MALTA ALSO HAS signed a number of international agreements mainly in the economic and financial areas, and international investments are becoming more interesting. Do not forget, however, the sea and air transport as well as the beautiful culture.

FOREIGN INVESTMENTS HAVE MODERNIZED the island over the last decade and now Malta is ready for competition but also cooperation. If a company chooses to invest on Malta, capital gains can be brought back without any barriers. Generally, foreign investors can hold up to 100 percent of the capital in Maltese companies. Those who are not residents on Malta shall receive a mandatory exchange control permission to invest in a Maltese business.

IT TAKES ON AVERAGE TWO weeks to register and for the process to go through. The Maltese law requires that each company has its registered office on Malta and uses a local adviser as a secretary. This person will also be responsible for the transactions carried out by the Maltese company.

THERE ARE CURRENTLY FIVE clearing banks on Malta, and there are a number of financial institutions that also offer other banking services. The five banks are cooperating with each other and with over 100 branches they offer the services and products for large financial institutions. In other words, there is a good position in the banks on Malta.

SHORT-TERM NEEDS IN MALTESE companies are technology and electronics. There is also a lack of producers of hygiene and cosmetic articles. Furthermore, there is room for companies in the wine & liquor and the clothing industry as well. In the longer term, Malta Enterprises recommend investments in the environment, infrastructure and energy.