important market in the world, and a place from which new ideas and products are emerging.

Mr. Calleja emphasised the importance of the good relations between Malta and China and that Malta still has a lot of political goodwill in China.

During the event, an ad-hoc committee was also set up, members being Chev. Maurice Mizzi, Mr. Reno Calleja, Mr. Anthony Valvo, Mr. Ian Mizzi and Mr. Hugh Arrigo. This committee will draft up a set of statutes and call for a founding general meeting.

His Excellency, the Chinese Ambassador to Malta, Mr. Zhang Keyuan, said that he always refers to the relations between Malta and China as "excellent" and he went on to give examples of the many areas in which China and Malta have trade relations, but also mentioned that there was still much room for improvement.

Two presentations were also given during the event, the first by Mr. Paul Alan Cardona, Malta Enterprise's regional manager for Asia, who gave an insight into the great diversity of Chinese culture and offered his assistance to companies interested in doing business in China. The second presentation was given by the Head of International Business at Simonds Farsons Cisk, Mr. Stephen Sultana. Mr. Sultana shared some of Farson's experiences in doing business in China and offered a number of practical "do's and don'ts" for companies seeking to enter the Chinese market.

Newsletter

New Proposal for a Regulation on the notification system for products

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 08:28:00 GMT

Following a large response from members, the Malta Chamber held an information session on this proposal, in collaboration with the Malta Standards Authority on Wednesday 16th February.

During her presentation, Ms Audrey-Anne Anastasi, Scientist within the Foodstuffs, Chemicals, Pesticides & Cosmetics Unit (Regulatory Affairs Directorate, Malta Standards Authority), explained that various European Regulations and Directives, transposed into national legislation, require Member States to appoint a body or bodies responsible for receiving information on chemicals, detergents, biocides, plant protection products and cosmetics, including information on the chemical composition of such products, and for making such information available in cases of suspected poisonings.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), Malta is one of the four EU Member States that does not have a poison centre. The Medicines and Poisons Information Service, at Mater Dei Hospital, is providing a similar service to that offered by a poison centre, however, various important factors that enable the proper functioning of a poison centre are missing. One of these factors is the availability and accessibility to the right information. Lacking a readily available source would mean losing precious time in trying to identify the contents of the product and this can have fatal consequences.

Being the competent authority for the regulations concerning chemicals, detergents, pesticides and cosmetics, the MSA is proposing to introduce a notification system of the products that are being placed on the market, including chemicals, cosmetics, detergents, fertilizers, plant protection products and biocides. In this notification mechanism:

The person responsible for placing the product on the market shall send to the MSA information related to the chemical composition, intended uses, type of use and general characteristics of the product.
The submission of the data shall be made electronically so as to facilitate the process both for the notifier and the MSA.
The responsible person shall also upload a copy of the label of the product and its safety data sheet.
Since the safety data sheets are only for professional use and not for domestic use mixtures, the information therein on non-dangerous components is often lacking. Indeed in the database the chemical name for the dangerous components and the chemical family name for the non-dangerous components are required.
This notification system shall also apply to the products found already on the market.
The notification of products is to be staggered over a period of time.
This one-time notification system shall be free-of-charge.

During the information session, various members expressed reservations on certain articles found in the draft legal notice. MSA representatives advised members present that they will be taking note of these concerns when amending the proposal. Through the Malta Chamber, this will be then re-circulated for additional feedback. The MSA also agreed to come up with an FAQ sheet, which once available, will also be circulated with members. For any further information please contact the MSA Help Desk on Tel: 2395 2000 or email: helpdesk.msa@msa.org.mt

Further Clarifications on Out of Stock Medicines

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 10:12:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2011 02 03: With reference to the Health Minister’s reply to the parliamentary question dated 1st February 2011 re: out-of-stock medicinal products, the Health care business section of the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry would like to clarify that the current situation has been brought about not merely as a result of delayed delivery by local distributors, but due to a number of operational problems within the Government Health Procurement Services (GHPS) department.

The lack of a dynamic forecasting system and the GHPS’s continuous refusal to communicate any form of rolling forecast to its suppliers has been the cause of insurmountable difficulty in maintaining a steady supply of medicinal products in Malta. The lack of consistency between tender documents and innumerable contradictions in the same tender contract has led to several cancellations of tenders. The delayed acceptance of tenders and late placement of orders by GHPS further augments the quandary. Furthermore, a number of the medicinal products currently out-of-stock are in fact directly purchased by the government department via EU wholesalers and therefore local wholesalers and distributors cannot be held responsible.

In light of this, the Business Section recommends that the necessary reformative measures are effected within the government department presently responsible for the procurement of medicinal products in order to better meet the needs of the patient, and avoid further public expenditure on the duplication of resources and services that would effectively be brought about by the set-up of the proposed new agency.

Issued on behalf of the HealthCare Business Section

International Franchise expert meets Maltese companies together with Malta Enterprise and the Malta Chamber

Mon, 31 Jan 2011 10:32:00 GMT

Over the past year, the Internationalisation Desk of the Malta Chamber has worked closely with Malta Enterprise on a project funded by the Commonwealth Secretariat, aimed at exploring the potential for internationalisation of franchise in Malta. In connection herewith, a series of interviews were conducted with Maltese companies who are franchisors, or who contemplate franchising their business.

16 companies were invited for a face-to-face session with an international franchise expert, Mrs. Farrah Rose from the International Franchise Centre in London. Present for the sessions were also the Malta Enterprise Executive in charge of the project. Mr. Mark Pizzuto, and the two staff members of the Internationalisation Desk of the Malta Chamber, Ms. Diane Seychell and Mr. Klaus Pedersen.

The companies were given the opportunity to present their company and their ideas for franchising to Mrs. Rose, who gave them her initial reaction to the proposals as well as some guidelines of how to best move forward.

It is hoped that some of the companies will benefit from the funds announced by Minister of Finance, the Economy and Investment, the Hon. Tonio Fenech, in the recent presentation of the budget for 2011.

Employability: A national Bologna Process Seminar

Mon, 31 Jan 2011 10:08:00 GMT

Last week, Malta Chamber Director General Ing. Ray Muscat participated in a seminar organised by the European Union Programmes Agency (EUPA) and the Bologna Experts Group (Malta), in collaboration with the Malta Qualifications Council (MQC) and the National Commission for Higher Education (NCHE).

The seminar’s main focus was the relevance of higher education to employability in the context of a changing and challenging labour market.

What is the Bologna Process?

• A European reform process aimed at creating the European Higher Education Area
• The overarching aim of the Bologna Process is to create a European Higher Education Area (EHEA) based on international cooperation and academic exchange that is attractive to European students and staff as well as to students and staff from other parts of the world.
• The envisaged EHEA will:
• facilitate mobility of students, graduates and higher education staff;
• prepare students for their future careers and for life as active citizens in democratic societies, and support their personal development

During the panel discussion, Ing. Muscat highlighted a number of points, saying that the Bologna Process is an extremely important catalyst for change, with employability one of the key issues. Fewer labour market entrants, high replacement demand, increasing skill requirements, skill gaps and shortages are today’s challenges. There is a growing need for highly skilled personnel to meet the requirements of global competition of knowledge and innovation.

He also pointed out that increasing the number of students choosing higher educational pathways is crucial in light of the projected demand of high-skilled workers. However, it was necessary to be careful not to adapt all secondary education to university studies. Instead, efforts should be stepped up to improve the progression opportunities between vocational and higher educational studies, as well as between work and studies.

Ing. Muscat emphasised that a shift towards the learning outcome approach in national qualification and credit systems is required. Methods needs to be developed to better assess learning outcomes like the capability to apply the skills and competences acquired. Moreover, the learning outcome approach allows for recognition of knowledge irrespective of how it was acquired, including informal and non-formal learning which could take place at a work place.

In terms of University-Enterprise cooperation, Ing. Muscat suggested that more direct contact between academia and business is needed, as well as a guidance system and counselling tools developed in cooperation with business that helps students make more adequate choices and thus preventing a workforce matching the needs of enterprise.

The recommendations of the Malta Chamber included:

• Addressing skills shortages.
• Encourage the involvement of business representatives to take part in the boards of educational institutions.
• Entrepreneurship skills should be introduced as part of curricula for all students.
• Encourage company visits by students of a younger age.
• Entrepreneurship education should be delivered by real entrepreneurs.
• Partnerships between academia and business have led to successful research spin-offs, improved the quality of teaching (for instance by sharing of equipment) and raised interest for studies in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
• Lifelong Learning policies and practices are key to raise the employability of those who are already in the workforce by refreshing and updating their skills and competences on a continuous basis.
• Lifelong learning has to be developed in partnership with business organisations which have an in-depth insight into the evolving needs of enterprises concerning employee qualifications.

Malta Chamber achieves ISO 9001 Certification

Fri, 28 Jan 2011 13:51:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2011 01 28: The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry is proud to announce that it has achieved IS0 9001 certification, after much work and effort by the Malta Chamber permanent staff, who, under the guidance of the Quality Management Committee, pursued the ISO quality certification process from beginning to end.

The Malta Chamber’s firm belief in the importance of quality and quality management was consolidated in the organisation’s acceptance as a member of the European Organisation for Quality last July. The Malta Chamber is proud to be associated with the leading promoter of quality, as well as extending our European Network through this membership.

Following the Malta Chamber’s acceptance as a member of the European Organisation for Quality the Malta Chamber commenced the process of establishing and implementing a Quality Management System (QMS), in accordance with the requirements of ISO 9001:2008. This is designed to provide documented procedures and control mechanisms to assure the quality of the product and/or service.

As part of the QMS the Malta Chamber also started compiling a Quality Manual which was concluded last year. The Malta Chamber was then subjected to internal and external audits, the latter being conducted by the Malta Standards Authority. The External Auditors recommended certification to the MSA Certification Board, which endorsed their recommendation.

This project was undertaken with a view to render the organisation even more professional and to be well placed to better itself on a continuous basis through the same process.

Malta Chamber President Mrs Helga Ellul encouraged enterprise to actively embrace Quality Management as one of the Innovation Management tools to enhance their operations. “Quality management is important for all enterprises, irrespective of the sector that they are operating in, in particular by those enterprises that would like to invest in Research & Development, and those that intend to internationalise,” she said.

Mrs Ellul explained that the Malta Chamber holds quality management standards in very high regard as it considers them a main pillar of competitiveness and readiness to internationalise. “This point was brought out clearly by Minister Tonio Fenech at our Internationalisation conference last October and again during his budget speech when he singled out our Chamber for its efforts in both areas of franchise and quality,” she said.

“It is, therefore, with great pride that we have achieved ISO 9001 certification this year and are now in a position to lead the business community by example.”

Out of Stock Medicinals at Mater Dei

Thu, 27 Jan 2011 09:03:36 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2011 01 27: In reaction to the Health Minister’s reply to a parliamentary question regarding the reasons for shortages of medicinals at Mater Dei, (and presumably also on POYC), the Health Care Business Section of the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry would like to make the following clarifications for the record.

Shortages due to late deliveries

It should be made crystal clear to the Maltese citizen that, in this day and age, Government Health Procurement Services (GHPS) still lacks a dynamic forecasting system in its purchasing procedures. This despite repeated calls for the adoption of such forecasting by the Business Section.

To make matters worse, GHPS insist on imposing delivery periods which fall short of international manufacturing lead times, and refuses to communicate any form of order planning or rolling forecast to its suppliers.

All medicinal supplies to the Health Department are procured via tender contracts with stringent conditions which among others include that government WILL purchase supplies from the open market in case of late deliveries, and this at the expense of the defaulter’s account.

The fact that this condition has not been invoked in most of the quoted 48% of cases of shotages allegedly due to late deliveries by contracted parties ( as otherwise availability would have been resolved ), suggests that the actual cause may have well been some other, all be it late ordering.

Shortages due to problems in adjudication

In the second half of 2009 and a good part of 2010, an endless list of tenders have been cancelled by the department of contracts, practically all because of minor technicalities arising from conflicting, contradictory and unworkable conditions on the tender document. The Health Care Business Section has on various occasions alerted the the government procurement arm, namely GHPS, of the consequences these conditions could lead to, but regretfully, GHPS would not take any advice.

The majority of tenders stuck at adjudication phase were simply self inflicted problems resulting from a unilateral attitude of GHPS and it’s lack of consultation with stakeholders.

This Media Release was issued on behalf of the Health Care Business Section

Malta Chamber calls for Damage Limitation of Enemalta’s Credit Rating

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 16:05:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2011 01 26: The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry noted with concern the downgrading of Enemalta’s credit rating by Standard and Poor’s. This will invariably impact on the Corporation’s cost of borrowing which is one of its major cost items. Given the full cost recovery approach, this development may exert additional pressure on fuel and utility prices.

The Malta Chamber insists that the country must now endeavour towards avoiding further increases in utility rates which would bring about loss of competitiveness and will also have social repercussions. It would also impact on the Retail Price Index and exert a second round effect on competitiveness through COLA.

Besides the impact on prices, the country must also ensure that this latest development does not hamper Enemalta’s current projects to strengthen the reliability of energy supply – which is crucial for Malta’s future economic development.

The Malta Chamber will continue to monitor the situation and shall take the necessary action according to further developments.

Infrastructure Opportunities in Malta

Mon, 24 Jan 2011 08:49:00 GMT

Malta Chamber President Mrs Helga Ellul took part in the Banif Forum 2011, held on Thursday 20th January. Director General Mr. Kevin J Borg also attended the event.

Mrs Ellul discussed the importance of infrastructure for business and a growing economy, saying that “The level of infrastructure has a direct bearing on the competitiveness of a country and its investment attraction. But also the investment in setting up and maintaining infrastructural facilities in itself creates important business activity and economic multiplier effects.”

Mrs Ellul explained that the notion of who provides infrastructure in a country is continuously developing. Today, a number of developments have brought about a privatisatisation of infrastructural facilities and an input of private investment. This has changed the role of governments from operator to regulator.

“I believe that the way forward in the coming years is that the private and public sector will continue to work closely in upgrading the infrastructure as key to their economic progress,” said Mrs Ellul. In terms of important projects, she highlighted the interconnecting cable between Malta and Sicily which the Malta Chamber has been calling for since 2008, which is now being addressed as well as the extension of the Delimara Power Station in regards to the issue power supply.

Mrs Ellul added that to upgrade sewage treatment plants, waste facilities, the refurbishment of the Valletta and Marsaxlokk breakwater and other projects Malta has to continue to see that it can benefit from all available funds available for Malta in the EU to better our infrastructure so that business and all stakeholders operate and compete effectively. “Other avenues include involving the private sector in financing of the infrastructure investment. This has been done successfully and should also be considered locally,” she said.

In conclusion, Mrs Ellul said that there is always better, cleaner, more efficient technology to consider investing in, in order to be more competitive. “Together we must ensure that the infrastructure in Malta complements our nation’s competitiveness and prospects of economic growth.”
Other speakers included Hon. Jason Azzopardi Parliamentary Secretary for Small Business & Land, Mr. Alfred DeMarco Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Malta, Mr. Mark Portelli Chairman, Transport Malta & The Grand Harbour Regeneration Corporation, Mr. Alan Camilleri Executive Chairman, Malta Enterprise, Mr. Kenneth Farrugia Chairman, FinanceMalta, as well as a number of representatives from Banif Bank and Banif Investment Bank.

The Malta Chamber was a partner of the event alongside Malta Enterprise and Embassy of Portugal in Malta.

MCESD and Working Groups

Fri, 21 Jan 2011 16:11:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber participated in a MCESD meeting held on 19th January through its permanent representatives. The main purpose of this meeting was to update social partners on the 'Closer to Europe' project which was formally launched earlier in January. It was announced that a national conference is to takeplace on 26th January with an envisaged wide participation to discuss the conduct and development of social dialogue in Malta. A separate project of an international dimension was also proposed and discussed at this meeting.

The above was preceded by a meeting of Working Group Three in which the Malta Chamber was represented by Mr. Kevin J. Borg. This meeting continued to discuss possibilities for an enhanced take-up of family friendly measures in the local economy, primarily to increase participation in the labour market and expand economic output. Whilst expressing itself in favour of family friendly measures, the Malta Chamber continued to insist that incentives are devised to encourage private employers to adopt such measures. Even then the Malta Chamber insisted that any new measures are implemented purely on a voluntary basis.

Meeting on Suspension of Permanent Residency Scheme

Fri, 21 Jan 2011 16:09:00 GMT

At the beginning of the year, it had been brought to the attention of the Malta Chamber that the relevant Authorities were not processing applications for Permanent Residency Permits to non-EU nationals. The Malta Chamber and specifically the Real Estate Business Section was concerned about this development which was also detrimental to audit firms and consultants, lawyers and the tourism trade amongst others.

To this end, an urgent meeting was held this week with the Ministry for Finance, the Economy and Investment. Representing the Malta Chamber were Mr. John Huber, Board of Management Member, Mr Ian Casolani, Chairman of the Real Estate Business Section, and Mr John B. Scicluna, Malta Chamber Sectors Manager.

The meeting served its purpose of putting forward the as this development was costing the economy dearly. The Malta Chamber clarified that it was in favour of any fine-tuning that needed to be made, particularly where the scheme could be open to abuse. But, meanwhile, it urged the authorities to lift the suspension forthwith.

The authorities stated that they were determined to resolve this issue as soon as possible. In the meantime, the Malta Chamber has been called up to make its own suggestions to this effect. The Malta Chamber was assured that the scheme will be reactivated but hopefully with the necessary changes. At this point, the Malta Chamber insisted that any significant changes would be made at the risk of loss of attractiveness for Malta.

The Malta Chamber will continue to follow this issue and inform members of any developments.

MCESD on Fuel and Gas Price Increases

Mon, 17 Jan 2011 08:31:00 GMT

Malta Chamber President Mrs Helga Ellul, Deputy President Mr. Tancred Tabone, Vice President Mr. Stefano Mallia and Officer Mr. Anthony J. Tabone participated in the last MCESD, held on Friday 7 January. The meeting was called by a number of social partners on the issue of recent fuel and gas price increases.

The Malta Chamber stated that the meeting involved a good discussion with a number of proposals, which will discussed in the near future. The Malta Chamber made it clear that these increases will affect business as well. The main concern for businesses remains operation and growth, whilst increasing employment. However, if companies are burdened, employees will be negatively affected too.

On the issue of a possible cash compensation for the price increases, the Malta Chamber stated that as a responsible organisation, it can only voice its opinion once it is ascertained where the money for such compensation is coming from, and whether the funds will be obtained at the expense of other sectors such as health or education. The Malta Chamber questioned the viability of such a measure, especially if fuel prices should rise yet again.

On the proposal to grant an additional COLA award, the Malta Chamber repeated its recommendation that the mechanism needs to be revised. During the meeting, it was also acknowledged by the unions that this needs to be done.

The Malta Chamber also recommended the introduction of an Energy Policy, in order to decrease dependency on fossil fuels, as well as reducing uncertainty on the overall situation.

Malta Chamber in the Media

Mon, 17 Jan 2011 08:29:00 GMT

Vice President Mr. Stefano Mallia took part in last week’s edition of Bondiplus, which discussed the recent price increases in fuel and gas. Other guests included the Minister for Finance, the Economy and Investment, Hon. Tonio Fenech, PL Spokesperson for Energy, Ms Marlene Pullicino, MRA CEO Ing. Anthony Rizzo and the other social partners.

On the issue of fuel prices, Mr. Mallia asked whether the ongoing and future projects geared towards a more efficient system and less dependency on fuel could be speeded up. Among these projects and measures, he referred to the interconnector to mainland Europe, solar panels investment, and increased use of renewable energies, as part of our 2020 obligations.

Information Session: Good News for Local BusinessesNew Mentoring Services

Wed, 05 Jan 2011 14:55:00 GMT

Last week, Malta Enterprise held an information meeting for Malta Chamber members on the new mentoring services being provided by the ME Business Advisory Unit. The meeting was organised by Malta Enterprise and the Malta Chamber SME Committee.

Companies that might not have previously considered using advisory services because of costs may profit from this service free of charge for the first ten hours. Upon request, further hours can be made available at a subsidised rate. These services may be beneficial to businesses recognising the need to improve operation efficiencies.

With the appointment of an advisor, the enterprises will undergo an assessment and assistance to clients will include:

1. Start-up support
2. Business planning & modelling
3. International Competitiveness & export readiness
4. Market Development
5. Human Resources Management
6. Product and Service Development
7. Intellectual Property Protection & Management
8. Information Management
9. Business Process Reengineering

The presentation can be accessed here.

For further information contact Malta Enterprise on: (+356) 2542 0000 or email advisory@maltaenterprise.com

Now is not the time to create a crisis – Malta Chamber

Tue, 04 Jan 2011 15:23:32 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2011 01 04: Any increases in the price of fuel, gas and energy are a threat to price stability and export-led growth. Nevertheless, the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry must emphasise that the country must not lose focus from the issue at hand and concentrate on long-term sustainable solutions.

The announced increases are clearly harmful to business but the Malta Chamber believes that any attempt to create a crisis when one does not exist is even more harmful. Now is not the time to create a crisis. Instead, we should be focusing on the fact that all increases affect businesses, and businesses mean jobs. This is the focal point that we should never lose sight of.

The Malta Chamber urges the social partners, including Government, to tackle the issue positively and rationally through dialogue. As a responsible constituted body, the Malta Chamber states that the social partners must not lose focus from competitiveness and maintaining jobs. The Malta Chamber believes the country must continue to introduce measures which strengthen our dynamic workforce and economy . All social partners must recognise that there are no short-term solutions to the international predicament affecting energy prices. Any attempt to implement short-term solutions will be counter-productive.
The Malta Chamber looks forward to discussing this issue at MCESD with a view to arrive at long-term sustainable solutions which will allow the country to safeguard its competitiveness, jobs and the standard of living of each and every citizen.

ICT Business Section notes positive EU ranking of e-government

Mon, 03 Jan 2011 14:17:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE 2011 01 03: The ICT Business Section of the Malta Chamber is pleased to note the excellent results that have been achieved in the 9th e-Government Benchmarking Report, which has placed Malta as the EU leader in e-government. The Business Section notes that this is an excellent result which builds on the successes Malta has had in the last years and goes to show that when there is a vision to be achieved which is well articulated and backed up by all concerned, than it is possible for a small country like Malta to attain high levels of excellence.

The Business Section also notes Government’s comments to the effect that this success was also due to the input by the local ICT industry, and wishes to congratulate all the local players in the private sector, who have contributed to this success.Finally the Section augurs that the good work and collaboration that there has been between the Minister, the Ministry, MITA and industry in these last years, continues in the future and expresses confidence that more successes in the area of ICT will be achieved in the coming years if this strong partnership continues.

Malta Chamber deplores strike action

Wed, 22 Dec 2010 14:09:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2010 12 22 Following the recent news of gas strikes, the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry is perturbed that private investors who have invested millions of euro in our country, are now being informed that they have no right to distribute their own product. One of the main positives of privatisation is that old archaic practices are thrown out of the window and modern practices more in line with today’s needs are introduced.

The Malta Chamber believes that such a situation is harmful to a liberalised market and more importantly, to free competition. It also gives a very negative picture of the country at a very sensitive moment when attracting new investment is vital for our economy. With new foreign investment declining worldwide, the competition for any new investment is much harsher. This country cannot afford to indulge in needless industrial action. Due to this stalemate, not only is the economy suffering, but so are consumers.

Indeed, the Malta Chamber’s concern is that following the privatisation of the gas sector two years ago, a monopolistic situation may still be allowed to prevail, which defeats the purpose of privatisation and the potential for business development and competitiveness, not to mention a more efficient service for consumers. The Malta Chamber stresses that the current state of affairs should be rectified immediately and that practices of the past are not encouraged to remain. This is why this country joined the EU and this is why the Malta Chamber has always been consistent in saying that one of the main advantages of EU Membership has and will always be the free market and the need for healthy competition.

Regarding the industrial action, the Malta Chamber feels that the GRTU as an employer body is acting outside its remit. The calling of strikes is in fact the responsibility of unions. The Malta Chamber calls on the GRTU to act as all employer bodies in this country do, i.e. with responsibility towards the whole country rather than to the interests of a small group of people who refuse to realise the realities within which we are operating today.

Important Notice on 2011 Exemptions from Eco-Contribution

Tue, 21 Dec 2010 12:14:52 GMT

(In terms of Legal Notice No. 84 of 2010)

Further to continuous follow up by the Malta Chamber on the issue of Eco-Contribution Exemptions, the Approving Body has informed the Malta Chamber that Application Forms for 2011 have now been issued.

Members are reminded that eligibility for these Exemptions requires that companies are registered with 1) MEPA as a waste producer and 2) with an authorised waste management scheme

Applications may be downloaded from the website www.mrra.gov.mt and are to be submitted to the Approving Body (Eco Contributions), Ministry for Resources and Rural Affairs, Blk B Francesco Buonamici Street, Floriana, FRN 1700, by not later than the 28th January 2011. The applications may be submitted directly by the company or through the company’s waste management scheme.

Furthermore, members are reminded that the Green Pak scheme offers its members the additional service of preparing the necessary paperwork on behalf of its members and liaises with the Approving Body on the processing of exemption certification. Companies that were registered with GreenPak upon the commencement of Exemptions earlier this year were granted their due exemption with immediate effect.

Members may contact Mr Andre Fenech, Policy Development Manager at the Malta Chamber on email address: andre.fenech@maltachamber.org.mt for further information.

"The Malta Chamber embodies Malta’s business heritage" - Prime Minister

Mon, 20 Dec 2010 15:46:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2010 12 20: “The Malta Chamber Council and its members not only share and believe in my Government’s vision of creating a dynamic and sustainable economy, but also play an important role in moulding Malta’s future through their work, efforts and contribution to social dialogue,” said Prime Minister Dr. Lawrence Gonzi.

Dr. Gonzi was speaking at a dinner held at the Exchange Buildings on 18th December held in his honour by the Council of the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry.

“The Malta Chamber embodies Malta’s business heritage and has consolidated it even more following the merger two years ago,” Dr. Gonzi stated. “Throughout these two years, consolidation has become a key policy item on both corporate and national agendas. Strategies are being implemented to focus and build on key strengths whilst ensuring that the economic fundamentals are placed on a strong footing.”

“On behalf of Government I would like to thank the Malta Chamber for its work and contribution to social dialogue throughout this period. Your belief in consolidation and Malta’s long-term business environment have always ensured a mature debate and in Malta’s best interest,” he concluded.

In her speech, Malta Chamber President Mrs Helga Ellul highlighted the country’s achievements during the global recession but warned against complacency. She said “we must continue to build on our achievements and strive for further competitiveness. “We must continue pulling in the same direction – government, workers and business – because only as a whole can our country succeed,” she said.

Mrs Ellul stated that in order to grow, we must continue to invest in our people. “We must therefore persist in increasing the profile of our human resources” she explained. “And encourage more youngsters to pursue tertiary education and, if possible, to go even further.”
She added that at the same time, a lasting solution to the problem posed by early school-leavers needed to be found.

“These people will be our next major social problems and will not find a place in the higher-value added economy we are projecting,” she said.

Mrs Ellul also made some recommendations in the area of stimulating female participation and stated that the time has come to extend school times to ensure our children were well taken care of while the parents are contributing to the nation’s well being.”

Mrs Ellul stated that the Malta Chamber is willing to pursue its recommendations with fellow social partners at MCESD, and to continue to contribute to this important forum, to ensure that businesses operate in the right environment which is conducive to growth and success.

“With the consolidation of members and resources of our former separate entities, we have shown we are now in a better position to provide meaningful opinions to ensure that our companies can operate in the right business environment to grow and generate the prosperity that our people so rightly deserve,” she concluded.

Latina Chamber Business Delegation

Mon, 20 Dec 2010 08:46:00 GMT

Earlier last week, Malta Chamber President Mrs Helga Ellul welcomed a business delegation from the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Latina, from the Lazio Region in Italy. Representing the Latina Chamber were its President Mr Vincenzo Zottola, as well as Vice Secretary General Mr Pietro Viscusi.

The delegation was accompanied by Mr Emanuel Mazzitelli, Head of Business Promotion - External Relations at Malta Enterprise. Malta Chamber Internationalisation Manager Mr Klaus Pedersen and Internationalisation Executive Miss Diane Seychell were also present.

After being given a tour around the Exchange Buildings, Mrs Ellul and Mr Zottola discussed the possibility of future collaboration between the two Chambers. The Latina Chamber represents around 58,000 companies. The main sectors include the pharmaceutical sector, the maritime and yachting sector and the chemical industry sector. Mr Zottola spoke about how the Latina Chamber recognizes that Malta's position as a hub in the Mediterranean is strategic and he also envisages Malta to be an essential platform for future trade between Latina and North Africa.

On behalf of the Italian Chamber, Mr Zottola also invited the Malta Chamber to visit Latina in mid-January 2011. Further correspondence is to follow in the coming days.

Malta Chamber welcomes electrical interconnector contract

Thu, 16 Dec 2010 12:44:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2010 12 16: The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry welcomes the signing of the electrical interconnector contract, linking Malta to the European electricity grid. The Malta Chamber has been advocating the urgency of this investment for the past three years, in its numerous positions on the energy situation on our islands.

The Malta Chamber deems this investment crucial for the future sustainability of industry in Malta. Cheaper and more competitive electricity for businesses as is provided in other countries is vital:The submarine cable link to the European energy grid should however not merely result in less expensive energy but it will enable Malta to considerably reduce its emissions as well as achieve a much higher level of security of supply. This must be seen in the overall Government strategy of energy generation and linked to the economic development and increasing energy needs of the country.

Furthermore, the grid will also offer the potential diversification of energy sources. This is important in terms of environmental benefits for the Maltese population.It is also important to stress that whilst the cable will be beneficial, other viable sources of renewable energy should still be considered.

The Malta Chamber augurs the swift conclusion of this project, for the development of a competitive energy market, allowing business to pool resources for energy self-sufficiency purposes.

Linking Enterprise at World Aviation Group

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 14:31:00 GMT

Yet another successful edition of Linking Enterprise was held on Monday 6th December, at the World Aviation Group, located at the former airport premises in Luqa. Participants were welcomed by Malta Chamber Director General Ing. Ray Muscat.

The Linking Enterprise programme consists of on-site visits that are led by a host company, giving members the unique opportunity to learn from their peers how success has been achieved through their own best practices.

Besides the office tour, the programme included a presentation giving an overview of WAG, by Mr Dominic Attard, CEO, and Ms Nadia Pace, Sales and Marketing Manager. Mr Klaus Pedersen, Malta Chamber Internationalisation Manager, also gave an overview on the work of the Internationalisation Committee.

The hosts of the event, World Aviation Group (WAG) are an interesting example of a Maltese company in the services sector that has managed to internationalise. Participants reported that one does not often get the chance to look into this growing and dynamic sector - in fact, the concept of exporting services is often abstract. During this visit, participants had the opportunity to see the physical operations of WAG, offering:

back-office support
business process outsourcing (BPO)
international and multi-lingual call centre services.

Members commented that participating in this event gave them the opportunity to benchmark their performance, as well as learn new ways to enhance their business processes. The experiences, insights and feedback gained from the hosts acted both as a motivator and a performance measure of the products or services provided. Members also reported that they learnt about the principles of particular best practices, such as human resources as well as continuous improvement assessments. Such practices have been displayed in a practical way, setting the participants thinking of how they can transfer and implement the acquired knowledge into their business.

Amongst the comments received, members stated that such visits provided an opportunity to network with the host company as well as other members present at the event.

President’s Annual Reception 2010

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 13:59:00 GMT

On 7th December, President Helga Ellul welcomed members to the Exchange Buildings for the end of year Annual Reception. The event was well attended, once more giving members and staff a relaxed networking opportunity.

Among the guests were H.E The President of Malta, Dr. George Abela and Prime Minister Dr. Lawrence Gonzi, and Mrs Kate Gonzi. Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Communications, Dr. Austin Gatt, and Mrs Marisa Gatt and Spokesperson for Finance, Dr. Charles Mangion were also present, as were a number of Ambassadors, including H.E Mr Douglas Kmiec, Ambassador of the United States, H.E Mr Zhang Keyuan, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China, H.E Mr Alexandros Rallis, Ambassador of Greece, and H.E Mr Bernd Braun, Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany.

During the event, Miss Johanna Calleja, Malta Chamber Manager – Administration and Facilities presented Dr. Abela with a cheque from the proceeds of the Wine Tasting Evening, in aid of L-Istrina.

The event was held in Sir Agostino Portelli Hall.

FIMBank signs up as Chamber of Commerce Corporate Sponsor

Thu, 09 Dec 2010 13:56:00 GMT

FIMBank and the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry recently signed an agreement which establishes the Trade Finance specialist as one of the Malta Chamber’s corporate sponsors.

The agreement was signed by FIMBank Deputy President Dr Armin Eckermann and the President of the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry Helga Ellul. The two parties agreed to cooperate on a project aimed at enhancing regional business networks in the Euro-Med Region.

Commenting on the agreement, Dr Eckermann stated that: “FIMBank is pleased to be supporting the Malta Chamber’s mission in promoting enterprise and growth for the benefit of its members and the economy in general”.

On her part, Malta Chamber President Mrs Helga Ellul thanked FIMBank for their support, as it is this support which will assist the Malta Chamber in its functions and activities, for the benefit of the business community. “We are proud that yet another distinguished name in business has chosen to associate itself with our Chamber as a collaborating partner and in the process contribute to the common good. These acts by reputable companies are witness to the leading role the Malta Chamber plays in the national business arena,” she said.

EUROCHAMBRES Economic Survey: businesses predict a brighter 2011

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 12:59:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2010 12 07: Feedback from 70,000 European companies via the EUROCHAMBRES Economic Survey indicates that business confidence for 2011 is significantly higher than last year, although with marked differences between countries. As a member of Eurochambres, the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry regularly takes part in this survey, in order to represent Malta by attaining feedback from its membership.

More than half of respondents anticipate that the favourable climate which started in 2010 will continue next year, and 30% believe that it will improve even further. Swedish businesses are the most upbeat about the economic climate for 2011, while pessimism prevails among Greek respondents.

“The results for Malta are amongst the most encouraging, with the Maltese business community being relatively upbeat about their investment prospects for 2011, as well as increasing in business confidence,” stated Malta Chamber President Mrs Helga Ellul. “However, as we have stressed in the recent past, we cannot afford to be complacent. Our open economy renders us vulnerable to the international situation, so we must continue to build on our achievements and strive for further competitiveness.”

The recovery in business confidence is linked to better forecasts for total turnover, employment and investment. Total turnover in 2010 surpassed last year’s expectations and over 40% of businesses expect it to increase further next year. Among the major European economies, France has the highest balance figure. Greece is the only country that does not register a positive forecast. Exports are the main driver of progress. The export balance figure has progressed most compared to last year’s survey, and delivers the highest result of the six economic indicators analysed in the survey. Domestic sales predictions are improving slowly, pointing to a more moderate recovery than for export sales. Again, France is the most positive, while in Greece, Portugal and Romania the balance figure has weakened the most. Businesses in 23 of 26 countries anticipate an improvement in the employment situation for 2011. Replies suggest that the workforce will not shrink further in 2011, with two-thirds of respondents anticipating constant staff levels. Half of the respondents forecast constant investment levels for next year, while about 30% anticipate an increase. Compared to the 2009 and 2010 forecasts, this clearly points to 2011 as a decisive year in Europe’s economic recovery.

The full EUROCHAMBRES Economic Survey 2011 can be downloaded from
www.eurochambres.eu/content/default.asp?PageID=1&DocID=2919

Notice to all Members – Enforcement on packaging waste regulations (LN 277/2006)

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 09:04:23 GMT

The Malta Environment and Planning Authority (MEPA) is in the process of setting up a complement of Compliance Inspectors who will be entrusted with the role to monitor business operators who are not following their legal obligation as per Legal Notice 277 of 2006. The Malta Chamber notes this new development and urges all of its members to comply, as it has been doing since the publication of the LN 277 of 2006.

This legislation which came into force in 2007 and regulates the Management of Packaging waste, obliges every producer placing packaging material on the Maltese market to register themselves with the Authority (i.e. MEPA) and keep an adequate audit trail of their operations in order to justify the amounts that were placed on the market, as well as the amounts that are being recovered or recycled.

Registered producers can opt to do so either through self compliance or by joining an authorised waste recovery scheme. The authorised scheme, on behalf of their members, are assigned the responsibility of achieving the relevant waste recovery targets for these packaging waste producers.

