During a consultation meeting on Budget 2026 with the Malta Entertainment and Arts Association (MEIA) at Auberge de Castille, Prime Minister Robert Abela emphasised that the Government is fully prioritising the arts, culture, and entertainment sectors. In recent years, these areas have been given a strong boost through initiatives that are further strengthening these sectors.
The Prime Minister underlined the Government’s commitment to continue building on what has already been achieved, to further improve the quality and reach of these sectors.
The Prime Minister mentioned the Malta Vision 2050 which gives high priority to our national identity, the arts, culture, language, and all that makes up the Maltese identity and talent. “This is a vision that goes beyond political partisanship – a long-term plan that clearly outlines where, as a country and as a people, we want to go,” he said.
He referred to a number of schemes and financial assistance programmes provided by public entities, including the Malta Investment in Cultural Organisations, the Arts Support Scheme for projects, and the Access Support Scheme. These initiatives, the Prime Minister said, not only provide multi-year support but also offer stability to those who benefit from them.
He also mentioned the Malta Book Fund, which covers printing and marketing costs and helps mitigate the risks faced by publishers and authors.
In addition, the Prime Minister highlighted the Government’s work in providing legal protection and the strengthening of fiscal measures. In October last year, the government launched the National Charter for the Status of the Artist, for those involved in the industry to use as a reference and framework for financing conditions, among others. Adding that fiscal measures have also been improved so that today, artists earning up to €50,000 pay 7.5% in tax.
Dr Abela noted that several spaces are already available to support the arts, including the Valletta Design Cluster, Spazju Kreattiv, MICAS, and the Ta’ Qali concert area, alongside assistance schemes such as the Theatre Spaces Support Scheme. He announced that the Government is also working towards developing a Culture Hub in Marsa, which will include theatres, cinemas, workshop areas, and other facilities.
Also present for the meeting were Ministers Owen Bonnici and Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi, Parliamentary Secretary Alison Zerafa Civelli and Head of Secretariat at the Office of the Prime Minister Mark Mallia.
