Malta Chamber Administrative Report 2014

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The malTa chamber of commerce, enTerprise and indusTry AnnuAL ADMInISTRATIvE REPORT 2014

Administrative Report 2014 The official annual report of the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry

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CONTENTS Foreword from President David G. Curmi 08 Introduction by Director General Kevin J. Borg 013 Council of the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry 2014/2015 020 Economic Groups Executive Committee Members 022 The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry Staff 022 Events Highlights 025 Policy Positions 2014-2015 035 Relations with Diplomatic Corps 039 Economic Groups 041

a. Importers, Distributors and Retailers Economic Group 041

b. Business Sections: HealthCare; Importers; Pharmacists Pharmacy Owners; Wines, Spirits, Beverages and Tobacco 042

c.

Manufacturers and Other Industries Economic Group 050

d. Business Sections: Electrical and Electronics; Food and Beverage Processors; Pharmaceutical Manufacturers; Plastics and Rubber Manufacturers 052 e. Services Providers Economic Group 056

f. Business Sections: Financial Service; Information Technology; Real Estate; Remote Gaming; Road Contractors; Shipping and Bunkering; Tourism; Yachting Services 057

Policy Committees 071 a. Environment and Energy 071 b. Human Resources 074 c. Internationalisation 077 d. Libya Action Committee 081 e.

Marketing 081

f. Research, Technology, Development and Innovation 083 g. SME and Family Business 084 Executive Committees - Business Sections, Policy Committees, Business Councils 086 Malta Chamber Commissions set up by Statute 088 Consultation 089

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Malta Council for Economic and Social Development 089 b.

Malta-EU Steering Action Committee 092 Examination Services 095 Surveys 095 Administration 096 ISO:9001 096 Public Relations 098 Media Releases 0101 International Scene 0103 a. BUSINESSEUROPE 0103 b. EUROCHAMBRES 0104

c. European Economic and Social Committee 0105 d.

Malta Business Bureau 0106 Nominees on Boards and Committees 0112 Publisher

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Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry The Exchange, Republic Street, Valletta VLT1117 T: +356 2123 3873 E: info@maltachamber.org.mt www.maltachamber.org.mt

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Editor: Kevin J. Borg EditorIAL COORDINATOR: Edward Bonello Design: Nicholas Cutajar – Design Studio at Content House Ltd Publication Sales Managers: Petra Urso, Mark Barbara Senior Advertising Executive: Gaynor Farrugia Degabriele Advertising Sales Coordinator: Lindsey Ciantar

The Annual Report of the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry is distributed to all the members of the Malta Chamber and to leading businesses. It has a shelf life of one year.

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The cut-off date for information published in this Annual Administrative Report is 15th February 2015. Events occurring after this date will appear in the 2015-2016 report.

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The malTa chamber of commerce, enTerprise and indusTry AnnuAL ADMInISTRATIvE REPORT 2014

A successful year

promoting the country’s competitiveness: 2014-2015 Foreword by the President of the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry, Mr David G. Curmi

Looking back at the past 12 months, it is indeed satisfying for me to note that the endeavours of the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry’s featured a number of significant achievements. Goals that were reached through the hard work of a dynamic organisation, for the benefit of its members, and for Malta’s economy in general.

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A Growing Influence on Business and Economic Matters During the second year of my Presidential term, I sought, together with my colleagues, to consolidate the Chamber’s position as the leading representative of the private sector.

Our increased influence on the country’s policy makers was made possible by further developing working relations with the authorities. This was made possible by proactively approaching a number of key issues facing the economy with focused, objective and evidence-based representations on a regular basis. This, in fulfilment of our declared mission as a Chamber to safeguard and protect the interests of our members as well as of our country.