The Malta Chamber has also been informed that in the coming days MEPA will be carrying out spot checks in various retail outlets around Malta and Gozo and will be sending out legal letters to those producers who have failed to renew their registration in previous years (i.e. for base years 2007 and 2008) with a deadline until the end of the year.

The Authority will also be requesting, within a maximum of 2 months, an audit trail from a number of producers who are not members of any packaging waste recovery scheme. On their part, Waste Management facilities will be requested to provide a full audit trail as part of their reporting obligations. These would in turn be required to be audited by means of an independent auditor engaged by the same facility, which audit would be carried out in line with relevant terms of reference, which would also be prepared for such cases.

For any further assistance please contact the MEPA on 2290 7211. Alternatively you can contact the Malta Chamber’s Policy Development Manager, Mr Andre Fenech on tel no. 22 032 312.

HSBC-Malta Chamber partnership unlocks Maltese enterprises overseas potential

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 08:58:00 GMT

The support that HSBC Malta offered to the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry in setting-up and operating an Internationalisation Desk has delivered significant results during the last two years. HSBC Malta has now extended further its relationship with the Malta Chamber through an renewal of a Gold Partner Support Agreement to collaborate on projects which benefit the business community.

“HSBC Malta will continue to support the Malta Chamber in this endeavour as well as those companies doing business overseas through our Global Links programme,” said Alan Richards, HSBC Malta’s CEO.

While the main focus of the Internationalisation Desk is to assist and encourage local entrepreneurs to expand their business abroad, the desk supports the Maltese business community in seeking and developing opportunities of the EU single market and of other overseas markets, while responding to the changes they are experiencing including increasing competitive pressures and increasing operating costs.

The Internationalisation Desk co-operates with and draws on the resources of other national stakeholders in the field of internationalisation support, namely Malta Enterprise, Finance Malta and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

At the outset, the Internationalisation Desk embarked on a member profiling exercise to map out the international orientation and aspirations of Maltese companies. This research served as a register of which-companies, belonging to what-sectors and targeting which-countries, would require what-support to expand business overseas.

As a direct result of HSBC’s support, a detailed business plan was prepared by the Malta Chamber and submitted to Malta Enterprise with a view to create a national effort in the field of internationalisation of franchise. This project took-off and is producing the desired results in assisting local entrepreneurs to franchise their own concepts and/or create and develop a foreign franchise abroad.

“The Internationalisation Desk played a central role in this project ensuring that the benefits continue to be available and disseminated to the business community,” said the Malta Chamber President, Ms Helga Ellul. “In fact, the 2011 Budget Speech singles out the Malta Chamber's efforts in the franchising field. Furthermore, the Minister of Finance accepted Malta Chamber proposals to allocate funds in the 2011 Budget to facilitate the franchising of Maltese products and services abroad’ and to grant a reduction of 150 percent in taxes to those who invest to improve the quality of the product or of the service they provide, thus improving their chances of success abroad.”

Armed with market intelligence, the Malta Chamber’s Internationalisation Desk ensures that its services are demand-driven. Besides, it uses its internal database to consult Malta Enterprise on new projects relevant to business as well as on the formulation on the plan for outgoing missions.

A conference jointly organized with HSBC and Malta Enterprise provided entrepreneurs the opportunity to understand how the Chamber uses its resources to assist members internationalise their operations, while the ‘Franchising your business abroad’ conference further uncovered the hidden potential of local entrepreneurs in internationalising their operations through franchise and showed how established local success stories were realized. HSBC’s own Lorna Smith - a Senior Franchise Manager in the UK-based Franchise Unit set up 25 years ago, travelled purposely to address Maltese business people at this conference.

Besides, the setting of the Maltese-Egyptian Business Council, the Scandinavian Business Forum and the Maltese-Tunisian Business Council are proving to be an innovative way of organizing cross-border business networks.

“Through our excellent relationship with HSBC, the Malta Chamber was able to organise the seminar series entitled ‘Doing Business With...’. In conjunction with embassies in Malta and other stakeholders, the Internationalisation Desk provided information about business opportunities in other EU Member States, and elsewhere. Events were held about such diverse markets as the Czech Republic, Germany, Scandinavia, Spain, The Netherlands, Switzerland, Tunisia, Azerbaijan, China and Hong Kong,” said Ms Ellul who concluded “Our Chamber looks forward to renewed collaboration with HSBC for continued benefits to the local business community and new business opportunities created abroad as a result of this unique partnership” .

Meeting on Visa Requirements

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 08:48:53 GMT

The Malta Chamber organised a meeting for members on visa requirements. on 1st December The well-attended information session was addressed by Mr Paul Demajo Albanese, Head of the Central Visa Unit, who discussed the Schengen Acquis and Visa Policy.

Mr Demajo Albanese stated that Schengen provisions include a common visa, as well as the adoption of a common visa policy, which includes common lists of third countries whose nationals are required to be in possession of a visa, and those third countries whose nationals are exempt from this requirement. A common visa practice with regard to the procedure for issuing visas is also necessary.

He also discussed at length the conditions of entry, including the basic criteria for examining applications. These include the risk of illegal immigration, possible threat to public policy, internal security, public health, or to the internal relations of the Schengen member states. Thorough examination for verification is carried out on the Visa application form, the applicant’s travel documents, and supporting documents. The number and type of supporting document required depends on the possible risk of illegal immigration and the prevailing situation in the applicant’s country of residence.

Due consideration is also given to single or multiple-entry Schengen visa applicants, such as businesspeople who have proved their integrity and reliability, in particular the lawful use of previous Schengen visas, their economic situation in the country of origin, their intention to leave Malta before the expiry of the visa applied for, and proof of the need to travel regularly.

Participants were also given the opportunity to voice their concerns on incoming and outgoing visas during the meeting.

Minister Tonio Fenech meets Malta Chamber Members

Wed, 01 Dec 2010 16:47:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2010 12 01: “Budget 2011 is a budget oriented towards sustaining and building on the achievements obtained over the past years, prioritizing job creation and the soundness of our finances,” said Minister of Finance, the Economy and Investment, Hon. Tonio Fenech, at a dialogue meeting for members of the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry.

The dialogue session was open to the Malta Chamber’s wide cross-section of membership including manufacturing, financial services, importation, retail, health-care, pharmaceuticals, real estate, yachting and others. The Malta Chamber sought this meeting to give the business community the opportunity to voice their opinions directly to the Minister, following the 2011 Budget Speech.

Minister Fenech highlighted the need of a cautious approach, as a consequence of the volatility and the uncertainty prevailing in the situation around us. Referring to Malta's quick recovery, as pointed out in the European Commission in its Autumn Economic Forecast published earlier this week, this result is also attributable to the fact that over the last two decades the country has managed to diversify its economic portfolio in a sustainable manner in order to reduce dependency on one particular sector. Now, in the light of what is happening around us, we need to sustain what we have achieved so far, by further investing in our competitiveness.”

In this context, the Minister referred to substantial investment taking place in the education and training of our country’s human resources as well as in the country’s infrastructure, through capital projects which not only generate economic activity and employment over the shorter term but also improve the general attractiveness of the country to the benefit of all.

Minister Fenech pointed out that the flexibility and adaptability of our workforce must continue to drive future growth and that the social partners should continue to discuss similar possibilities that would enable our economy to be more dynamic and quicker to react to new circumstances, allowing local companies to tap new opportunities as they arise.

In her opening speech, Malta Chamber President Helga Ellul said “Let us continue to place our need for growth at the forefront of the national decision-making process; let us introduce ways which promote competitiveness and which do justice to our dynamic workforce and economy.” She added that in the light of these concerns, the Malta Chamber is aware that the only way to steer our country out of the economic and financial storm is through economic growth.

The key concern for members following a number of interventions proved to be competitiveness, particularly in the wake of extreme measures being taken in other countries. Members from the manufacturing sector pointed out that service charges at the industrial parks on top higher utility tariffs, COLA and other government induced costs were only making it harder for companies to be competitive.

Members also pointed out the importance of human resources and the need for qualified and competent employees.

The issue of late payments was also brought up by health care sector members, stating that problems continue to exist. The health care sector pointed out that it had taken three years to decrease the payment from 150 to 120 days. The sector asked for a timeframe on how long it would take to transpose the Late Payments Directive into Maltese law.

The disposal of hazardous waste was emphasised by importers, who commented that the present facilities for disposal, or lack thereof), are clearly not meeting the needs of the business community. Importers also voiced their concern about the continued lack of market surveillance which contributed to an unfair playing field for bona fide companies.

Other issues mentioned included the problem of berths for the yachting sector, a level playing field for government support for all sectors, as well as the importance of energy and water conservation and management.

Call for Participants - Maltese-Tunisian Business Council

Tue, 30 Nov 2010 09:46:21 GMT

The first meeting of the Maltese-Tunisian Business Council was held on 17th November. The Maltese-Tunisian Business Council is the Maltese side of a two-sided business council which was constituted following a Memorandum of Understanding signed between the Malta Chamber and the Tunisian Business organisation UTICA. The latter has led two business delegations to Malta in the past two years, during which the Malta Chamber hosted two very successful and well-attended "Doing Business with Tunisia" events. During these events, the Malta Chamber and UTICA agreed that there was a need for a business-driven forum to develop relations between the two countries.

As a neighbouring state, with a stable government and steady growth, Tunisia has a lot to offer Maltese businesses, both as a market and also as a source of finished, or semi-finished products. It would appear that the main impediment to growth in the economic exchanges between Malta and Tunisia, is the lack of knowledge about the many opportunities which lie across the sea.

The next meeting of the Business Council is set for 14th December at 16.00 hrs, where Malta's Ambassador to Tunisia, Her Excellency, Mrs. Vicky Ann Cremona, will be joining the meeting to share her insight into Tunisia and how to best take this initiative forward.

Call for Participants

The Maltese-Tunisian Business Council aims to:

seek to explore and promote business opportunities between Malta and Tunisia whilst
creating a network of business persons, who can collaborate and draw on each others' experiences.

Members interested in forming part of this Business Council are kindly requested to contact Internationalisation Manager Klaus Pedersen on: klaus.pedersen@maltachamber.org.mt

Linking Enterprise hosted by World Aviation Group

Fri, 26 Nov 2010 11:21:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber is organising another edition of Linking Enterprise. This event will be hosted by World Aviation Group on Monday 6th December 2010, at 3.00pm.

Linking Enterprise is a service offered to members consisting of company visits, which give participants the opportunity to:

Benchmark their performance and learn new ways how to enhance their business operations
Link between theory and practical application
Sharing of experiences, insights and feedback
Look into different processes, technologies and solutions.

Programme

15:00—15:15	Registration and Coffee
15:15—15:20	Welcome Speech
15:20—15:30	Malta Chamber Services Economic Group
15:30—17:00	World Aviation Group Overview, Office Tour, Discussion: WAG Operations
17:00—17:15	Malta Chamber Internationalisation Committee
17:15—17:30	Question Time & Event Closur

Kindly confirm your booking by sending the above registration coupon to Diane Seychell by Thursday 2nd of December on e-mail address: diane.seychell@maltachamber.org.mt

Further information on World Aviation Group and registration forms can be found here

The Need for Growth must be pursued

Wed, 24 Nov 2010 09:32:34 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2010 11 24: The Malta Chamber of Commerce Enterprise and Industry refers to the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) opinion on Malta’s economy. Whilst the IMF took note of Malta’s recent economic progress, it warned about the possibility that recent economic momentum might not be sustainable whilst stating further that "uncertainty remains high and the risks tilted to the downside". Malta Chamber President, Mrs Helga Ellul stated that “the only way to steer our country effectively out of the economic and financial storm is through economic growth – and to grow, our country must implement the necessary decisions in favour of competitiveness”.

In many ways, the IMF’s recent report echoes the opinions put on record by the Malta Chamber. Immediately after the last budget, for instance, the Malta Chamber voiced concern about whether the economic growth assumed in the budget would materialise and whether this would in fact bring about the forecasted receipts from direct taxation, VAT and National Insurance contributions.

Indeed, the Malta Chamber has echoed very similar opinions to the IMF on export-led growth, wages and productivity and public finances It has similarly advocated consolidation, albeit with utmost caution. Mrs Helga Ellul stated that “systems of taxation and social benefits must encourage people to work and increase people’s employability. Malta has a successful social welfare model; it must be sustained and protected through work”.
The IMF’s call for higher productivity, skills and employment rates and the recommendation that wages should follow productivity developments is also well justified. This is exactly what prompted the Malta Chamber‘s stand on the need to fine-tune the COLA mechanism with a focus on ascertaining Malta’s competitiveness but retaining it as a means to safeguard workers’ purchasing power.

The IMF has also recommended the implementation of “flexible working practices” to stimulate participation and growth. It is widely known that for two consecutive budgets, the Malta Chamber has called for the introduction of labour-flexibility measures such as Banking of Hours to support further growth in the economy. This measure is widely accepted and adopted in other EU member states. It allows businesses to retain highly skilled workers and helps employees strike a better work/life balance. It contributes to securing jobs and does not necessarily lead to loss of overtime. We are a small country and flexibility must be our main driver.

The Malta Chamber reiterates that this is not the time to be complacent. Recommendations made in the national interest by the Malta Chamber and which are confirmed by the IMF and the Central Bank Governor must be heeded to, even though they may require unpopular decisions.

Malta Chamber participates on current affairs programme

Mon, 22 Nov 2010 11:45:00 GMT

Recently, Malta Chamber Business Education Chairperson Ms Antoinette Caruana participated on ONE TV discussion programme Realta, hosted by Brian Hansford. The programme’s topic of discussion was the potential maternity leave extension to twenty weeks.

Ms Caruana explained the Malta Chamber’s position on the issue, emphasising on the fact that the matter should be treated holistically that is, looking beyond the twenty weeks and creating the infrastructure such as transport, childcare facilities and temporary workers agencies that so far Malta lacks. She also pointed out that a woman who wishes to advance in her career might find it difficult to leave the workplace for a full twenty weeks, indeed, such a long period of time might be detrimental to her advancement.

Ms Caruana also mentioned the problems of small companies, which make up the majority of Maltese companies, who find it difficult as it is to pay for the current fourteen weeks of maternity leave, while at the same time suffering a loss of productivity. Extending maternity leave another six weeks, to the cost of the employer can only increase this burden.

Also attending the programme were Ms Claudine Cassar, Managing Director of Alert Communications, Ms Renee Laiveira, and Dr. Marthese Portelli.

Malta Chamber meets IMF delegation

Mon, 22 Nov 2010 11:43:00 GMT

Malta Chamber Director General Mr Kevin J Borg, together with economist Mr Lino Delia met with economists from the International Monetary Fund on 12th November. The IMF delegation was in Malta as part of their remit to monitor economic and financial developments in member countries, in order to ensure the stability of the international financial system. The delegates included Mr Vladimir Munteanu, and Mr Thomas Harjes, both senior economists within the European Department and Ms Adina Popescu and Ms Valentina Flamini, also economists from the same department.

During the meeting a number of issues were discussed, broadly covering the economic outlook and labour market reform, as well as focus on wages and competitiveness.

Information and consultation session about Visa Requirements

Mon, 22 Nov 2010 11:24:00 GMT

Malta's EU membership and the subsequent adaptation of the acquis concerning the Schengen agreement has resulted in some changes in the procedures for visa applicants entering and leaving Malta.

As a result of inquiries by members, the Malta Chamber Internationalisation Committee has met with the Central Visa Unit to better understand the procedures involved. It has been found that there is a strong need for business to be better informed of the requirements for visa applicants as well as for the authorities to be advised about the needs of businesses in this area.

To this end, the Malta Chamber is organising an information and consultation session at the Exchange Buildings on Wednesday 1st. December at 14.30 hrs.

The Head of the Central Visa Unit, Mr. Paul Demajo Albanese will give a presentation about visa requirements and the Schengen aquis, addressing such questions as:

Why Schengen?
What are Malta's obligations within Schengen?
How does this affect the issuing of visas in Malta and to visitors to Malta? - Types of visas, procedures etc.

Mr. Albanese's presentation will be followed by a question and answer session where participants will have the opportunity to ask specific questions which the Malta Chamber may consider taking forward to government as a result of this consultation.

Individuals wishing to participate are kindly requested to register with Miss Diane Seychell on email: diane.seychell@maltachamber.org.mt

Participants are also requested to submit any questions they may have on the topic in advance, so that the Visa Unit may prepare relevant research and documentation.

Participation is free for members and €20.00 for non-members.

Valletta Business Community Committee announcement on CVA in Valletta

Thu, 18 Nov 2010 14:44:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2010 11 18: The Valletta Business Community Committee, under the auspices of The Malta Chamber is pleased to announce that for the month of December the CVA will be free of charge every day from 1500 hours onwards.

This was agreed to at a meeting that the Committee had on the 17th November 2010 with the Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Communications, The Hon Austin Gatt. During the meeting the Committee expressed the concerns of the Valletta business community at the lack of access and parking brought about during the Valletta regeneration process. The two sides agreed that the issues raised warranted further discussion.

The Valletta Business Community Committee, which represents the great majority of business outlets and offices in Valletta, was set up earlier this year under the auspices of The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry, together with the Republic Street Business Community Association, the Merchants Street Business Community Association and the Valletta Alive Foundation. The main purpose of this Committee is to ensure that access to the Capital City Valletta is not affected during the Valletta regeneration process, by finding adequate alternative means of access, and that the generation of business continues during this difficult period.

No Retroactive Licenses should be granted

Tue, 16 Nov 2010 15:44:12 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2010 11 16: The Malta Chamber is astonished to learn of licenses being granted retroactively – as has happened in the case of the Green MT waste management scheme.

The Malta Chamber fails to understand what brings about delays in renewing an annual license as long as performance targets for the previous year/s are achieved. If the scheme was entitled to a renewal of its license, then it should have been issued immediately as of January 1, this year. Otherwise, similar circumstances give rise to uncertainty and send conflicting messages to the business community.

The granting of a retroactive license to Green MT sets a dangerous precedent and could be interpreted as an encouragement to operators to commence operations without the need to wait for the necessary licenses to be issued first. Such a practice could be detrimental to the interests of consumers and society, particularly where health and safety issues are concerned. Such a practice is also detrimental to bona fide companies which must compete against unlicensed operators in an unfair playing field. The Malta Chamber stresses that administrative delays in issuing licenses and their renewals must be ironed out. In a normal competitive business environment, the granting of licenses in a retroactive manner cannot be contemplated. The Malta Chamber expects MEPA to give a full explanation of what has happened in this case and whether such a practice is a standard procedure or not.

To compound the problem being faced by bona fide schemes and affiliated companies, the Malta Chamber must once more emphasise that a number of its members are still owed eco-contribution refunds, dating back to 2004 despite being fully compliant with the relevant legislation and being duly registered with a fully-authorised scheme.

Whilst denouncing the practice of retroactive licenses, the Malta Chamber continues to expect the due refunds to be paid without any further delay.

Business Delegation to Algeria and Libya: 21-27 January 2011

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 09:01:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber's Internationalisation Desk would like to inform members that a business delegation to Algeria and Libya is being organised under the auspices of Malta Enterprise. Malta Enterprise will endeavour to organize match-making meetings for participants through its institutional networks.

Promising areas of investment, trade, technology and commercialization include:

Oil and Gas
Financial and Professional Services
ICT
Travel and Tourism
Education and Training
Construction and Building Materials
Food and Beverage

Interested member are kindly requested to contact klaus.pedersen@maltachamber.org.mt or internationalisation@maltaenterprise.com for further information and an application form.

Classification, Labelling and Packaging of Chemicals (CLP) Notification Seminar

Tue, 09 Nov 2010 11:22:00 GMT

This week, the Malta Chamber, in collaboration with the Malta Standards Authority held an information session on Classification, Labelling and Packaging of Chemicals (CLP) Notification. The session was delivered by Ms Audrey-Anne Anastasi, scientist within the Foodstuffs, Chemicals, Pesticides & Cosmetics Unit, MSA Regulatory Affairs Directorate, together with Ms Charmaine Ajao from the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA).

During her presentation, Ms Anastasi explained that it is important for the company to identify their role under the CLP, as well as understand their obligations, regarding classification, labeling, packaging, and notification, depending on whether you are a manufacturer, importer or distributor.

Furthermore, depending on the classification criteria, a company must identify whether they have a duty to classify. A company should prepare for this process by gathering data, examining, evaluating and deciding on classification.

In the case of CLP notification, a company must also identify whether they have the duty to notify classification and labeling to the C&L inventory. The C&L inventory is a database that will contain basic classification and labeling information on notified and registered substances submitted by manufacturers and importers.

Under CLP a notification must be done for the following substances:

Substances subject to reach registration and placed on the market
Substances classified as hazardous under CLP and placed on the market and irrespective of tonnage
Substances classified as hazardous under CLP and present in a mixture and the mixture is placed on the market

No notification is required in the following cases:

When the classification, in accordance with the CLP criteria has already been submitted as part of the registration under REACH by the same manufacturer or importer
By downstream users, including formulators of mixtures, as well as distributors of hazardous substances and mixtures, this is because the notification of the respective substances would have occurred at an earlier stage in the supply chain.

There are no fees for submission, or modification of the C&L notification. This must be created in the appropriate format, including the setting up of a REACH-IT account, in order to submit your notification. How to create and submit a C&L notification using the REACH-IT online tool was further explained by Ms Ajao.

For further information and deadlines please contact the MSA on tel: 2395 2000 or email: helpdesk.msa@msa.org.mt

Launch of the Scandinavian Business Forum

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 13:57:40 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2010 10 05: “The role of the Scandinavian Business Forum – Malta will be to create a permanent forum on which existing network chains between Scandinavian and Maltese businesses may be consolidated, as well as the establishment of new ones,” said Dr. Mark Fenech, Chairman of the Scandinavian Business Forum-Malta (SBF-M). Dr. Fenech was speaking during the launch of the SBF-M, a forum established under the auspices of the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry.

“We would also like this Forum to be a pro-active body which can be used as an instrument to further promote business interactivity among Maltese businesses already commercially linked to the Scandinavian region, and Scandinavian entrepreneurs who are somehow linked with these Islands,” he added.

In her opening address, Malta Chamber President Mrs Helga Ellul noted that during the business delegation to Scandinavia, organized last year by Malta Enterprise, the great interest from both countries was evident, but it was also clear that Maltese companies faced a number of challenges, including a lack of general awareness about Malta, and what Malta has to offer. “This means that the Maltese company has to first sell Malta – and then their offering,” she explained.

“Given these challenges, I am very pleased to note the ever closer cooperation which exists between the Malta Chamber, Malta Enterprise and Finance Malta,” Mrs Ellul said. “This is also why there is a real need for the Scandinavian Business Forum, to be the nexus around which such efforts are organised, and from which they will be initiated.”

In his address, the Hon. Tonio Borg, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs noted that while Malta is already home to Scandinavian investment in the iGaming and manufacturing sectors, the existing level of commercial relations between Malta and Scandinavia is below its potential and can further develop. “There are a number of areas of potential growth in our business relations, such as trade, investment, tourist flows and real estate.” he said.

“We also welcome more Scandinavian interest in Malta to invest, do business and exploit Malta’s position as a financial, educational, trading, logistics, and high-tech manufacturing hub in the Mediterranean region,” Dr. Borg added.

Minister of Finance, the Economy and Investment Hon. Tonio Fenech expressed his hope that the Scandinavian Business Forum can act as a catalyst to facilitate greater commercial activity with the region. He remarked that “although Malta and Scandinavia are geographically distant and diverse in various aspects, there are good business prospects as Malta can act as a European gateway to opportunities presented by markets in North Africa, the Middle East and even Asia.”

At the same time, he encouraged local business to consider the different opportunities being provided through Malta Enterprise to assist local companies in exploring opportunities abroad, particularly through franchising and networking events.

The event was also addressed by Mr. Ole- Kristian Baevahr (Vice President, Wilhelmsen Shipping Lines, Norway), who discussed Wilhelmsen’s experience in Malta and why they chose Malta as one of the centres for their many activities. Mr. Phillip Baruch (Partner at Lund Elmer Sandager law firm, Denmark), drew upon his considerable experience in the fields of alternative energy and eco- tourism and combined with his sound knowledge of Malta he explored some of the areas of potential collaboration between Maltese and Danish companies in these fields. Mr. Mikkel Korntved (CEO- Loyalty Group International, Denmark and guest lecturer at Copenhagen Business School), discussed building strong business relationships within the Scandinavian market and elaborated upon the different styles of doing business within Scandinavia.

The event was supported by Wilhelmsen Lines, Fenech & Fenech Advocates EMD Advisory Services Ltd, 3a Malta Ltd and Frank Salt Real Estate Services.

Secure your Future in a Globalised World - Aim for Business Excellence!

Thu, 04 Nov 2010 10:21:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2010 11 12: “Improvement is an ongoing process, and this is why aiming for business excellence is an imperative,” said Mrs. Helga Ellul, during the third Annual Business Excellence Conference, organized by the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry.

“This is the way that we should manage our businesses in the face of growing competitiveness. This applies to all organizations regardless of size, and involves every employee, as well as suppliers and above all customers.”

Keynote speaker, Mr Everard Van Kemenade, Senior Consultant Quality Management, Fontys International Projects described the paradigms of quality over time. In the past companies would focus only on product quality. The focus later shifted to organization improvement, and today, we also find a focus on the human being and corporate social responsibility. Mr Van Kemenade also pointed out that when in the past companies would review the product or service once it was completed, today companies must take a reflection-in-action approach, with monitoring taking place at each stage of the process.

Mr Van Kemenade was followed by Mr John Magro, Managing Director, Magro Brothers (Foods) Ltd, who said that his company considers quality not as an imposed necessity but as the driver for their business. “We have learnt that through quality management, business operators are more open to accept change,” he said. Mr Magro explained that big organisations expect quality; only the rest can be negotiated. “To service world class clients one needs to have these international quality credentials in place before they even respond to you.”

“Organizations and indeed governments and the EU Commission need to balance out expensive quality programs with sustainability, flexibility and efficiency,” concluded Mr Magro.

During his presentation, Mr Alex Aquilina, Managing Director, Eagle K-Wear Co. Ltd, focused on the experience of taking one’s business internationally. He stated that in order to do so, a company must identify its competitive advantage, core competence and expertise. A company must also have the ability to recognize and identify market change, and be flexible and responsive enough to make the change. “Quality in your business culture and ethics will help you overcome the wave of globalisation and consumerism by differentiating your company from the competition,” he said.

The interactive conference also included parallel sessions focusing on Manufacturing, ICT , and Financial Services, involving a number of speakers: Dr Konrad Saur, Director Global Quality & Management Systems, Trelleborg Limited Ms Maria Micallef, Partner, RSM Malta, Mr. David Walsh, Chief Executive Officer, Crimsonwing Limited, Mr. Nonzio Bonello, European QA/RA Director, Microtek Medical Malta Ltd, Dr Mario Vella, Foreign Direct Investment Director, Grant Thornton, and Mr Jin Choi, Country Director, SmartCity Malta.

Speakers Presentations

The full programme can be found here.

Wine Tasting Evening 2010

Mon, 01 Nov 2010 11:07:00 GMT

Ten companies:

Antonio Piscopo Co. Ltd., Attard & Co. Ltd.; Camilleri Wines Ltd.; Charles Grech & Co. Ltd; Francis Busuttil & Sons (Marketing) Ltd; M. Demajo (Wines & Spirits) Ltd; farsonsdirect.com, S. Rausi Trading; Red October Co. Ltd. and Wembley Stores

came together to present wines from nine wine regions and countries during a Wine Tasting Evening which took place at the Malta Chamber on Friday, 22nd October 2010.

The Wine Tasting Evening has become an annual event and is a highlight in the Malta Chamber’s diary. It offers members involved in the production and importation of wines an occasion to showcase their wines in the Malta Chamber’s beautiful Courtyard.    The Wine Tasting Evening also serves to bring members together during this informal and convivial event.

Participation in this event was free of charge, however members were encouraged to make a donation which will be presented to H.E. Dr. George Abela, President of Malta during the Malta Chamber’s Annual Reception on 7th December 2010.

The Malta Chamber thanks Phoenix Group of Companies, Continental Purchasing Co. Ltd. (who supplied Schott Zwiesel Fine Glassware), V.J. Salomone Ltd. and Villa Arrigo Ltd, without whom this event could not have been possible.

Reactions to EU Commission Industrial Policy focus

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 08:25:00 GMT

Media Releases from BUSINESSEUROPE and EUROCHAMBRES, which the Malta Chamber fully supports.

Industrial policy must permeate all European policies

In its Communication “An Integrated Industrial Policy for the Globalisation Era”, published today, the Commission rightly highlights that a strong industry is key for ensuring Europe’s global competitiveness in the future. Industry also provides technologies and solutions for tackling European and global societal challenges, such as an ageing society or climate change. European business therefore welcomes the renewed attention given to industrial policy and urges EU policy-makers that this now needs to become concretely visible in all upcoming EU policy initiatives.

Philippe de Buck, Director General of BUSINESSEUROPE commented: “The business community supports Commission Vice-President Tajani’s efforts to put industrial policy at the heart of European policy-making, be it for innovation, trade or resource protection. This initiative must now be given concrete follow-up with all EU institutions and the Member States”.

EUROCHAMBRES pleased with Industrial Policy focus

EUROCHAMBRES broadly welcomes the European Commission’s new Industrial Policy flagship initiative, as it addresses the key factors for creating the right framework conditions for European industry to thrive and compete internationally.

“It is a useful roadmap for more specific actions,” stated Arnaldo Abruzzini, EUROCHAMBRES’ Secretary General. “Services and industry are of course heavily interconnected, so we welcome that industry is not considered in isolation anymore but as a central element of the value chain.”

EUROCHAMBRES welcomes the proposed “competitiveness proofing” and “fitness checks” on all legislative proposals/existing legislation relating to industrial policy, and calls for the systematic inclusion of the SME test in both tools.

Also, economic, social and environmental sustainability should be duly considered. “Europe’s industry needs to be competitive and it is widely acknowledged that this competitiveness must be based on innovation and a highly skilled workforce, rather than low costs. This should also be taken into consideration when measuring the success and sustainability of industrial policy,” said Mr Abruzzini.

EUROCHAMBRES however sounded a note of caution on the way that the internationalisation of SMEs is handled in the paper. “We continue to insist on the need for Commission services and agencies to adopt a coherent approach to measures to support SME internationalisation, notably the development of SME centres in third countries. The communication offers little reassurance on this point,” concluded Mr Abruzzini.

Family Business Seminar: Practical Succession Planning

Thu, 28 Oct 2010 10:09:00 GMT

The Seminar is being organised by the Malta Chamber SME Committee in collaboration with FBS2M Family Business Solutions, a division within 2M Management Consultancy Ltd.

Practical Succession Planning

Sooner or later, everyone has to retire. If you own a family business, retirement involves a lot more than not going to the office. Important questions that affect the business and the family need to be answered:

Who will be managing the business?
How will ownership be transferred?
Will your business carry on or will you sell it?

Family business succession planning must address these issues as well as ensuring a smooth transition between the current owners to the next family generation. This seminar will provide practical advice about such decision-making and help you accomplish a successful business transfer.

Date: Tuesday 2nd November 2010
Venue: The Exchange Buildings, Republic Street, Valletta
Time: 16:45 – 19:15
Registration Fee: Members - Free of Charge, Non Members - €25.00

Programme

16:45-17:00	Registration
17:00–17:10	Opening Address, Mrs Helga Ellul, President, Malta Chamber
17:10–18:00	Build-up to the Succession Process, Mr. Mario Duca, MSc (Man), Dip. Lab., Family Business Consultant, FBS2M Family Business Solutions
18:00–19:00	Practical succession Planning Processe, Mr. Ken McCracken, LL.B (Hons), Dip. L.P. N.P, Family Business Consultant, FBS2M Family Business Solutions
19:00–19:15	Questions from the floor and closure of Seminar

The Company

FBS2M Family Business Solutions is a division within 2M Management Consultancy Ltd. The Company has a partnership agreement with Family Business Solutions Ltd in Glasgow. Through the collaboration, FBS2M Family Business Solutions delivers consultancy services, training programs and innovative and practical assistance to family businesses. Family Business Solutions Ltd have offices in Edinburgh, Glasgow, London and Malta.

Interested participants are kindly asked to contact Ms. Jeanelle Catania on tel no: 2123 3873 or e-mail: jeanelle.catania@maltachamber.org.mt

Improving Your Environmental and Business Performance

Thu, 28 Oct 2010 09:45:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE 2010 10 28: “The Malta Chamber has been very active in the areas of water and energy management, urging members to use resources responsibly. We are leveraging on the resources made available by Eurochambres and Malta Enterprise and making the best use of internal expertise to provide the best possible advice to our members,” said Malta Chamber President Mrs Helga Ellul.

Mrs Ellul was speaking during a seminar held today and organised by the Energy and Environment Committee, within the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and industry, together with Bank of Valletta plc. The event was chaired by Dr. Godwin Micallef.

The well attended seminar, entitled ‘Improving Your Environmental and Business Performance’ aimed to discuss a number of issues which affect and concern the business community, including energy conservation and efficiency, water management, environmental permits and licensing, and environmental project management financing.

Architect David Xuereb, in describing the process of energy conservation, pointed out that “Water and energy conservation must not mean a reduction in the quality of life, our trust should not be limited to legislation and targets only, but should focus on an educational system geared towards the appreciation of resources”.

Other speakers included Minister of Resources and Rural Affairs, Hon. George Pullicino Mr Peter Kristensen, Operations Manager, General Soft Drinks Ltd, Ing. Anthony Rizzo, CEO of the Malta Resources Authority, Ing. Mark Azzopardi, Head of Investment Consultancy within Malta Enterprise, Mr Peter James Sant, Senior Manager EU & SME Affairs, Bank of Valletta plc, and Mr Michael Sant, Unit Manager Environmental Permitting and Industry, MEPA.

Courtesy of DOI

Presentations:

BusinessEurope EXCO Meeting with Vice President Tajani

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 09:29:00 GMT

Last week Malta Chamber Director General Ing. Ray Muscat attended a meeting of the BusinessEurope Executive Committee in Brussels. The highlight of the meeting was a discussion with Mr Antonio Tajani, Vice-President of the European Commission, and Commissioner for Industry and Enterprise.

The meeting covered a number of issues, including current EU developments regarding Industrial Policy, which as been put at the top of the agenda in the new EU political cycle. The EU 2010 strategy defines “an industrial policy for the globalised era” as one EU flagship initiative.

As a consequence, Mr Tajani is currently preparing a Commission Communication on industrial policy. Its publication is aimed for the end of October. The Communication will be discussed at the Competitiveness Council on 25 November.

The Executive Committee also discussed BusinessEurope’s activities vis-à-vis the Industrial Policy, including the adoption of a position paper by a specially set up Task Force. Whilst outlining the importance of industry for Europe’s future, as well as the global challenges European industry is facing, it puts forward as policy priorities:

Integrated EU policy approaches
Innovation
Internal Market
Infrastructure
Internationalisation
Initiatives at sectoral level

The European Parliament of Enterprises

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 09:18:00 GMT

Every two years EUROCHAMBRES brings together over 750 businesspeople from 45 European countries, for an event entitled ”European Parliament of Enterprises” (EPE). The second edition of this event was held on the 14th of October. It allowed businessmen and women to become Members of the European Parliament for one day, debate and vote on some of the most crucial topics currently at the heart of the political debate.

A high-level delegation of the Malta Chamber, led by President Mrs Helga Ellul participated in this year’s edition. During the EPE entrepreneurs also exercise their voting rights on major EU business-related issues. The results of the votes are presented by EUROCHAMBRES to the relevant political interlocutors from all the EU institutions as "the voice of European businesses”.

This year’s EPE’s opening session included addresses by the European Union’s highest officials; Jerzy Buzek , President of the European Parliament; Mr Herman Van Rompuy, President of the European Council; and José Manuel Barroso, President of the European Commission, besides Alessandro Barberis, President of EUROCHAMBRES.

During the event, the topics were treated in three different sessions. The first session, tackled “Conditions”, including the economic crisis, the EU's SME policy, the digital agenda, collective redress and consumer rights. Taking part in this session were Antonio Tajani, Vice President of the European Commission in charge of Industry and Entrepreneurship, and Pervenche Beres, Member of the European Parliament and the Chair of the Committee on Employment and Social Affairs

The second session, entitled “Resources”, delved into issues such as late payments, education, labour market, environment and energy issues. This session was led by Günther Oettinger, EU Commissioner in charge of Energy, and Herbert Reul, Member of the European Parliament and Chairman of the Committee on Industry, Research and Energy.

