A Maltese parliamentary delegation took part in the EU Tax Symposium 2025, held under the theme “Strengthening Competitiveness and Fairness to Build Prosperity”. The event gathered finance ministers, members of the European Parliament and national parliaments, policymakers, academics, and representatives from civil society to discuss the future of tax systems within the European Union.
MP Alex Muscat and MP Graham Bencini represented the Parliament of Malta at the Symposium, contributing to discussions on the challenges and opportunities presented by evolving tax policies. Their participation highlighted Malta’s commitment to shaping an EU tax framework that balances economic growth with fairness and sustainability.
The Symposium opened with addresses from key EU figures, including Esteban González Pons, Vice-President of the European Parliament responsible for National Parliaments, and Pasquale Tridico, Chair of the Subcommittee on Tax Matters. European Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra delivered a keynote speech outlining the tax priorities of the new European Commission, while Polish Finance Minister Andrzej Domański addressed participants via video message.
Throughout the day, participants engaged in discussions on pressing taxation issues. One session focused on ensuring that ultra-high-net-worth individuals contribute fairly to tax systems, with insights from policymakers, economists, and trade union representatives. Another panel examined the role of taxation in fostering sustainable competitiveness across the EU. Corporate tax reform remained a central topic, with experts from the IMF, UN, and private sector exploring potential next steps. A final session addressed the growing influence of artificial intelligence in tax administration, considering both opportunities and risks.
The Symposium provided a platform for a robust exchange of views on how taxation can support economic resilience while ensuring fairness. The discussions, moderated by leading experts from institutions such as the European Commission, Bruegel, and Oxfam International, underscored the importance of a coordinated approach to tax policy across the European Union.
The Maltese delegation asserted that maintaining fiscal stability and improving tax collection were paramount in ensuring sustainable economic growth. While acknowledging the benefits of cooperation at the EU level, they emphasised that Malta must protect its interests to remain competitive in an evolving global tax landscape. The delegation stressed the importance of preserving national flexibility in taxation policies to support investment, economic resilience, and long-term prosperity.
As taxation continues to shape the EU’s economic and social policies, the event reinforced the need for a balanced approach that promotes both competitiveness and equity. The Symposium concluded with reflections from Pasquale Tridico and Gerassimos Thomas, Director-General for Taxation and Customs Union at the European Commission, who summarised the key takeaways from the discussions.
Photo: HOR
