Investment Survey 2025 - Malta (European Investment Bank)

Summary

• On balance, 37% of Maltese firms expect to increase investment in 2025, compared to an EU average of 4%.p.7
• International trade integration is high, with 79% of Maltese businesses engaging in foreign trade.p.7
• Emissions-reduction steps have been taken by 95% of companies, while 56% have invested in climate physical risk resilience.p.7
• Internal innovation is conducted by 35% of Maltese firms, well above the EU average of 21%.p.7
• Generative AI tools are systematically used by 41% of Maltese firms to enhance business processes.p.7
• Skills shortages are cited by 76% of firms as a major obstacle to investment, alongside energy costs at 84%.p.7

Key insights

1. On balance, 37% of Maltese companies expect to increase their investment activity in 2025.p.7
2. International trade involves 79% of Maltese companies, including 97% of manufacturing firms and 95% of service firms.p.7
3. The percentage of Maltese firms innovating at national or global levels rose to 11%, up from 1% in EIBIS 2024.p.8
4. Generative AI tools are systematically implemented by 41% of companies in Malta.p.8
5. Skills shortages are considered a major obstacle to investment by 76% of firms in Malta.p.8
6. Overall finance constraints affect only 3.7% of Maltese businesses, compared to 6.1% across the EU.p.8
7. Internal funds cover 75% of investment financing in Malta, with external finance supplying 23%.p.8
8. Women represent at least 40% of senior management in 32% of Maltese companies.p.8