It was during this session that Malta Chamber President, Helga Ellul, made her intervention on the need for flexibility in the labour market. She introduced her topic by explaining that Maltese entrepreneurs face continuous challenges relating to the environment, energy and water. However, the only natural resource in our small, yet thriving island economy are our people.

“Europe needs growth – to achieve growth we need competitiveness,” she stated, stressing that “we can only be competitive if we are flexible.” Mrs Ellul also pointed out that flexibility, through banking hours, is what will bring more job security. “But security can no longer be guaranteed. The concept of a job for life is gone.”

Mrs Ellul encouraged her fellow entrepreneurs and European leaders to go beyond discussion about employability. “We need to act now” she said, “Employers and employees must concentrate on improving skills and mobility.”

“Let us be sensible, practical and in tune with the competitive realities we are facing every day. Above all, let us be flexible,” she concluded.

The final session, covering Markets, dealt with company law, international relations, trade agreements, market access. Leading this session were Karel De Gucht, EU Commissioner in charge of Trade, and
Malcolm Harbour, Member of the European Parliament and the Chairman of the Committee on Internal Market and Consumer Protection.

Finally, the event was closed by a second intervention from Alessandro Barberis, President of EUROCHAMBRES, and Yves Leterme, Prime Minister of Belgium.

Budget 2011 - Preliminary Reactions of the Malta Chamber

Mon, 25 Oct 2010 21:40:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2010 10 25: The Malta Chamber recognizes the difficult financial situation in which, the Minister of Finance was constrained to formulate the Budget. Besides new EU procedures to consider, the international economic realities on which our economy depend are still very uncertain. Whilst some trading partners and indeed our country have shown signs of recovery – the situation is still extremely volatile.

Under these circumstances, the Malta Chamber is concerned with the budgeted increase in government revenue mainly through receipts from direct taxation, VAT and National Insurance contributions. This assumes continued economic growth which needs to be stimulated and which must not be undermined.

Competitiveness to Ensure Growth

The Malta Chamber, therefore, continues to be pre-occupied with the country’s level of competitiveness that underpins Malta’s prospects for growth.

Prior to the announcement of the Budget, the Malta Chamber insisted on the need to ensure that the labour market was flexible and in tune with competitive realities.

The Malta Chamber is disappointed that the country has wasted another opportunity to address the COLA mechanism. The Chamber is not against COLA. In fact, it insisted on the need to fine-tune the out-dated mechanism to ensure COLA would complement Malta’s competitiveness position whilst being retained as an instrument to compensate workers for loss of disposable income due to inflation. This is a matter of priority for the Malta Chamber.

In this respect, the Malta Chamber called for labour flexibility measures such as Banking of Hours as a measure to help the employer and worker plan ahead and as a means to ascertain jobs in times of weaker demand. It is disconcerting to note that Government continues to shy away from this measure which is widely accepted and adopted in other EU member states.

On the other hand, the announced measure to support the training of workers who earn low incomes is most positive as it could increase the skills and profile of people who would be interested but could not afford training in terms of time and money.

The Malta Chamber is also disappointed with the announcements made in terms of Better Regulation which fail to address serious issues being encountered by the business community such as Half-Days, Electronic IDs for corporate users and delays encountered at MEPA and the Law Courts. There has been no significant improvement in legislative burdens for small enterprises ever since promises of an “SME Test” were first made. The Malta Chamber augurs that similar pledges in relation to future legislation results in notable improvements.

The Malta Chamber also refers to the announced commitment to ensure fair competition. Though no details were given, the business community looks forward to the setting up of a multi-departmental task-force armed with legal executive powers to ensure the proper curtailment of abuse in the interest of fair competition, the consumer and higher indirect tax revenues for government. For far too long the authorities have paid lip service to fair competition and market surveillance. We now expect action to be taken immediately.

Sectoral Growth Prospects

Of particular significance to the Chamber was the announcement of a fund aimed at enhancing quality management and standards for small enterprises to lower their costs in terms of time and money when considering internationalisation opportunities particularly through franchise. The Malta Chamber had been advocating the importance of a similar fund and believes that the announced measurecould serve to assist in the continuation of a project dedicated to Franchise administered by Malta Enterprise with the active involvement of the Malta Chamber. Having said that the Chamber would like to see a more substantial budget allocated towards this initiative.

The Malta Chamber welcomes the announced “Gateway to Export” programme that provides assistance and training to companies to enhance their opportunities of companies – both large and small – to export. Nevertheless, the €1 million allocated in the Budget to this programme cannot be interpreted as a firm commitment to stimulate export-led growth. Of course the Chamber would have liked to see a firm time plan for the launching of this measure announced immediately if anything to ensure the this important initiative is indeed launched in a timely manner.

The Malta Chamber welcomes, the sustained budget of €9million for Malta Enterprise with which the Chamber works very closely for the benefit of its members. Nevertheless, Chamber members have complained vociferously in the past months over delays encountered in the evaluation of ERDF schemes which should have been adjudicated in August. Similarly, it is unacceptable that last year’s announced measure to provide microcredits for SMEs has so far not been implemented. The Malta Chamber expects that, as the Minister assured, this scheme will kick off without any further delay.

In addition, the Malta Chamber supports the initiatives announced to enhance the economic linkages between the country’s main and emerging economic sectors such as manufacturing, services and aircraft maintenance.
In terms of economic growth prospects through tourism, the Malta Chamber must voice strong concern on the increase in accommodation tax which will exert serious ramifications on the price-sensitive segment of tourism which the country continues to depend upon.

Other Measures

Further to its recommendations on the subject, the Malta Chamber welcomes measures aimed at encouraging use of electric and hybrid cars. The incentives for scrapping old cars to be replaced with more efficient ones is another step in the right direction.

At the same time, the Malta Chamber is perturbed by the announced increase of excise duty on fuel (3c/litre) which is bound to affect operating costs in various key sectors including tourism, manufacturing, transport and importation/distribution. The Malta Chamber interprets this is a fiscal measure given that the economy has been given little or no opportunity to adjust to cleaner fuels.

Refunds of Eco-Contribution are conspicuous by their absence – yet again. A final resolution to this matter was promised for this Budget. particularly as bona fide operators are now further owed refunds for the latter part of 2010 when an Eco-Contribution Exemptions LN was published but not implemented.

In conclusion, the Malta Chamber must commend the Budget’s commitment towards the social and educational spheres as well as the announced family-friendly initiatives in favour of promoting female participation in the labour market.

In the coming days, the Chamber shall be examining the contents of the Budget Speech in greater detail and in the context of the set of budget documents published. The Malta Chamber will then be in a position to ascertain the effects of the announced measures in the context of medium term economic and social objectives.

ENDS

Maternity Leave extension a blow to business

Thu, 21 Oct 2010 14:38:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2010 10 21: The outcome of the EU Parliament vote in favour of a maternity leave extension is a severe blow to business. Increasing maternity leave from 14 to 20 weeks will result in a huge threat to EU competitiveness.

The Malta Chamber is dismayed at the conflicting messages being emitted by the European Union. On one hand, it stresses on the need for growth and the support of SMEs. On the other hand, it places the social model well before the economic needs. Such decisions can be interpreted as being taken without due consideration of the fact it is the economic model that sustains the social one. Placing the economic model at risk in favour of the social model does not seem prudent – certainly in these fragile economic circumstances.

The EU must make greater efforts to have stronger coherence between economic policy and ambitious environment and labour-market policies on the other. EU regulation, in these particular areas should not contain new and unnecessary or disproportionate burdens on business.

Besides, as it has also stated in the past, the Malta Chamber is convinced that the increase in maternity leave will be counterproductive to young women seeking work across all categories of employment. It will serve to fuel higher discrimination not least through a widening of the wage gap that already exists between genders. Moreover it would reinforce the reality of the ‘glass ceiling’ phenomenon in career paths for women. To this end, women could not realistically aspire to occupy the highest positions in business and at the same time absent themselves from work for long periods at a stretch.

In addition, the difficulties in Malta will be felt more acutely because systems of temporary workers agencies and child-care facilities are not fully developed. Presently, there is very little in terms of temping agencies and child-care facilities do not extend beyond office-hours.

In view of the above, the Malta Chamber makes a strong appeal to Government to reject this proposal at the European Council level.

The Malta Business Bureau calculated that the proposal could cost the economy €7.5m in terms of value added per year, equivalent to 0.18% of GDP. Of this, the cost to business would amount to €5.3m a year. In addition, introducing two weeks of paternity leave would cost the economy an additional €4.8m a year, equivalent to 0.12% of GDP. Of this, the annual cost to business would be €3.7m. All in all, the annual burden on Malta’s economy would be in excess of €12 million every year.

Malta Chamber announces Pre-Budget Proposals for 2011

Tue, 19 Oct 2010 12:00:00 GMT

During a Press Conference held today, the Malta Chamber announced its Pre-Budget Proposals for 2011.

The full presentation can be found here.

“Understanding China” round table conference

Mon, 18 Oct 2010 10:20:00 GMT

On 5th October, the Malta Chamber hosted a roundtable conference on the topic: Understanding China, Investments. This was part of an EU funded programme led by EUROCHAMBRES, designed to increase the understanding of China for European businesses, especially small and medium enterprises.

The event was opened by the President of the Malta Chamber, Mrs. Helga Ellul, who spoke of how the importance of China was reflected in an interest from the membership in learning more about China. Hereafter, the talks were guided by Ms. Vanessa Macdonald, Following each of the speakers; there were sessions of debate, where both the speakers and the participants contributed to a number of topical issues, namely:

China and Corporate Social Responsibility – to what extent should SMEs concern themselves geo-economical, environmental and social issues in China?
Investing in China – a stage process or "taking the leap"?
The Great Wall of China – what are the barriers to investing in China?

Mr, Biao Wang, owner of Camellia Universal Limited (China Business & Investment Advisors) a leading International Business platform between the West and China consulting with European and American companies on doing business with China, gave participants an introduction to the attractiveness of China, both as a base for sourcing materials and labour, but also as a market.

Mr. Colin Tabone, former Managing Director of W.E.T. Automotive shared with the audience a step-by-step plan for investing in China, and also his own experiences in setting up manufacturing and sales in China.

Finally, Mr. Gaetano Sammut, Senior Trade and Supply Chain Manager at HSBC Malta presented the findings of a report entitled "Looking East", which was commissioned by HSBC and focused on the Eastern Economies in the coming decades.

The scope of the event was to generate discussion and debate among the participants, and the Internationalisation Desk is pleased to note that a healthy discussion did in fact take place, with relevant feedback collected. Following this successful event and the positive feedback given from participants, the Desk will continue to disseminate information and generated debate on this important issue.

Franchising your Business Abroad

Wed, 13 Oct 2010 09:12:00 GMT

Together, we as stakeholders must devise longer-term support for local entrepreneurs who are serious about expanding their business through franchise.

- Helga Ellul, President

“The necessary resources should be dedicated to assist in providing more support to local entrepreneurs to export their own concept, or an established international franchise,” stated President Helga Ellul, during focusing on Franchise, organised by the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry.

“This sector deserves full support – there are already several success stories. The Malta Chamber knows there will be many others if more entrepreneurs are encouraged to go the same way. Last year we teamed up with Malta Enterprise and the Commonwealth Secretariat for an initial project. We know that building on this project and providing further support will generate growth for the Maltese economy,” she explained.

Mrs Ellul insisted that these decisions are important and urgent. “There is no doubt that this support falls squarely into an innovative export-led and knowledge-based activity we all desire for our country and franchising could be the ideal vehicle to deliver this kind of economic growth.”

Mrs Ellul explained that the Malta Chamber has been aware for some time that local entrepreneurs have adopted a very professional approach towards franchise – and this is confirmed by international franchisors. This approach must be better exploited for the benefit of business and the country.

During her presentation, Ms Farrah Rose, Director, The International Franchising Centre stated that in order for a company to franchise, it needs a sound and successful domestic operation, as well as a vision and commitment to a long-term project, which would include a five year development plan - and budget. As per the situation in Malta, she noted that there is a willingness to cooperate and learn, as well as potential for franchise acquisition and franchising home grown systems. “However, there is still little knowledge of successful franchising processes – the length of time and resources it takes to do it right!” she said, adding that SMEs require further support.

At the end of the Conference, the Minister of Finance, the Economy and Investment Tonio Fenech urged participants to “take these opportunities: let’s do our best to move towards the practical implementation of the ideas that were shared here today. The tools are there. It’s up to all of us to make it happen, he said. “If we can provide excellence to foreigners investing locally, then our local businesses can provide excellence in foreign markets. Indeed, many of the ingredients are there for us to be truly excellent.”

Other speakers during the event included Alan Camilleri, Executive Chairman of Malta Enterprise; Watipaso Mkandawire from the Commonwealth Secretariat; Ms Lorna Smith, Senior Franchise Manager, HSBC Group, Anthony Scicluna, Director, Cafe Jubilee,and Mr Arthur Gauci CEO, Sea Bank Group (franchisee Hard Rock Cafe).

The event was supported by the Commonwealth Secretariat, Malta Enterprise, Playmobil Malta Ltd, GasanMamo Insurance Ltd and Maypole (Holdings) Ltd.

The Event Presentations can be found here:

Helga Ellul - Malta Chamber President

Alan Camilleri - Malta Enterprise Executive Chairman

Watipaso Mkandawire - Commonwealth Secretariat

Farrah Rose - International Franchising Centre

Lorna Smith - HSBC Group

Anthony Scicluna - Cafe Jubilee

Arthur Gauci - Hard Rock Cafe

Hon. Tonio Fenech

Photos accredited to Domenic Aquilina

Business Delegation to Dublin and London

Tue, 05 Oct 2010 08:26:30 GMT

The Internationalisation Desk would like to remind members of the upcoming business delegation, to London and Dublin. Leaving for Dublin on 21 November and moving on to London 24 November to return to Malta 27 November, this business mission is open to all Maltese companies but the sectors identified as particularly interesting are:

•    Pharmaceutical & Healthcare
•    Life Science
•    Financial & Business Services
•    ICT
•    Education & Training
•    Travel & Tourism
•    Environment & Renewable Energy
•    Food & Beverages

The deadline for applications is 11th October. Members interested in participating are kindly requested to contact Malta Enterprise on info@maltaenterprise.com or Internationalisation Manager Klaus Pedersen at the Malta Chamber on: klaus.pedersen@maltachamber.org.mt

Public Consultation Meeting on Budget 2011

Tue, 05 Oct 2010 08:23:00 GMT

This week, a number of Malta Chamber representatives attended the first public consultation meeting on Budget 2011. These included Deputy President Mr Tancred Tabone, Vice President Mr Stefano Mallia, the Importers and Retailers Economic Group Chairman, Mr Gino Cutajar, and Director General Mr Kevin J. Borg.

During the meeting Minister for Finance, the Economy and Investment, Hon. Tonio Fenech outlined the country’s recent economic performance and drew comparisons with other countries on a number of economic indicators. He also outlined the Government’s broad intentions for the forthcoming budget. He declared the continued focus on sustaining economic growth whilst also reducing the budget deficit (by at least one per cent).

In an intervention, Mr Mallia stated that the Malta Chamber was also in agreement with the need to achieve economic growth. He stated that whilst the economy was showing signs of recovery, this was still a very volatile one – given the international scenario. He stated that the recovery was not yet being translated in profits. This was largely due to a number of realities which are fast catching up on us, such as the increasing costs of energy as well as the increasing competition from other destinations, chiefly China and India. In this regard he commented that whilst Malta has continued to register important FDIs it is also true that there seems to be no formal industrial policy guiding Malta's actions. He commented that a white paper on industrial policy had been written some years back but this however was never really developed into a formal instrument. He suggested that the Government should consider embarking on formalizing an industrial policy that not only caters for today but also gives a glance to the future.

Senior Franchise Manager to participate in Franchise Conference

Mon, 04 Oct 2010 11:50:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2010 10 04: Lorna Smith, Senior Franchise Manager for HSBC will be travelling to Malta to address a conference organised by the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry on October 12th, 2010.

Ms Smith forms part of the UK-based, dedicated franchise unit which HSBC established over 25 years ago. She has held a number of managerial appointments within the Bank from where she has advised many large corporate companies.

Ms Smith is one of the most experienced bankers in the UK franchise sector and has a high profile within the franchise industry. She has presented numerous seminars at franchise exhibitions, British Franchise Association events and conferences, as well as other franchise and business events.

The conference, ‘Franchising your Business Abroad’ is aimed at further uncovering the hidden potential of local entrepreneurs in internationalising their operations through franchise. It also aims to present real case studies to show the processes leading to Maltese entrepreneurs tapping foreign markets either with a home-grown concept (Café Jubilee) or with an international franchise (Hard Rock Café). Participants will also have the opportunity to identify and propose initiatives or concerns related to the maximisation of Maltese franchise potential abroad.

Commenting on the forthcoming conference, Malta Chamber President Mrs Helga Ellul stated “Our Chamber has been aware for some time that local entrepreneurs have a very professional approach in terms of franchise. This must be better exploited for the benefit of business and the country. With the support of HSBC, this seminar shall seek to provide valuable insights as to how similar opportunities can be exploited on a wider scale by the local business community.”

Interested participants may contact Ms Dorianne Bonanno on dorianne.bonanno@maltachamber.org.mt for further details and registration.

The event will be held at The Malta Chamber and is supported by the Commonwealth Secretariat, Malta Enterprise, Playmobil Malta Ltd, GasanMamo Insurance Ltd and Maypole (Holdings) Ltd.

Challenges for the Maltese Labour Market

Thu, 30 Sep 2010 15:40:00 GMT

Professor Emeritus Patricia Leighton, and former Jean Monnet Professor of European Law at the University of Glamorgan, Wales, UK, will tackle both the challenges and the opportunities of current labour market conditions during an information session that will be held at the Malta Chamber. Through the data collected from EU Member States, it is evident that various challenges are being faced by economies, policy-makers and employers alike. Furthermore an aging population, coupled with emerging evidence of unemployment in the younger generations is putting considerable pressure on labour market strategies across the EU. The EU labour markets remain too rigid and protective and policy makers remain lacking in innovation. At the same time, there is evidence that young and well educated people are finding alternative employment strategies.

Prof Leighton’s presentation, in highlighting research data from across the EU and wider, will focus on the following key issues;

What is the current EU policy agenda to address these key issues?
What are the challenges present for Malta and other EU Member states?
What are the challenges and opportunities for Maltese employers and policy makers?

Programme: 7th October 2010, The Exchange Buildings

08.00-08.30	Coffee & Registration
08.30-08.45	Welcome Speech, Ms. Antoinette Caruana, Malta Chamber Business Education Chairperson and Human Resources Manager at Simonds Farsons Cisk plc
08.45-09.45	Challenges and Opportunities for employers even when a cold wind blows through Europe Prof Patricia Leighton, Visiting Professor at Hertfordshire University and Leicester University, UK
09.45-10.15	STMicroelectronics’ Approach to the changing global economic conditions with special reference to its Malta Plant Viability Challenges Dott. Tonio Portughese, Director, ST Malta Board of Directors, and Human Resource and External Relations Director
10.15 - 10.30	Discussion

Members fee: €30 (inc. VAT), Non-Members fee: €42 (inc. VAT)

For further information, and registrations, please contact Ms Dorianne Bonanno on dorianne.bonanno@maltachamber.org.mt

Profiles

Professor Patricia Leighton

Patricia Leighton is Professor Emeritus and former Jean Monnet Professor of European Law at the University of Glamorgan, Wales, UK. She has also been a Visiting Professor at the College of Europe, Bruges for whom she has undertaken a number of EC funded projects and has worked with EU applicant states in the field of employment policy and law. She is a Visiting Professor at Hertfordshire University, UK and Leicester University UK and a Visiting Fellow at Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.

She has undertaken many research projects for international and national governments, including the ILO, the European Commission and UK government departments, the Commonwealth Secretariat, for private sector organisations and professional bodies. Her work has focused on employment law and employment relationships. She has published seventeen books, and contributed many chapters to books, most recently a chapter on Temporary Agency Working and the European Employment Strategy(2009)) and has written many articles, including in the Modern Law Review, The Industrial Law Journal, the Company Lawyer, Personnel Review and The Law Teacher. One of her most recent books is for ButterworthHeinemann on the management of non-employees at work.(Out of the Shadows: Managing Self-employed, Agency and Outsourced Workers (2007) with M Syrett, R. Hecker and P Holland). In 2009 the Second Edition of Effective Recruitment was published(Thorogood Publishing), and in 2010 EU Employment Law: A Practical Guide( Thorogood) She has contributed to several practitioner texts including Employment Law for People Managers. She has also been a consultant and trainer to many professional bodies and individual employers, including the PCG, ApSCo, CIPD, Capita plc and Falconbury Ltd. She is a trustee of Working Families, a leading work-life balance charity and actively supports its work.

Cav. Dott. Tonio Portughese B.A.(Hons)., M.A., OMRI (Italy)

Company Director and Director of HR and External Relations - STMicroelectronics

Tonio Portughese has been associated with business and industry throughout a span of 35 years performing top managerial positions with a vast field experience not only in Malta but also in industrial enterprises in Italy, France, Morocco, Singapore, China and Malaysia focused mainly on the synergies between people performance/ effectiveness and business results as wordlwide coordinator of HR Development Programmes. He also is active in training and development having been one of the founding lecturers of the STUniversity in France, and in Malta shared his extensive international experiences also on the Malta University Council; the Malta Development Corporation (director); the Employment and Training Corporation (Chairman); MIMCOL-Malta Govt Investments (director); MCAST (Governor and Deputy Chairman);PBS Ltd (director); Chairman of the Industrial Tribunal; President of the Malta Employers' Association, and awarded the HR Practitioner of the Year Award by the Foundation of Human Resource Development. He was decorated with the recognition of "Cavaliere dell'Ordine al Merito della Repubblica Italiana"by the President of Italy HE Carlo Azeglio Ciampi and has just published the book entitled "People Engagement for Business Excellence and Social Well-Being" addressing practical field case studies, improvement tools, value-adding processes and best practices through inspirational leadership.

Budget Consultations – Malta Chamber feels that Social Partners are not being taken seriously

Wed, 29 Sep 2010 15:19:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2010 09 29: The Malta Chamber yesterday received a communication stating that pre-budget consultation process at MCESD was being reduced to just two meetings.

The Malta Chamber immediately reacted and has formally expressed its utter dismay to the MCESD Chairman and Minister of Finance. It stated categorically that two meetings were certainly not sufficient and did not do justice to such a matter of key national importance as is the Budget.

The letter signed by the President stated that no serious consultation can occur in two meetings and within such a short time-frame. The Malta Chamber feels that Government is not taking the Social Partners seriously and is thus only paying lip service to social dialogue and consultation. The Malta Chamber appeals to Government to re-think its approach and remedy this unfortunate situation.

“Understanding China” round table conference

Tue, 28 Sep 2010 09:14:00 GMT

Facilitating business and dialogue on China: As China continues its’ relentless drive to become the world’s leading economic power, the importance of the middle kingdom as a commercial partner continues to grow. The Malta Chamber is a partner of “Understanding China”, a new European programme led by EUROCHAMBRES, designed to increase the understanding of China for European businesses, especially small and medium ones. Part of the programme focuses on policy dialogue and comprises a series of high-level conferences and SME round-tables which will allow an active exchange of knowledge, experience and best practices between SMEs, business intermediaries, academia, think tanks and EU policy makers.

To this end, a roundtable on investment is going to be held at the Malta Chamber on Tuesday 5th October 2010, with registration opening at 8:30 and the conference starting at 9:00.

The talks will be guided by Ms. Vanessa Macdonald, and the speakers are:

Biao Wang, owner of Camellia Universal Limited (China Business & Investment Advisors) a leading International Business platform between the West and China consulting with European and American companies on doing business with China, including expanding their business into China. A British Chinese and UK MBA graduate in International Business Studies, Mr. Wang was educated and worked in the commercial world in China before coming to Britain. As an experienced Keynote speaker, Mr. Wang has addressed a wide range of China-related business and culture topics.

Colin Tabone, former Managing Director of W.E.T. Automotive. With extensive experience in establishing and running a business in China, Mr. Tabone will provide a unique insight into the challenges in investing in China, while also having the point of view of a Maltese businessman.

Gaetano Sammut, Senior Trade and Supply Chain Manager at HSBC Malta. Mr. Gaetano will take his starting point in an extensive report recently published by HSBC, examining the challenges and opportunities connected with doing business in China.

The scope of the event is to generate discussion and debate among the participants, the outcome of which will serve as an inspiration to policy makers. A considerable amount of time is therefore dedicated to the ensuing discussion.

Companies and individuals with an interest in the topic of investment in- and from China are invited to Participants are kindly requested to register with: klaus.pedersen@maltachamber.org.mt

For more info: www.understandingchina.eu

Interview with Journalist from Frankfurter Allgemaine

Tue, 28 Sep 2010 09:05:00 GMT

On 15 September, the President of the Malta Chamber, Mrs. Helga Ellul and Director-General, Mr. Kevin J. Borg met Mr Tobias Piller - a correspondent of the influential newspaper the Frankfurter Algemaine.

Mr Piller is resident in Rome from where he covers business issues pertaining to Italy and Malta. During the course of the interview Mrs. Ellul spoke about the role of the Malta Chamber and the investment opportunities that have benefitted both Malta and Germany. Both parties spoke about economic conditions prevailing in both countries, new regulation and the recent development of the tourism industry in Malta.

Ing. Pistorio addresses Malta Chamber Council.

Tue, 28 Sep 2010 09:01:00 GMT

Ing. Pasquale Pistorio - Honorary Chairman of ST Microelectronics - addressed a special Council meeting on Thursday, 23rd September. Ing. Pistorio was in Malta to deliver a key-note speech at a Business Breakfast organised by Leading Talks in cooperation with the Malta Chamber the following day.

Ing. Pistorio delivered an inspirational talk to Council on the challenges of managers in today's world. He spoke about four mega trends that have shaped the world of business in the past decades. Ing Pistorio listed these as : globalisation; time factor and acceleration of processes ; the explosion of Asia and the emergence of social responsibility. Ing. Pistorio talked about his belief in a strong commitment to the environment, the adherence to the social pact and his special interest in bridging the Digital Divide - the imbalances between those nations that have access to information technology and benefit from it and those who do not.

Ing. Pistorio began his career as a salesman for Motorola Italy in 1967 rising through the ranks to become Director of International Marketing based in Phoenix Arizona, Vice Preisent of Motorola Corporation and eventually General Manager of Motorola's Semiconductor Division. In 1980 he returned to Italy as President and Chief Executive Officer of SGS Group.

In the last two decades, Pistorio has championed the cause of Europe's microelectronics industry and his role has not been one of pure theory but has produced concrete and important industrial results.

Throughout his career, Pistorio has also been a staunch advocate of environmental protection. He passionately believes that companies such as ST should continually strive to be at the forefront of the sustainable development movement. This belief is based not only on ethical and social grounds, but also on the more practical need to attract and retain young, talented employees. It also stems from his firm conviction that environmentally friendly companies are more financially competitive.

Upon his retirement as President and CEO of STMicroelectronics in 2005, Pistorio was appointed by the Company’s Managing Board as Honorary Chairman, where he acts as an ambassador of the Company while continuing to make available to ST, as appropriate, his wealth of experience and insight into the semiconductor, electronics, and industrial worlds. Pistorio is Honorary Chairman of the ST Foundation, created by the Corporation to develop, coordinate, and sponsor social projects, including a worldwide computer literacy program. He is also Founder and President of the Pistorio Foundation, a non-profit organization that aims to assist underprivileged children in the field of health, nutrition, and education.

Malta Chamber Invited to Launch of New Grimaldi Vessel

Mon, 27 Sep 2010 13:22:00 GMT

Mrs Helga Ellul was invited to address a special event to commemorate the launch of the Grimaldi Group vessel ''Eurocargo Malta”. The event was held on 23rd September and was further addressed by Mr. Ernest Sullivan – Sullivan Maritime, Managing Director; the Hon. Dr. Austin Gatt – Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Communications; H.E Efisio Luigi Marras – Ambassador of Italy to Malta and Dr Guido Grimaldi – Grimaldi Group Commercial Director.

In her address, Mrs Ellul reminded the gathering on our country’s small and open economy with a severe dependence on sea transport for international trade and even to acquire basic necessities. Consequently, she described the development as a very positive one for the local business community and a sign of the Grimaldi Group’s continued efforts in business development and investment in Malta. She congratulated Grimaldi group on such an investment and thanked the company for its contribution to the Maltese Economy and for its role as a collaborating partner of the Malta Chamber.

Leading Franchise Expert in Malta for Malta Chamber Conference

Thu, 23 Sep 2010 08:58:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2010 09 23

Farrah Rose, a leading Franchise expert of international repute will be travelling to Malta to address a conference organised by the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry on October 12th, 2010.

A Director of The International Franchising Centre, Ms Rose has been active in international franchise management since 1984 and has consulted numerous companies – both multi-national and SMEs – on their international franchise strategies.

The conference, ‘Franchising your Business Abroad’ is aimed at further uncovering the hidden potential of local entrepreneurs in internationalising their operations through franchise. It also aims to present real case studies to show the processes leading to Maltese entrepreneurs tapping foreign markets either with a home-grown concept (Café Jubilee) or with an international franchise (Hard Rock Café). Participants will also have the opportunity to identify and propose initiatives or concerns related to the maximisation of Maltese franchise potential abroad.

This event dedicated to ‘Franchise’, forms part of a joint project being undertaken by the Malta Chamber, together with Malta Enterprise. The project is financed by the Commonwealth Secretariat, UK.

Commenting on the forthcoming conference, Malta Chamber President Mrs Helga Ellul stated “In spite of tight market conditions and fierce competition, this might be the opportune time for local entrepreneurs to expand their business operations abroad. Franchising your systems might be the ideal vehicle to get you there.”

Interested participants may contact Ms Dorianne Bonanno on dorianne.bonanno@maltachamber.org.mt for further details and registration.

The event will be held at The Malta Chamber and is supported by the Commonwealth Secretariat, Malta Enterprise, Playmobil Malta Ltd, GasanMamo Insurance Ltd and Maypole (Holdings) Ltd.

Malta Chamber welcomes exemptions

Wed, 15 Sep 2010 11:36:29 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2010 09 15 The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry welcomes the news that the Authorities have granted the first batch of provisional exemptions for companies from Eco-Contribution. This is of great interest and benefit to its members on behalf of which the Malta Chamber has been persistently following up the issue with the authorities.

With the exemption process in place, competition in the market shall be fairer because, law-abiding companies have previously had to absorb the double cost associated with packaging waste together with Eco-Contribution. These legitimate companies have had to compete with operators which did not abide with their legal commitments. This unfair competition is allowed to take place due to a continuous lack of effective enforcement structures.

The Malta Chamber commends the efforts of the Approving Body in taking a step closer towards processing these provisional exemptions and augurs that these are confirmed at the earliest. Besides, the Malta Chamber expects that the payment of Eco-Contribution refunds - due for past double payments – will also be resolved without further delay. The issue of refunds is long overdue and must be resolved once and for all.

Malta Chamber Lapel Badges

Mon, 13 Sep 2010 11:24:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber has recently issued lapel pins for its members. The sterling silver pins, presented in a black velvet pouch portray the icon found within our organisation’s logo, the wings on the helmet of Mercury (Hermes) – who in Greek mythology represents the messenger of the gods and the patron of commerce.

The icon’s three-tier dimension, also encapsulates the three main pillars within the Malta Chamber: Commerce, Enterprise and Industry and which in turn are represented by the three Economic Groups which are the pillars of our organisation.

These smart lapel pins may be purchased from the Malta Chamber Secretariat, at €15 each. Please contact Ms Johanna Calleja on johanna.calleja@maltachamber.org.mt, to order your lapel pin.

Meeting with DGQ

Mon, 13 Sep 2010 11:18:00 GMT

On 3rd September, Malta Chamber Director General Ing. Ray Muscat and Quality Management Committee Chairman Mr. Emidio Friggieri travelled to Frankfurt, Germany, to meet with officials from DGQ, the German Society for Quality. DGQ is one of the most reputed organizations focused on the promotion of excellence.

Ing. Muscat and Mr Friggieri were welcomed by Dr Wolfgang Kaerkes, General Manager of DGQ, Ms Claudia Welker, CEO of DGQ's Training GmbH and Mr Thomas Votsmeier, Head Personnel Certification Body). Dr. Eric Janssens, Director General of the European Organisation for Quality also attended.

Following initial introductions, Dr Kaerkes explained the structure and evolution of DGQ. DGQ, a non-profit organisation, is a network of corporate and individual members, and which has developed into a number of subsidiaries, namely:

• DGQ Training GmbH - responsible for and organizes courses, seminars and conferences
• DGQ Consulting GmbH - supports businesses , organizations and institutions in all quality- management issues and supports you competently on your way to business excellence

DGQ also has a significant shareholding in DQS, which focuses completely on assessments and certifications of management systems and processes (such as ISO 9001).

Ms Welker and Mr Votsmeier presented the details of the training programmes that they offer, including:
•    Quality Management
•    Six Sigma
•    Environment Management
•    Energy
•    Civil Service Quality Management Training
•    SME-targeted training (such as lean management, risk management for entrepreneurs, etc)
•    and their certification processes.

They also explained their quality management modular and camp training programmes, which are of a very high standard and subject to examinations. During the meeting, possible initiatives for collaboration were identified, such as quality management training.

Valletta Business Community Committee

Mon, 13 Sep 2010 09:21:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE 2010 09 13

The Valletta Business Community Committee has been set up under the auspices of The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry, together with the Republic Street Business Community Association, the Merchants Street Business Community Association and the Valletta Alive Foundation. The main purpose of this Committee is to ensure that access to our Capital City Valletta is not affected during the Valletta regeneration process, by finding adequate alternative means of access, and that the generation of business continues during this difficult period.

It is with great satisfaction to note that over four hundred business outlets and offices have signed the document and the Committee is now eagerly awaiting to meet the authorities to discuss the way forward.

Leading Talks Business Breakfast: Making Economic Growth Greener.

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 11:08:00 GMT

Leading Talks, with the support of the Malta Chamber, is organizing a second business breakfast, on 24th September, with main speaker being Ing. Pasquale Pistorio, Honorary Chairman of ST Microelectronics.

Reserve a seat on info@leadingtalks.com.

For further information please click here.

Malta Galileo Initiatives Information Session

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 11:06:55 GMT

The Malta Communications Authority (MCA) in conjunction with the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry is pleased to invite interested stakeholders to an information session on the progress of the Europe’s global navigation satellite system Galileo and related funding, grants and knowledge-transfer opportunities that should be of great interest to local industry players.

The European Commission has committed in excess of €60 million in the form of grants, direct funds and FP7 funds to the various Galileo initiatives. The MCA is working very closely with the European Commission and other Member States to assist interested stakeholders in this initiative.

The purpose of the information session is to provide high-level information on the Galileo project and outline the various opportunities associated with this European-wide project. In October, a workshop outlining the details and participation levels of the programme will be organised with the participation of the European Commission and the European GNSS Supervisory Authority.

The session will be held at the Malta Chamber on Wednesday, September 15, 2010 from 1400 hours till 1600 hours.

Please RSVP to info@mca.org.mt

Towards a comprehensive European international investment policy

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 09:27:00 GMT

Why is the EU proposing to develop an investment policy?

With the introduction of the Lisbon Treaty, investment policy has become a community competence – meaning that the EU-27 member-states have relinquished this sphere of policy area to the EU institutions. The European Commission is now the main institutional actor responsible for enacting binding legislation on investment liberalisation and investment protection. According to the Commission Communication, the EU will be integrating its investment liberalisation policy as carried out in the various FTA negotiations with investment protection efforts – a policy area that was previously in the domain of member-states’ administrations.

What is the effect on Maltese bilateral investment treaties?

All the existing bilateral investment treaties negotiated by the Maltese Government remain in place and are legally-valid under international law. The EU will seek to establish a harmonised level of investment protection standards as the quality and degree of investment liberalisation and protection varies considerably amongst the bilateral investment treaties negotiated by different member-states. Future EU investment agreements will be based on a shortlist of key elements deemed to constitute the European ‘best practice’ amongst the different bilateral investment treaties in place.

