The Ministry for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights has announced that it is allocating land in Ħal Farruġ to support Malta Dairy Products Ltd in its plan to develop a modern milk processing facility. This confirms the Government’s commitment to a more modern, sustainable and competitive agricultural and agri-food sector.
The investment in this project goes beyond infrastructure and looks towards the future of the sector and Maltese farmers and will contribute to strengthening food security, increasing the value of Maltese produce and continuing to strengthen the sustainability of the dairy sector.
The Government is allocating land specifically for the construction of this new facility, which will process local milk provided by Maltese and Gozitan farmers into various dairy products. The Government is also committing to extend the lease of the existing site in Ħamrun until the new facility is ready and operational, in order to ensure continuity in production and operation without interruptions.
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights Anton Refalo said that this project is a crucial step towards a more modern, competitive and sustainable dairy sector, which continues to strengthen the Maltese agri-food chain and increase the value of local production. He stressed that this initiative is a clear example of how the Government is working hand in hand with the industry to create new opportunities and strengthen the competitiveness of the agricultural sector.
He acknowledged the work of the Koperattiva Produtturi tal-Ħalib Group Ltd, which represents dairy farmers in Malta and Gozo, and Malta Dairy Products Ltd for their vision and commitment, as well as all the entities involved in making this important project a reality. “This opportunity will help the Koperattiva together with Malta Dairy Products take the next step in order to continue supporting this sector that is so important for Malta. The Government remains committed to continuing to strengthen Maltese agriculture and support local producers in a concrete and sustainable way,” concluded Minister Refalo.
The CEO of Malta Dairy Products Ltd, Alex Briffa said that this is an important opportunity for Malta Dairy Products to move forward responsibly. He explained that they are currently conducting studies to ensure that the investment is sustainable in the long term. “Our goal is clear, to support farmers and continue to provide consumers with products they can trust every day,” concluded Mr Briffa.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Dairy Producers Group Ltd (KPH), Philip Agius said that the main objective of the Cooperative is to work to support the development of the Maltese dairy sector and to support the livelihoods of Maltese and Gozitan farmers. “We firmly believe that the local dairy sector is essential for food security as locally produced fresh milk ensures a stable and consistent source of essential nutrition,” said Mr Agius.
Photo: MAFA
