The Ministry for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights has announced an important investment in the agricultural sector through the signing of agreements related to strategic projects that focus on innovation, research and the preservation of Maltese agricultural heritage.
Among these, the MOBAC project stands out, an initiative that aims to protect and preserve Maltese indigenous breeds, including Maltese cattle, sheep, goats and local chickens. This project not only contributes to the protection of national heritage, but also includes a strong research and innovation component through the use of advanced biotechnological techniques, such as genetic testing and cryopreservation.
This approach will allow for the identification of unique traits in these breeds that may have significant economic and scientific value, while contributing to more resilient and sustainable food systems, with less import dependency and new export opportunities.
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights Anton Refalo said that these projects are a clear example of the Government’s vision to build a modern agricultural sector that combines tradition with innovation. He maintained that the preservation of local breeds is a direct investment in the future of the sector and an integral part of the national strategy for food security and sustainability.
Minister Refalo added that these initiatives are creating new economic opportunities for farmers, particularly for young people and women, while strengthening the competitiveness of the Maltese agricultural sector.
In addition, another project related to tissue culture was also announced, which will substantially strengthen the infrastructure of the Research and Consultancy Directorate. This project includes improvements to the micropropagation laboratory and ancillary screenhouses, as well as an investment of approximately €890,000 in modern and technologically advanced equipment, financed by European funds.
This investment will serve as a foundation for the development and breeding of certified local fruit tree and vine varieties, while strengthening research on the authenticity and origin of local crops.
Minister Refalo also emphasized that the investment is including specialized training for employees, in order to strengthen the skills and capabilities needed to advance high-level research.
The Minister concluded by saying that these two projects reflect a clear commitment towards a more sustainable, innovative and competitive agricultural sector, while continuing to strengthen the value of local production and protect the Maltese agricultural heritage for future generations.
Minister for European Funds and the Implementation of the Electoral Programme Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi said that this investment, co-financed by European funds, shows how Malta is effectively using available resources to strengthen strategic sectors such as agriculture. He stressed that these projects not only promote innovation and research, but also create added value for the economy and strengthen the resilience of the Maltese agricultural sector to future challenges.