Issues for Maltese Business

The development of the new EU agenda for investment negotiations will affect the way Maltese business investments are safeguarded and protected abroad as well as the way inward investment from non-EU member-states is regulated into the European single market, therefore including the Maltese jurisdiction.

•    Geographical/Market priority
The EU is planning to take forward important investment negotiations with emerging economies and/or countries displaying significant economic growth prospects. In this regard, the EU-India and the EU-Canada negotiations have been earmarked as priority negotiations whereby an investment protection chapter could be included in the overall free trade arrangements.
Which other markets should the EU focus its short to medium term efforts in securing investment protection clauses within the wider ambit of free trade negotiations? Does the Libyan market qualify for priority treatment in the view of local business?

•    Feasibility of Sectoral Agreements?
The EU is proposing that should comprehensive across-the-board investment agreements with a country (or a set of countries) fail, then the option of sectoral agreements could be actively pursued by the Commission.
If sectoral agreements would be pursued, which sectors should be taken up as priority sectors for both investment liberalisation and investment protection on third-country markets?

•    Enforceability of investment protection
The future EU investment policy is meant to be propelled with effective enforcement. It is being proposed that the new EU investment agreements will also include an investor-to-state dispute settlement procedure/mechanism.
How should this international dispute settlement procedure be organised in the case of business complaints with foreign (non-EU) government authorities?

Do you see the case for recourse to arbitration to be financially supported by the EU, particularly in judicially-contentious instances involving smaller businesses?

Comments are to be received back the latest by Friday, 3rd September onto email address: klaus.pedersen@maltachamber.org.mt

Bank of Valletta renews Gold Support Agreement with the Malta Chamber

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 09:47:00 GMT

A three year agreement was signed today between Bank of Valletta and the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry, renewing the Bank’s Gold Partnership with the Malta Chamber. The agreement was signed by Bank of Valletta CEO Mr. Tonio Depasquale and Mrs. Helga Ellul, President of the Malta Chamber.

This latest agreement will formalize co-operation between the Malta Chamber and BoV until 2013 – stretching formal co-operation between the two organizations to a full decade since the first agreement.

The two organizations will continue to work together on a number of initiatives, including the creation of a Corporate Social Responsibility Network amongst local companies. This endeavor will aim to promote CSR with the general public, and to increase awareness of the business sense of CSR. The Network will also aim to provide scope for discussion for continuous improvement. The Malta Chamber and Bank of Valletta will also work together in their pursuit of promoting best practice initiatives amongst SMEs in the following categories:

a)    Environmental Action
b)    Social Responsibility
c)    Cultural Awareness
d)    Support of the Arts

In her address, Mrs Ellul stated that the Malta Chamber is proud to be supported by one of the main players in the island’s economy. “Bank of Valletta has offered tangible support to the Malta Chamber for several years and this support has gone beyond monetary contribution. The local business community has been the major beneficiary of this long history of support and this latest agreement will concentrate on SMES and their valuable contribution to society.”

Speaking during the signing of the agreement, Mr Depasquale said “This new agreement is expected to enhance the already close business ties that exist between the two parties. We view this agreement as being mutually beneficial and we will be seeking to assist each other so as to tap new business opportunities”.

New Drugs included on the National Formulary

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 08:57:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE 2010 08 18: The Health Care Business Section of the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry, welcomes with great pleasure the recent inclusion of eleven new drugs to the Maltese National Formulary.

This is a small step in the right direction after a decade of stagnation and an almost complete freeze on new inclusions. It brings some relief after years of insistence by this Business Section.

The Health Care Business Section augurs that, without further delay, government continues on this track and processes the long list of pending applications, some of which are long overdue. Thereafter, Government should adhere to European norms and process new applications within the defined 180 days timeline.

Only then can Maltese patients benefit from innovative therapies through the National Health Service and enjoy a level of access to new drugs, which is equal to other European citizens.

The Health Care Business Section further augurs that the various outstanding issues effecting this sector are resolved through a continuation of constructive discussions amongst all stakeholders.

Understanding China: Call for Participants

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 09:42:00 GMT

As a partner in the EU-funded programme, Understanding China, The Malta Chamber has planned a round-table event for October 2010. The scope of the event is to inform and inspire Maltese companies about the possibilities of investing in China – not only for sourcing purposes, but also with an eye to penetrating the ever-growing Chinese market. The event will also seek to identify the barriers to investing in China, and the type of assistance required by Maltese companies.

About “Understanding China “ - Sustaining Business and Dialogue

Over the past decades, China’s fast growing economy has emerged as one of the most important markets in the world: the 4th largest world economy, the 3rd biggest exporter and the EU’s 2nd largest trading partners.

To sustain a high level of competitiveness of European SMEs, improving the understanding of new/emerging markets like China is crucial. Through a targeted training programme the programme will therefore create a network of China experts in European business representative organizations.

The general objective of the programme is: to increase the understanding of China for EU businesses and to enhance the policy dialogue on EU-China related issues. The specific objectives of the programme are two-fold:

1. To promote an education programme aimed at China-experts at regional Chambers, as well as all kinds of business intermediary organisations.
2. To organise a series of round table discussions about China.

Members interested in participation may contact Mr Klaus Pedersen on tel: 22032 309 or email: klaus.pedersen@maltachamber.org.mt for further details.

Relevant Documents:

Understanding China leaflet
http://www.maltachamber.org.mt/common/file_provider.aspx?id=634067575022519244

Understanding China Training 2010 Programme
http://www.maltachamber.org.mt/common/file_provider.aspx?id=634067589059499721

Employment Aid Programme Reimbursement Process session

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 09:38:00 GMT

The Employment Aid Programme is a new programme funded through the European Social Fund under Priority Axis 3. It is aimed at Employers employing jobseekers falling under one of seven disadvantaged groups. Through this programme ETC will provide financial assistance to those employers who opt to employ these persons and are eligible as per criteria listed in the Application Guidance Notes.

The financial assistance will be in the form of a generous subsidy for salaries paid to these individuals, as well as in the employer’s contribution to the employee’s National Insurance. This subsidy will be given for a number of weeks, and in the case of companies who employ persons with disability this will be given for three whole years (or till September 2013). In the case of Employers registered in Gozo and employing workers who work in Gozo, the subsidy will be for 52 weeks.

In this regard, the Malta Chamber, together with the ETC will be holding an information session on the EAP on Monday 6th September 2010, at 15.00hrs. The venue will be confirmed closer to the date.

Members fee: €30 (inc. VAT), Non-Members fee: €42 (inc. VAT)

For further information, and registrations, please contact Ms Dorianne Bonanno on dorianne.bonanno@maltachamber.org.mt.

Tribute to President Emeritus Dr. Guido de Marco

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 13:33:59 GMT

The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry would like to express its condolences to the family of President Emeritus Dr. Guido de Marco, and pay tribute to an exceptional statesman. Dr. de Marco was a man with a brilliant mind, strong Christian values and great humanity who worked endlessly for our nation.

Dr. de Marco’s outstanding career in politics and diplomacy, and his commitment to the EU membership cause, right up to Malta achieving membership within the European Union will ensure that he will always be remembered as a key figure in Malta’s history, as an excellent ambassador to our country.

Attention Manufacturers and Importers: CE Marking

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 08:39:00 GMT

CE marking is a key indicator of a product’s compliance with EU legislation and enables the free movement of products within the European market. However, not all products must bear the CE marking. Only those product categories subject to specific directives that provide for the CE marking are required to be marked.

CE marking does not indicated that a product was made in the European Economic Area, but merely states that the product is assessed before being placed on the market and thus satisfies the legislative requirements to be sold there. It is the manufacturer’s responsibility to carry out the conformity assessment, to set up the technical file, to issue the EC declaration of conformity, and to affix CE marking on a product.

If the product is being imported from a third country, the importer has to verify that the manufacturer outside the EU has taken the necessary steps and that the documentation is available on request.

6 Steps to CE Marking for your product

Step 1: Identify the directive(s) and harmonised standards applicable for your product
Step 2: Verify the product-specific requirements
Step 3: Identify whether an independent conformity assessment is required from a Notified body
Step 4: Test the product and check its conformity
Step 5: Draw up and keep available the required technical documentation
Step 6: Affixation of the CE marking to your product and EC Declaration of Conformity.

Further information can be found within this leaflet.

Also, please visit:

www.ec.europa.eu/enterprise/policies/single-market-goods/regulatory-polices-common-rules-for-products/index_en.htm

www.ec.europa.eu/CEmarking

Overdue Exemptions welcomed by Malta Chamber

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 12:40:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2010 08 06: The Malta Chamber welcomes the publication of application forms for Eco-Contribution exemptions.

“The publication of the forms is now expected to pave the way to a smooth exemptions procedure for eligible companies which, in the process, have had to pay their Eco-Contributions despite the existence of a Legal Notice that rendered them exempt because they had been disposing of their packaging waste responsibly and in line with the law,” said Mrs Helga Ellul, Malta Chamber President.

This long overdue step follows relentless representations directly with the authorities and regular contributions in the media not least with recent strongly worded media releases. These public pronouncements were deemed necessary because whilst the legal framework for such exemptions was in place, the necessary forms and remainder of the procedural arrangements were not.

Mrs Ellul explained that, the start of the exemptions process is positive on more than one level. Firstly, it will contribute to better fairness in the market. This is because, bona-fide companies have had to absorb the double cost associated with packaging waste whereas their competitors managed to evade their obligations because there was and is practically no enforcement of the two relevant laws. Besides, being more competitive, eligible companies will also benefit in terms of their cash-flows. On the environment level, this development will give renewed impetus for companies to join a waste packaging scheme – in line with their legal obligations. This in turn, will assist the country in a more efficient disposal of packaging waste through more efficient usage of packaging and better separation at source.

The conclusion of the Eco-Contribution story requires the completion of one final chapter. This relates to the refunds that eligible companies are due for double payments of eco-contribution and waste management scheme charges made in the 2005-2010 period. “The Malta Chamber also expects this issue to now be resolved without delay in order to ensure long overdue justice to companies that operate in full compliance of the law,” Mrs Ellul concluded.

Eco Contribution exemptions published

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 16:32:15 GMT

Following numerous representations with the authorities and in the media, the long overdue application forms for Eco contribution exemptions of packaging waste were published this afternoon. The application form follows the publication of Legal Notices 74 of 2008 and 84 of 2010 which provide the legal basis for these exemptions. Members will find two application forms namely one for individual companies making the declaration and another form for authorised waste recovery schemes.

Members are reminded that exemptions are due on waste packaging and packaging material contemplated by the Eco Contribution Act. Companies qualifying for exemptions are those which adhere to the legal recovery and recycling obligations. Only those products and respective HS codes that fall under the remit of LN 84 of 2010 will be given an exemption. The Legal Notice can be downloaded from the following link:

http://doi.gov.mt/EN/legalnotices/2010/02/LN 84.pdf

For further details and assistance on this matter, you are kindly asked to contact the Chamber's Policy Development Manager, Mr Andre Fenech on andre.fenech@maltachamber.org.mt or on tel. no. 22 032 312

The necessary forms are downloadable from the following links:

Pension Discussion at MEUSAC

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 16:01:00 GMT

A discussion and presentation on the EU Green Paper entitled ‘Towards Adequate, Sustainable and Safe European Pension Systems’ took place during a MEUSAC Core Group meeting held on 30th June, where the Malta Chamber was represented by Mr Kevin J Borg. Minister Dolores Cristina addressed the meeting.

The presentation tackled the role of the EU with respect to pensions in member states, which role is principally aimed at the co-ordinationof national pension systems to ensure mobility in the labour market. The Green Paper specifies that the role of the EU will remain the same . It was confirmed that Government’s initial position is in favour of this stance as this ensured autonomy at the member State level.

During the ensuing discussion Mr Borg stated that the framework should not be a ‘one size fits all’ policy, mainly due to the marked differences between Malta and other EU member states. Indeed, differences existed in the labour market where participation rates are lower than the EU average. As far as the introduction of the second pillar is concerned, he said that due consideration must be given to the propensity of home ownership in Malta, which at over 70 per cent stands significantly higher than the EU average and which has a bearing on the assets portfolio owned by households upon retirement age. In this regard, consideration must also be given to the financial commitments incurred by households prior to retirement.

Committees meet ETC

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 16:00:00 GMT

Last week, members of the Business Education and HR and Social Policy Committees and the Secretariat met with the newly appointed CEO of the Employment and Training Corporation, Mr Claudio Farrugia, together with other representatives from ETC.

During the meeting, Director General Ing. R. Muscat gave an introduction on the Malta Chamber and its role for the CEO’s benefit. After introducing himself Mr Farrugia said that he wished to discuss possible ways of increasing awareness amongst employers about the schemes available at ETC. He also mentioned that during his term, he would like ETC to focus more specifically on employment relations, by improving relationship management. He added that he looked forward to holding similar meetings, where the various difficulties of people who are in industry could be identified.

Additionally, Ing. Muscat emphasised that ETC and the Malta Chamber should work more closely to ensure that the aims mentioned by Mr Farrugia are met.

The Malta Chamber members present were then given the opportunity to raise the issues that were hindering their related training and employment processes. These included issues involving:
•    Quotations
•    Appeals Board
•    Changes in Timetable
•    Tutors Selected
•    Payments
•    Complexity in compiling TAF forms

Members also mentioned that the EAP scheme - Reimbursement form is quite complex in its compilation and hence, an information session will be held on this issue. Further details will be given shortly.

The Malta Chamber representatives commented that to date, a substantial part of the budget is still untapped. Additionally, the members highlighted that failure to advise companies on whether grants will be effectively awarded or otherwise are certainly restraining companies from engaging in further training.

Malta Chamber participates in State Visit to Montenegro

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 10:42:00 GMT

Last week, Malta Chamber President Mrs Helga Ellul formed part of a delegation to Montenegro, led by the President of Malta, Dr. George Abela. Malta Enterprise Executive Chairman Mr Alan Camilleri, Mr Paul Abela and Mr Vince Farrugia (GRTU) and Mr Joseph Farrugia (MEA)also formed part of the delegation.

A highlight of the visit was the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the Malta Chamber, represented by Mrs Ellul, and the Chamber of the Economy of Montenegro, represented by their President, Mr Velimir Mijušković. Through this co-operation agreement, both Chambers have agreed to
co-operate actively with the principal aim of promoting trade, investment and business co-operation opportunities amongst the business communities in the respective countries.

During the Business Forum, participants were addressed by Mr Mijušković, as well as the President of Montenegro, H.E Mr. Filip Vujanović, and H.E Dr. Abela. A number of presentations were made from the Maltese delegation, including Mrs Ellul who gave a two-pronged presentation: on the role of the Malta Chamber, as well as her own experience in Malta as an investor, and the benefits offered by our country. Mr Mladen Perazić, representative of The Chamber of Economy of Montenegro, gave a presentation on the economic potential of Montenegro.

Following these presentations, and a question and answer session, a number of Montenegrin businessmen were given the opportunity to mix with the Maltese institutional delegation and discuss particular issues.

Raising Awareness on Pension Reform

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 08:27:00 GMT

In a recent event organised by PKF Malta on the subject of pensions, Malta Chamber President Mrs Helga Ellul was invited to deliver a presentation on the title of the EU green paper on pensions and the local context.

The seminar entitled EU... urging a pension reform, was meant to raise further awareness on the subject and also discuss the European Commission's Green Paper on pensions which was launched at the beginning of July.

Mrs Ellul, explained that the Malta Chamber has been at the forefront of the pensions discussions for the last two decades and that technical studies had already been carried out during this period. She further noted that no one was present to reinvent the wheel as the majority of these issues were not new and everyone knew what the main problems are. She continued that the country including the business community and the citizens at large needed solutions. Moving to the EU's Green Paper, Mrs Ellul explained that this document sought to find long term solutions for the structural problems which will hinder Europe in the coming decade and its main aims includes ensuring transparency, safeguarding pensions and achieve the right balance between work and retirement

Further to this, Mrs Ellul compared other systems in the EU 27, and also gave the Malta Chamber's main views about the local model also linking the debate at EU level with the national one.

In her concluding remarks Ms Ellul stated that "the country needs changes and we need to act quickly. We need to do it not only for ourselves but for all the generations to come, by delaying structural reforms, we are only doing a disservice to the future well being of this country".

Keynote speakers included Hon. Dr Stephen Spiteri, Parliamentary Assistant at the MInistry of Education, Employment and the Family and Hon. Charles Mangion, PL Shadow Minister for Finance and Economic Affairs. The Hon. Dr. Chris Said, Parliamentary Secretary for Consumers, Fair Competition, Local Councils and Public Dialogue delivered the concluding remarks.

Presentations were also delivered by a number of stakeholders including the Malta Employers Association, General Workers Union, Union Haddiema Maghqudin and the National Association of Pensioners. Experts in the area such as the Chairman of Pensions Working Group, Dr David Spiteri Gingell, Economist Dr Gordon Cordina, and also participated in the discussion.

Assues tackled by the speakers included the current status in Malta following the last reform in 2006, the third pillar provisions and the role of life insurance companies, the possible introduction of the 2nd pillar and its impact on the main stakeholders, the implications of the welfare gap on workers, the situation of public finances and their sustainability and possible solutions through the introduction of the funded pillars and sustainability of the pay-as-you-go (PAYG) system.

The full presentation can be found here.

You may also contact the Malta Chamber's Policy Development Manager, Mr Andre Fenech on e-mail andre.fenech@maltachamber.org.mt

Malta Chamber-MHRA Joint Media Release

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 13:02:00 GMT

2010 07 20 EESC Nominations: The Malta Chamber and the Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association (MHRA) have been following, at the MCESD and in the media, and concerned about the conflicting situation between the Malta Employers’ Association and the General Retailers and Traders Union, which situation has arisen following the Government’s announcement of the nominated representatives for the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC). The two employer bodies feel that of the two nominations, only Mr. Mallia represents the employer group.

The Malta Chamber and MHRA would like to point out that the EESC is made up of three groups which represent the different social partner groupings. As per the official structure of the EESC, the Employers’ Group (Group I), is made up of entrepreneurs and representatives of entrepreneurial associations supporting employers in industry, commerce and services.

Group II refers to the Employees Group which typically is made up of trade unions. On the other hand, Group III refers to Various Interest Groups, which includes among others, small businesses and the crafts sector. In this regard both organisations feel that given the interests represented by the GRTU, it would be well suited for the GRTU to have a representative in Group III.

To this extent, the Malta Chamber and MHRA are of the same view as the MEA and are of the opinion that any GRTU nomination for the EESC should be allocated to Group III. The Malta Chamber and the MHRA are calling on Government to address the situation and ensure that the representatives nominated on the EESC do in fact represent their correct sectorial interests in the correct EESC groupings.

Malta Chamber Summer Event 2010

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 10:28:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber held its Annual Summer Social Event on 15th July, this time at Salini, Tigne Point. The well attended event brought members and staff together for an informal networking opportunity, in a relaxed atmosphere.

14 October 2010: European Parliament of Enterprises

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 10:17:00 GMT

751 businesses take over the European Parliament: Following the success of the first edition in 2008, a second edition of the “European Parliament of Enterprises” (EPE) will take place on 14 October.

751 entrepreneurs of all sizes and sectors and coming from the 27 EU Member States will meet at the European Parliament to debate and vote on specific business-related issues. 24 entrepreneurs from 18 non-EU countries will also attend as observers.

Participants will have their say on crucial topics currently debated at EU level, and by which they are directly affected.
Topics will be treated in three different sessions and include:

Session 1 – Conditions: the economic crisis, the EU’s SME policy, the digital agenda, collective redress and consumer rights.
Session 2 – Resources: late payments, education, labour market, environment and energy issues.
Session 3 – Markets: company law, international relations, trade agreements, market access.

European Parliament and European Commission representatives will be present in each session to react to companies’ votes.

Stefano Mallia, Malta Chamber Vice President said: “This event will give entrepreneurs the opportunity to make their concerns heard, especially at a time where many subjects directly affecting the business community are being discussed at European level. For this reason the Malta Chamber will be sending a high level delegation to this event.”

Institutional representatives having already confirmed their participation in the event include: Herman VAN ROMPUY, President of the European Council, MEP Wolf KLINZ, Chairman of the Special Committee on the Financial, Economic and Social Crisis, MEP Herbert REUL, Chairman of the Committee on Industry, Research and Energy, MEP Malcolm HARBOUR, Member of the European Parliament and the Chairman of the Committee on Internal Market and Consumer Protection, Antonio TAJANI, Vice President of the European Commission in charge of Industry and Entrepreneurship and Karel De GUHT, EU Commissioner in charge of Trade.

The European Parliament of Enterprises is organised by EUROCHAMBRES, the Association of European Chambers of Commerce and Industry, in cooperation with its network of National Chambers.

The detailed programme of the EPE can be downloaded from www.eurochambres.eu/content/default.asp?PageID=1&DocID=2565

Gateway to the Indian Market

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 09:42:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber Internationalisation Desk would like to raise its member’s awareness on the EBTC’s Upcoming Flagship Missions to India. EBTC is a project co-financed by the European Commission and established by Eurochambres.

New Delhi will host the Transport Mission to India on 14th - 17th September 2010. It is aimed for successful automotive, aviation or ITS companies in any of the twenty-seven member states of the European Union interested in conducting business with India. This event will surely unveil opportunities to enter one of the world’s fastest growing environmental markets.

Additionally, on the 6th to 9th October, the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) is organizing the Green Business Conference 2010, an Environment Mission in Chennai India, with scheduled one-to-one business meetings with pre-screened distributors, marketers, agents and licensees. Participants will have the opportunity of various networking events with Governments officials and top players with Indian market top-players.

Members interested to participate in the above mentioned business opportunities are advised to contact the Malta Chamber Internationalisation Desk on 21 233 873 or email: klaus.pedersen@maltachamber.org.mt

Malta Chamber Best Future Potential Award at Young Enterprise

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 09:18:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber has over the years been an active supporter of the Young Enterprise Programme. This year, the Malta Chamber has created its own award entitled “Best Future Potential Award”. The Malta Chamber has always endorsed such initiatives that encourage and promote entrepreneurship with a professional approach by students and young people.

The Malta Chamber set up an adjudicating panel made up of Mr. Alex Aquilina, Mr. Julian J. Mamo and Mr. Joshua Zammit, who interviewed the 11 teams (a total of 90 students participating) at their stands during an exhibition held on the 7th July at the Hilton Malta. The judges and the Malta Chamber Secretariat developed the criteria for the “Best Future Potential Award”, hence assessing the young achievers on the following:

•    Strategic Vision;
•    Operational Vision;
•    Sustainability;
•    Commercial Viability & Market Potential;
•    Uniqueness, Innovativeness and Product Creativity.

Mr Tancred Tabone, Malta Chamber Deputy President awarded the team ‘Rewined’ during the ceremony which took place on 8th July at the Hilton Malta. Rewined’s product is a re-cycled glass bottle flattened under very high temperatures, which can be used as a platter, spoon rest, or a decorative ornament. The team also won the main award, the ‘HSBC Company of the Year’, and will now represent Malta during the finals which will be held in Cagliari further on in July.

Further information on the winning team may be found on www.rewinedmalta.com , while information on the Junior Achievement – Young Enterprise Malta Programme may be found on www.youngenterprise.org.mt For any further details, kindly contact Ms Jeanelle Catania on jeanelle.catania@maltachamber.org.mt.

Malta Chamber announces EOQ membership

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 16:02:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2010 07 09: Today the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry proudly announced that it will be representing Malta within a prestigious organisation, the European Organisation for Quality.

“With a firm belief in the importance of quality and quality management, the Malta Chamber is proud to be associated with the leading promoter of quality, as well as extending our European Network through this membership,” said Helga Ellul, Malta Chamber President.

Mrs Ellul added that through membership with the EOQ, the Malta Chamber is striving to be a role model for the business community, as well as constantly to enhance its value added services to members. “We are committed to vigorously promoting the practice of quality amongst the business community as a precursor to enhance competitiveness on an enterprise level that will translate itself at the national level.”

In the coming months, the Malta Chamber aims to extend our membership further, through involvement in training programmes, of which the Malta Chamber will then be certified as a training provider in areas of quality management.

Mrs Ellul thanked the members of the Quality Management Committee, led by Chairman Mr Emidio Friggieri, for their contribution and effort. Besides their feedback on the Quality Manual and the ISO process, the Committee work to create interesting initiatives for the benefit of members. “Commitment to Quality is not just about the large companies, but also the SMEs, whom we both represent. Quality should be promoted across the board, regardless of sector or size, thus Government’s dedication to quality and high standards is of utmost importance,” she concluded.

The launch was attended by Dr Jason Azzopardi, Parliamentary Secretary for Small Business and Land, who stated that the Malta Chamber’s affiliation with the EOQ, is a benefit for all small businesses, as this will connect them like never before to their European counterparts. “In today’s competitive markets, Quality Management is becoming more and more central to the survival of any enterprise. It can be the catalyst that gives our small businesses the cutting edge over their competitors. Quality is what creates a repeat clientele."

Maltese-Tunisian Business Council - call for participants

Mon, 05 Jul 2010 15:57:00 GMT

Tunisia is a ten million strong market, very close to Malta and with strong historical, cultural and linguistic ties to Malta. It is therefore surprising to note that this market remains largely untapped by the majority of Maltese businesses interested in internationalising. Tunisia is particularly interesting, because it is a politically stable and very open economy which has recently reduced import duties and tariffs to zero on nearly all products originating in the EU. Furthermore, it offers business opportunities thanks to its' low cost of labour and certain raw materials.

During the recent visit of a Maltese business delegation, the Malta Chamber signed an agreement with the Tunisian business organisation UTICA to set up a Maltese-Tunisian Business Council. Consequently, the Internationalisation Desk is calling on members interested in doing business with Tunisia, to join in the formation of the Maltese side of this Business Council. The scope of this business council, which would formally be organised as a horizontal committee within the Malta Chamber, is to bring together Malta-based businesses and businessmen, with an interest in doing business with Tunisia in a network under the auspices of the Malta Chamber, with the purpose of promoting business between Malta and Tunisia.

Members interested in forming part of this group would be invited to an initial meeting to learn more about the initiative. At the same time, our Tunisian counterparts, UTICA, will form a similar grouping in Tunisia, and together, these two business councils will form a common entity, which will meet on a regular basis to organise events, trade fair participation, business delegations etc. in order to promote trade, investment and other business-related exchanges between the two countries.

Members interested in forming part of such a business council are kindly requested to contact Internationalisation Manager Klaus Pedersen at: klaus.pedersen@maltachamber.org.mt, in order to be invited for a non-binding founding meeting of this Business Council.

From the Customs Department: Presentation of the T2L certificate

Mon, 05 Jul 2010 15:50:43 GMT

As from the 1st of July, only original copies of the T2L (proof of European Community status) form are to be retained by the trader. However, for goods in free circulation not to be withheld by Customs, simply because the clearing agent/trader is not in possession of the original T2L, the Gate Pass may still be issued when a copy of the T2L document is presented to the Verification Unit. In such instances a trader or clearing agent will need to hand in the original copy within a reasonable time from issue of Gate Pass. Printouts of Electronic T2L as issued by the Customs authorities of certain EU Member States will also be accepted as an original document.

The T2L is in fact the Single Administrative Document (SAD), a form which is used throughout the European Community and EFTA countries for the control of imports, exports and goods in transit. In its turn the SAD has its legal basis in Commission Regulation (EEC) No 2454/93 of 2 July 1993 laying down provisions for the implementation of Council Regulation (EEC) No 2913/92 establishing the Community Customs Code.

For further information you are kindly asked to contact Mr Andre Fenech, Policy Development Manager on e-mail address andre.fenech@maltachamber.org.mt or on tel.no. 21 233 873

Quality Management in a Post-Recession Scenario: Achieving Recovery

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 11:21:00 GMT

Without question, the international economic crisis has had a huge impact on business, changing its’ very nature, and forcing the business community to adapt to an unforeseen situation. In this post-recession scenario, focusing on quality management has become more important than ever before.

In this regard, the Malta Chamber Quality Management Committee is organising a Quailty Management Seminar on 9th July 2010 at 13:00-16:00hrs, at The Exchange Buildings. Dr. Eric Janssens, Director General of the European Organisation for Quality, has kindly accepted to be keynote speaker.

For the programme and Dr. Janssens' Profile, please refer to: http://www.maltachamber.org.mt/common/file_provider.aspx?id=634127948082318750

Europe 2020 A European Strategy for Growth Challenges and opportunities for Malta

Fri, 25 Jun 2010 12:17:00 GMT

Following two years of economic crisis, the aim of the new Europe 2020 strategy is to set the necessary objectives that will enable the European Union to come out stronger following the recovery, and move towards a smart, sustainable and inclusive economy, delivering high levels of employment, productivity and social cohesion.

The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry, the Malta-EU Steering and Action Committee (MEUSAC) and the European Commission Representation in Malta organized a half day conference on Saturday 3rd July 2010 at the Grand Hotel Excelsior in Floriana.

The conference, Europe 2020 - A European Strategy for Growth: Challenges and Opportunities for Malta, gave a local perspective to this Europe-wide strategy, by bringing government, the business community and other stakeholders together to discuss the way forward towards achieving the goals of Europe 2020. The two keynote speakers who addressed the Conference were the Prime Minister, Dr. Lawrence Gonzi, and Mr. John Dalli, European Commissioner for Health and Consumer Policy.

For the programme, please click here.

Presentations and Speeches:

G20 Chambers: effective coordination and resisting protectionism are key

Fri, 25 Jun 2010 11:30:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2010 06 25: In a common declaration issued ahead of the G20 Summit in Toronto, the C20 Group – representing EUROCHAMBRES and other Chambers of Commerce from the G20 countries* – calls on G20 governments to adopt decisive policy measures to prevent the recurrence of a global economic crisis, and support the multilateral trading system by resisting all forms of protectionism.

“The Malta Chamber also believes that effective co-ordination and sound structural reforms are the way forward for Europe to continue its recovery, as most importantly, to safeguard jobs and enhance growth and further business development. Now is the time to act with urgency, to avoid a similar situation in the future,” said Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry President, Helga Ellul.

G20 Chambers focus on six areas:

Deliver the framework for a strong, sustainable economic growth: Sound structural reforms must be put in place to correct the weaknesses that led to global recession. Efforts to enable businesses to deliver private sector-led growth in the framework of the Global Plan for Reform and Recovery adopted at the London Summit are crucial.

Sound public finances: Governments must ensure sustained economic growth while putting a break on public debt. Coordinated exit strategies from extraordinary fiscal measures need to be implemented to restore fiscal discipline, preserve global growth and stability, and stimulate greater investment and participation in the labour market.

Strengthen the financial sector: Each country’s financial system regulation must focus on ensuring business financing. Chambers believe that instruments such as international financial transaction taxes or levies should not be implemented. An international financial transaction tax or bank levy is not the appropriate regulatory tool for addressing the essential systemic issues of capital and liquidity.

Conclude the WTO Doha Round and dismantle trade barriers: Political energy at the highest level is vital to bridge remaining differences in the negotiations and ensure that any final Doha Round agreement creates new trade flows, reduces costs of doing business across borders and assures increased stability for companies. Equally, governments must resist the introduction of further protectionist measures and remove any adopted during the recession, including those found in stimulus initiatives.

Protect foreign investment: Governments must refrain from raising barriers or imposing new barriers to both outward and inbound investment.

Effective protection of intellectual property (IP) rights: Chambers identify close coordination in the fight against illicit trade practices, such as counterfeiting, trade-marks and copyrights’ infringement and piracy as being of utmost importance.

* The Declaration was endorsed by Chambers from the following countries: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, EU, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, Turkey, the U.K. and the U.S.

Malta Chamber signs agreement with UTICA

Wed, 23 Jun 2010 10:41:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber has signed an agreement with the Tunisian Union of Industry, and the Tunisian Employers Association for Industry, Commerce and Handicrafts (UTICA). The agreement was signed by Mr Michael Farrugia, member of the Malta Chamber Internationalisation Committee, and UTICA Deputy Chairwoman, Mrs. Zohra Idriss, during a visit by a business mission to Tunisia, organized by Malta Enterprise and supported by the Malta Chamber.

The agreement aims to boost and diversify economic exchanges and develop complementarities between Tunisia and Malta. The agreement also aims to set up two business councils. The Maltese-Tunisian Business Council will be organised in Malta under the auspices of the Malta Chamber and seek to organise Malta-based businessmen who are interested in working and networking to promote business between Malta and Tunisia. Simultaneously, UTICA will set up a Tunisian-Maltese Business Council in Tunisia. These two groupings will work co-ordinate their efforts to promote business between the two countries by organizing common events and promote networking activities among members.

The Malta Chamber’s Internationalisation activities are supported by HSBC, Bank of Valletta, CreditInfo Malta and Regus Malta.

Malta Chamber supports Judicial Protest initiated by group of businesses over Government inaction

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 13:02:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE 2010 06 22: Further to its Media Release dated 15th June 2010 on its frustration at Government's inability to implement a Legal Notice published last February, The Malta Chamber is supporting a group of its members who, in their own right, have decided to file a Judicial Protest against Government on the same matter.

The Malta Chamber has, in fact, been informed that 40 companies, the majority of which are Malta Chamber members, have filed a Judicial Protest after being compelled to submit the necessary Eco-Contribution declarations together with payment when, in effect, this Eco-Contribution was not due by virtue of LN 84/2010.

In fact, the LN states that “no eco-contribution shall be payable by a producer in an exemption period”….provided that the “producer (who) participates in an approved waste recovery scheme”.

In their Judicial Protest, The Malta Chamber members are claiming that the relevant Legal Notice states that “An application for an exemption from Eco-Contribution due on products may be made on a form issued by the Approving Body.”

But for reasons unknown to The Malta Chamber – or its members - the mechanism by which producers may apply for an exemption has still not been put into place – including the prescribed forms. This fact is hindering businesses from exercising the right given to them at law.

As previously stated, Government can no longer tell the law-abiding business community to wait for the exemption that is rightfully theirs at law and meanwhile expect them to incur additional and unnecessary costs.

In the interest of fairness, therefore, the Malta Chamber insists that the LN 84/2010 is implemented forthwith and in its entirety.

Further Relations with China

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 08:55:00 GMT

Early last week, the Malta Chamber hosted a delegation from China. The delegation, which consisted of representatives of CCPIT - The China Council for the Promotion of International Trade - as well as representatives of Economic Development Zones and a large manufacturer, met with the Malta Chamber President Mrs. Helga Ellul, Director General Ing. Ray Muscat and Internationalisation Manager Mr. Klaus Pedersen.

Accompanying the delegation was the First Secretary of the Chinese Economic and Commercial Office in Malta, Mr. Wang Yang, as well as Mr. Paul Borg Cardona, Malta Enterprise's newly appointed regional leader for China.

Having met with CCPIT during her recent visit to China, the President already had a good understanding about CCPIT's activities. Mrs. Ellul therefore devoted much of the meeting to explaining the activities of the Malta Chamber and the many possibilities for collaboration between China and Malta. Mr. Dong Songgen, the Vice Chairman of CCPIT thanked the Malta Chamber for receiving the delegation and also talked about the many possibilities for collaboration between China and Malta, before introducing some other delegates, including Mr. Cheng Ming of Ningbo Veken, a large company engaged in textiles and renewables, Mr. Yan Kai of the China National Textile and Apparel Council, Mr. Chenyang of the Shaghai Putong Sub-council and Mr. Jianning of the Changzhou Zhonglou Economic Development Zone.

Mr. Pedersen invited a representative of CCPIT to attend the conference which the Malta Chamber will be hosting later this year under the Understanding China programme. Ing. Muscat elaborated on the workings of the Malta Chamber and underlined the sectors in which there is scope for collaboration between Malta and China.

Delegation from Yiwu, China

Internationalisation Manager Klaus Pedersen also attended a meeting with a delegation from the city of Yiwu in China. Held on 17th June, the delegation was visiting Malta as part of an official visit which also takes them to Spain. The delegation, which was led by the Vice-Mayor of Yiwu, Mr. Jinfu Ji, were welcomed by the Chairman of Malta Enterprise, Alan Camilleri, several executives from Malta Enterprise, representatives from GRTU, as well as the Economic and Commercial Counsellor to the Chinese Embassy in Malta, Mr. Lio Meikun and Counsellor Fu Zhimin.

