EU Matters
The EU Matters Unit at the Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) plays a crucial role in ensuring that Malta’s tourism sector remains compliant with and benefits from the latest European Union and international regulations, directives, and policies. This unit is tasked with building and disseminating knowledge within the MTA regarding policies and decisions enacted or proposed by the EU, as well as international bodies like the United Nations. By closely monitoring these developments, the unit ensures that the MTA remains proactive in assessing the potential impacts of these regulations on the tourism sector.
The unit is responsible for coordinating and formulating the Authority’s official responses to EU directives and proposals, ensuring that Malta’s interests are represented effectively. It also manages communication with EU bodies and other international organizations, providing timely and informed responses to requests for information. Additionally, the unit is charged with maintaining a comprehensive database of EU legislation and monitoring Malta’s compliance with these directives. By attending relevant meetings locally and abroad, the department ensures that the MTA stays engaged with ongoing EU matters, contributing to the continuous improvement of Malta’s tourism landscape.
EU Funding
EU funding presents significant opportunities for Malta’s tourism industry, facilitating economic growth, sustainability, and innovation. The EU Funding Unit at the MTA actively seeks to leverage these funds to support a range of projects. For instance, the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and the Cohesion Fund can finance crucial infrastructure improvements, making tourist destinations more accessible and enhancing the appeal of Malta’s cultural and natural sites. Meanwhile, the European Social Fund (ESF ), Horizon Europe and the Erasmus can support skills development and innovation, crucial for maintaining a competitive and modern tourism industry. EU funds also contribute to promoting sustainable tourism by supporting environmentally friendly projects and green tourism initiatives.
Apart from creating more awareness on the local funding opportunities for SMEs, the Malta Tourism Authority also focuses on EU funds which offer significant opportunities for the tourism industry through the financing of infrastructure projects, promoting sustainable and cultural tourism, supporting businesses, and enhancing skills and innovation. By leveraging these funds, Malta can boost its tourism sectors, creating jobs, fostering economic growth, and ensuring the sustainable development of tourist destinations.
Industry HR
The Industry HR Unit within the Malta Tourism Authority is dedicated to enhancing the human resources capacity of Malta’s tourism sector, ensuring that the industry is supported by a skilled and motivated workforce. The unit collaborates closely with key stakeholders to launch joint awareness campaigns and outreach programs aimed at attracting potential employees to consider careers in tourism. By improving the sector's appeal through continuous staff training opportunities, the unit helps to position tourism as an attractive and rewarding career choice.
In addition to workforce development, the Industry HR Unit recognizes and celebrates excellence within the sector, providing recognition to industry players for outstanding tourism investments and service professionalism, through the Malta Tourism Awards launched in 2024. This commitment to fostering a skilled and recognized workforce ensures that Malta's tourism industry not only meets current demands but also remains competitive and capable of delivering exceptional service standards in the future. The unit’s efforts contribute significantly to the overall development and sustainability of Malta’s tourism industry, ensuring it continues to thrive in a rapidly changing global landscape.
Suzanne Brincat Dimech
Head of Unit
EU Matters/Funding & Industry HR
Email: suzanne.brincat-dimech.1@visitmalta.com
Office: 356 2291 5728