An Economic Vision for Malta Consequently, throughout the course of my Presidency, we sought to offer a Business Agenda to Government rather than react to a Government Agenda for Business. True to this approach, we published two landmark documents this year, namely the ‘Industrial Policy for Malta’ which is an intrinsic part of the larger “Economic Vision 2014-2020” published a few months later in July. We were gratified to note that our Economic Vision was wholeheartedly endorsed by both sides of the political divide besides receiving glowing reviews in the media. Suffice to mention a leader of the “Times of Malta” when it described the document as “one of the most important for years” whilst others praised our initiative which served to avoid an important vacuum. Indeed, our Vision - which was articulated by 20 leading CEOs in Malta together with the Rector of University – sought to contribute a blueprint to guide all stakeholders in the allocation of scarce resources at our country’s disposal. This blueprint will support us – the business community – in maximizing our contribution to the country in terms of wealth creation through our risk and endeavours. On commenting about our Vision, a Business Observer leader (25 September 2014) said that “the Chamber has managed to knock into shape a set of recommendations that ought to help the country focus on what is urgently needed to get the economy moving to a higher level of development.”

Consolidating Public and Private Initiative Within our Economic Vision, we suggested that Public Private Partnerships become a more widespread practice in the Maltese islands. Indeed, the concept of “Government partnering with business and enterprise” is a recurrent theme in our Economic Vision.

Consequently, we were encouraged by Government’s prompt reaction in the launching of Projects Malta Ltd. – a new entity to coordinate public private partnerships between the private sector and various ministries. Further to our championing of this cause, it was of particular significance that this new entity was launched at the Chamber by the Prime Minister in February this year.

The setting up of Trade Malta Ltd is further evidence of the authorities’ trust towards our Chamber and the effectiveness of our Economic Vision. Recommendation number 32 of our document, in fact, suggested that Government should partner with the Chamber to establish a PPP dedicated to the promotion and encouragement of external business by local entrepreneurs. Following a long process of negotiations with Government, we were proud to have reached agreement, last December, for the establishment of Trade Malta Ltd. – a joint venture between our Chamber and Projects Malta Ltd.

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– to carry out services related to external trade promotion for business. We look forward to the formal commencement of operations later this year and we are confident that these services will experience a quantum leap as, from now on, they will be driven by the private sector and offered with the combined resources of the public and private sectors.

Competitiveness Throughout the period under review, our Chamber has constantly championed the country’s quest for productivity and competitiveness whilst constantly seeking to place the matter at the top of the national agenda because we believe this to be the central theme for developing our long term economic future.

Our Chamber has often sought to alert local authorities on internally-generated issues which lead to loss of competitiveness and to which the solution lies within the country’s own competence. There are other issues, however, where the solutions lie beyond our control and, even there, the Malta Chamber makes serious attempts to intervene with the European Authorities in support of Malta’s cause. Competitiveness was the central theme in our policy formulation this year as well as our public representations in the media, social dialogue and high-level conferences such as The Economist and the EY Attractiveness conferences I addressed over the course of the year.

Fuel and Energy prices The Chamber was actively engaged in discussions on energy and fuel prices throughout the period under review but these intensified after the start of 2015 with the fall in international oil prices. In separate meetings taking place with the Government and Opposition in January and February, the Chamber remarked that the subject of fuel and energy prices were seen as an important determinant of competitiveness which, in turn, is a priority for the Chamber. With this in mind, the Chamber stated that whilst a degree of stability in fuel prices for businesses and industry is appreciated, such stability must not hold the country’s competitiveness to ransom. At the same time, the Chamber appealed for the elimination of market frictions that manifested themselves recently at retail level through the intervention of the pertinent regulator.

The same argument on stability was also made for energy prices and the Chamber reiterated its recommendation for heavy energy users to be allowed to hedge their price if they wished to do so, or opt for the prevailing price of energy if stability for them is not crucial. The Chamber also insisted about the need for Government to retain control over dispatch rights between the various options of energy generation units.