Following presentations on Yiwu and Malta Enterprise, an interesting dialogue about the business opportunities that exist between Malta and Yiwu ensued.

Located almost equidistant from manufacturing centres such as Hangzhou, Shanghai and Ningbo, Yiwu has managed to make itself a centre for trade of goods in the region. With its' 1.2 million inhabitants, Yiwu is not a large city by Chinese standards, but it nevertheless commands a central role in the trade of finished goods in and out of China. This is largely thanks to the Yiwu Commodities Exhibition Centre - this giant wholesale market covering 4 million sq. meters has 62,000 booths and holds products from more than 100,000 manufacturers worldwide and it is in effect a giant wholesale shopping centre, where buyers can visit suppliers, make orders, and have goods shipped - loose or in consolidated containers - around the world.

Members interested in learning more about Yiwu in general or the Yiwu international Commodities Exhibition Centre are invited to contact Klaus Pedersen on klaus.pedersen@maltachamber.org.mt.

Proposed change in tariffs

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 08:45:04 GMT

Transport Malta has just informed the Malta Chamber that, earlier last week, the EU Commission proposed changes to the current Eurovignette Directive on the charging of heavy goods vehicles for the use of certain infrastructures. These proposals are being made in line with Directive 1999/62/EC which obliges the Commission to update and clarify Annexes I and II of the Directive in the light of inflation.

In summary the Commission’s draft Directive makes the following proposals:

an increase in the minimum rates of tax to be applied to vehicles through annual circulation taxes, by an average of 21.2%;
an increase in maxima in the table in Annex 2 by 8.3%
an increase in the maximum daily rate from €11 to €12.

The changes come into effect as soon as the Decision is published in the Official Journal and the draft leaves open the date by which Member States would be required to transpose.

Malta and the other EU member states are scheduled to hold a discussion on these proposals on the 29 June 2010 – the countries may even have to vote on the matter by the said date.

Malta Transport is therefore inviting comments and / or suggestions by not later than Thursday 24 June 2010. Submissions are to be made to Alexandra Ellul, Assistant Manager, Transport Malta, European Policy and Projects Unit, Transport Strategy Directorate, Sa Maison Road, Floriana FRN 1612 (E-mail alexandra.ellul@transport.gov.mt Fax 21255740).

Members who wish to receive copies by e-mail of all the documentation provided by Malta Transport are to send their request to the Malta Chamber Secretariat. Furthermore, Members who make any submissions to Transport Malta are kindly requested to copy the Malta Chamber (E-mail john.scicluna@maltachamber.org.mt)

Facilitating the process for multiple visas for Libya

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 08:35:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber has been requested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Libyan Authorities to draw up a of list persons who travel frequently to Libya on business. This will facilitate the process of securing multiple entry visas to the country for those persons included in the list.

The list shall be submitted to the Libyan authorities via the Maltese Government.

Members wishing to include their names - and those of their employees – on the said list are kindly requested to call at the Malta Chamber with their passports and a declaration from a Chamber member confirming that they are in their employment. Only persons who are covered by this declaration and who have clearly travelled to Libya in the last 12 months can be included on the list.

This list shall be submitted to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Thursday, 1st July 2010. Only those persons who have applied prior to this date can be included. The next list will be submitted in January 2011.

Please contact Johanna Calleja on tel: 2203 2319 or email: johanna.calleja@maltachamber.org.mt should you require any clarification.

The Malta Chamber’s office hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Government is Paralysed

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 12:47:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE 2010 06 15:

The Malta Chamber is exasperated by Government's inability to implement the Legal Notice published in 2005 by this same government concerning Eco-Contributions.

The Eco-contribution has been a constantly mishandled matter ever since it was introduced.

The Malta Chamber is disappointed that after numerous meetings with the Minister of Finance, the Economy and Investment, and even with the Prime Minister, the pending issues remain unresolved. The Malta Chamber is left with no choice but to conclude that this Government is paralysed and is not able to implement its own laws.

After five years of delay, a Legal Notice to regulate the issuing of Exemptions from Eco-Contribution was published on 16th February 2010.

But Government has been found lacking in its preparedness to implement this Legal Notice because it was published without the backing of complementary regulation and yet, another deadline for payment of the eco-contribution by companies fell today (15/06).

Since last February, eligible companies are not able to benefit from such Exemptions because the necessary administrative arrangements have still not been put into place. The application process to qualify for Exemptions has as yet not been communicated except the recent setting up of an Approving Body.

This is totally unacceptable.

Government can no longer tell the law-abiding business community to wait for the exemption that is rightfully theirs at law.

This is costing dearly to the companies in question, the economy and the environment.

In the process, until it is convenient for Government to implement the law and bring its house in order, legitimate companies have to incur extra costs and double payments of Eco-Contribution plus the relevant expenses to participate in private waste management schemes which participation is required by law.

Government can no longer expect law-abiding businesses to operate and compete whilst incuring and paying these double costs.

Out of fairness to law-abiding companies, the Malta Chamber insists that the law that has been published is implemented forthwith and in its entirety.

If the Government has no interest in implementing its own laws then it should inform the business community immediately so that each company can take the appropriate actions within the parameters of the law.

BUSINESSEUROPE Madrid Declaration: Lasting Growth will only be achieved with greater stabilit

Mon, 14 Jun 2010 14:07:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 14 June 2010

“Europe is at a crossroads and has a simple choice to confront: reform or decline. No matter how difficult, reforms have to be taken. We believe that businesses are not the problem, they are the solution.”

Helga Ellul, President, Malta Chamber

On 11th June, the Council of Presidents of BUSINESSEUROPE, during which the Malta Chamber was present, agreed on a Declaration on economic recovery, growth strategy, global competitiveness, fiscal discipline and euro governance. It urged the leaders of EU countries meeting in Brussels this week to set the right course of action and instill a sense of urgency to reinforce European integration.

According to BUSINESSEUROPE, recovery is still consolidating despite growing uncertainty. BUSINESSEUROPE predicts growth in the EU to average 1.1% this year and 1.6% in 2011. This should allow the unemployment rate in the EU to stabilise in the coming months and job creation to resume in the course of destabilising force.

Discipline and growth must also go hand in hand. The escalating sovereign debt crisis has heightened uncertainty and is having far-reaching consequences for companies’ investment decisions across Europe. To restore trust and avoid leaving an unbearable burden for future generations, many European governments have to prescribe a hard but necessary medicine.

BUSINESSEUROPE strongly believes that successful fiscal consolidations will rest on expenditure cuts and a reprioritisation of government policies. The only way to alleviate the short-term costs of austerity measures will be to embed them in an ambitious growth agenda for Europe, stimulating the adaptability of companies, supporting the employability of people and ensuring the long-term viability of our social systems.

Global competitiveness is key to get Europe out of the crisis. BUSINESSEUROPE’S “Go for Growth” plea is quite clear: reform markets and institutions to unleash companies’ potential, and let them drive Europe of out its current economic difficulties.

Key ingredients for success include better framework conditions for innovation and entrepreneurship, greater access to global markets and finance for companies, implementation of EU flexicurity principles, and an ambitious EU industrial policy.

At a time when companies are gearing up for the recovery, international competitiveness must be the overarching priority. This must apply to all policy areas including the EU’s climate mitigation strategy and financial market reform agenda, where a unilateral approach must be avoided.

The euro is a fundamental pillar of European integration and has brought great benefits to companies and citizens across our continent. BUSINESSEUROPE believes that the euro requires solidarity and cohesion between countries sharing it as a currency. For countries sharing the single currency, BUSINESSEUROPE recommends:

Earlier debates in the eurogroup on national budget orientations, a broader surveillance of economic policies and forceful actions to prevent imbalances from developing in the first place
A system of gradual penalties and sanctions to deter repeated indiscipline.
A transposition of debt and deficit rules into national law and reforms of regional and local fiscal institutions.

In the medium term, BUSINESSEUROPE also believes that the euro area should be equipped with a more permanent crisis resolution system. This should notably include a mechanism that allows for public debt restructuring and orderly default in last-resort situations. These decisions should ensure that financial stability be secured while preserving the full independence of the European Central Bank.

Malta Chamber Clarifies “One Tender Per Tenderer” Instruction

Mon, 14 Jun 2010 10:43:45 GMT

The Malta Chamber clarified with the Director General of the Contracts Department that companies may submit as many tenders as they wished for any one tender so long as they were on separate forms. At one stage, the Department had communicated in a public meeting that companies could only submit a single tender. This suggestion had raised numerous objections by members resulting in the Chamber seeking an urgent meeting with the Department to discuss.

In fact, this clarification was made during a meeting with the Director General where the Malta Chamber made its representations on this and other new Tender Conditions introduced by the Department of Contracts in May and June this year. For the purposes of these representations, the Chamber sounded out all its Business Sections.
The meeting was held on 4th June and the Malta Chamber was represented at this meeting by President, Helga Ellul; Deputy President Tancred Tabone; and Director General, Kevin J. Borg.

At this meeting the Malta Chamber also brought up other members’ concerns related to the constant submission of samples and financial statements; lack of procurement outlook by the public sector for suppliers (except in the case of MITA); and the practice of issuing Calls for Information in which tenderers are invited to give a price for one unit (Quantity 1). In this process, the authorities then bind suppliers for any quantities. The Malta Chamber insisted that this practice was flawed and called for the contracting authorities to provide clear definitions as to what a tenderer was being bound to, particularly in terms of quantities and timeframes.

Malta Chamber Position on latest Economic Growth Figures

Fri, 11 Jun 2010 14:11:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE 2010 06 11: The Malta Chamber is encouraged by the economic growth figures for the first quarter of the year, as released earlier this week by the National Statistics Office. The latest results, in fact, show a real GDP growth rate of 3.4 per cent, following steadily from a 1.3 per cent increase registered in the previous quarter (Q4 2009).

Whilst interpreting it as generally positive, the Malta Chamber cautiously places this result into perspective. After all, it refers solely to the first quarter and whether this trend is to be sustained in subsequent quarters is still largely unclear.

The country must remain focused to ensure it continues to outpace other European Member States in terms of economic expansion figures. This requires a concerted and extraordinary effort because the odds are certainly not in our favour due to two main factors. The first is Malta’s small and open economy. Secondly, our economic partners are still in turmoil and austerity measures are being announced with an almost daily frequency from one country to the next. As we have seen in recent months, the economic performance of our fellow EU members is bound to affect our economy. In other words, our fortunes are closely linked to those of our trading partners.

The Malta Chamber is committed to the cause and is contributing towards assisting the country to gain from this volatile international situation and profit from austerity. It is actively seeking to assist its members to consolidate their competitive position and also to penetrate new international markets. It is committed to support the authorities in the implementation of Vision 2015 which seeks to ensure a strong economic base for the country to face the significant challenges of the years to come.

Information Meeting on Pensions Reform

Tue, 08 Jun 2010 12:02:00 GMT

As established by the reforms to the SSA carried out in November 2007, the Government is to present to Parliament a Strategic Review on Pensions Framework. The Ministry for Social Policy, now under the stewardship of the Ministry for Education, Employment and Family has initiated work on the strategic review.

The team working on this review is holding a broad consultation process with constituted bodies and stakeholders to obtain their views on:

How the reforms introduced in 2007 are perceived to be working;
What further reforms are to be considered for recommendation in this strategic review

In this regard, the Malta Chamber will be holding an information meeting on the subject, with a presentation by Mr David Spiteri Gingell, the Chairman of the Pensions Working Group. This meeting will give the opportunity for the team to share key elements of the work carried out to date on the reform, and the decisions that need to be taken to continue to strengthen the Maltese Pension system for the future.

The meeting will be held on Wednesday 16th June from 15:00-16:00 at the Exchange Buildings. Members may attend free of charge, Non-Members are required to pay a fee of 25euro inc. VAT.

In order to register please contact Ms Dorianne Bonanno on 21 233 873 or dorianne.bonanno@maltachamber.org.mt.

Incorrect interpretation of study on medicine prices in Malta

Fri, 04 Jun 2010 11:26:00 GMT

2010 06 04: A media statement by the HealthCare Business Section with the Malta Chamber

Reference is made to the editorial carried in the Times on 1st June and the article entitled “Government may import medicines” which appeared in the Sunday Times on 30th May.

In its editorial, the Times quotes a statement made by Dr. John Attard-Montalto. Dr. Attard-Montalto had said that Maltese consumers were paying 40% more than the EU average on drugs across the board. There is a significant difference in what the study concludes and what was quoted in the Times editorial. Whereas according to the Government study around 40% of drugs on the market were more expensive than the EU average. The report does not stipulate how much more expensive.   It is clear that the Times did not verify the figures.

The Government study referred to in the editorial does not appear to be comprehensive, at least in so far as in the manner the findings are reproduced. In comparing local prices to European average prices, the Government study does not seem to take into account the many factors that influence prices of medicines on a particular market:

(1)    The European average price may be influenced by subsidies/reimbursements pertaining to the particular national health system prevailing in many countries;

(2)    The Maltese price is influenced by economies of scale. This is not merely a question of mathematical proportions such as in the case of freight costs.

Furthermore, in all EU states, innovative drugs are included for reimbursement/ formulary, whenever the drug is deemed to be an advance in treatment of a particular ailment. In many instances, there is negotiation of prices of “legacy” or older products, whenever newer products are introduced.

However, in Malta, there has been an almost total freeze for new products on the formulary, for the best part of 10 years, with the exception of some cancer drugs just before the last elections. It is to be noted that the Government Formulary List Advisory Committee, should give an opinion on whether a drug is to be included on the formulary within 180 days. In the past days replies are being received for applications made in 2007 / 2008. The reason for this delay “being due to lack of resources to review the dossiers.”

Indeed, Malta falls well behind the European barometer in the introduction of innovative drugs on its formulary. The HealthCare Business Section of the Malta Chamber is hopeful that in the foreseeable future Malta catches up in this regard and pharma companies will also play their part in reviewing prices of older/legacy products.

This notwithstanding, market forces continue to work well in Malta as evidenced by tight competition amongst various importers and distributors of medicines. The Healthcare Business Section is convinced that Government’s direct involvement in:

(1) the importation of medicines and
(2) the setting of prices, would be to the detriment of the national interest in more ways than one.

One needs only to refer to this week’s experience of Danish pharmaceutical companies deciding to withdraw from the Greek market after the Greek government decision to cut prices of medicines by 25% to arrive at this conclusion. Since Greek prices are used as reference points in a number of EU countries the pharmaceutical companies’ risk that prices in these other EU countries will also be subject to severe reductions.

Were companies to opt out of the local market, this would have a double detrimental effect in Malta as in the local case the country would risk losing employment opportunities in Malta’s emerging pharmaceutical sector as well as the risk the access to innovative drugs.

The HealthCare Business Section of the Malta Chamber is in favour of the fair pricing of medicines. In fact, it was at its suggestion and initiative that the Price Monitoring Board was set up. It is satisfied to note that this Board is now functioning properly with the full support of the Business Section and other stakeholders.

Malta Chamber participation in Business Transfer Project

Wed, 02 Jun 2010 11:02:38 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 2 June 2010: Between January 2007 and August 2009, the Malta Chamber participated in “A Helping Hand for SMEs – Mentoring Business Transfer”, a project financed by the European Commission and coordinated by EUROCHAMBRES. The results of the project were launched today in a press conference.

Through this project, 890 entrepreneurs, including 5 Maltese companies, who had recently taken over a small company, benefited from ten days of free personal coaching delivered by Chambers of Commerce from 18 member states participating in the initiative. The project identified essential areas of knowledge and competence for the successful transfer of business ownership. In particular, buyers expressed the need for training in the areas of accounting and finance, strategic management, human resources and access to finance.

The innovative mentoring scheme tested during the project demonstrated how support after a business transfer maximises the chances that the company will survive and indeed gain a new lease of life under a new owner. Further such schemes at national or regional level would contribute to the continuity of thousands of viable companies in the EU. Practical support like this must be integral to the delivery of the Small Business Act.

Business transfer is often overlooked in the European Union, even though one in three company owners are expected to retire within the next decade, affecting an annual average of 690,000 small and medium-sized businesses and representing almost 2.8 million jobs. Statistics indicate, however, that most of these owners will simply close their business and, of those that do transfer them to someone else, more than 20% are likely to fail within five years.

“The project proved to be extremely beneficial to all participants - they all had very positive comments about the consultancy received as part of the project and how this helped them in enhancing them as entrepreneurs,” said Mr Andre Fenech, Malta Chamber Policy Development Manager and co-ordinator of the project in Malta. “We shall be looking to enter into follow-up projects of this kind and similar initiatives through our active affiliation with Eurochambres.”

The full document can be seen here.

MCAST launches Unpaid Work Placement Scheme for Summer 2010

Mon, 31 May 2010 08:58:00 GMT

In offering courses of a vocational training nature, a short period of UNPAID work placement for students following the various programmes of studies, is a necessity.To this effect, MCAST would like to receive your assistance in placing one or more of their first year students following any of the following programme of studies:

•    Certificate in Administrative and Secretarial Studies
•    Certificate in Insurance Studies
•    Certificate in Marketing Studies
•    Diploma in Accounting (Certificate Level)
•    Diploma in Banking and Financial Services
•    Higher National Diploma in Business First Diploma in Business
•    National Diploma in Business

Students will be expected to work for a maximum of twenty-five hours a week for five weeks (overall 125 hours). Throughout the placement period, students will be visited by their tutors who will assess them at the place of work following feedback given to them by a mentor who follows them within your organisation.

This year, the Unpaid Work Placement period will run from Monday 21 June to Friday 23 July 2010.
At your convenience, kindly fill in the Expression of Interest form and email back to josef.buttigieg@mcast.edu.mt.

Please click here for further information on the framework of logistic and operational procedures.

Malta Chamber encouraged by Price Club ruling

Thu, 27 May 2010 09:08:00 GMT

27th May 2010: In a statement given to a local newspaper, the Malta Chamber stated that it was encouraged by the judgment of the Court of Appeal delivered on 14th May 2010, regarding the ex-directors of Price Club. This reiterated the clear message of the First Hall of the Civil Court that company directors are personally and unlimitedly responsible for any fraudulent actions and that no-one can hide behind a corporate veil and manage a company in such a way which unfairly endangers the livelihood of other persons or businesses.

The Malta Chamber believes that the authorities must uphold the reputation of business, and avoid situations that can tarnish confidence, within the business community as well as with consumers. We must also ensure that everyone is accountable for their actions, in the long-term interest of business.

Information session on Air Quality Directive

Mon, 24 May 2010 10:02:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber's Energy and Environment committee in coordination with the Malta Environment and Planning Authority (MEPA) will be organising an event on the air quality directive on Wednesday 9th of June at 15:00hrs at the Exchange Buildings. During this event MEPA officials will be explaining in more detail what the directive entails and how it will impact business.

In 2008, the EU issued the Ambient Air Quality Directive (2008/50/EC). This Directive regulates the amounts of sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, benzene, carbon monoxide, ozone and particulate matter (PM10 and PM2,5) in ambient air, through the setting of limit values. In Malta MEPA is the competent authority for the implementation of this Directive. MEPA is in the process of transposing this Directive into Maltese legislation and it intends to include regulations related to emissions from industrial boilers in its transposition.

Depending on their rated thermal inputs, Industrial boilers will have to either register or else apply for an environmental permit. Registered boilers will be required to forward to MEPA data on fuel use on an annual basis. On the other hand the larger boilers which will be required to apply for an environmental permit. This permit will include amongst other things conditions related to compliance with emission standards.

Members using any type of industrial boilers in their operations are urged to attend this event.

For more information and to register for this event, kindly contact Ms Dorianne Bonanno on e-mail address dorianne.bonanno@maltachamber.org.mt or on tel. no. 21 233 873

Doing Business with Azerbaijan

Mon, 24 May 2010 10:00:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber Internationalisation Desk is pleased to announce its latest event, Doing Business with Azerbaijan, being organised in collaboration with the Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan. With a population of 9 million people, Azerbaijan’s main trading partners are currently Italy, the USA, Russia, France, Israel and Turkey. The country’s main exports are oil and oil products, fuel, machinery, cotton and food, while its main imports are machinery equipment, oil products, metals, food, chemicals and pharmaceuticals.

To be held on Tuesday 8th June 2010 at The Exchange Buildings, this seminar will target members who are involved in:
•    Construction
•    Furniture
•    Agriculture
•    Wine making
•    Food
•    Tourism
•    ICT
•    Transport
•    Textiles
•    Fuel and Energy

Programme

16:00	Registration
16:30	Welcome by the President
16:40	Introduction by H.E Mr Emil Karimov, Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan to Malta
16:50	Short Film about Azerbaijan
17:20	Country Presentation by Mr Mammad Zulfuarov, Third Secretary on Business Opportunities for Maltese entrepreneurs in Azerbaijan
17:40	Presentation by Mr Alain Mangion, a Maltese entrepreneur, on the characteristics and linkages between Malta and Azerbaijan which can be exploited to the economic advantage of both business communities.
17:55	Questions and Answers
18:15	Concluding Remarks

For further information and bookings, please contact Ms Daniela Vassallo on tel: 22032 321, or email: daniela.vassallo@maltachamber.org.mt.

The Succession Process. The litmus test for the current owners

Mon, 24 May 2010 09:16:00 GMT

This seminar is being organised by FBS2M Family Business Solutions in collaboration with Chetcuti Cauchi and the Malta Chamber. The seminar will be held on Tuesday 1st June 2010 at the Exchange Buildings, between 16.45-19.30hrs. Interested participants are kindly asked to contact Ms. Dorianne Bonanno on tel no: 2123 387 or email: dorianne.bonanno@maltachamber.org.mt.

Programme

16.45 – 17.00 Registration
17.00 – 17.10 Opening address

17.10 – 18.15 The Succession Process

                              Mr. Mario Duca MSc(Man) and Mr. Ken McCracken LL.B (Hons), Dip. L.P N.P Family Business Consultant at FBS2M Family Business Solutions

18.15 – 19.15       Legal Solutions for Generations of Family Business

Dr. Priscilla Mifsud Parker, Advocate and Dr. Jean-Philippe Chetcuti, Advocate and Tax Consultant Chetcuti Cauchi

19.15 – 19.30 Questions from the floor and closure of the meeting by Mr. Mario Duca, Managing Partner FBS2M Family Business Solutions

The Companies

FBS2M Family Business Solutions is part of the Family Business Solutions Ltd Group, who are a consulting and training organisation that delivers creative and practical assistance to family businesses and families in business, with offices in Edinburgh, Glasgow, London and Malta.
Chetcuti Cauchi is a professional services group providing legal, tax, fiduciary, accounting and assurance services to Family Businesses and private clients worldwide. Chetcuti Cauchi enjoys a highly international profile and operates out of offices in Valletta.

Human Resources & Business Education Information Forum

Mon, 24 May 2010 09:01:00 GMT

The HR and Social Policy and Business Education Committees will once again be organizing an Information Forum for the benefit of members. To be held on Wednesday 2nd June at the Exchange Buildings, this session will include:

16.00 Coffee and Registration

16:15 – 17:00 Young Enterprise: Manager, Junior Achievement, Ms Lorna Farrugia

Overview of the 'Company Programme'

Understanding of the Involvement of the Business Advisors' Role

The benefits of participating and experiencing the Young Enterprise Challenge and the added value this has on your self and your business enterprise.

17:00-17:30 Richmond Foundation: Ms Dolores Gauci, CEO

According to the 4th European Survey of Working Conditions, 22% of EU workers experienced work-related stress, whereas in the UK, stress-related sickness absence costs employers between £530-£545 per employee. Without a doubt, the economic implications of stress are becoming increasingly evident and dangerous. The purpose of this session is to give an overview of these implications for both employers and employees as well as to raise awareness on good practices that businesses can adopt in order to manage the effects of stress within their organisation.

17:45 Question Time and Concluding Remarks

Interested participants may contact Ms Dorianne Bonanno at 21 233 873 or dorianne.bonanno@maltachamber.org.mt

Malta Chamber President meets counterpart in China

Tue, 18 May 2010 09:28:00 GMT

In the presence of Malta’s Ambassador to China H.E. Karl Xuereb, Malta Chamber of Commerce and Enterprise President Ms Helga Ellul met Mr Yu Ping, Vice-Chairman of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT). Both sides discussed further cooperation and the strengthening of their ties. This visit took place during the last day of the Malta Enterprise trade delegation in Beijing.

Mr. Yu Ping said that he felt that Malta had a lot to offer. He informed Ms Ellul of the Delegation from CCPIT that was heading to Malta in June, which will be led by the Vice Chairman of the Council Mr Dong Songgen.

Ms. Ellul said that she looked forward to meeting the delegation in Malta and added that Malta continues to strive to make its business environment ever more conducive to profitable enterprise. She said that the government’s Vision 2015 remains a top priority as Malta endeavours to develop those high value-added areas where we have the potential to excel and become a centre of excellence.

During the discussions Ambassador Xuereb noted that over the last 4 years, trade between Malta and China had increased by some 140%. He added that during the financial crisis in 2009 Malta was the only EU country that experienced an increase in trade with China. An increase of almost 10%.

Linking Enterprise: Clustering at Toly Products Ltd

Mon, 17 May 2010 11:04:00 GMT

The Manufacturing and Other Industries Economic Group is pleased to announce its second Linking Enterprise, to be hosted at Toly Products Ltd on Saturday 29th May 2010.

Toly Products Ltd is a long established global supplier of high-quality packaging to leading companies in the cosmetics, fragrance and skin-care industries. The success of Toly continual efforts in re-enforcing its clustering strategy in Malta. The highly successful cluster companies around it help it improve both its competitivity and maintain its flexibility. In the case of Toly Products these include RayAir Automation Ltd and Tek-Moulds Precision Engineering Ltd, which in turn also provide their service to other manufacturing companies. Clustering is the idea of grouping together a mix of companies that enable each of them to benefit from each others sales, consumers and markets. Through the Malta Chamber Linking Enterprise initiative Toly Products is willing to share the clustering experience together with its clusters with fellow Maltese businessmen.

Programme

09.00-09.10	Introduction of the Manufacturers & Other Industries Economic Group (MEG) + Company Presentationof Toly Products Ltd. William Wait, Chairman - MEG & Group Director - Toly Products Ltd
09.10-09.45	The Importance of Clustering from a Practical Perspective. Andy Gatsey, Chairman - Toly Products Ltd
09.45-10.00	Company Presentation of RayAir Automation Ltd and its link to Toly Products Ltd. Ray Schembri, Managing Director, RayAir Automation Ltd
10.00-10.15	Company Presentation of Tek-Moulds Precision Engineering Ltd and its link to Toly Products Ltd. Kevin Busuttil, Managing Director, Tek-Moulds Precision Engineering Ltd
10.15-10.30	Coffee Break
10.30-11.30	Factory tour at Toly Products Ltd focusing on the Clustering Aspect
11.30-12.00	Factory Tour at Tek-Moulds Precision Engineering Ltd
12.00-12.05	Concluding Remarks. William Wait, Chairman - MEG & Group Director - Toly Products Ltd

For further details please contact: Ms Dorianne Bonanno on Tel: 22032304 or dorianne.bonanno@maltachamber.org.mt

The click here for the flier.

Directors' Forum Session Four

Fri, 14 May 2010 11:32:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber, together with the Institute of Directors (Malta Branch) will be holding the fourth session of the Directors' Forum 2010 on Thursday, 20th May 2010. This session will tackle The Role of the Non-Executive Director and Evaluation of Non-Executive Directors in Current Times.

“When the foundations are in place, evaluation can become a far easier, less threatening, and more productive effort. Rather than a once-a-year event, it becomes part of a continuous improvement process”.

Abstract taken from the Non-executive Directors Group News.

Time Welcome Drink & Registration at 4.30 p.m.

Session: 5.00 p.m. - 8.00 p.m.

Venue: The Exchange Buildings, Republic Street, Valletta

For more details please contact Ms Dorianne Bonanno at the Malta Chamber Secretariat on tel: 21 233 873 or email: dorianne.bonanno@maltachamber.org.mt.

Home Truths about Social Media

Wed, 12 May 2010 09:12:39 GMT

The importance of Social Media is being overlooked by business. Many businesses are unaware of how to engage with new media – this is to their disadvantage because without this knowledge they cannot exploit Social Media properly in their marketing strategies.

To this end, the Malta Chamber will be holding an information meeting on this topic. The meeting will be addressed by Mr. Alex Grech of StrategyWorks.   Mr. Grech is a PhD researcher on social media networks at the University of Hull in the UK.

The talk will address issues such as:

·    What we mean by social media and a social business
·    Why social media is now, not the future
·    Why social business is more than about using Facebook
·    Why businesses and SMEs shouldn’t ignore it
·    What the rules of engagement are
·    How to sort out strategy first and tools second
·    Why ‘going social’ changes the way you do business, forever

Date: Wednesday, 19th May 2010
Time: 16.00
Venue: The Exchange Buildings
Fee: €25 for members and €40 for non-members

Please contact Miss Bernice Azzopardi on email: bernice.azzopardi@maltachamber.org.mt or tel: 2203 2306 to reserve your place.

Landfill fees Information Session

Tue, 04 May 2010 09:55:00 GMT

On the 1st of April, new regulations came into being stipulating that landfill fees will be increasing from €0.77c per ton to €20. This measure is intended to stimulate recycling targets, Malta needs to achieve in according to EU legislation. As an incentive the authorities will charge €0.50c to companies separating dry waste at source.

The Malta Chamber, through its Energy and Environment Committee will be organising an information session to update all members about these new developments. Present for this meeting will be the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry for Resources and Rural Affairs, Dr Ing Christopher Ciantar and high officials from Wasteserv Malta Ltd.

All members are invited to attend, the event is scheduled for Thursday 13th of May at 15:00hrs and will be organised at the Exchange Buildings in Valletta. Entrance is free of charge however prior registration is required in view of seating restrictions.

For further queries and to register for this event, kindly contact Ms Dorianne Bonanno on tel. no. 21 233 873 or on e-mail address dorianne.bonanno@maltachamber.org.mt

Programme

14:30        Registration and coffee

15:00        Welcome address by Perit David Xuereb
                 (Chairman of the Energy and Environment Committee)

15:10        Opening address by Dr Ing Christopher Ciantar
                 (Permanent Secretary, MRRA)

15:20        Presentation by Wasteserv officials on the current status of the landfill fees

16:30        Questions from the floor

Micro-credits should be issued without further delay

Mon, 03 May 2010 12:19:44 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 30 April 2010: In the last Budget speech, the Minister for Finance, the Economy and Investment stated that Government would be setting up a fund of ten million euro, as part of a micro-credit scheme targeted at Small and Medium enterprises, as well as the self-employed. It was also stated that the scheme would be introduced during 2010. At the time, the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry had commended this initiative, and augured its swift implementation.

The Malta Chamber encourages Government to launch this scheme without further delay. The Malta Chamber stresses that this fund, aimed at providing SMEs with the necessary liquidity for investment, is particularly important due to the economic downturn.

Furthermore, as mentioned in the Budget speech, should the demand justify this investment the European Investment Bank would consider topping up this fund with a further ten million euro. Up until now, there is no direct EIB funding for SMEs, with Maltese banks currently providing the funding for small companies. The Malta Chamber stresses that such an opportunity of additional funding is not one to be missed.

The Malta Chamber has been advised by the authorities that discussions with the EIB on the draft criteria for the selection of the Financial Intermediaries are currently underway.

The Malta Chamber actively encourages to speed up the launch and implementation of this much needed scheme.

Classification, Labelling and Packaging of Chemical Substances

Tue, 27 Apr 2010 08:54:00 GMT

A Priority Issue for Industry in 2010 and 2011 - Classification and Labelling of Chemical Substances

The Malta Chamber, together with the Malta Standards Authority, will be holding an information session for members on Classification and Labelling of Chemical Substances. The session will be held on Friday 7th May 2010, between 3.00pm and 4.30pm at the Exchange Buildings.

Agenda

1500-1510    Opening
                      Mr Tristan Camilleri, Director, Regulatory Affairs Directorate, MSA
1510-1600    Presentation on the following issues:

Global Harmonised System (GHS)
Legal Acts & Timeframes
CLP vs Current Legislation Classification
Relation of classification to other EU legislation Labelling Obligations
Inventory
Safety Data Sheets
Important CLP deadlines

Ms Audrey Anne Anastasi – Scientist, Regulatory Affairs Directorate, MSA

1600-1630   Questions from the floor
1625-1630   Closure of the Meeting
   Mr Tristan Camilleri, Director, Regulatory Affairs Directorate, MSA

Interested members are kindly asked to contact Ms. Sara Buttigieg on tel: 22 03 23 27 or email: sara.buttigieg@maltachamber.org.mt

MEPA Reform: Development Control Process Information Meeting

Tue, 27 Apr 2010 08:43:00 GMT

Members are invited to attend a discussion seminar about the part of the MEPA Reform concerning the Development Control Process, on Wednesday 5th May 2010, at 5.00pm, at Gonzi Hall, Catholic Institute, Floriana.

The programme for the seminar is as follows:

17:00-18:00         Presentations
                             Speakers: Dr Ian Stafrace, Legal Consultant
                                              Mr. David Cassar, MEPA Officer

18:00- 19:00        Questions and Discussion

This seminar will be of greatest interest to clients who envisage applying for development planning applications in the near future or who are constantly in touch with this process.

Interested members should contact Ms Bernice Azzopardi on 22 032 306 or bernice.azzopardi@maltachamber.org.mt

New Corporate Partner for the Malta Chamber

Mon, 26 Apr 2010 09:15:44 GMT

The Malta Chamber is pleased to announce that Malta Motorways of the Sea, a Member of Grimaldi Group Naples, has signed an agreement for Corporate Partnership with our organisation. Malta Motorways of the Sea Ltd previously sponsored the Malta Federation of Industry. Following the merger, MMOS has kindly renewed its relationship with the organisation and agreed to continue as a Corporate Partner.

During a lunch at the Exchange Buildings, the agreement was signed by President Helga Ellul, and Dott. Guido Grimaldi, Managing Director of Grimaldi Group. Also present were the Board of Management and Directors General.

“On behalf of the Malta Chamber, I would like to thank Malta Motorways for its renewed support. It is this support which will assist the Malta Chamber in its functions and activities, for the benefit of the business community,” said Mrs Ellul.

“We firmly believe that this Agreement will be of benefit to Malta Motorways of the Sea, whilst also supporting the Malta Chamber and giving more value to all Malta Chamber members,” Mrs Ellul concluded.

Leading Talks

Mon, 19 Apr 2010 10:48:00 GMT

On Friday 16th April Mrs. Helga Ellul, Mr. John Huber and Mr. Kevin J. Borg attended a business breakfast organised by Leading Talks and endorsed by the Malta Chamber. The guest speaker was Mr. Dan O'Brien, Senior Economist at the Economist Group of London. Mr O’Brien specializes in European economic and political affairs, at both an EU and national level, and global trade and investment issues.

The Business Breakfast was followed by a private meeting between Mr. O’Brien and members of the Malta Chamber’s Board of Management. At this meeting, Mrs Ellul gave an extensive overview of the role and functions of the Chamber within the local economy. On his part, Mr O’Brien elaborated further on his views about the future of the euro currency and the current predicament in Greece, the economic progress of China and other emerging countries as well as the potential risks which could derail the progress of economic recovery in Europe and beyond.

Participation on Current Affairs programme

Thu, 08 Apr 2010 11:42:00 GMT

On 9th April, Malta Chamber Vice President Stefano Mallia took part in current affairs programme TX on ONE TV. Other guests included Pierre Fava from the Malta Employers Association, Marlene Pullicino, MP (Labour Party), Robert Arrigo, MP (Nationalist Party), Victor Carachi, General Workers Union, and Gejtu Tanti, Union Haddiema Maqghudin.

Various topics were discussed, including wages and work conditions, in relation to the higher standard of living. On this subject, Mr Mallia said that the Malta Chamber has never stated that it is against COLA, in fact, the mechanism is effective in the case of low wages, but less effective with high wages associated with professionals. The Malta Chamber continues to insist that the COLA mechanism should be revised in the light of today’s realities, in order to avoid having an undesirable effect on the economy and business competitiveness.

During the programme the utility tariffs were also discussed. Mr Mallia stated that the Malta Chamber is assisting its members through the EUROCHAMBRES programme CHANGE, which aids companies to make more efficient use of energy.

