The Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association (MHRA) has expressed concern over the
Opposition’s proposal to pilot a four-day workweek within the public sector.
MHRA stated that while it recognises the importance of work–life balance and employee
wellbeing, such a reform must be grounded in economic realities and productivity data, not
political slogans.
The Association warned that introducing or testing a four-day week risks sending the wrong
message to investors and employers at a time when Malta is already facing acute labour
shortages, rising costs, and pressure on competitiveness.
MHRA urged policymakers to focus on measures that boost efficiency, skills, and workforce
participation, including training, flexible scheduling, and digital innovation, rather than
proposals that risk destabilising the labour market.
The Association reaffirmed that any workplace reform must be developed through
meaningful dialogue with social partners before political announcements or headline-
grabbing proposals are made.
Source: MHRA