These recommendations were made in view of the

need for further reductions in energy tariffs for business beyond the 25 per cent reduction awaited at the end of March 2015. The Chamber maintained that further reductions were needed to bring local tariffs at par with the average ones prevailing in Europe.

A Council meeting to discuss Energy tariffs and Malta’s energy plans was held last September in the presence of the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Energy, the Executive Chairman of Enemalta and high officials from related entities such as ARMS and MRA. On this occasion, Council members remarked that Malta had the second highest utility rates in the EU and that the rates were higher than those of its neighbours which made Malta less attractive for investment. We further pointed out that the business community needed a reliable supply at competitive prices and asked for the distinction between generation costs and distribution costs to justify lower tariffs for bulk purchases.

At the time of writing, the Minister of Health and Energy had accepted an invitation to address a Council meeting which was to be held on 26 February.

Regional Aid Guidelines At various levels we sought to find tangible solutions and a clear way forward on the new Regional Aid Intensity Guidelines. The Chamber has calculated and warned that this development shall result in serious implications on local manufacturing operators and future potential investment in industry because permissible Regional Aid, post-July 2014 has fallen to 0 per cent in the case of large undertakings. The repercussions are far more serious for a country like Malta that suffers from geographical limitations such as external dependencies and remote insularity.

This year, we took this matter to MCESD and to the European Economic and Social Council where the critical implications for Malta were clearly understood and tangible support was garnered. At the time of writing, this matter remains topical as the Chamber is suggesting an amendment to the EU’s current State Aid rules in favour of Remote Member States at the next planned review in 2017.

Fiscal and Market Surveillance The competitiveness position of our importing and manufacturing sectors also necessitated our active intervention in insisting on the immediate removal of enforcement discrepancies which result in an unfair level playing field between companies that operate under full legal compliance and others that do not.

This situation has been going on for the best part of a decade to the detriment of the sustainability and business confidence in all economic sectors. To this

The malTa chamber of commerce, enTerprise and indusTry AnnuAL ADMInISTRATIvE REPORT 2014

end, we made forceful representations within a number of public and private fora, including the Parliamentary Committee for Economic and Financial Affairs before which we appeared to raise awareness about the fact that the systems currently in place are leading to tax leakages caused by certain importers, as well as evasion of other obligations to the detriment of (a) those who honour their obligations fully; (b) the Government; (c) the consumer.

The Chamber’s aim, on this occasion, was to provide the members of the Parliamentary Committee with its recommendations in favour of strengthening the structures of law enforcement in order to, once and for all, safeguard and ensure fair trade within the parameters of the European Single Market of which Malta forms an intrinsic part. The Chamber made its deliberations within the desired framework of a competitive and liberalized environment which is to be fairly and equitably regulated.

Moreover, I am pleased to report on the numerous messages of support for this cause received from members as well as, in certain instances, from their international principals. I am also pleased to report the commitment on the part of Government towards introducing new market surveillance rules which reflect the fact that importation from anywhere within the EU must be treated in the same way and in full adherence to European regulations.

International Representations During the past 12 months, I continued to represent the Chamber at the high-powered BUSINESSEUROPE Council of Presidents meetings where competitiveness, energy, TTIP (Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership) negotiations and the prevailing geopolitical developments were high on the agenda. This year’s meetings were held in in Athens (May 2014) and Rome (November 2014). In Rome, the Council of Presidents had occasion to share views with Italy’s Prime Minister Matteo Renzi on the importance of implementing reform both in Italy and in Europe in an effort to ensure competitiveness and jobs. He also outlined his message of growth for Europe which, he said, needed to focus less on enforcing its bureaucratic systems and more on the channels to future growth that lie in the digital economy, technology and education. He joined the Council of Presidents in commending the introduction of the Commission’s €300 billion Investment Plan.