Finally, ARMS, the company in charge of utility bills, was also discussed, where Mr Mallia agreed that the public need to be educated about the need to consume less energy and budget for higher bills, however, one also needs to consider the needs of families and businesses. In the case of businesses, the Malta Chamber has arrived at an agreement with Government and Malta Enterprise that those companies (in any sector) that find themselves in difficulty due to the direct effects of the new rates, should be helped adequately by the Task Force that was established last year.

Final Reminder: Outgoing Mission to Algeria-Tunisia

Thu, 08 Apr 2010 11:37:00 GMT

Members are advised that that the Call for Participants for the Business Delegation to Algeria and Tunisia will close on Tuesday, 13th April 2010. The Mission will begin in Algeria and go on to Tunisia, giving participants the opportunity for one-to-one meetings with their counterparts in these countries.

Promising areas of investment include: renewable energy, pharmaceutical healthcare, financial services, education and training, logistics and transport, building and construction materials and services, electronic components, travel and tourism and food and beverages.

The mission is led by Malta Enterprise, and supported by the Malta Chamber.

The application form can be downloaded from the Malta Enterprise website.

For further information, please contact:

Malta Enterprise

Ms Lara Fiott on Tel: 2542 3288 or lara.fiott@maltaenterprise.com

Malta Chamber

Mr Klaus Pedersen on klaus.pedersen@maltachamber.org.mt

Ms Daniela Vassallo on daniela.vassallo@maltachamber.org.mt

City Gate Pharmacy: Urgent Action Required

Mon, 29 Mar 2010 14:48:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 29 March 2010: The Malta Chamber expresses disbelief at the fact that a pharmacy owner it represents is being denied a temporary license to operate a pharmacy from a nearby, alternative site.

The Malta Chamber can imagine no plausible reason for the relevant authority to deprive this genuine case from a license. This is, after all, a temporary transfer and a forced move brought about by the Renzo Piano project. The pharmacy owner is forced to request this license because:

It is co-operating with government and vacating its present pharmacy at City Gate in view of the impending project works
The license required is only a temporary one needed until such time that a permanent replacement site is given to the company to operate in lieu of the City gate premises it was asked to vacate
The pharmacy, whilst needing to vacate the City Gate premises, is obliged at law to offer continuous, uninterrupted service.

The Malta Chamber is requesting the authority to substantiate its argument in favour of not granting the license or proceed to issue the license without further delay.

Annual General Meeting: Presidential Address

Fri, 26 Mar 2010 13:11:00 GMT

A Report on the Activities of the Council for the period May 2009 to March 2010 by President, Mrs Helga Ellul

Welcome to today’s Annual General Meeting of the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry.

This is the second time that I have had the privilege to address an Annual General Meeting and update you with the active work of our dedicated Board of Management, Council, Economic Groups, Business Sections and Thematic Committees.

This year, much detail has been presented in our Annual Report covering the period January 2009 until March 2010. You will realise from our Report that we have indeed experienced a very active year during a very uncertain international economic climate.

Making a success out of our merger was my first priority upon taking up my Presidency. I had informed you at our last AGM in May, that we had already achieved an important milestone – and that our merged organisation had hit the ground running. Nevertheless, some important tasks were cleared since last May and these included :

The completion of our re-branding exercise with the decision on our new bold, forward-looking and attractive logo and a revamp of our weekly electronic newsletter
The investment in a new ICT structure including new hardware, network and software platform. This was coupled with more emphasis on knowledge management systems.
A new website which we are able to launch on the occasion of this AGM
Substantial investment in this beautiful building which include

air-conditioning for this prestigious hall;
marble plaques of the past presidents of FOI;
contemporary platforms and lecterns for presentation events; and
a reception desk at ground-floor level with a new smart counter

We shall shortly be discussing the financial results of our organisation. I am glad to state that despite

the investments required,
the technical and professional fees we continued to require after the merger particularly in the field of ICT and
the professional branding exercise – amongst other one-off expenses

We still managed to close the year with a modest positive balance. This underlined the correctness of our calculated forecasts that it made sense even from a strictly financial point of view to merge.

Much of this is due to a careful planning of the membership fee structure which, not only avoided a migration from corporate to individual membership but actually assisted us in (a) attracting new members and associations wanting to become part of our Chamber and (2) increase corporate membership. We will give you more details later on.

We strengthened all this with more emphasis on knowledge management, through modern approaches of maintaining membership records, document management and communications. Indeed, the process of merging previously unstructured data of the two organisations was not a straightforward task. But the improvement efforts in this area were well worth it. They will continue during 2010, to ensure the efficiency of the service offered to members.

This project will be complete when we complete phase two for internet based services in the not too distant future. By means of this project we intend to build a communication tool with members, and later on between members themselves. The aim is to provide increased networking opportunities and the exchange of views on issues affecting business. We expect that this infrastructure will bring about many new possibilities for our Chamber to communicate with you, our members.

Effective communication today is a must. It has certainly facilitated the merging of our organisations and going forward it is going to be equally important. We have revamped our weekly electronic newsletter through which I kept close contact with members through my weekly message on topical subjects.

In the coming year, we plan to introduce further changes to this newsletter to keep it fresh and relevant and we shall shortly be publishing a monthly classified supplement.

We shall make sure that it fully complements our new website which we are proudly launching this week. As a vital part of our communications arm, the new website is key to our objectives of keeping members better informed and promoting our organisation and the enhanced services we offer. The website will be frequently updated with our recent positions and policy papers.

Despite our internal re-organisation we made sure to adopt a business as usual approach related to the representation of business.We undertook much research and were able to take some strong stands on a number of matters which are very important to you, our members.

We were the voice of business on the subject of economic support for business in the middle of the international crisis. We spoke strongly on COLA, the Utility Tariffs, Consumer Issues, Eco-Contribution, MEPA, Rent-Laws and Public Transport reform amongst other issues. On all such issues, we made strong representations both in public and away from the cameras – as the case required. Of course, we took many matters to the highest authorities and to the European Institutions.

Besides the European Institutions and the media, our Chamber was directly engaged in social dialogue through active participation in MCESD and the MEUSAC core-group. Moreover, within the Malta Enterprise Board, the RPI Management Board, MCST, Employment Relations Board and Malta Standards Authority.

In terms of policy, our underlying mission this year has been to support the objective of safeguarding business and jobs. This, we believe, can only be achieved by enhancing national competitiveness.
With the European Authorities, in fact, we insisted that the only way to safeguard jobs and growth was through competitiveness. We stated that the EU institutions need to make greater efforts to develop enterprise-friendly policies based on market economy principles. The aim should be to achieve stronger coherence between economic policy and ambitious environment and labour-market policies on the other. EU regulation, in these particular areas should not contain new and unnecessary burdens on business.

We made these arguments very clearly at the European level in relation to the proposals to extend maternity leave as well as on the issue of Climate Change where the European Union proposed to extend CO2 reduction targets to 30 per cent. On both counts we stated that at this particularly sensitive time, there should be no new, unnecessary burdens on business.

At the start of my Term, we also sought to ensure as a major priority that the effects of the international credit crunch on the local economy were minimized. To this end, we engaged in effective dialogue with the Authorities.

We participated in the 2010 pre-Budget consultation process. Within this process, we could not entirely agree with some measures being proposed - most notably an exceptional COLA increase - unless these were properly mitigated.
We held a press conference on this matter in October where we requested more concrete measures in support of business. Our calls were partly taken on. The Budget, in fact, included support measures to small companies by way of tax credits and micro credits as well as enhanced budgets for Malta Enterprise.

Shortly after the announcement of the Budget, the Malta Chamber published a research document that quantified the direct and indirect effects of COLA on their wage bills. The exercise also quantified the expected increase in utility bills and the effect of the 0.50c bed-night tax on hotels. The analysis also attempted to provide indications about the increase in turnover that would be required to neutralise the accumulated cost effect.

We commented that the combined effect of the new utility tariffs and COLA neutralised the beneficial effect of some economic support measures which Government had agreed to introduce at the start of the year. On a related issue, earlier this week, we followed the idea being mooted that increasing the minimum wage would address social problems. We cannot disagree more with such a proposal. As stated by the Prime Minister, we feel that the social issues are being addressed by the social safety net.

However, it is an undeniable fact that only business and enterprise can sustain the country’s safety net. But for business to do so, we must all ensure it remains competitive. At this particularly sensitive time, we need to consolidate our competitiveness. We need to enhance the skills of our people and at the same time assist the country in attracting and sustaining better paid jobs. World competitiveness demands that we pay market rates and not artificially-set minimum rates.

With the effects of the last Budget and COLA behind us, it was encouraging to note from the latest official statistics released earlier this month that the GDP growth figure for the final quarter last year was positive (in real terms).
Indeed, this was the first positive figure after GDP had contracted in the previous three consecutive quarters of 2009.

Nevertheless, let us take these early signs of recovery with caution. The makings of these early recovery signals are clearly still very fragile considering the world economic climate and several countries still experiencing grave economic difficulties.It is too early to be enthusiastic because the latest official figures show that the economy’s productive capabilities have suffered over the course of 2009. Official statistics show that compensation of employees increased marginally whilst corporate profits decreased. This is important, it shows that, on average, employers paid the highest cost of the international recession.

We need to ensure that these trends are reversed as early as possible. We must ensure that the country’s productive capabilities are enhanced through either increasing our labour force or the productivity of our labour force or a combination of both. We must ensure that we the business people, are able to have enough profits to invest and arm our business with the most efficient technologies to increase productivity. As we have been stating all along, our government must ensure that it creates no unnecessary burden on the competitiveness position of our companies.

This leads me squarely to the issue of utility tariffs on which enough has been said and written. Further to the last tariff adjustment, we held a number of high level meetings with the Minister of Finance, MCESD and MRA.

We were pleased to announce a few weeks ago that due to persistent negotiations we successfully managed to convince the Authorities to consider extending support through the Malta Enterprise Task Force to any commercial entities that are, or will be, facing serious difficulties as a result of the hike in the energy tariffs.Clearly this is an important development. It will continue to protect jobs, investment and future growth.

The Malta Chamber will however continue to engage with the authorities on a technical and administrative level for the implementation of other measures including the extension of the night-tariffs scheme. In addition, we shall continue to press for a structured and holistic dialogue on the sustainability of energy generation in Malta.

We will continue to insist that connectivity to the European grid is pursued with utmost urgency even in the light of the series of power blackouts affecting the whole of Malta - that latest of which happened last Monday. Another ongoing saga for the business community has been Eco-Contribution refunds and exemptions.

After more extended talks with the Authorities there is a sound basis of agreement for refunds of Eco-Contribution. We are pushing for the regulations to be finally published. In terms of exemptions, the relevant LN was published in February but our members cannot benefit from exemptions and must continue to pay both Eco-Contribution and charges for their waste management schemes. Why? Because the Approving Body to decide on exemptions has not been set up and the other procedures have not been finalised.

Why? Because it seems time does not have the same bearing in the public sector as in business. It seems to be quite acceptable in the public sector that months and years go by with us incurring extra costs without any action being taken to give us what should have been rightfully ours since 2005. The Authorities need to finally put their act together and stop passing the buck from one authority to another.

Eco-Contribution has also increased the problem of abuse in free movement of goods because illicit traders are attracted to products that carry the highest levels of taxation.

For several years, our Chamber has been insisting with the Authorities to put the necessary mechanisms in place to ensure the fair competition in the interest of our law-abiding members. There has always been a willingness to listen and take our views on board, however it takes too much time for the Authorities to translate willingness into action. Meanwhile, precious time continues to be lost and within this lost time:

•    Our members are losing rightful business
•    Government is losing precious tax revenue
•    Consumer interests are continuously undermined

I am glad to state that we have this week held very positive talks with Parliamentary Secretaries Chris Said and Jason Azzopardi who have agreed to co-ordinate with us closely to tackle this issue. There has been a lot of work going on in our thematic Groups. Our Director Generals will give you an overview later on

BUT let me touch also - Our presence in Brussels

Last May, our Vice President Stefano Mallia was elected to the Eurochambres Board of Directors for a two-year term. This was an important development for our Chamber to be able to represent the interests of our members effectively at the European level.

On my part, I participated at two Business Europe Council of Presidents events, held in Prague and Stockholm where we discussed economic recovery and exit strategies for the stimulus packages. Further to these, BusinessEurope published a document entitled Go For Growth which we recently presented to the Prime Minister and the media.

The future for the Malta Chamber in the next few years is about creating value for our members through useful projects and initiatives. The way forward is to co-operate and synergise with other entities to build good constructive projects which will enhance the business of our members and make it grow. Rather than compete with other entities, this strategy will ensure relevance for our organisation. It will allow us to attract new and young members and this, in turn, will strengthen us in our traditional, advisory role as a National Chamber and a Social Partner.
We have already started our path in this direction and I can mention a few examples.

Example 1 – Franchise: In recent weeks, we experienced a landmark development for the Malta Chamber and a “dream come true” as I described it at the press launch. Ever since the establishment of our Internationalisation Desk, a project had been discussed and designed to assist our members expand their business abroad through franchise. Our Internationalisation Desk, has been interviewing and profiling companies in the franchise sector, to uncover the true potential from a local point of view. We confirmed our belief that many members have already established unique and successful business models that can be exported abroad. We devised and submitted a detailed plan on the project and with co-operation with Malta Enterprise this project is currently underway - with the financial support of the Commonwealth Secretariat.Later this year, a world renowned consultant who has been commissioned for this project will deliver a report that will give a broad introduction to the concept of Franchise.

We are already discussing the possibilities of extending towards a phase 2 of the project, to convert this general information to company-specific (tailor-made) documentation for the purposes of companies’ own concept and assist Malta Enterprise in designing the right package to ensure that eligible companies will be supported all the way through.

Example 2 - University-Business Thematic Forum: Just now in March, the Malta Chamber hosted the First University-Business Thematic Forum. The event was jointly organized by the University, the Malta Chamber and NCHE (National Commission for Higher Education).
The Forum brought academia and industry together to formally discuss research initiatives, industry developments and skills needs, innovative partnerships and ideas for collaboration. This first forum was dedicated to the developing yet fast growing sector of digital games production.
I must thank our Deputy President Tancred Tabone for his direct interest and involvement in this initiative. I must thank him for his intervention in inviting Mr. Ray Maguire, President, Sony Computer Entertainment, UK for this event.

To borrow Tancred’s words, the high growth rate in the worldwide games market means there are many opportunities for the local industry to grow and develop. However, the nature of this fast-moving industry means that local companies need to be lean, flexible and innovative

Example 3 – Linking Industrial Needs and Vocational Training to Optimise Human Capital: We have recently been informed that our Project Proposal, entitled ‘Linking Industrial Needs and VET (Vocational Training) to Optimise Human Capital, has been selected by the Managing Authority for ESF and ERDF co-financing. On this project, we have teamed up with MCAST and the Malta Qualifications Council.

The project will address the current and anticipated educational needs of ten industrial sectors and identify the potential skill gaps and shortages of the present workforce.

Conclusion

Fellow Members, as I stated, the economic challenge is still before us and will always be. Business will not go back to how it was ‘ before ‘. But as I always stated with confidence – we can do it and new challenges bring new opportunities. Competitiveness and Creativity are key.

We must be proud of our competitive edge and must ensure with all means that it will not become under minded by any other factors – locally or internationally. We have to use our creativity more productively and use and establish more synergies between all the stakeholders. Let us take advantage of our small size as a country and the close knit business community. Our size has been recognized as one of our natural advantages in terms of attracting investment and we can use it even more and better.

I am aware that in the course of my speech, I made some genuine reflections. But I do not want to be misunderstood and it is definitely not my intention to portray a gloomy picture. On the contrary – our Chamber has always maintained that we as a country have the right fundamentals for a strong recovery and a resilient economy. We have strong skills a sound education system that we continuously improve upon as necessary. We have a sound financial system that has saved us from the worst effects of the international credit crunch.

Being part of the EU gives as access to numerous funds, and to the four freedoms and as we adopted the euro – we are part of a strong common currency.   Indeed, we are the smallest EU member state but still we must be ambitious and benchmark with the other members and upgrade to best practice and standards. Even so, knowing that the next months will continue to be difficult and if not also a bit unstable, my full confidence in our potential and abilities gives me the encouragement that we will manage the tasks ahead.

As a Chamber we have to ensure to continue delivering the best out of the synergies of our merger and by having created the largest business institution in Malta. We have to rise to new levels in terms of :

•    Influencing local policy, and
•    Providing value added services.

As in our businesses, objectives can only be successfully driven and achieved, by a successful team and the dynamic participation and involvement of all the players. And that is what we have here at the Chamber. So my sincere thanks to all the hardworking members which whom I worked closely throughout the last year, especially the Board of Management, the Council, the Economic Groups, Business Sections and the Thematic Group and of course our very dedicated staff.

A very special thanks goes also to our Collaborating Partners – Bank of Valletta, HSBC and Malta Motorways of the Sea.

Let me close with a final appeal to all of you – your Chamber is as strong as you want it to be. We need your involvement, your contribution and your expertise to continue to make our Chamber the strong voice of the Maltese Business Community.

Thank You

Doing Business with the Netherlands

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 10:56:00 GMT

The Malta Chamber Internationalisation Desk, in collaboration with the Embassy of the Netherlands, will be hosting a seminar on "Doing Business with the Netherlands". This will be held at the Malta Chamber on Tuesday, 6th April 2010 at 2.30 pm.

This event will provide information on the business opportunities that exist between Malta and the Netherlands. The speakers will include:

The Hon. George Pullicino, Minister for Resources and Rural Affairs
H.E. Robbert J. Gabriëlse, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Malta
H.E. Ivan Fsadni, Malta's Ambassador to the Netherlands
Jochum Siebren Haakma, Director Group Business Development of the TMF Group B.V. and formerly Director of the Netherlands Foreign Investment Agency (NFIA) within the Ministry of Economic Affairs.
Arthur de Vries, Board member of Holland Solar and owner of Celstar B.V.
Interesting testimonials from a Maltese based company CrimsonWing Ltd.
Well-known Dutch football personalities Jordi Cruyff, Ton Caanen and Vic Hermans will share their culture experiences

The event will also provide networking opportunities for participants both before and after the event.

In the meantime, members interested in attending this event are kindly requested to contact Ms. Daniela Vassallo at the Internationalisation Desk on email daniela.vassallo@maltachamber.org.mt or by telephone on: 2203 2321.

Department of Contracts Information Meeting

Tue, 23 Mar 2010 13:54:00 GMT

On 12th March, Malta Chamber Sectors Manager Mr. John B Scicluna attended to a meeting organized by the Department of Contracts for Government Agencies and Economic Operators. The event was opened by Mr Francis Attard, Director General (Contracts). It was then addressed by Minister Tonio Fenech, Minister of Finance, the Economy and Investment who explained the main changes being proposed. The Minister was followed by Mr Anthony Cachia, Director (Operations) who presented the new Tender Submission Form, and Mr Oreste Cassar, Assistant Director (Post-Contracts) who presented the new Instructions to Tenderers.

The Minister stressed that the Government wanted transparency and fairness, while ensuring it got the best value for its money. At present there was considerable frustration whenever tenders were excluded due to administrative mistakes. Due to this problem, tenderers will now be given two working days within which to correct administrative shortcomings against a fee of €50. Furthermore, it has been decided that samples would be asked for only once technical compliance had been ascertained.

Other important points made by the other speakers included:

    * A tender could contain different options but each option had to be presented on a separate Tender Form
    * Contractors whose accounts featured on the MFSA website on the day the tender closed need not resubmit their accounts.
    * The Single Bond was being phased out and a bank guarantee was being asked for each tender.
    * Bid Bonds by foreign banks were acceptable
    * Award Criteria can be on the basis of Price or on that of MEAT (Most Economically Advantageous Tender). When the contract is not awarded on price but on MEAT this is done on the basis of a points system
    * Although there would be different Tender Templates the Clause Numbers would refer to the same subject in all of them i.e. Clause 16 in all Templates establishes the documents needed.

The presentation on major amendments to the Instructions to Tenderers can be found here.

The presentation on Tender Forms can be found here.

Network of Maritime Chambers launched

Mon, 22 Mar 2010 09:24:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 22nd March 2010: A network of Chambers of Commerce covering maritime regions in Europe has been formally launched in Brussels. The network, officially known as the Blue Chamber Network, covers the most important maritime regions in Europe with the participation of Chambers from Italy, Spain, France, the UK, Turkey, Croatia as well as Malta.

The scope of the network is to ensure that there is a strong and visible policy platform of like-minded business organisations from different EU member-states and accession countries that will monitor regulatory developments and provide proactive feedback to the European Institutions on important maritime issues such as transport, climate change and coastal tourism.

The network has already gained the formal support of the European Commission and in fact was launched by the Commissioner responsible for Maritime Affairs, Ms. Maria Damanaki.

The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry is also participating in the network and in fact has already taken an active role in its inception and in setting out the goals of the network for the next 24 months. The Malta Chamber was represented at the launch of the network by Vice President Stefano Mallia and the Malta Business Bureau's Permanent Delegate in Brussels, Omar Cutajar.

Commenting on the launch of the network, Mr Mallia said "this is an interesting initiative which we have participated in right from the very start. As a country and as a Chamber we have a clear strategic interest in being active in the area of Maritime policy with the maritime economy being so important for Malta and for a number of our members. This is an especially important moment given the active interest being taken by European Commission in developing an integrated and coherent Maritime policy for the European area". Mr. Mallia also pointed out that promoting maritime policy via its active participation in Eurochambres (the Association of European Chambers) is also one of the goals of the Malta Chamber set out for 2010. " As members of the EU we need to take advantage of our European platforms and Eurochambres and now the Blue Network allows us to promote maritime policy at an EU-level whilst taking joint action with other European Chamber organisations to safeguard the national perspective, and to inform the EU maritime policy-formulation process with the Maltese viewpoint."

The Blue Chamber Network vaunts a diverse membership base with participants hailing from the IHK - Nord (the Confederation of Northern German Chambers), the UHCCI - the Greek Chambers of Commerce, the Danish Chambers of Commerce, Assonautica and Uniontrasporti - the Italian maritime-business and maritime-transport sectoral organisations, the Luxembourgish maritime cluster, the Mallorca Chamber of Commerce, the Antwerp Chamber of Commerce, the Association of French Chambers of Commerce including the regional Chamber of Nord-Pas de Calais besides the local Chambers of Calais and Cotes d'Armor (Brittany). Chambers from accession and candidate countries also form part of the network, these being the Croatian Chamber of Economy, the Serbian Chamber of Commerce and the Turkish Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges.

Mitigating the impact of energy tariffs

Thu, 18 Mar 2010 09:51:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 9 MARCH 2010: The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry has recently announced to its members important achievements resulting from persistent negotiations it held with the Authorities with respect to Utility Tariffs.

Following the latest tariff revision last December, the Malta Chamber has been engaged in intensive discussions with Government with a view to agreeing on solutions that will mitigate the negative impact on the competitiveness and viability of our members. The discussions - away from the limelight and the cameras - included several meetings with Minister Tonio Fenech, Malta Resources Authority and Malta Enterprise, besides our representations at MCESD.

As expected, these talks proved difficult, not least because of the constraints in public finances and the limited room for maneuverability. On the other hand, our Chamber's representation of business is very widespread and the needs of companies vary according to size and sector.

Negotiations on behalf of the manufacturing sector, whilst difficult, could be concluded first due to the fact that the required assistance, once negotiated and agreed, could then be targeted at a relatively small number of companies.
But the Malta Chamber was not satisfied with achieving assistance for one sector whilst ignoring the plight of the other sectors found within its membership.

Throughout all discussions, it was acutely aware of the needs of the whole spectrum of its membership - the vast majority of which are micro-enterprises. Throughout the consultation process, it sought to ensure that during the difficult year ahead, they will receive support which could go beyond the important support-measures that were announced in the 2010 Budget Speech by way of tax credits on new investments, access to micro credits and extended Malta Enterprise, ERDF-financed schemes.

In this regard, the Malta Chamber has consistently insisted that the mitigating measures which have been made available to the heavy users of energy in the manufacturing sector are also made available to all those businesses, irrespective of sector, that will be drastically affected by the new tariffs.

President, Mrs Helga Ellul announced to all Chamber members last week that as a result of the Chamber's endeavours, the Minister of Finance has now confirmed that Government was willing to consider extending support to other commercial entities (besides manufacturing companies) that are, or will be facing serious difficulties as a result of the hike in the energy tariffs. The Chamber agreed that such assistance will be channeled via the existing Task Force mechanism and in line with the existing framework that has been successful since it was set up early last year. It was also agreed that all assistance would be granted subject to the necessary evaluation process as has been the case with the manufacturing industry during 2009.

Clearly this is an important development which will continue to help protect jobs, investment and future growth. The Malta Chamber will however continue to engage with the authorities on a technical and administrative level for the implementation of other mitigating measures including the extension of the night-tariffs scheme. In addition, the Malta Chamber continues to urge Government to open up a structured and holistic dialogue on the sustainability of energy generation in Malta. It must continue to stress that the competitiveness of our business community must be safeguarded if the private sector is to continue contributing to Malta's prosperity by investing and creating more jobs.

Europe 2020

Thu, 18 Mar 2010 09:49:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 4 March 2010: As a follow-up to the consultation process on the post-Lisbon Strategy, the European Commission yesterday published its concrete proposals for the "EU2020" strategy centered on three focal priorities: smart, sustainable, and inclusive growth.

According to both EUROCHAMBRES and BUSINESSEUROPE, to which the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry is affiliated, this publication represents a sound business plan to enhance the EU's growth and competitiveness in the years to come. However, these priorities and targets will prove futile if national governments do not pursue them thoroughly through their domestic agendas. It is critical that the European Council reinforce the sense of urgency through implementation and monitoring processes.

In fact, BUSINESSEUROPE‘s Executive Committee, meeting today, will debate the European Commission's proposals and present recommendations on what needs to be changed in order to turn the Commission communication into a real road map for action. Representing the Malta Chamber on this Committee is Director General Ing. Ray Muscat.

Meanwhile, EUROCHAMBRES has compiled a list of proposals on how the Europe 2020 headline targets can be delivered. These proposals include:

* A call for a ‘Pact for Sustainable Employability': establishing the framework for effective collaboration between training organisations, universities, businesses and public authorities to ensure that the provision of training responds to the results of skills forecasting.

* Research and Development: must respond to the needs of businesses, which in turn requires far closer links between business and the research community.

* Employability as a key indicator of education systems: tertiary education must be more demand-driven and should embrace vocational education.

* Employment as an effective route to poverty reduction: businesses are key actors in reducing the poverty gap. Designing tools that would ‘match the unmatched' could cut unemployment substantially.

A strong business plan is important, but it must be resourced and implemented. National budgets, priorities and actions must be regularly monitored by the Council in line with the priorities and targets of Europe 2020.

Malta Chamber pledges support to Parliamentary Secretary

Thu, 18 Mar 2010 09:45:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 22nd February 2010: The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry today welcomed Parliamentary Secretary Hon. Jason Azzopardi to the Exchange Buildings during a cordial visit. Malta Chamber President Mrs Helga Ellul congratulated the Parliamentary Secretary on the widening of his new responsibilities to now also include SMEs and the Self Employed - an area which is a great priority for the Malta Chamber.

She stated that besides being the motor of the economy, micro and SME companies are also the backbone of membership of the Malta Chamber. Testament to this are the issues discussed within the Malta Chamber, as well as the existence of a specialised committee dedicated to SMEs.

"SMEs are dynamic but they are also vulnerable and need continuous guidance and assistance. This is where your office, our Chamber and other Business Entities play a central role - to help SMEs prosper and grow," Mrs Ellul explained to Hon. Azzopardi.

"However, Maltese SMEs continue to face a number of issues which are threatening their very survival and they need to be addressed with great urgency," she said. These issues include:

    * Unfair competition from individuals who disregard the law
    * Unnecessary and Selective Bureaucracy
    * Increasing Utility Rates
    * The highest COLA ever awarded
    * Pending Eco-contribution refunds

As regards the Services Directive, Mrs Ellul stated that the Malta Chamber insists that local SMEs need to be in a position to reap the benefits of this legislation and to ensure that a level playing field is always ensured in the applicable service sectors.

"Our SMEs must be competitive if they are to survive and prosper. Unfortunately, their cost-base is ever increasing at a very challenging time," said the Malta Chamber President. "The cash flow problems that exist in the economy continue to intensify the difficulties. Besides, SMEs who seek to conduct their business in full compliance with all existing laws and regulations, face unfair competition from other companies or traders who disregard laws related to consumer protection; the environment and tax. Our members' market shares are being eroded unfairly everyday," she added.

Mrs Ellul stated that co-operation is needed to ensure that enforcement structures operate in a smarter and fairer manner to ensure they are able to protect the honest businessman from blatant unlawful activity.

"With this in mind, the Malta Chamber would like to pledge its full support for the advancement of our SMEs," she stated. "Together, we need to ensure that SMEs are not taken for granted." Mrs Ellul concluded that the Malta Chamber looks forward to this new manner of structured dialogue with Dr. Azzopardi and his office. "We are centrally placed to know of the issues and concerns and to pass them on to Dr. Azzopardi with who we shall recommend and discuss possible solutions."

The Malta Chamber is committed to communicate and co-operate closely with the Parliamentary Secretary to ensure that SMEs are nurtured at this particularly sensitive time, and that their voices are heard and their needs adequately provided for. Only then, can we rely on our SMEs to remain the main source of business initiative, investment, innovation, employment and prosperity for the country.

Utility Rates

Thu, 18 Mar 2010 09:39:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 22nd February 2010: Ever since the announcement of the utility tariffs revision in December 2009, the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry has undertaken efforts through ongoing discussions with Government, in order to arrive to mix of mitigation solutions to alleviate the impact of the tariffs on businesses. The discussions included several meetings with Minister Tonio Fenech and the Malta Resources Authority, as well as at MCESD level

The Malta Chamber reiterates its position that the revised utility tariffs shall impact negatively on competitiveness and fuel inflation resulting, in turn, in high requests for COLA at the next Budget. Utility rates are a threat to business competitiveness, irrespective of sector and size. Naturally, the country can neither afford to erode its competitiveness nor stimulate higher inflation. It is felt that Government's intentions to undertake interventions on a company-by-company basis may not necessarily be effective with SMEs.

The Malta Chamber has also recommended that the scope of the night metering needs to be extended and that the eligibility threshold be lowered.

The Malta Chamber stresses that the new full cost recovery strategy for Enemalta cannot be introduced within a short time frame. A staggered approach must instead be adopted to ensure that economic shocks are avoided affording business the necessary time to adapt. This has to be seen within the context that Malta has always suffered from serious market failures in the generation and distribution of energy due to critical mass as well as monopoly considerations. It is imperative that the process of connecting to the European power grid is hastened, a completion date set and interim measures launched with the aim of ensuring competitive utility prices

As Tariffs are currently being discussed in Parliament, the Malta Chamber urges Government to consider its recommendations and to open up a holistic dialogue on the sustainability of energy generation in Malta. The Malta Chamber stresses that the business community cannot absorb further increases in its cost base, particularly at this current period of international economic instability.

Malta Chamber meets Ghaqda Unions Maltin

Thu, 18 Mar 2010 09:35:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 18TH FEBRUARY: On 18th February 2010, the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry welcomed a delegation from the Ghaqda Unions Maltin. The cordial meeting focused on the issue of the utility tariffs, and the importance of social dialogue. Malta Chamber Directors General Mr Kevin J Borg and Ing. Ray Muscat addressed the meeting on behalf of the organization.

During the meeting Mr Borg stated that the Malta Chamber strongly believes in the strength of dialogue to solve the country's problems. "Communication is always healthy in the areas of social dialogue," he said.

Regarding the utility tariffs, he remarked that they have imposed significant hardships on the productive sector." We believe that the tariffs would have an inflationary effect, which would hamper competitiveness," Mr Borg added. "For employers, it comes over and above the unprecedented COLA, and at a very unfortunate time when demand from abroad and locally has not yet recovered to pre-crisis levels."

Ing. Muscat explained that the Malta Chamber is currently in ongoing discussions with Government on a number of points "We believe that Government is adamant not to revise the tariffs at this stage - but we are proposing ways in which to support/mitigate their negative effect," he said.

Ing. Muscat stated that the Malta Chamber believes that the way to solve such problems is through continued dialogue.

For these reasons the Malta Chamber has decided that it will take no direct or indirect part in the planned manifestation. Whilst the Malta Chamber appreciates the Unions' views on this subject, the organization prefers different approaches of lobbying the cause of its members.

VAT agreement on Food and Medicine

Tue, 02 Mar 2010 13:57:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE:11 MarchThe Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry expressed satisfaction at the agreement reached yesterday between EU Finance Ministers to retain VAT exemption on food and medicine products.

Given the elementary importance of the products in question, this development is important from an economic point of view. Primarily, the agreement ensures that there is no shock to the general price level - to the benefit of local consumers. It also avoids an element of cost-push inflation, given that food is also a basic raw-material for many business sectors. The avoidance of any unnecessary economic pressures – at this particular moment in time – is positive.

The agreement also underlines an important issue for the country in that if our arguments are sound and backed by solid facts, Malta’s influence - however small - within the European Union will be heard.

Malta Chamber on Transport Compensation

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 15:57:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE
DATE: 28 JANUARY 2010
The Malta Chamber of Commerce Enterprise and Industry - No more bail-outs

The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry is dismayed that Government has moved ahead with the incredible offer to the current public transport operators and has even agreed to raise the offer to €55million.

The Malta Chamber insists that in view of the country’s very tight constraints in public finances, affording this level of compensation is totally out of sync with the times. The Malta Chamber understands that Government was obliged to compensate the public transport operators however in comparison to the funds promised to assist business to mitigate the increase in electricity tariffs, such levels of compensation can in no way be justified in terms of national economic benefit. This amount of compensation must also be seen in the light of the 7-year package of financial assistance made available to the whole business community through Malta Enterprise, the ‘€ 20 million for Industry’ package.

The Malta Chamber trusts that there are no other such bailouts of non-productive entities in the pipeline and that the Government will be adopting an equally understanding stance when Chamber members approach Government for assistance to safeguard jobs and investment. The Malta Chamber has and will continue to support Government in its efforts to safeguard and create jobs and now looks forward to more positive developments in this direction.

Public Transport Privatisation

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 15:58:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE:25 JANUARY 2010:The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry would like to express its utter disbelief at the news emerging from the ongoing negotiations between Government and the Public Transport Association (PTA) concerning compensation packages being offered to bus owners in anticipation of the public transport reform process.

In view of the compensation figures mentioned in the media over the past days, the Malta Chamber is demanding that Government fulfills its responsibility to the taxpayer and ensures judicious use of public funds. “Taxpayers’ money must be channeled into areas that are priorities for the country at this present moment in time,” said the President of the Malta Chamber, Ms Helga Ellul, explaining that such funds must be invested in those areas where the country and its people are most likely to derive economic benefit. Besides, Government is promising all bus owners and their employees a 10-year contract with the new public transport operators under their current conditions. “Job guarantees are unheard of in this day and age, let alone a 10 year guarantee and they should certainly not be offered on top of pay-out compensation figures. This is not how the real world operates. Every day, operators in the business community are continually looking for ways and means to maintain their competitiveness in the face of an increasingly difficult environment. The only guarantees we have for 2010 are high energy tariffs and a high cost of living adjustment (COLA). This is the Drydocks all over again ,” added Ms Ellul.

The total amount in excess of €50 million that Government has so far accepted to afford to move out the current public transport operators must be put into perspective. Government has so far agreed to compensate the ordinary citizen and business to the tune of €10m and €2.5m respectively in terms of support for the higher utility tariffs – an issue of current fundamental importance for the country. The Malta Chamber has been advocating a larger compensation fund for business in an effort to ascertain competitiveness and the safeguarding of jobs in this challenging economic scenario.

In terms of its principles, in favour of safeguarding national competitiveness and environmental sustainability, the Malta Chamber certainly recognizes the importance of the public transport reform especially if this shall finally translate into an efficient service. It is however inconceivable that the current transport operators who have enjoyed monopoly conditions for so long are now to be compensated at the expense of the tax payer.

In conclusion, the Malta Chamber calls on Government not to give in to political and other pressures and afford ridiculous amounts of taxpayers’ money to compensate a limited amount of people making unreasonable demands. Such levels of compensation cannot be justified in terms of national economic benefit.

