VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Maltese companies are leading the European Union in investment optimism, according to the latest European Investment Bank Investment Survey.
The survey shows Malta registering a net balance of 37% of firms expecting to increase investment, far above the EU average of 4%. Investment activity remains strong, with 81% of companies reporting recent investment, close to the EU’s 86%.
Financial conditions have also improved. Only 3.7% of firms reported finance constraints, compared to 6.1% across the bloc. Dissatisfaction with borrowing costs dropped sharply to 3%, down from 18% last year.
However, skills shortages remain the country’s most pressing challenge. Some 76% of companies consider the lack of skilled workers a major barrier, and 93% say they are affected by it. High energy costs are another concern, cited by 84% of Maltese firms.
Climate-related investment is gaining ground, with 56% of firms strengthening their resilience to climate impacts, slightly above the EU average. Most companies are also taking steps to cut emissions, though investment in energy efficiency fell to 42% from 53%.
Maltese firms continue to outperform in innovation and digital adoption. More than a third innovate internally, while 77% use digital technologies. The uptake of generative AI is notable, with 41% using it systematically—well above EU trends.
The survey also highlights Malta’s global integration: 79% of firms engage in international trade, including nearly all manufacturers and service providers.
