Updated 1300
NGO ship negotiation with Malta for repairs after drone attack
An international NGO planning to sail a ship to Gaza with humanitarian aid said it is negotiating with Malta to enter its waters for repairs after a drone attack Friday. The Freedom Flotilla Coalition prefers dockside repairs, but Malta has offered at-sea assistance—at its expense—if the vessel carries only aid, with no other preconditions. The ship Conscience was damaged near Maltese waters and lost power. It was awaiting 30 peace activists before continuing to Gaza. Malta denied claims it blocked access, saying the crew refused help and wouldn’t allow a surveyor aboard. PM Robert Abela confirmed Malta’s willingness to assist, contingent on the humanitarian nature of the mission. Coalition officials said the ship isn’t sinking but needs a secure environment for repairs and future travel. They stressed the urgency of protecting the ship from further attacks during repairs. (Times of Malta)
Tax incentives for foreign supermarkets keep consumer prices in control – CBM study
Tax incentives for foreign-owned supermarket chains may create unfair competition but have helped curb consumer price rises, a Central Bank of Malta study has found. Based on interviews with retail operators, the study highlights growing pressure on local supermarkets from international chains benefitting from Malta’s full imputation tax system. This allows foreign shareholders to claim refunds, reducing their effective tax rate to 5%, compared to 35% for Maltese firms. The number of foreign-owned chains has grown, intensifying competition through aggressive pricing and deeper resources. While this squeezes local profit margins, it has helped keep prices stable for consumers. The Central Bank suggests policy intervention may be needed to address the imbalance, as domestic retailers struggle to keep pace in a changing market landscape increasingly dominated by international players. (Maltatoday)
Trump movie tariffs may impact Maltese film industry
Former U.S. President Donald Trump announced plans to impose a 100% tariff on all foreign-made films, citing a “national security threat” as more U.S. productions move overseas due to international tax incentives. Trump claimed Hollywood is being “devastated” and warned the American film industry is “dying.” The policy’s details and its impact on TV productions remain unclear. The move follows criticism of Trump’s aggressive trade measures and comes amid signs of Hollywood’s post-pandemic struggles. Popular filming locations like Toronto, the UK, and Malta, known for generous tax rebates, are outpacing U.S. sites. Trump also named celebrity allies as envoys to “strengthen” the industry.
Morning Briefing
Public sector ‘not bloated’, but upskilling needed – GWU secretary general: GWU Secretary General Josef Bugeja said Malta’s public sector is not overstaffed but needs upskilling, especially in health and education. He defended summer half-days, noting only 30% of public administration workers benefit, often through extra winter hours. Bugeja called for flexible solutions on traffic and deliveries, opposing 2pm slots due to heat risks. He supported better transport to industrial zones and reaffirmed the value of the MCESD in shaping policy. On labour migration, Bugeja stressed hiring locals first, fair treatment for foreign workers, and curbing exploitation. He welcomed reforms like extending job-search windows for dismissed workers. Workers’ Day, he said, remains vital to honour past and future labour contributions.
Ministry of Education says new O-Level format here to stay
The new O-Level assessment format, which includes student-based assessments (SBAs) over the final three school years, is here to stay, according Education Ministry director general Jude Zammit. Despite criticism, the Ministry plans to retain and refine the system, not revert to the old exam-only model. The revised SEC format, now completing its first full cycle, sees SBAs contribute 30% to final grades. Zammit rejected any return to the previous system, calling it a backward step, like reverting to chalkboards before digital tools. “In education, we must always move forward,” he said, adding the old system served its time but no longer reflects current understanding of effective assessment. (The Malta Independent)