Business prospects for 2010 lowest in a decade

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 15:50:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE

DATE: 2nd December 2009

Business prospects for 2010 lowest in a decade

Businesses in Europe expect to invest and employ less in 2010 than at any time in the last decade. Also turnover and export forecasts are at their lowest level since 2000, while businesses do not anticipate any changes in domestic sales for the coming year.

The findings of the latest EUROCHAMBRES Economic Survey, which polled over 69,000 businesses of all sizes and sectors in 27 countries* including Malta, show that companies are still suffering from the consequences of the crisis and that the recovery is not yet in sight. Malta took part in this pan-European exercise through the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry’s membership within EUROCHAMBRES. Official statistics highlight the difficult period that the Maltese economy is passing through following the global financial crisis and this is reflected in the overall perceptions from Maltese companies participating in the survey.

At the aggregate European level, the only indicator which has improved compared to last year’s survey was business confidence, maybe because of a “things can only get better” attitude. Yet, this optimism is unlikely to be backed up by actions.

Arnaldo Abruzzini, Secretary General of EUROCHAMBRES, explained: “Businesses are afraid to invest. They don't see domestic sales growing, they suffer from unfavourable exchange rates which hamper their exports and, as a result, they are unwilling to invest and to employ. It is premature to say, in light of these facts, that the worse is already behind us.”

Against this background, Mr Abruzzini urged ECOFIN Ministers meeting today to take further concrete action, in particular with respect to small companies.

Specific results on Malta’s business confidence and turnover will be provided in the next issue of The Commercial Courier being published on Thursday 10th December.

* All EU Member States (except Ireland and Lithuania) + Croatia and Turkey

EUROCHAMBRES Economic Survey 2010 can be downloaded from
www.eurochambres.eu/content/default.asp?PageID=1&DocID=210

Malta Chamber IT Business Section comments on e-Gov rankings

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 15:48:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE
Date: 2nd December 2009
Malta Chamber IT Business Section comments on e-Gov rankings

The Information Technology Business Section of The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry, welcomes the news that Malta has placed at the top of the EU rankings with respect to the deployment of e-government. The Business Section believes that this is a very important achievement, showing that a strong Government vision supported by private enterprise is the recipe for success.

Speaking about the results, Mr. Keith Fearne, Chairman of the Business Section, commented that “Over the last years there has been an important change in strategy with regards to ICT. From being considered simply as a “technology infrastructure, a new vision has been developed positioning ICT as a pillar of the economy, an enabler for a more efficient public service and a means to deliver a better quality of life to Maltese citizens. At the Malta Chamber we have been working on this vision for the last 20 years. We congratulate MITA and the ICT industry for this excellent result, and augur that this partnership will continue to bring more successes.”

The IT Business Section also gave its reaction to MITA’s recent publication of its Strategic Plan for 2009-2012, at a recent NISCO session held at the Mediterranean Conference Centre. The main comments were positive ones, with the Business Section applauding the fact that it is now clear that a political decision has been taken to divest MITA of the delivery capability and pass this on to private enterprise, where it should always have resided. The new strategic, governance and program management role assumed by MITA, developed on industry best practice guidelines and frameworks is a very important step in moving up the ICT capability model. The Business Section pledged that industry would give all the necessary support and continue to make the necessary investments to ensure that it would be in a position to deliver to MITA’s expectations.

ENDS

Eurochambres appointments

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 15:47:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 23 November 2009: Stefano Mallia, Vice President of the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry, has been elected to the Board of Directors of Eurochambres. Eurochambre, the association of European Chambers of Commerce and Industry represents over 45 Chambers of Commerce spread throughout Europe and aims to strengthen the voice and position of European Chambers as significant and respected influencers of EU affairs on all major economic issues

Commenting on his 2-year appointment, Mr. Mallia said that it was important that Malta actively participates in such fora. Mr. Mallia said “as representatives of the private sector its vital that we represent the interests of our members also at a European level. Eurochambre is very active at this level and regularly influences key decisions taken by the European Commission and the European Council. We need to be there to participate in this process.” As a member of the board of directors Mr. Mallia will be participating in the general affairs of the organization however he confirmed that he will be taking an active interest in the working groups concerned with issues of competitiveness of SMEs and the development of maritime policy.

During the same Plenary Assembly , Alessandro Barberis, President of the Turin Chamber of Commerce, was unanimously elected as the new President of Eurochambre. He will take over his new function on 1 January 2010, succeeding to Pierre Simon who holds the Presidency since 2006 and who was in turn elected Honorary President.

In his speech of investiture, Mr Barberis outlined his priorities. “We need more Europe to face one of the most serious economic crisis in our history. The next few months will be crucial: immediate answers must be given on the political front without forgetting the long term goals such as responding to the increasing unemployment, defending the single market against protectionist tendencies or giving adequate support to the agreement on climate change in Copenhagen.”

Alessandro Barberis has been the President of the Turin Chamber of Commerce since 2004, and, since 2008, the Vice President of the ICC – International Chamber of Commerce. Prior to that, he was Managing Director and Vice Chairman of FIAT. At present he serves as an advisor to a number of Italian companies.

Positive Investment

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 15:46:00 GMT

PRESS RELEASE
DATE: 17 November 2009
Malta Chamber welcomes positive investment

The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry welcomes the positive news that a leading Swiss-based aircraft maintenance company will be setting up in Malta, and commends Government and Malta Enterprise for this notable achievement. This accomplishment is rendered more notable in the background of investment levels at the international level.

This development will continue to place Malta firmly on the map as an established centre for aircraft engineering. Besides, for the local economy it shall contribute towards a direct opportunity for high-end employment at specific technical levels. This adds to the success stories within the other value-added sectors in Malta, such as pharmaceutical and ICT, which continue to grow steadily.

The Malta Chamber shall continue to support Government and Malta Enterprise in the attraction of specific Foreign Direct Investment in areas where the country and its people have already built an excellent track record of success. It shall also assist through other entities to ensure that the country’s medium and long term prospects are approached in a holistic manner, especially through ensuring competitiveness and the constant supply of professional people to render these investments a true success.

Quality conference

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 15:45:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE:17 November 2009:“Quality Management means much more than delivering a good quality product or service. It is about the Quality of Management: the way we manage our business,” said Mr Tancred Tabone, Deputy President of the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry. Mr Tabone was speaking during the Malta Chamber’s 2nd Annual Quality Management Conference, held at the Corinthia St. Gorg, St. Julians. The conference, organised by the Malta Chamber Quality Management Committee, included speakers from various business sectors, as well as workshops and discussions in relation to the strategic direction towards achieving excellence.

Mr Tabone stated that Quality Management applies to the largest manufacturer, down to the micro enterprise, and involves every employee along the chain, as well as suppliers and clients. “Improvement is an ongoing process, and this is why Quality is imperative.” “From my own experiences, an organization can only be forward looking in today’s highly competitive environment if it embraces Quality Management principles throughout its whole operation,” he stated.

In his address Quality Management Committee Chairman Emidio J Friggieri discussed the milestones of the Committee so far, which include two national conferences, and a business seminar. He also mentioned future initiatives such further business seminars as well as the aim of becoming a full member of the European Organisation for Quality.

Mr Winston J. Zahra, CEO of Island Hotels Group Holdings plc, delivered the first presentation, discussing “People: Employees or Partners.” Mr Zahra explained the purpose of his company’s HR Strategy, as well as its key strategic areas, which include management development, core staff training, and employee satisfaction and welfare.

Mr Zahra was followed by a presentation on the Impact of Processes in Business given by Mr Pier Massa, Managing Partner of M2 Business Frameworks Ltd. Mr Massa discussed the numerous methodologies that exist to aid companies to improve their process, such as Six Sigma, and the EFQM Excellence Model. He also mentioned some common themes that span these methods, such as starting with a clear commitment at the executive level of the organization, creating a culture of Fact-Based Decision Making, and training and engaging teams of employees that are directly involved in the processes.

“Policy and Strategy: Formulating, Enabling and Empowerin”g was addressed by Mr Johannes Schnieder, President of Abertax Quality Ltd. Mr Schnieder explained the various criteria in detail on how a company can introduce the culture of Total Quality Management. He discussed the strategic alignment, which involves company values, business principles, as well as the corporate vision and mission. Mr Schnieder said that ‘enabling’ involves employment based on measurable criteria, assessment of people, and availability of resources. He also stated that the empowerment function includes defined responsibilities, process ownership, and respect and acceptance of the same ownership.

Mr. John Scerri, Quality Director at ST Microelectronics (Malta) discussed “Customer Results: Managing the Customer Experience.” Mr Scerri divided his presentation into five areas, these being; knowing your customers, knowing their expectations, surveying customers regularly, performing a gap analysis, and implementing corrective actions.

Mr Scerri was followed by Mr Albert Frendo, Executive Head Risk Management at Bank of Valletta, who discussed “Sustaining Society through Business Quality.”Mr Frendo focused on why society results matter, saying that the focus on sustainability implies a strong social conscience, and the Impact of an organisation’s operations on society is proportional to its footprint. He pointed out that an organisation’s impact on society is a combination of various factors, including the environmental, social, economic and aesthetic.

Dr. Claire Cassar, Legal and Regulatory Affairs Manager, Vodafone Malta, addressed “Partnerships and Resources.” Dr. Cassar highlighted the challenges of partnering, which include reluctance to change the business model, and culture change. Dr. Cassar also focused on the success factors of partnering, which include regular reviews, celebrating success together, key timing, and communicating the change to the rest of the organisation.
During the session after lunch, participants continued to address these topics in the workshops. The feedback from the workshops was then presented in the last plenary session. The Committee Chairman, Mr Emidio Friggieri, then drew the conclusions of the conference.

The well attended conference was held with the kind support of Abertax Quality Ltd, Trelleborg Sealing Solutions, Clever Solutions, Adpro Instruments Ltd, Playmobil Malta, ST Microelectronics (Malta) Ltd, and Vodafone Malta, as well as the Malta Chamber’s collaborating partners, HSBC and Bank of Valletta.

MCESD Dialogue

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 15:44:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE:11 November 2009:The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry would like to express its satisfaction at the constructive social dialogue that took place prior to the 2010 budget. The Malta Chamber feels that the process and the results produced have brought to the fore the importance of the Malta Council for Economic and Social Development (MCESD). The Malta Chamber would also like to publicly acknowledge the tireless efforts made by the Chairman of MCESD, Mr Sonny Portelli, and his team.

Now that the 2010 budgetary process is concluded, the Malta Chamber looks forward to the actual and early implementation of the measures announced during last Monday’s budget speech. Furthermore, and in line with what was discussed at MCESD, the Malta Chamber also looks forward to the early resumption of discussions at MCESD on how the country is to tackle important issues such as inflation, the COLA mechanism and labour flexibility. The Malta Chamber wants these and other priority issues to be settled well in advance of the next pre-budget consultation discussions. This is required to ensure that the decisions are professionally researched and planned. It is imperative that past mistakes in terms of approach are avoided especially in view of the fact that the economic outlook for 2010 is still a very bleak one.

The Malta Chamber feels that the 2010 budget provides a positive basis for meeting the economic challenges ahead. It however also acknowledges the worrying economic figures related to GDP growth, unemployment and government finances. With this in mind, the Malta Chamber looks forward to a more active MCESD during 2010 during which important economic issues will be thoroughly analyzed and discussed leading to well informed decisions. The Malta Chamber has and will continue to take an active role in this process. To this end, it looks forward to the resumption of talks with a view to reach equitable agreement on the way forward.

Wine Tasting Evening in Aid of Inspire

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 15:43:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE:10 November 2009: On the 6th November, the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry held the Wine Tasting Evening. This is the third year that the Malta Chamber has organised this very successful event in its courtyard. The event was attended by about 150 persons. The objective is to give Malta Chamber members involved in the production and importation of Wines an occasion to showcase their wines and also to provide members and their partners with a social evening, as well as a networking opportunity.
Every person attending this event was asked to make a donation, in aid of Inspire: The Foundation for Inclusion. By the end of the evening the sum of €645, with further donations expected.

Ten companies came together to present wines from nine wine regions and countries, namely Attard & Co. Ltd.; Camilleri Wines Ltd; Charles Grech & Co. Ltd; Emmanuel Delicata Winemaker, M. Demajo (Wines & Spirits) Ltd; farsonsdirect.com, Marsovin Ltd; P. Cutajar & Co. Ltd., S. Rausi Trading and Wembley Stores.

This event was also supported by Phoenix Domestic Appliances Ltd, Villa Arrigo Ltd, V.J. Salomone Marketing Ltd and Continental Purchasing Co. Ltd.

Malta Chamber Preliminary Budget Reaction

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 15:42:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE:09 November 2009:The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry recognizes the difficult financial situation in which this Budget has been formulated. The international economic situation is still very uncertain and this has exerted negative effects on local production and tourism in particular. As a result, unlike some trading partners, our country has shown little signs of emerging from the recession.

Under these circumstances, however, the Malta Chamber welcomes a firm commitment in this Budget to stimulate investment and support companies – both large and small. This approach is welcomed as a follow-up to the targeted support measures that have been granted since the beginning of the year. The Malta Chamber believes that to create more jobs, the country must encourage employers to do so.

Within the ambit of pre-Budget consultations, the Malta Chamber is disappointed that the social partners could not agree on a set of labour flexibility and other measures that could be introduced to mitigate the effect of COLA on employers’ labour costs. Consequently, the Budget Speech lacks measures necessary to justify the salary increase from a performance/productivity point of view.

Nevertheless, the Malta Chamber commends the support to SMEs in terms of:

• € 10m allocation for microcredits
• And 40 per cent tax credits on new investment (60% in the case of Gozo)

Besides, the Chamber also welcomes the increased budget allocated to Malta Enterprise with which the Chamber works very closely for the benefit of its members even in the field of Internationalisation.

The Chamber also recognizes the drive towards enhanced efficiency in tax collection with the announced consolidation of the Inland Revenue, Value Added Tax and Customs Department. This measure should create enforcement synergies and permit payment set-offs. The Chamber augurs that this integration is completed within reasonable time to ensure a seamless transition in terms of payments from the public to the private sector.

In terms of employment and training, it is positive to note that the announced increase in ETC budget. The country depends on its people as its only natural resource and therefore it needs to ensure a constant upgrade in the profile of its workers. In fact, the added budget will allow a wider reach for training schemes and the introduction of a Work Trial Scheme. The Malta Chamber also supports the announcement of a new scheme for a compulsory education for unemployed persons aged between 16-20. This is in line with previous calls by the Chamber itself to increase the compulsory school-leaving age with a view to enhance the employability levels of young persons

In terms of tourism, the Chamber noted the announced increased allocation in MTA marketing budgets as well as the continued commitment towards capital projects aimed at enhancing the tourist product through visitor centres, revamping coastal areas, regenerating sandy beaches and restoring bastions.
The Chamber also welcomes the renewed commitment for the payment of refunds and exemptions from Eco-Contribution. The announced LNs are well overdue and are urgently required to restore fair competition amongst all market operators to the benefit of business and the consumer alike. It is augured that this ongoing matter can be successfully concluded in the coming weeks.

In conclusion, the Malta Chamber must comment on the uncertainty that still surrounds the issue of utility tariffs. This may unnecessarily dampen local economic momentum. In this sense, it would have been better had the matter been clarified before next January.

In the coming days, the Chamber shall be examining the contents of the Budget Speech in greater detail and in the context of the set of budget documents published. The Malta Chamber will then be in a position to ascertain the effects of the announced measures in the context of medium term economic and social objectives.

Internationalisation Conference

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 15:40:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 27 October 2009:“We are all convinced that Maltese business must go abroad if it is to prosper. By internationalising early – and well – our companies will not only be more competitive abroad but they will also be in a stronger position to rise above the competition within Malta,” said Helga Ellul, President of the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry today. Mrs Ellul was speaking at the Gearing Up for Internationalisation Conference organised by the Malta Chamber’s Internationalisation Committee.

The event was organised to hear how business can benefit from national stakeholders involved in internationalisation support as well as to seek better results from co-operation and synergies.

Mrs Ellul remarked that Malta needed to use its small size to our advantage. “Our smallness facilitates collaboration between organisations, ministries and diplomatic representations. Everything is nearby, and networking is easy,” she said. Mrs Ellul declared that the Chamber was looking forward to continue working closely with Malta Enterprise and augured that the latter would be afforded the necessary budgets and resources needed to provide the support and services intended.

Peter Grima, the Chamber’s Internationalisation Committee Chairman, elaborated on the role and strategy of his committee as well as the way forward. He explained that the Chamber’s Internationalisation Desk sought to extract the right benefit for the business community from co-operation with private and public entities which promote Internationalisation and whose service could tilt the balance towards success of a business project abroad. Mr Grima also described the Chamber’s proposals for business internationalisation, which include franchising, clusters and consortia, sector and sub-sector interest groups, strategic talks/topics, and education and courses.He appealed to participants to come forward and explain to the Chamber’s Internationalisation Desk what help they required to venture abroad. The Desk could point them in the right direction or design specific project initiatives if this was justified by the level of interest.

The conference was also addressed by the Minister of Finance, the Economy and Investment, Hon. Tonio Fenech, who opened the conference, Alan Camilleri, ME Executive Chairman; Cecilia Attard Pirotta, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; and Richard Cottell, HSBC Malta Head of Commercial Banking (see separate boxes).

The sell-out conference was held with the kind support of Simonds Farsons Cisk plc, as well as the Malta Chamber’s collaborating partners, HSBC and Bank of Valletta.

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Pre-budget document cannot be endorsed

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 15:37:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE:20 October 2009:Malta has still not emerged from economic uncertainty and the safeguarding of jobs is the top-most priority for the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry. Of course, this entails the safeguarding of national competitiveness and the sustainability of locally-based business - both large and small.

To this end, the Malta Chamber conducted intensive negotiations within MCESD and made it very clear, right from the very early stages, that its agreement with the MCESD 2010 pre-Budget Discussion Paper was dependant on the acceptance by the social partners of a number of proposals made by the Chamber itself.

So far, the Malta Chamber has conducted itself in the most prudent manner possible. We have not expressed ourselves publicly until today and had no intention of doing so had matters not escalated so suddenly. We are concerned that things have taken this turn and that with a date for the Budget announced so close in November, there remains very little time to discuss and negotiate ourselves out of this situation.

The Malta Chamber is not against the award of COLA. Certainly not to the lower-paid workers to whom COLA is needed to safeguard basic living standards.

But we certainly believe that the economic circumstances are not opportune for an unprecedented COLA without mitigating its adverse effects with other compensating measures.
The Malta Chamber, in fact, strongly insisted that it is unacceptable for the social partners to be pushed towards an unsustainable path in terms of competitiveness and employment and that some labour-flexibility measures needed to be included to offset the added costs to business: On behalf of its members, the Chamber suggested that :

•    COLA is granted as an allowance rather than as part of the salary
•    COLA system be reviewed by a pre-specified date
•    the COLA-element would be tax-neutral
•    banking of hours be introduced across the board
•    more productive hours at the place of work
•    moratorium on ALL government induced fees and tariffs
•    performance bonuses to become pensionable to allow better flexibility in the wage bargaining process

The Council of the Malta Chamber carefully considered the MCESD document and the organisation’s position with respect to the various proposals it contained. It was decided that, unless some of the above counter-measures were accepted, the package of proposals put forward so far for the endorsement of the social partners is not sustainable for the country and the business community.

The Malta Chamber has made every possible effort to unblock the situation with two rounds of emergency talks with the MCESD chairman before this public pronouncement. Nevertheless, these efforts have, so far, proved unsuccessful and in the interest of safeguarding jobs, the Chamber has no option but to reject the package of measures for the forthcoming budget as currently proposed by MCESD.

20/10/2009

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Chambers meet MEPs and test their business credentials

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 15:35:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE:16 October 2009: On 14th October, in Brussels, 400 representatives of Chambers of Commerce from 45 countries, met the four largest political groups in the European Parliament, (EPP, S&D, ECR, Greens). This event, 'Chambers Meet MEPs' was a 90-minute debate organised by EUROCHAMBRES, which allowed participants to confront on several business related issues and to seek the European Parliament's point of view.

The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry was represented by a delegation headed by Vice President Stefano Mallia and further composed of Director General Kevin J Borg, MBB CEO Joseph Tanti and MBB Permanent Delegate Omar Cutajar.

Mr Mallia addressed the event on the issue of a dynamic workforce as a recipe for competitiveness and renewed growth for EU economies. He advised the MEPs present against over-regulation in preventing domestic economies to generate the new jobs required to replace those lost to the crisis. He stated that over regulation was a disincentive to employers and if the EU wants more jobs it must encourage more employers. He stressed that if we want to create more jobs we need to create more employers.

The European Chambers urged the European Parliament to pursue a business-friendly agenda and to implement policies that will allow the business community to lead Europe out of the economic crisis and into a period of sustainable growth and competitiveness. They then asked specific questions to MEPs, enquiring their positions on crucial dossiers such as the internal market, the ‘European Innovation Act’ the post-2010 Lisbon Strategy and plans to cut energy consumption. All MEPs replied in turn, presenting their group’s vision and priorities in their fields.

In conclusion, Chambers stressed that the forthcoming review of the EU Budget will be a litmus test of how seriously the EU institutions intend to reflect these priorities.

Linking Enterprise at ST

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 15:34:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 09 October 2009:On 3rd October, the second Linking Enterprise event was held by the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry, kindly hosted at ST Microelectronics. Organised in collaboration with the Malta Chamber Manufacturers and Other Industries Economic Group (MEG) this event aimed to give members and non-members an overview of the work of the Malta Chamber in assisting its Manufacturing members, as well as giving them the opportunity to voice their concerns.

Mr William Wait, Chairman of the MEG explained that the event successfully achieved what it had set out to do, not only sharing useful information, but also giving participants the chance to network, which are important priorities of the Malta Chamber, and two of the main benefits of membership. Including members across all sectors, from the SMEs to FDIs, the Malta Chamber offers numerous opportunities through its seminars, information meetings, and social events, for members to meet and discuss business opportunities. In fact, following this successful event, some participants chose to apply for membership.

“I am aware that during the event some members actually took the opportunity to discuss the capabilities that their respective firms offer and that there will be follow up meetings with possible future collaboration taking place,” said Mr Wait. He adds that some members also agreed to discuss issues of common importance, through the creation of more business sections within the Malta Chamber. “I believe the Malta Chamber is the place for such a forum, where common positions of specific issues can be taken,” he concluded.

The well attended event was opened by Mr Wait, who gave an introduction regarding the role of the MEG within the Chamber. Mr. Wait outlined its priorities, which include aiding members in seeking overseas markets and expansion, clustering and networking industry and Government, incentivizing the research, development and innovation capacity, ensuring that industry gets all the support available especially during the economic recession, and encouraging members to participate in any initiatives which are created for their benefit.

He was followed by Malta Chamber Director General Ing. Ray Muscat, who gave a presentation on the benefits of membership, which include the basic consultation and representation, but also branch into more value-added services such as the Malta Chamber’s Internationalisation Desk, courses and further education, and other events such as Linking Enterprise itself.

Mr Santo S. Portera, Director of Facilities and Security at ST Microelectronics gave a detailed presentation on the overall status of Maltese Economy, with special focus on the manufacturing sector, This was followed by an open discussion, a presentation by Mr Portera on ST Microelectronics, as well as a tour of the shop floor, where participants were given the chance to see the company’s best practices in action.

Promoting active relations between countries

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 15:33:00 GMT

PRESS RELEASE
DATE: 07 October 2009
Malta Chamber promotes active relations between countries

Yesterday, the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry’s Internationalisation Desk held yet another well attended ‘Doing Business With’ seminar, aimed to inform participants about the business opportunities which exist in Tunisia. This event was organised by the Chamber’s Internationalisation Desk in collaboration with the Tunisian Embassy in Malta and Malta Enterprise.

The event was also used as a forum to gauge the interest among Maltese businesses for the creation of a Maltese-Tunisian Business Council, which is envisaged to be a networking forum for Maltese companies doing business in Tunisia, or interested in doing business with Tunisian companies.

This event has already been followed up by a meeting between the Tunisian authorities, the Malta Chamber, and the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, on the establishment of a Business Council between Tunisia and Malta. Once it is set up, the Business Council will aim to promote active relations between the two countries, within a framework of co-operation.

The success of this event and its subsequent follow up is tangible proof of the importance of collaboration between the Malta Chamber and Diplomatic Representations in Malta. This formula has brought about tangible benefits to the local business community and Embassies as they provide practical leads for business opportunities abroad. As part of its Internationalisation efforts, the Malta Chamber is in contact with other foreign missions in Malta to organise similar events and initiatives in the coming months.

The Chamber’s Internationalisation Desk shall be organising a national conference entitled “Gearing Up for Internationalisation” on 23rd October with the participation of Minister Tonio Fenech and prominent business leaders. Persons wishing to attend are kindly requested to contacts Ms Dorianne Bonanno on dorianne.bonanno@maltachamber.org.mt

Doing Business with Tunisia

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 15:32:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE:29 September 2009:The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry’s Internationalisation Desk is hosting a seminar to inform members about the business opportunities which exist in Tunisia. This event is being organised, in collaboration with the Tunisian Embassy in Malta, Malta Enterprise and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Representatives from four different Tunisian business organizations, including CEPEX (Tunisian Export Promotion Centre), UTICA (Union of Industry, Commerce & Handicrafts), FIPA (Investment Promotion Agency), and UTAP (Tunisian Agriculture and Fisheries Union) will be contributing with information about the Tunisian market and will be available for further contact. The event will also serve as an information session in preparation for the trade mission to Tunisia and Algeria, which will take place in March 2010.

Participants will also be addressed by the Tunisian Ambassador, H.E. Mr. Mohamed Ali Ganzoui, Malta’s Ambassador to Tunisia, H.E Dr. Vicky-Anne Cremona, the Malta Chamber Internationalisation Desk Manager, Mr Klaus Pedersen, Malta Enterprise, and Bank of Valletta.

Furthermore, it will be a forum to gauge the interest among Maltese businesses for the creation of a Maltese-Tunisian Business Council, which is envisaged to be a networking forum for Maltese companies doing business in Tunisia, or interested in doing business with Tunisian companies. All-in-all, this tightly-packed information session event is not to be missed by any company interested in the business opportunities which lie just 250 miles away from our shores.

This event is one of a series of ‘Doing Business with’ information seminars that the Malta Chamber is organizing, in line with its internationalization events and other initiatives. The Malta Chamber organised a similar programme of seminars regarding business opportunities with Switzerland, the Czech Republic, and Germany, which were well received by members.

The seminar will be held on Monday 5th October, at 14.30 at the Exchange Buildings, Valletta. Companies interested in participating are kindly asked to pre-register with Ms Dorianne Bonanno on e-mail: dorianne.bonanno@maltachamber.org.mt

Malta Chamber delegation meets Leader of the Opposition

Fri, 07 Aug 2009 15:30:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE:7 August 2009This week, a Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry delegation, led by President Helga Ellul paid a courtesy visit to the Labour Party (PL) Headquarters where they met, Leader Dr. Joseph Muscat, Dr Gavin Gulia, spokesperson for the Economy and Self-employed, and Dr. Carmelo Abela, spokesperson for Industry and Foreign Investment

This meeting was mainly intended to introduce the Malta Chamber Board of Management elected in May. In the meantime, however, Mrs Ellul had written to Dr. Muscat requesting an early opportunity to seek further clarification on some of the twenty three points designed to tackle inflation. In particular, the Malta Chamber had requested clarification on the proposal which could have been interpreted to propose that the State should have a more direct role in the economy via the importation and sale of goods and services.

Dr. Muscat explained that the proposal which caused some confusion was meant as a call for more transparency and efficiency, only in those instances where Government or state-controlled enterprises are still involved in direct importation of products such as fuels.

The delegation also took the opportunity to express its concern regarding other PL proposals, such as the creation of a price monitoring agency and a website to publicise recommended retail prices of all food and medicine prices.

The Malta Chamber reiterated that competition amongst most sectors was cut-throat and emanated even through various sources including the internet. Allegations of price-fixing and cartels were therefore unjustified. It stated that in many cases, bona fide companies faced unfair competition from outfits that operated illegally, importing products without abiding to fiscal, environmental and consumer protection laws. Furthermore, it was pointed out that this issue had already been bought up when the Malta Chamber had complained of inadequate market surveillance structures and that was what was serving to burden the law-abiding companies with more bureaucracy.

Both sides also discussed matters on which there is mutual agreement such as lower VAT rates on labour-intensive services; timely honouring of payment obligations by Government to the private sector; better regulation; protecting jobs; and utilising taxation as a means to stimulate work and investment.

In conclusion, the Malta Chamber stressed the need for business to operate with the least burdens and uncertainty possible. With these fundamentals in place, business could excel in its role as the creator of wealth and jobs in the economy.

Competition Safeguards

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 15:28:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE:31 July 2009The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry is seriously concerned about recent declarations made both by Government and Opposition quarters with respect to competition safeguards and the role of the State in business matters.

On one hand, the Minister of Finance was reported to state that Government intended to create an agency to safeguard fair competition and ensure that there are no price abuses. In turn, the Leader of the Opposition stated that (a) A price monitoring agency needs to be established that would be in a position to report and proceed against anti-competitive practices like cartels and price fixing (b) a website should be created to publicise recommended retail prices of all food and medicine products sold in Malta and (c) Government imports products and services itself, which are sold to the public in different methods. He stated it was crucial to establish full transparency; eliminate inefficiencies and undue bureaucracy.

To the Chamber, any proposal related to price monitoring agencies is unacceptable. The Chamber believes that competition is the best form of ‘price control’ which no agency can ever seek to achieve. Of course, competition requires a regulatory framework which, in turn, necessitates a well resourced competition office. Within the realities of today’s market, where cut-throat competition emerges from every angle including the internet, it is inconceivable to suggest that local competing businesses can agree to fix prices. Besides, for several months, the Chamber has been insisting for effective market surveillance, to ensure that a truly competitive environment prevails as several bona fide businesses were facing illicit competition from traders that did not comply with fiscal, environmental and other regulations. It is of concern to note that politicians seem to only be interested in protecting the consumer even at the expense of risking tax revenue and jobs.

The third PL proposal above, was ambiguous and subject to interpretation. The Chamber, therefore, requested clarifications which were not satisfactory. One of the fundamental beliefs of the Chamber is that Government’s role to legislate, regulate and re-distribute public funds– not to enter into direct competition with private enterprise. It also believes that public sector set-ups cannot match private sector efficiency levels. Consequently, the Chamber is pleased to note that instances of State Intervention in business have diminished in past years, and expects the remaining cases to be resolved within a given time frame. It certainly does not expect any reversal of the set process with the importation and distribution of goods and services by Government.

Undue encroachment in business by enterprises which are controlled or owned by the State is unacceptable. The practice is detrimental to the private sector, the consumer and the economy at large in both the short and longer term. Besides the curtailment of turnover and eroded market shares, it discourages private initiative and investment to the long-term detriment of wealth and employment opportunities in the country.

Courtesy visit to GWU

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 15:22:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 30 JULY 2009On Wednesday morning, a delegation from the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry led by the president Helga Ellul paid a courtesy call on the highest officials of the General Workers Union, led by General Secretary Tony Zarb Both parties recognised that the meeting was a positive one, as it enforced their mutual belief in the importance and strength of dialogue between the social partners.

During this cordial meeting, upon the suggestion of Mr Zarb, both parties agreed that such meetings should become periodic and ongoing, in order to discuss the economic situation, as well as matters of mutual interests.
A number or issues were discussed, including the current economic situation, during which Mrs Ellul reported some of the findings arising from the Malta Chamber Business Observatory Report on Business Confidence for the first half of 2009. A number of high-level measures that need to be adopted for Malta based enterprises to be in a better position to tackle economic recovery were discussed. The impact of the utility tariffs as revised in October 2008 on the general public, retail and industry was also discussed.

It was also agreed that the main priority of both parties was to ensure the safeguarding of jobs and competitiveness, as well as the process of embarking on innovation in its widest scope. It was noted that is a crucial determinant for the sustainability and growth of our enterprises, which in turn would have the desired positive impact on the standard of living and well-being of employees.

Among other issues discussed was the COLA mechanism, with both organisations agreeing that these matters should be further discussed, in an objective manner.
The importance of education was also discussed, with Malta Chamber President Helga Ellul stressing that this is perhaps one of the most important areas that as a country we need to focus on, to enhance the capability of our employees to be able to work on higher value-added activities. ESF funds can be used for this purpose, particularly in the areas of vocational training for re-skilling and life-long learning. She added that the Malta Chamber is committed to encouraging its members to invest in the education of their employees and this is one of the areas where the Malta Chamber and the GWU agreed to establish closer links.

The above text is being released by the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry, and endorsed by the General Workers Union.

Launch of the Malta Chamber Business Observatory

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 15:21:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE:9 July 2009:The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry today launched its Business Observatory, during a Business Breakfast organized together with the Malta Business Weekly and Le Meridien St Julians Hotel and Spa. The Business Observatory was launched in collaboration with PricewaterhouseCoopers, together with the expert advice of Dr. Gordon Cordina.

The Malta Chamber undertakes surveys in line with the Joint Harmonised EU Programme of Business and Consumer Surveys (BCS). The sector coverage of the programme has widened considerably, since the first Manufacturing survey in 2004, so much so that the programme was extended to the Services sector in 2007, to the Construction sector and finally to the Investment survey for the manufacturing sector in 2008.

The objective of these surveys is to gauge perceptions and expectations of operators in the above sectors. Internationally, these surveys serve as a lead and timelier indicator of actual performance. They do not substitute official data on the performance of the sector. The programme allows comparisons among different countries’ business cycles and has become a recognised tool for monitoring the evolution of the EU and the euro area economies, and applicant countries.

The survey results are then used by the Malta Chamber for economic analysis. Outside the Chamber, the European Central Bank and the Central Bank of Malta frequently use this survey data for both qualitative and quantitative analysis.

During his presentation, Dr. Cordina noted that the second quarter results generally indicate a tentative recovery in business confidence following the unprecedented drop registered in the first quarter of the year. Business confidence however remains rather subdued across all sectors surveyed, including services, manufacturing and construction. In the manufacturing sector in particular, the upturn in confidence has not as yet been accompanied by any perceptible recovery in business performance levels.

Dr Cordina also referred to official economic indicators to assess the likelihood of the severity and duration of the current downturn in economic activity in Malta. He pointed out that while there are a number of props which may limit the current recessionary phase, including the stability of the financial system and an expansionary fiscal stance, the return to sustained growth in an eventual economic upturn will critically depend on effort aimed at consolidating competitiveness.

In his presentatation entitled Business issues and priorities in the current economic climate, PricewaterhouseCoopers Partner Mr Lino Casapinta discussed the challenge faced by business in the present economic climate and provided insight on current business priorities. Furthermore, he also presented a framework that seeks to address current business issues and balancing strategies for both survival and growth opportunities.

Regular Events are planned to be held in the future to announce survey results with the business community and the relevant authorities, about the short term and medium term prospects for the Maltese economy.

Eco Contribution Press Conference

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 15:20:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE:17 June 2009: After two months, the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry and its members are still waiting for the publication of the Legal Notices pertaining to the Eco-Contribution refunds.

In March, the Malta Chamber was assured by the authorities that the pending LNs, one to regulate the refund mechanics and the other to pave the way for exemptions, would be published within a short space of time. It was assured that it could advise its members accordingly. More than two months have passed and, despite persistent chasing, phone calls and emails, there have been no developments whatsoever - just false assurances and messages that the LN would be finalised soon.

For several years our organisation has been promoting full compliance to the law i.e. compliance with the Eco-Contribution Act and Waste Packaging Directive (LN 277/2006).

The latter imposes a producer responsibility which is not waived by the payment of Eco-Contribution. Therefore, law-abiding companies – after all these years - are still facing the double payment of Eco-Contribution and waste management
scheme fees.

The Malta Chamber has been insisting that applicable refunds will be paid
(a) in full and
(b) within an acceptable time frame.

The Malta Chamber is informed that so far, companies are owed considerable amounts of money in refunds. We have also been insisting that, going forward, companies registered to a scheme will be exempt from Eco-Contribution.

Of course, uncertainty and unsolved issues are extremely harmful to businesses (both large and small) in the current difficult economic circumstances. The failure to refund what is due to law-abiding companies is both unjust and contradicts government’s efforts to assist businesses in need, though the specially set-up task force as well as through the offering of ‘breathing space’ on VAT and other payments to companies who are in difficulty.