Regular Dialogue with the Country’s Leaders Throughout the year, the Chamber offered ample opportunity to its members to dialogue with the

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country’s leaders. In fact, the Hon Dr Joseph Muscat, accompanied by various Cabinet Ministers accepted to address our members three times this year – in February and October for Dialogue Sessions taking candid questions from participants – and again in November when a Debate was organised between the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition on the subject of the Economic Vision Document. On all occasions, these discussions took place away from the limelight and the cameras to ensure a frank and open debate.

The Hon Dr Joseph Muscat and Mrs Muscat were also the guests of honour once again, at an annual dinner held in January. Another dinner was held in honour of the President of Malta HE Dr Marie Louise Coleiro Preca. On this occasion, the President had words of praise for the work conducted by the Malta Chamber. In particular, she praised our promotion of greater prosperity in the country because this is a sure way of avoiding unnecessary tensions and hardships within our society at large. That said, she highlighted the importance of ethical standards in business and acknowledged that the employer and the employee are two sides of the same coin. These frequent opportunities for open discussion with the country’s highest authorities are evidence to the trust enjoyed by our Chamber.

Malta Chamber Foundation Over the period under review, the Malta Chamber Foundation which was set up in 2012, experienced a period of transition mainly due to the changeover between EU funding periods. This year, the remit of the Foundation was re-dimensioned to focus on identifying relevant EU funding opportunities in-line with the requirements of Malta Chamber members.

Conclusion It is with great pleasure therefore, that I conclude this foreword and invite you to read on about the endeavours of our Chamber throughout the past twelve months during which I can safely conclude that our opinions certainly carried a lot of weight with the authorities. It was by no co-incidence, therefore, that the Times of Malta opined on 29 July 2014 that our Chamber has become “an even more focused and effective organization than it has ever been before”. This achievement, however, would not have materialised were it not for the hard work and selfless dedication of the individuals who make up the Board of Management, our Council, committees and sectors.

I express my sincere gratitude to my colleagues and all who contributed to this successful year and position of high regard for our Chamber.

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DIRECTOR GENERAL Report

by Kevin J. Borg

As Director-General, it is my pleasure to summarise the Malta Chamber’s major achievements this year.

A number of highlights characterized my work and that of the 18-strong team in the 12 months under review. Amongst these were the launching of the Economic Vision and Industrial Policy documents; the launch of Trade Malta; two successful European Bids for contract work; and the rolling out of new projects such as the launching of the North African and Turkey Business Councils. This, besides the organisation of a number of well-attended, high level events for the benefit of members and a successful re-classification in the ISO 9001 (2008) Quality Management Standard for the organisation.

Policy and Consultation During the period under review, I oversaw the formulation of a number of policy positions adopted by the Malta Chamber and its autonomous groupings. It is worth mentioning at the outset, the successful outcome of an enhanced internal mechanism for consultation involving policy committees and business sections with different interests. This took place through improved coordination and resulted in a better understanding of wider complexities involving certain issues as Health Reform, Shop Opening Hours, Port Logistics and Abuse in Free Movement of Goods.

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Budget Consultations As is customary and in line with its mission, the Chamber participated actively in the consultations leading to the National Budget for 2015 as well as in giving our comprehensive opinion after the Budget.

In all instances, we called for fiscal consolidation as a primary objective to complement Malta’s relative economic strengths as well as to make certain of a stable and competitive economic environment which could generate enough wealth to finance the social security system that our people have become accustomed to.

at par with the average ones prevailing in Europe. To this end, it repeated its proposals of possible ways to achieve this not least through the bulk buying of energy by large users as well as by ensuring flexibility in the purchasing of energy through the interconnector to the European grid when it is most cost-effective to do so.

On Better Regulation, the Chamber called for tough political decisions and public-service preparedness to implement legislative simplification. It insisted that the country cannot move ahead into higher value-adding service sectors unless it significantly improved its performance in the “Ease of Doing Business” Index.

