The Ministry for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights, together with the Malta Food Agency, announced the new Farmers Market project in Ta’ Qali, a strategic initiative that will strengthen the Government’s vision for a more modern, sustainable and people-friendly agricultural sector.
Details about this project were given by Deputy Prime Minister Ian Borg and the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights, Anton Refalo, the Parliamentary Secretary for Public Works Omar Farrugia together with officials from the Malta Food Agency, during a meeting with farmers at the project site, in Ta’ Qali.
This project represents an important step forward in the way local produce is promoted and consumed, by creating a permanent and modern space where Maltese farmers and producers can sell directly to the public in an organized and accessible environment.
The new Farmers Market will transform Ta’ Qali into a vibrant agricultural and food destination, where Maltese produce is not only sold but also celebrated and experienced. This will strengthen the direct connection between what is produced in Maltese fields and what ends up on families’ tables.
A central element of the project will be an eatery dedicated to local food, which will offer visitors the opportunity to sample cooked Maltese products, thus implementing the “farm-to-fork” concept in a concrete and experiential way. This space will also serve as a platform for the promotion of Maltese culinary identity and the diversity of local produce.
The project is also designed to be an open and inclusive space for families, tourists and visitors, strengthening community life and offering a relaxed and educational experience about Maltese agriculture.
Through this investment, and with the important participation of the Malta Food Agency, the Government is creating a space that operates throughout the year, thereby increasing visibility and opportunity for local producers, while also increasing public awareness of the importance of local and sustainable food.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Ian Borg, praised the work of the Ministry for Agriculture and the Malta Food Agency in carrying out this project that is so crucial for the country. “Whenever we invest in Maltese products, we are not only elevating our identity, but we are also strengthening the resilience and sustainability of Malta and Gozo. The project we are launching today gives you farmers the showcase you deserve so that you can give your work the highest value and present it directly to Maltese families and businesses as a top-notch product, as it actually is,” explained Dr Borg, while thanking Maltese farmers for their dedication and sacrifices.
He explained that while the Farmers’ Market will open up more opportunities for Maltese families to have fresher fruit and vegetables directly from farmers, this project will also be a tourist attraction, especially for those visiting the Maltese Islands due to their rich gastronomy. “As we see in many other countries, this Farmers Market will certainly be a magnet for many tourists looking for truly Maltese products and flavours, directly from those who grow them,” added Dr Borg.
Minister Anton Refalo stressed that this project is a concrete step towards a stronger and more modern agricultural sector, which places the Maltese farmer at the centre of the national vision. He emphasised that the investment is not only strengthening infrastructure, but is also strengthening confidence in Maltese products.
The Minister said that this project forms part of a broader vision for a more resilient, innovative and sustainable agricultural sector, which prioritizes food security and the promotion of Maltese products.
The Ta’ Qali Farmers Market is designed as a symbol of how tradition and modernity can come together, while continuing to strengthen the country’s agricultural and cultural identity.
The Minister concluded by saying that this project is about people, farmers, producers and consumers and about creating a new space of opportunity, pride and Maltese identity.
Parliamentary Secretary Omar Farrugia explained that the Department of Public Works will be working on this project which will make a difference for both farmers and producers, as well as for families visiting Ta’ Qali. “We wanted to create a more organised and modern space where local produce can be sold in a better and more comfortable environment throughout the year. At the same time, this project will continue to breathe new life into this area as an open space for the community.”
The Chief Executive of the Malta Food Agency, Brian Vella, said that “the new Farmers Market in Ta’ Qali reflects a national shift in the way we value food, community and Maltese and Gozitan producers. This project is part of our long-term vision to strengthen Malta’s agricultural identity while continuing to connect people with the origins of what they consume. By creating a new space where producers, families and visitors come together, we are promoting trust, and a sense of pride in local produce. It is an investment in today’s food systems, but in a more resilient and sustainable future for Malta.”
Justin John Camilleri, Chief Business Development Officer of the Malta Food Agency said that “the agency was strategic and prioritized the Farmers Market to be developed into a platform designed to enhance the experience of both the producer and the consumer. With modern infrastructure and dedicated spaces, farmers, fishermen and producers can operate more efficiently and present their products better, while customers benefit from a more accessible environment. This leads to a more direct and meaningful experience between producers and the public, which improves trust and strengthens the value of local produce in the market.”
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