Malta does not exist in isolation as within each and every sector which in some way or another is common both to our country, and to others around us, there exists a daily ever-increasing competition. It is paramount therefore that within this context we recognise the social and economic realities that are surfacing about us, and through a collective effort and responsibility, provide ourselves the tools with which to encounter these new challenges. Our country, an island state surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea, is at the centre of the region, nearly equidistant from the north and southern littorals of the basin. We have since the early years of maritime endeavors, been recognised as a key contact point providing a link between shores, with the potential, coming from our geographical strategic position, to be amongst the leaders in Mediterranean maritime affairs. This concept is becoming a reality with the proposed EU Motorways of the Sea, but also with many other developments within the sector. One of these is yachting.

Yachting is fast developing into a tourism niche market, whereby tourists call at Malta for a couple of days, and berth in one of our marinas. Being at the threshold to the European mainland and in close proximity of the northern African continent gives us an edge within this reality which necessitates that opportunities are identified at once, whilst translated into vital potential benefits and economic contributors.

It is with this in mind that I have recently stated that Government is committed that whilst Malta’s maritime concept is further developed and enhanced, we have to ensure that we reap the benefits of the opportunities that lie within the yachting sector, not only through the attraction of tourists promoting Malta as an ideal destination, but also by providing the necessary infrastructure which can accommodate the surmounting demand.

The Imsida and Ta’ Xbiex Marinas, presently the largest in Malta, are home to 790 boats and yachts. This number of berths has recently been increased by another 25, but as happened with the former number, these were taken up in no time. This brings the total of berths to 815, therefore a full compliment. The Malta Maritime Authority is also responsible for the Imgarr marina in Gozo whereby the 190 berths available are at full occupancy levels. The Authority also has about 400 pending requests for berth allocations, but as the demand is on the increase, both domestically and from foreigners who call at Malta, the marinas have reached maximum intake. These marinas go beyond others which are privately owned such as Portomaso, Manoel Island and the one in Cottonera, which are also substantially occupied. This indicates that when ones takes into consideration the berthing facilities available in private marinas, over 700 berths have been taken.

Besides from being a positive economic indicator on the number of individuals owning sea craft and thus requiring berthing facilities, a further interpretation is that the yachting sector is on the increase requiring therefore additional structures ready to accommodate the demand. Additional to this is the augmented number of foreign yachts calling throughout the summer months, stopping in Malta for tourism and geographic purposes.

Government has long recognized the fast-moving potential which lies within this sector, both from a tourism and an economic point of view, and is investing towards its continuous development. We have been instrumental in the development of other marinas and have witnessed results we are now moving forward and expect further beneficial effects within the sector.

Given this environment and the economic profits generated by yacht marinas, complimented by the positive experiences we have achieved up to now, the Ministry for Competitiveness and Communications, responsible for maritime affairs, together with the Malta Maritime Authority, have embarked on the continuation of a feasibility study for the development of a new yacht marina in the northern region of Malta. This will be complimentary to another study whereby the Environmental and Planning Authority had identified and highlighted Xemxija Bay as a potential site to carry such a development.

Such a project would not solely enable us in further developing the yachting sector but will also bring about a positive and wider social and economic regeneration within the areas. A clear example was the Cottonera area. Following the studies, which upon completion will be forwarded for approval, a call for expression of interests will be taking place prior to the commencement of the development in the not too distant future. In the coming weeks I will be holding meetings with the interested parties from MEPA and the Malta Maritime, in order to move forward at a fast pace and to set our targets from the very start.

To be competitive, even though we could boast of having the necessary infrastructures, we shall also need to increase the quality of products and services we offer, carrying adequate standards at a reasonable cost. Through the advancement of this concept, we will be imparting additional value to the importance of quality of service. The age whereby we used to promote Malta for its sun and sea attractions, (tax-xemx u l-bahar), has long gone by. These are no commodities reserved exclusively for our benefit and use. We have to develop such consciousness and whilst undergoing a change in culture on behalf of those playing a crucial part in the economic arena, develop new potential sectors, out of which we can only retrieve positive outputs.

We have always boasted of being at par with others. Moving into new realities requires a further effort which government is confident that with the help of the many other stakeholders we can succeed.