The Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association (MHRA) welcomes the 2026 Budget
presented by Finance Minister Clyde Caruana as balanced, responsible, and forward-looking.
This Budget protects people through higher pensions, family support, and energy stability;
while giving employers the fiscal certainty needed to invest, innovate, and create quality
jobs. The MHRA commends the Government’s commitment to no new taxes, stronger public
finances, and the pursuit of sustainability as a national priority.
“This is a Budget that recognises the strong economy,” said MHRA President Tony Zahra.
“By combining fiscal discipline with social care, the Minister has laid the groundwork for
Malta’s Vision 2050 — one centred on stability, sustainability, and shared prosperity.”
The MHRA also notes that the Government has acknowledged Malta’s demographic
challenges and is taking concrete steps to address workforce shortages and skills gaps,
including through education, training, and legal migration measures. These initiatives are
vital to support sectors such as tourism and hospitality, which rely on a skilled and stable
workforce.
The Association welcomes continued investment in green transition incentives, skills
development, and tourism diversification, ensuring Malta’s growth remains inclusive,
sustainable, and future-proof. The MHRA looks forward to further policy measures that
clearly chart a path for the long-term sustainability of tourism, particularly by addressing
supply-side challenges such as tourism accommodation, workforce availability,
infrastructure capacity, impact on local communities and environmental management.
“Financial sustainability is the best investment in the economy,” Zahra added. “This Budget
strengthens confidence, protects livelihoods, and positions Malta to realise Vision 2050 —
for both the people and the employers who drive our nation forward.”