Industrial Policy

Further to the presentation of the Budget, the Chamber welcomed an unprecedented number of Public Private Partnership (PPP) initiatives which were announced in the Speech not least one dedicated to external trade promotion with the establishment of Trade Malta Ltd – a measure which the Chamber itself proposed in its Economic Vision 2014-2020. The Chamber has always been consistent in its statements that the Private and Public sectors have two distinct but complementary roles in the economy.

The Chamber commented extensively with respect to measures taken – or not taken – to enhance the national competitiveness position. In its full statement on the Budget, the Chamber reiterated that all efforts needed to be directed at improving the country’s cost competitiveness, by such measures as treating COLA responsibly, reducing energy tariffs, clamping down on excessive bureaucracy and updating labour market legislation with a view to render them more workable and flexible. Competitiveness also needed to be supported through training, clustering and RTDI initiatives.

On energy tariffs in particular, the Chamber welcomed the 25 per cent reduction for business as a step in the right direction whilst maintaining that Maltese business needed further reductions in order to bring local tariffs

This May, our Chamber proudly published it ‘Industrial Policy for Malta’ document, which, in turn, fits into the Economic Vision which was published in July. In the Industrial Policy, the Chamber proposed eight fundamental points that need to be addressed, in order to safeguard existing investment and work towards consolidating the manufacturing industry in the future thereby bringing the share of manufacturing in Malta’s GDP closer to 20 per cent as targeted by the European Commission for the whole of Europe.

The Industrial Policy was launched to the Minister for the Economy, Investment and Small Business as well as to the Media in May and was followed up with a series of detailed discussions within a special joint working group appointed by the Chamber and Malta Enterprise. The document was also presented to the President of the Employers Group (Group 1) of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), Mr Jacek Krawczyk at the EESC’s premises in Brussels. As a result of this meeting, it was agreed that the Chamber and EESC would co-operate to organise two events – one in Malta and another in Brussels – to discuss priority matters highlighted in the Chamber’s Industrial Policy.

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Social Dialogue During the period under review, I represented the Chamber on the Jobs + Committee, the MCESD Restructuring Committee as well as on the main MCESD Council where our Chamber actively raised its prime policy concerns for discussion with the country’s social partners. As usual our arguments were always backed by thoroughly researched position papers. The principal issues discussed at MCESD throughout the past twelve months were the National Reform Programme, VET (Vocational Education and Training) and Life-Long Learning Policies, fuel prices, competitiveness, and the Chamber’s own Economic Vision. This besides several meetings dedicated to the 2015 Budget.

Throughout the year, the Chamber participated actively towards strengthening the consultation process amongst the social partners. To this end, several individual meetings were held with MCESD officials besides direct participation in the Restructuring Committee of MCESD. On these occasions, concrete recommendations were given to improve the relevance and autonomy of MCESD and suggested measures to ensure better management of meetings and building of an agenda that addressed the economic and social priorities of the country in a holistic manner. Given the complexity of issues and the fact that various

matters are intrinsically linked, the Chamber argued that MCESD needs to follow a holistic approach to matters concerning the country’s economic and social development. The Agenda of MCESD needs to be perfectly synchronised with the national discussion taking place at Cabinet, Parliament and other institutions at the national level. Similarly, MCESD must be well in tune with the European agenda. All throughout, the Chamber insisted that MCESD is afforded the necessary financial and human resources it required to conduct research and formulate technical reports to complement the discussions.

CSR Project As a follow up to the Chamber’s joint Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) project undertaken with Bank of Valletta, the Chamber was requested to form part of a CSR Task Force under the auspices of the President of the Republic. I was nominated to represent the Chamber on this Working Group which was entrusted with promoting to the concept of responsible entrepreneurship amongst the business community and maximising the benefits of CSR to both business and society at large.

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Education and Training Related Initiatives FEMA course - True to its Educational mission, the Chamber this year, offered its services to the Department of Management within the Faculty of Economics, Management and Accountancy (FEMA) at the University of Malta in delivering a course entitled Industry insights to third year B.Com students.