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Safeguarding today's jobs for tomorrow's growth

Fri, 29 May 2009 15:11:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE:29TH May 2009:“Trade is what underpins growth and jobs in Europe as well as in Malta. In our case, combined imports and exports by far exceed our total Gross Domestic Product. A substantial part of our employment depends directly or indirectly on merchandise and invisible exports,” stated Mrs Helga Ellul, President of the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry. Mrs Ellul was speaking during the interactive session held today at the Exchange Buildings, with Baroness Catherine Ashton, European Commissioner for Trade.

Mrs Ellul explained that the economic downturn was bound to have implications for Malta in terms of growth and jobs because of our dependence on exports, the small size of our local economy, and the fact that exports are typically more sensitive to fluctuations in foreign demand and relative price competitiveness than domestic consumption.

In a recent speech, Baroness Ashton had stated that only 8 per cent of European SMEs trade across borders within the EU and 3 per cent engage in some form of trade with so-called third-countries. She also announced her aim to assist in increasing these percentages. Mrs Ellul said the Malta Chamber regards this as very positive, especially since internationalization is a key priority of the organisation.

“However, from the perspective of an island trading nation - whose economic operators are still coming to grips with the fact that our domestic market is no longer limited to 400,000 consumers but rather 500 million – there remain a number of structural issues yet to overcome,” said Mrs Ellul. She explained that a principal issue is the ability for Maltese SMEs to reap the best of opportunities first and foremost by the EU Single Market, but also in emerging markets both within close geographical proximity to Malta and further afield.

Mrs Ellul said that through the Malta Chamber’s affiliation in Eurochambres, it participates in a number of European-funded market-access initiatives to assist companies to invest in and/or export to third countries. “While these support programmes may be relevant for certain sectors such as ICT services, in the context of Maltese SMEs we know that in manufacturing and trade, firms typically take their first steps towards internationalisation in neighbouring markets where the least barriers exist,” Mrs Ellul stated, add that that this aspect was especially interesting in the case of Malta, because being a peripheral state, most of our neighbours are also third countries.

By way of practical suggestions to help companies to trade abroad, the Malta Chamber President suggested the reinforcement of EU market access strategies, especially within cross-border commercial activities on the internal market - without creating undue trade distortions – with a view to better facilitate the first internationalisation steps of SMEs closer to home. “To this end, the Malta Chamber has embarked on the implementation of a business plan for International Business Services,” she said.

In line with BusinessEurope’s call, she also suggested that the European Investment Bank, the European Commission and Member States agreed on a scheme of temporary trade credit insurance ensuring a level playing field across the EU internal market – at least until the situation has re-stabilised.

Mrs Ellul stated that we need to continuously ensure that all necessary support is afforded to innovative and dynamic companies. “This means that we need to support our SMEs which, by their very nature, are flexible and dynamic. Their combined role in our national economies means that they are real catalysts to rescue countries from recessions. SMEs are the big companies of tomorrow if they are properly nurtured and supported,” she said.

Mrs Ellul concluded that Baroness Ashton’s role was an important one for the local business community because trade in Malta was a way of life. The EU’s assistance was needed, however, in seeking better balance in the number of companies that were engaged in importation and those that exported, especially during these challenging economic times.

ENDS

Doing Business with Switzerland

Mon, 25 May 2009 15:10:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE:25th May 2009: On Friday 25th May the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry, in collaboration with the Swiss-Maltese Chamber of Commerce, organised a seminar entitled: Doing Business with Switzerland. The seminar was addressed by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr. Tonio Borg, Kurt Kamber, President of the Swiss-Maltese Chamber of Commerce, Mr Philippe Praz, First Secretary of Economic Affairs at the Swiss Embassy in Rome, and Malta Chamber Director General Kevin J Borg, who also moderated the proceedings. The seminar was opened by Malta Chamber President Helga Ellul.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Tonio Borg remarked that the Swiss-Maltese Chamber had three offices in Switzerland and praised the organisation for its vitality. Dr. Borg pointed out that the seminar was about striving for new investment possibilities. “Switzerland is one of the world's leading economies and, in spite of the current worldwide dismal scenario, still offers many possibilities, he said. Dr. Borg noted that, thanks to the efforts of Malta Enterprise, MFSA, the Swiss-Maltese Chamber, and individual initiatives Malta has today some 460 active companies with Swiss shareholding registered in Malta and 5 collective investment schemes which have Swiss managers, coordinators and administrators.

During his speech Malta Chamber Director General Kevin J Borg pointed out that since the establishment of the Swiss-Maltese Chamber of Commerce ten years ago, Malta has experienced two milestones: EU membership and the adoption of the euro. The third milestone expected is the ratification of the double taxation agreement. “This has increased scope for co-operation between the 2 countries,” Mr Borg stated. He also mentioned that the Malta Chamber has recently embarked on the implementation of a business plan for International Business Services which is based on three interconnecting strands – information, co-operation, service projects. Mr Borg thanked the leaders of the Swiss-Maltese Chamber for their decade long collaboration.

Swiss-Maltese Chamber President Kurt Kamber discussed the double taxation treaty in more detail, among other things. Mr Kamber explained that the double taxation treaty between Malta and Switzerland should boost the interest in Malta’s opportunities in this field and their network available in the Southern Mediterranean region. He added that the Swiss-Maltese Chamber is planning a campaign this year among the Swiss business associations to raise their awareness of the existing favourable conditions, which include easy access to the EU market and a gateway to the Near East.

During his presentation Mr Philippe Praz, First Secretary of Economic Affairs at the Swiss Embassy in Rome also discussed Swiss-Maltese economic relations, mentioning the key factors for trade between Switzerland and Malta. These include bilateral agreements between Switzerland and the EU, Malta joining the euro zone, Malta as a gateway to North African countries, tourism, and Training and youth language programs.

The Malta Chamber plans to organize further “Doing Business with” seminars in the coming weeks as well as other international services surveys in line with its business plan. In fact, during this week the Malta Chamber is hosting a Business Delegation from the Czech Republic and another form Milan, whilst holding an explanatory meeting with the highest official of the Maltese Australian Chamber of Commerce.

Annual General Meeting

Fri, 22 May 2009 13:48:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE:22 May 2009: “We are ensuring that we deliver the best from the synergies created from our merger and that we rise to new levels in terms of influencing local policy and providing value added services,” said Mrs Helga Ellul, President of the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry. Mrs Ellul was speaking at the Annual General Meeting of the merged organisation, held yesterday at the Exchange Buildings. Mrs Ellul stated that one of the main priorities of her Presidency was the ensuring the merger, was an instant success.

The President also gave a report of the activities of the Malta Chamber for the January to May period. This included the actions taken in dealing with the effects of the international crisis on our local economy, including technical submissions to the authorities proposing effective short-run and medium term measures to support our competitiveness to offset slowing external demand. In terms of proposed short-term measures, particular stress was made on reduction in business operational costs; enhanced access to liquidity; enhancing flexibility in the labour market; and direct marketing support to the Tourism industry. “Following the EU approach, the Malta Chamber insisted these measures be targeted, temporary and timely, with an emphasis on timeliness. Support is useless if it arrives too late,” explained Mrs Ellul.

Mrs Ellul also commented on the positive work of the Task Force, but said that local business in general, particularly SMEs, needed more support. “By support I am not only referring to the financial sense, but also faster, simpler, more business-friendly regulation and procedures,” she added. Mrs Ellul stated that the economy is the health of our business and the economy is the number one priority.

In this context, the President discussed the Malta Chamber’s role in promoting compliance to environmental laws – in particular the Waste Packaging Directive. She highlighted the urgent need for law-abiding companies to receive the Eco-Contribution refunds they are due. “Companies face a double payment. We have been insisting that applicable refunds will be paid in full and within an acceptable time-frame,” stated Mrs Ellul. She explained further that two LNs were promised at the beginning of April: to regulate the refund mechanics and to pave the way for exemptions. Despite daily chasing neither of the two LNs have yet been published.

Our law abiding members face high costs and burdens on their cash-flow. At the same time, they are exposed to unfair competition from operators who import goods illegally” said Mrs Ellul. “This, in today’s uncertainty and scenario are a no-go and are directly the opposite of all the other effective help of the Task Force given to other companies. These issues must be solved now.”
Another important priority of the Malta Chamber is helping members to internationalize. “We acknowledge that many entrepreneurs have developed a succesful business model/product locally. We need to encourage them to look outside Malta, first to use the Single Market but also beyond,” Mrs Ellul explained. She remarked that better opportunity needs to be had from the huge internal market which is the EU. Mrs Ellul announced that a business plan for the Malta Chamber’s Internationalisation services had been recently approved. “This business plan is based on three strands: information, co-operation, service projects and hands-on help,” she stated.

She also said that the Malta Chamber will continue to hold regular events on doing business with countries and regions. “Our role is to create awareness and encourage companies to enter new ventures or enhance the scale of their existing business model. “Our role is to minimise risks and costs at the micro level of each enterprise,” she said.

Mrs Ellul also emphasised the development of human capital, explaining that the Malta Chamber will continue to develop operations in terms of examinations, where the organisation is already a very succesful centre for the renowned International English Language Testing System (IELTS). “ We believe that our Chamber can fill an important gap in the provision in this niche training and education, and life-long learning approaches,” she stated. “These education and training needs are especially essential for our SMEs.” The President briefly described the recently launched Linking Enterprise, a new service which consists of visits to host companies, giving members the opportunity to learn and to see how successful enterprises are using best practices. “We have a number of first class companies here. We should be making the most of what we have!” she added.

In concluding, Mrs Ellul referred consider to the current economic climate with confidence. “As business leaders we are people who know how to survive, restructure, re-develop and see new opportunities. Based on this, I am convinced more than ever that we will manage the present situation and we will manage it by pushing and making serious representations with government and all stakeholders,” she stated.

“As the smallest member state let us continue to benchmark with the other members, let us upgrade to their standards and let us use the available funds - our funds- to succeed in doing that,” she said. “I know that the next months will be busy months and not always easy, but knowing the great potential we have and knowing the issues, I know we will manage to overcome the crisis in the best possible way, and it gives me great encouragement for the tasks ahead.”

Mrs Ellul appealed to members for their continued participation within the organisation. “We need your involvement, your contribution, and your expertise to make this organisation the home of the Maltese business community,” she stated.

Mrs Ellul thanked the outgoing Transitional Council, the Economic Groups and Committees and all members who are contributing towards the objectives of the organisation. She also thanked the dedicated staff and the Malta Chamber’s Collaborating Partners - Bank of Valletta and HSBC.

Delegation from Milan Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Thu, 14 May 2009 15:09:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE:14 May 2009: The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry, in collaboration with the Milan Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Malta Enterprise, are organizing the visit of a Business Delegation from Milan. The delegation will be in Malta from the 25th to the 27th May 2009. Business meetings will take place at the Exchange Buildings on Tuesday, 26th May 2009.

The delegation includes company representatives from Agres SRL, ERG Renew Spa, Imesa Spa, Right Management SRL, Scrap SRL, Landini SAS Di P. Borgio & C, and Technitalia Servizi SRL, and may interest various sectors, including construction, alternative energy consultants, waste treatment operators, government contractors, marine/naval suppliers, large consumers in manufacturing, human resources, international recruitment firms, and outsourcing of IT.

Members of the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry wishing to meet members of the delegation are asked to contact Ms Johanna Calleja on johanna.calleja@maltachamber.org.mt or 21233 873 for an appointment.

Linking Enterprise First Visit at Playmobil

Wed, 13 May 2009 14:51:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 13 May 2009: “We at Playmobil were very proud to be given the chance to host the first visit of the Linking Enterprise activity,” said Mr Matthias Fauser, Chief Operation Officer, Playmobil Malta. “From the response we received, it was clear that there is a demand for this type of "benchmarking",” he commented.

The first visit to kick off the Linking Enterprise initiative was held on 13 May. Linking Enterprise, an initiative launched just last week by the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry, consists of visits that are led by a host company, giving members the unique opportunity to learn from their peers how success has been achieved.

Following a brief introduction by Malta Chamber Policy Development Manager Mr Andre Fenech, the participants were given an introduction to Playmobil Malta by Mr Fauser.

The main presentation, Driving Production at the Speed of Customer Demand was given by Mr Fauser and Mr Robert Cauchi, Playmobil’s Kanban Logistics and Export Manager.
Their presentation included an explanation of the previous processes in place, as well as the benefits and results of the new processes set up, and how the company arrived at its aim. The topics discussed included Lean Manufacturing, MRP to Kanban, Product Group – Flow Lines, Quick Change Over, Waste – Learning to see the waste, and Employees – Flexibility, Training, Multi-skilling, Knowledge Sharing.

The high point of the visit was the factory tour, where the participants were given a tour of the shop floor, and given the chance to see the processes explained previously in practice. Participants also took the opportunity to ask any questions they may have had, during the tour, as well as after. The whole visit was very well received by all in attendance.

Mr Fauser said that Playmobil strongly believes in this initiative, as it is vital that different organisations get to know each other better and also use opportunities to learn from each other. Mr Fauser thanked the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry team for all the hard work which was put in to get this initiative started. “If we all work together, this will become a continuous activity which will be for the benefit of us all,” he concluded.

Road Contractors still awaiting response from ADT

Fri, 08 May 2009 14:43:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE:8 May 2009 Road contractors working on residential roads for ADT have been waiting for over 18 months for a conclusive response from the Authority, regarding their longstanding problem over price increases within the period contract and over the renewal thereof. There have been substantial increases in costs relating to raw materials, fuel, and energy. The period contract officially expired at the end of 2008, with the ADT still not having sent the document outlining its position on the issue. It is absolutely not fair, that enterprises that are dependent on this Authority for their livelihood are left to wait for the appropriate decisions to be taken. This is surely not proper governance.

It is unacceptable for the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry and its members to wait for months, if not years, for the Government and its various entities to deliver. The Malta Chamber wants to express its strong concern on this lack of action, and reiterates that this matter be rectified, one way or another, as soon as possible.

The Malta Chamber believes in the importance and necessity of the setting of new standards, improved quality, and professionalism of service. However this does not mean that the enterprises concerned should be treated unfairly.

Timeline Highlights

12/10/07	Members complained that some costs had increased significantly and the then FOI asked ADT for a review.
12/10/07	ADT Director of Network Infrastructure, informed the then FOI that the ADT would be reviewing the rates backdated to 12/10/07
	ADT held meetings with the then FOI members. Discussions focused on blacktop reinstatement. Other issues were left in abeyance pending resolution of the blacktop issue.
05/05/05 - 20/10/08	The then FOI waitedand constantly chasing the Authority for action.

20/10/08	The then FOI held several meetings with senior officials of the ADT. It was agreed that a joint technical committee is set up to agree on revised rates.
20/10/08 – 19/11/08	Various meetings were held with ADT.
19/11/08 -24/03/09	The then FOI and now the Malta Chamber waited further, expecting the promises of the ADT to come to fruition.
06/04/09	The Malta Chamber had another meeting with a senior ADT official who promised to send the ADT proposals for consideration.
13/04/09 – Present	To-date, the Malta Chamber is still waiting for this to happen.

Linking Enterprise Launch

Fri, 08 May 2009 14:37:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE:8 MAY 2009: Linking Enterprise is a new service The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry would like to offer its members. This initiative will consist of visits that are led by a host company, giving members the unique opportunity to learn from their peers how success has been achieved. Linking Enterprise gives members the opportunity to visit and learn from other successful companies around Malta and Gozo.

The initiative was launched today, by Malta Chamber President Helga Ellul, during a press conference at the Exchange Buildings in Valletta. In her opening speech Mrs Ellul explained that one of the priorities of her presidency, and the new organisation was new services and better value for members, with the launch of Linking Enterprise in this regard. She also said that in Malta, we have a number of first class companies, and we should be making the most of our assets. “Through Linking Enterprise, companies will be motivated, and proud to show their successes,” she said. She concluded that Linking Enterprise would give smaller companies the opportunity to learn the underlying principles of successful solutions from other companies, in order to transfer them to their company culture.

During his speech, Malta Chamber SME Committee Chairman Mario Duca described the various problems that are faced by SMEs, principally due to the short supply of resources and skills to utilise these resources effectively and efficiently. Through initiatives such as Linking Enterprise, Mr Duca said, the SME Committee is assisting members in gaining knowledge on how to enhance their business performance. He also confirmed that the first visit, which will be held at Playmobil Malta on the 11th May, is already fully subscribed.

Malta Chamber Director-General Ing. Ray Muscat explained the benefits of participating in the initiative. Companies joining the programme will get the opportunity to benchmark their performance and learn new ways to enhance their business performance; as well as see the actual link between theory and practical application. The experiences, insights and feedback gained from both hosts and visitors will act both as a motivator for staff and a measure of their own continuous improvement. Visitors will also learn about the principles of a particular best practice topic. They will be shown in a practical way, how one can implement the acquired knowledge into their business.

The advantages of taking part in these visits are numerous, for both the host, and the visiting companies. By looking outside your own industry sector you will find different processes, technologies and solutions that could make a significant contribution to your own business performance. Visitors will also benefit not just from seeing what worked well but also finding out what was not as successful. Also, best practice and business success could be passed from small companies to global operators and vice-versa. The visit must be used as an opportunity to discuss and debate specific topics with the host company and other participants, to increase your knowledge and gain practical solutions to specific problems.

A typical company visit lasts three hours and includes a tour round the host company’s operation. Places are limited to 20 delegates per visit, and thus there will be ample time asking questions, making sure the opportunity for learning is maximized.

The first three visits will be held at Playmobil, who will be tackling Lean Enterprise, HSBC, whose representative will discuss Customer Service, and BOV, on Access to Finance. Other possible topics in the pipeline include Enhancing ICT Systems, R&D, Environment Efficiency, Delivering Quality and Service to Clients, and Internationalisation.

Stopping VAT Refunds

Mon, 13 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE:13 April 2009:The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry is deeply concerned about the news that due to the ongoing investigations at the VAT department, VAT refunds will be postponed.

Of course, the Malta Chamber supports the authorities in carrying out all investigations necessary to unearth all wrong doings and the people behind them. But postponing VAT refunds will serve to innocently victimise law abiding business people.

The Malta Chamber appeals to the authorities to complete the necessary investigations as soon as possible to ensure business as usual at the VAT Department within a reasonable period. Genuine members of the business community, who are already facing cash flow problems should not be punished for other people’s offences.

Maltese Entrepreneurs Meet Tunisian Counterparts

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 13:59:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE:26 March 2009:Representatives of more than 50 Maltese companies attended meetings with 20 Tunisian businessmen and organisations, on the occasion of the 7th session of the Maltese-Tunisian Mixed Commission. The Commission was led by Tunisian Foreign Minister Abdelwahed Abdallah, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs together with the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry, and with the support of Bank of Valletta.

The meetings were followed by a seminar, where the Chairman of the Malta Chamber’s Internationalisation Committee, Mr. Peter Grima opened the seminar and introduced Malta’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Dr. Tonio Borg, as well as the Tunisian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Abdelwaheb Abdallah.

In his speech, Dr. Tonio Borg stressed the positive development in trade between the two countries and went on to list a number of areas in which there is scope for development of business relations, among them the agro food industry, tourism and cruise liner industry, education and training, banking and other financial services, maritime activities, aviation, healthcare and pharmaceuticals, electronics and information technology, software industries, as well as infrastructural and other construction works.

Mr. Abdelwaheb Abdallah noted the positive development in trade between Malta and Tunisia, and commented on the fact that Tunisia’s full implementation of the preferential Tunisia-EU Euromed Association Agreement means that Malta and Tunisia effectively form part of the same trade area.

The participants were also addressed by Mrs. Zohra Driss, the Vice-President of UTICA, the Tunisian Employer’s Association for Industry, Trade and Handicraft, Mrs. Hager Denguezli, the Deputy Director of CEPEX, the Tunisian Export Promotion Center, and Mr Julian Holland, head of Bank of Valletta’s field office in Tunisia.

Malta Chamber welcomes Honorary Consuls

Fri, 13 Mar 2009 13:58:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE:13 March 2009: On Wednesday the 11th of March, the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry hosted a delegation of all Malta’s honorary consuls. More than 80 honorary consuls attended the event, along with other invited guests.

During his welcoming address, Malta Chamber Deputy President Mr Tancred Tabone welcomed the initiative of bringing together Malta’s Honorary Consuls, as it provides a unique opportunity of networking with the local business community whilst sharing experiences and information. Through this event, he added, we are also able to share best practice and update each other on the work we carry out on behalf of Malta and its business community.

Mr Tabone also thanked the Honorary Consuls for fulfilling their role in promoting Malta, and in the process gathering market intelligence and fostering business relationships. He added that the Consul’s role gives them an insight into local conditions which is crucial in putting people in touch with one another, or assisting in organising events to the promotion of Maltese business in the region.

The guests were then addressed by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Tonio Borg, who thanked the Honorary Consuls for their work, as well as the Chamber for its internationalisation efforts, and hosting this event.

A presentation was also given by Mr Peter Grima, Chairman of the Malta Chamber’s Internationalisation Committee, during which he described the Chamber’s internationalisation efforts, in terms of guiding principles, trade promotion, FDI, as well as the Malta Chamber and Consuls roles.

This was followed by a brief presentation from the Malta International Airport.

The evening was concluded with a reception in the courtyard.

The event was made possible through the kind co-operation of the Malta International Airport and Alfa Romeo, besides the Chambers’ collaborating partners HSBC and Bank of Valletta.

Malta Chamber endorses MHRA recommendations

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 13:56:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE:12 MARCH 2009The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry fully endorses the position paper recently issued by the Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association on the key issues that the hospitality industry is currently facing, as well as recommendations for a sustainable tourism industry. A dynamic tourism industry is vital for the entire business community, as well as Malta as a business destination, thus the recommendations made by MHRA are needed to create a positive business environment.

The Chamber agrees that Malta must project itself as a worthy business destination, offering good value for money and attractive business solutions. This must create awareness that Malta is also a place to do business and not only a holiday resort.

The Chamber is also in full agreement with MHRA that a proper structured approach to the creation of the Malta brand across all industries is necessary. Much still needs to be done on the definition of Product Malta, as well as basic issues which continue to adversely affect the product on a daily basis. It is important that a joint effort is made between Government, Local councils and Government agencies on the maintenance, and ongoing embellishment of our product, in order for Product Malta to become a strong brand, of which the whole country will benefit.

Like the Chamber, MHRA also suggested expediting capital projects, most especially those EU funded ones. The sooner these projects start, the sooner the multiplier effect will benefit the economy.

Waste Strategy Document

Mon, 02 Mar 2009 13:55:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE:2 March 2009:The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry through its environment committee is currently following with great interest the ongoing consultation on the waste strategy document which has been launched last January. The Chamber is of the belief that the country has indeed made massive improvements in waste management during the last decade especially when one compares it to the situation it was in the late 90s.

In fact, following the publication in 2001 of the Solid Waste Management Strategy, there has been a considerable improvement in the country’s infrastructure and one has to mention the huge investments the sector has undergone during the past years such as the redevelopment of the Sant Antnin Waste Treatment plant and the introduction of bring-in and Civic Amenity sites.

Nevertheless the Chamber feels that the document lacks in a number of areas. The Chamber feels that this strategy does not follow on the recommendations of the 2001 document and in our opinion this is not an update but a business strategy for WasteServ Malta Limited rather than the National strategy it is meant to be.

The Chamber has always been of the belief that the creation of WasteServ has somewhat distorted the waste management market, a market which could have otherwise opened a number of opportunities for the private sector. The new document specifically mentions that WasteServ should act as an operator of last resort but since Wasteserv’s inception, the private sector can attest that very often this is not the case. If further proof was required, this document relentlessly confirms that this public entity will continue to further enlarge its operations. It is envisaged that through Wasteserv’s expansion it will continue to crowd out the private sector. Competition between the private sector and any entity financed through tax payers’ money can never be on a level playing field

The most important failure of the new draft strategy is the fact that the 2001 document put forward a number of recommendations with specific measurable targets and completion dates. No review of such results has been presented in the current paper and as such there is no baseline on which one could establish developments in this sector.

The Chamber is of the opinion that this strategy is incomplete in that it does not give a review of what has been achieved since 2001 and as such it is very difficult to ascertain the improvements the country has achieved in this area. In the coming days the Chamber will be presenting its full feedback to the authorities and the opposition.

Economic Support Schemes

Thu, 19 Feb 2009 13:52:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE:19 February 2009: In recent days, the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry endeavoured to maintain an open line of communication with the key stakeholders on its proposals aimed at offsetting deteriorating demand conditions from abroad. To this end, in January, it recommended short-run support measures focusing on maintaining cost competitiveness and bolstering short-term demand for locally-generated goods and services.

The Chamber continued to insist that short-term measures adopted should be of a timely, targeted and temporary nature and that these should focus on:

1.    Reducing business operational costs;
2.    Enhanced access to liquidity;
3.    Enhancing flexibility in the labour market;
4.    Direct marketing support to the Tourism industry

President Helga Ellul stressed on the need for a temporary moratorium to be granted on any increases in government induced costs, including those of an environmental nature. Besides, she said, “the uncertainty surrounding the utility rates issue must be eliminated immediately. Bills covering the period since October 2008 must be issued without further delay and March 1st must be announced as the review date of utility rates. Both steps will enable adequate financial planning on the part of business operators.”

The Chamber also stressed on the granting of investment incentives through revised tax depreciation allowances, sensible use of training grants and the introduction of enhanced flexibility in working hours.

In the past week, the Chamber followed up by holding active discussions with the Governor of the Central Bank, the Chairman of the MCESD and the Minister of Finance in separate meetings.

In the latter meeting, the Minister explained the reasoning behind the setting up of the task force, its composition and how it was functioning. The Chamber praised this step and other concrete efforts undertaken so far. The agreement with banks on granting a moratorium on capital repayments on pending loans by hotels was perceived by the Chamber as a particularly positive and practical measure and recommended that it should be extended to other sectors. To this end, the Chamber offered further help to the authorities to provide a structured early warning system which would then be effectively acted upon by the authorities.

The Chamber President described these as very insightful and positive meetings enabling a better understanding of Government’s approach of the matter. “The action taken thus far by the authorities is much in line with the measures we proposed in our position paper. We are confident that with this co-ordinated and focused approach, the country will manage to avert some undesirable consequences of the international situation.”

Relatives looking after convalescents

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 13:49:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE:12 February 2009:The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry was stunned by the statement of the Parliamentary Secretary for Health Dr Joe Cassar who advocated that the public should take care of relatives during the convalescing period after operations to free up beds at Mater Dei hospital.

The MCCEI points out that for this to happen, employees would have to take time off from work either as paid, unpaid or sick leave and it this is a situation which it cannot accept.

The business community is aware of the country’s social needs and the realities of this, but the bed shortage problem at Mater Dei is no fault of the public, let alone of the employers. Everyone pays taxes, thus it is the responsibility of the Government to ensure that this service is given efficiently. This is an issue that Government has to solve and not once again pass on the burden to the business community. This is even more so during the current difficult economic situation. Malta is already struggling with innumerable adverse factors to remain competitive. It is seen that this would only add further to the burden. The business community simply cannot afford such a scenario.

Whilst the Chamber is open to discuss this matter, members’ feedback is proving that unnecessary Government induced costs are causing further hardship on employers, at the cost of competitiveness. Business cannot remain competitive when it is being burdened with new costs. The request by the Parliamentary Secretary for Health cannot but result in additional burdens on employers.

Apart from the economical impact, the Chamber feels that it is worrying that relatives are being asked to give the post operative care when this is the remit of hospital professionals.

Eco Contribution on plastic carrier bags

Wed, 11 Feb 2009 15:03:00 GMT

Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry

PRESS RELEASE

DATE: 11 February 2009

Eco contribution on plastic carrier bags

“Authorities must abandon plans to tax all plastic carrier bags at equal rates as this makes little if no business, economic and environmental sense,” said the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry, through its Environment Committee. In a position paper on the issue, the organisation states that although it agrees with the polluter pays principle, it also believes that tax should be used as an instrument to encourage environmentally efficient plastic and other materials. To this end the Chamber recommends that bags should be taxed on a diminishing scale according to the environmental efficiency of the plastic.

The Chamber also recommends that bio-degradable bags should remain zero rated, as published in the 2005 legislation LN 312/ 2005. At the time, operators responded by investing in biodegradable plastic carriers. Now with the change in policy, the goalposts are once again being shifted, creating undue uncertainty, in an already uncertain economic climate.

The Chamber demands that authorities must also abandon plans to render obligatory the printing of an “identification/audit-trail” details (label) on each side of carrier bags placed on the market. “This equates to a barrier to trade when considering businesses who import either for their own use or to re-sell, and will cause undue expense and complication,” stated the Chamber, adding that it is also a barrier for those operators who import pre-printed bags for promotion/advertising purposes, and those who import plastic bags from their foreign principals as part of their business model.

Also, fair and adequate transitional provisions must be made for those operators who hold large stocks of plastic carrier bags.

The Chamber concludes that any enforcement/bureaucratic complication, such as lack of resources to administer this new structure, should not divert the country from having a fair, correct and workable system.

Authorities should reconsider their position on the issue and consult with all the relevant stakeholders and operators in the market. Through consultation a proper system can be implemented and eventually enforced, the Chamber stated.

Czech Trade Mission Info Seminar

Wed, 11 Feb 2009 15:00:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 11 February 2009: “Now is the time for the local business community to exploit its strengths and dynamism, and turn challenging situations into opportunities”. Ms Helga Ellul made this statement to members of the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry who gathered for an information meeting about a forthcoming trade mission to the Czech Republic on 16-19th March. The session was held on 6th February and was also addressed by Mr. Peter Grima, Chairman of the Chamber’s Internationalisation Committee; Mr. Paul Bugeja, Chief Financial Officer & Administration Director of Corinthia Hotels & Resorts; Mr Dennis Vella Head of Trade Promotion, Malta Enterprise; and Mr. Tonio Casapinta, Honorary Consul of the Czech Republic to Malta.
This information meeting was intended to elaborate on opportunities available to the local business community from doing business in and with the Czech Republic. After all, helping members to internationalise their business was listed as one of Ms Ellul’s declared priorities for her tenure as President.

The Chamber had, in fact, established an Internationalisation Committee in 2007 and its Chairman Mr. Peter Grima, elaborated on the committee’s efforts and how it worked in close collaboration with Malta Enterprise, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other bodies. He also stressed that companies participating in trade missions should ensure maximum preparation in order to obtain maximum benefit from the mission.

This suggestion linked with Ms Ellul’s message who stated that the local business community was not only dynamic but also competent; “Some of us have unique and successful business models that can be expanded abroad. But we have to be prepared and with a solid strategy to ensure success on the international stage. This is what our Chamber is here for and we hope to be of service” she concluded.

Chamber on eco-contribution issue

Tue, 03 Feb 2009 14:58:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE:3 February 2009: The ongoing discussion on the introduction of an eco-contribution on plastic carrier bags is being followed with great interest by the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry.

The Chamber commented in great detail in its reactions to the 2009 budget speech on this topic and stepped up its efforts with a recent meeting with a number of operators in the production and importation of carrier bags.

As a general principle it believes that the eco-contribution, as it had been implemented, originally was ill-conceived and it believes that businesses and operators alike are still suffering from the lack of enforcement of this measure by the competent authorities. This has resulted in an unlevel playing field for the operators involved.

The Chamber is of the opinion that the Authorities have a duty towards society at large to protect the sustainable development of our environment but these measures should be correct and enforceable.

The Chamber, through its Environment Committee, believes that the way the system is going to be implemented still contains a number of loopholes putting undue hardships on several operators in the market including major retailers that import carrier bags directly. The Chamber also believes that there are a number of financial implications which are not yet clear and need further clarification.

The Chamber is of the belief that the authorities should have initiated a better consultation process on the implementation of this measure as unfortunately most of the operators involved are only receiving developments via the media.

For this reason, in the coming days, the Chamber will continue to monitor developments and consult stakeholders with a view to make the necessary representations to the competent authorities.

Stimulus Package for the Maltese Economy

Fri, 30 Jan 2009 14:57:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE:30 January 2009: The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry has put forward to the Prime Minister and the MCESD Chairman a number of concrete measures aimed at providing a focused stimulus package for the Maltese economy. The measures presented in the form of a technical paper, have also been endorsed by the Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association (MHRA). In this document both business bodies have put forward recommendations for both short term stimuli as well as medium term measures.

Recommendations for policy measures to meet the immediate risks of a cyclical downturn
include:

a reduction in the operational costs of business in Malta to be better able to meet the price competitiveness challenges within the difficult demand scenario, for example an immediate reduction in utility bills through the introduction of a formula which takes into account the current development in energy costs in the global markets;
safeguarding major productive establishments from losing valuable human resources as a result of a significant and temporary drop in demand;
marketing support to immediately sustain demand in the tourism sector, which makes a significant direct and indirect contribution to economic activity in Malta;
an enhanced access by business to low cost liquidity to enable them to meet short-run constraints;
the expediting of MEPA permitting procedures so as to unleash the economic potential of a number of major projects that are already in the pipeline, without jeopardising environmental sustainability.

A number of programmes and measures towards enhancing the medium to long term supply capabilities of the economy are under way in Malta. Others remain to be implemented. Policy measures which would serve to sustain economic activity in the medium term and which can be identified to be of a priority nature in the current circumstances include:

the timely and effective implementation of EU Funded projects especially in areas which will create productive assets such as infrastructure, yacht-marinas, energy, training, etc;
enhancing incentives for R&D and Innovation through measures such as tax rebates on expenditures towards locally-produced innovation and customer relationship management systems, as well as fine-tuning income tax depreciation allowances for the purposes of investment in technology;
the enhancement of useful schemes recently launched by Malta Enterprise such as those involving equity financing and training of entrepreneurs with internationally-scoped ideas.

“We need action now, we cannot wait and think we will not be affected,” stated MCCEI President Mrs Helga Ellul. “In fact the business community is already feeling the effects.” She added that panic is unnecessary, however we have to be realistic and accept the facts. “With timely and targeted measures we can install the confidence and stimulus to get through these unpredictable economic times,” Mrs Ellul added.

Seilliere visit to Malta Chamber

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 12:14:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 26 January 2009:“In the face of the financial crisis, the key factor is confidence” declared Mrs Helga Ellul, President of the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry (MCCEI) during a Business Breakfast held in honour of Mr Ernest-Antoine Seillière, President of BUSINESSEUROPE, during his visit to the Exchange Buildings this morning.

Mrs Ellul stated that investor and consumer confidence needed to be continuously stimulated and maintained. To this end, the newly merged entity agreed with the positions taken by BUSINESSEUROPE to stimulate business across Europe.

This position includes important issues such as better access to low-cost liquidity to reduce financial stress, simplification of administrative burdens and reducing costs of doing business in Europe, speeding up reforms in financial and the labour market, the urgent implementation of flexicurity principles, as well as adopting the Small Business Act as fast as possible this year.

Mrs Ellul said that MCCEI has also been stressing for better energy interconnections, and fully supported the recommendation for the €5 billion unspent Common Agricultural Policy funds to be redirected towards investments in broadband internet infrastructure and energy interconnections. “We hope that agreement on these crucial infrastructural projects is struck between Member States without further delay,” she added.

Mrs Ellul noted that President Seilliere’s visit came at an opportune moment, just as the Chamber and the Federation had finally merged. Through the Federation of Industry, the organisation joined UNICE (now BUSINESSEUROPE) in 1984 as a Non-Community Member, achieving full membership in January 2001. Since then, the organisation has participated actively in this influential, pan-European organisation. “With the merger and the added resources, we look forward to a more active and productive relationship,” said Mrs Ellul. She added that through BUSINESSEUROPE, MCCEI is better placed to contribute towards consultation at the European level. “We look forward to being part of a Europe which will deal with the economic challenges through unity and solid direction,” Mrs Ellul concluded.

In his speech, President Seilliere praised the international mindset of the Maltese business community, saying that through organisations such as MCCEI, business was well connected at the European and International levels. It was important for Maltese business not to be isolated and secure valuable guidance and connections from abroad. This was even more important during such times of financial crisis, President Seilliere stated.

The event was attended by MCCEI Council Members, and was made possible by Mr Martin Scicluna, Chairman of the Today Public Policy Institute, and the French Ambassador to Malta, H.E Mr Daniel Rondeau.