The main scope of the course is to give management students direct exposure to the local business scene. The seven sessions were delivered by members of the Chamber staff on practical subjects faced by companies such as access to finance, internationalisation strategy, manufacturing operations, the specificities of family run businesses and environmental responsibilities of local companies.

Similarly, during the year under review, the Malta Chamber designed a short training programme for career advisors engaged with the Ministry of Education and Employment. Again, the scope of the programme will be to give career advisors training on the composition of the Maltese economy, different economic players and skills/competencies required to work in the different sectors. These sessions will be complemented by a series of visits to a number of economic operators from various sectors.

Moreover, at the start of 2015, the Malta Chamber provided practical support to Chamber members who applied for the Training Aid Framework grants (TAF2).

Through its staff, the Malta Chamber met a number of members on a one to one basis with a view to ensuring the correctness of their application forms to ETC.

Internationalisation Our Internationalisation Desk – under the guidance of a dedicated Committee – continued in its mission to bring

foreign markets closer to the local business community.

The work of the Internationalisation Desk is based on three strands: Information, Co-operation and Service Projects. The tasks are demand-driven by the results of an extensive profiling exercise of members’ current and planned internationalisation efforts. This task is ongoing and is facilitating a more personalised and relevant service to companies, while enabling qualified input to the national debate about the priorities of trade and investment promotion.

Besides, the Internationalisation Desk carried on in its work to assist members in finding new alternative markets through contacts and networks at its disposal.

It was also responsible for supporting Chamber representatives travelling on business delegations abroad and for our active participation in ASCAME the Association of Mediterranean Chambers.

Business Councils From the experience gained in recent years, we now know that Business Councils are a very efficient way to help firms venture abroad. In fact, Business Councils provide the ideal forum to connect Maltese business people with international companies based in Malta in order to share experiences, information and intelligence. Over the past twelve months, our Internationalisation Desk launched two new Business Councils for North Africa and Turkey. These are now added to the recently established German-Maltese, Scandinavian, Portuguese and Middle East Business Councils. All Business Councils were exceptionally active in promoting commercial opportunities with their respective territories during the period under review.

The activities of our Business Councils are amplified upon in the Internationalisation section of this report.

Meanwhile, every effort was made to assist members affected by the Libya Crisis and ensure that the country’s authorities were sympathetic to their urgent and temporary needs.

Successful European Bids The Chamber secretariat was actively engaged in discussions leading to the formation of a consortium further composed of Malta Enterprise, Malta Business Bureau and Malta Council for Science and Technology.

The consortium prepared and submitted a successful bid to the European Commission to jointly operate the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) for the 2015-2020 period. The decision was communicated in November 2014 and as a result the Chamber staff were actively engaged in formal training in preparation for the official kick-off of the project later this year. The services covered by the project will include advisory support to

SMEs, Internationalisation, Research and Innovation services and the facilitation of direct consultation with the EU Commission and other institutions.

Similarly, the Chamber was successful in its bid to conduct Joint Harmonised EU Programme of Business and Consumer Surveys on behalf of the European Commission for a further seven-year period starting in May 2015.

Eurochambres The Chamber continued in its active participation in Eurochambres – the European Association of Chambers of Commerce representing over 20 million businesses in Europe through 45 members and a European network of 1700 regional and local chambers.

To this end, the Chamber participated in both General Assemblies which took place over the course of the year as well as in the fourth edition of the European Parliament of Enterprises (EPE) which was held in Brussels last October. The EPE is held on alternate years in the European Parliament Building and brings together over 750 businesses people from across Europe who become MEPs for one day and engage in debate and voting on some of the most topical subjects affecting private companies at the European level.

Conclusion In conclusion, I thank all my colleagues at the Malta Chamber for their dedication and team-work. Under the guidance of the Board of Management, Council, Economic Groups and Committees, and look forward to another active year of service to the business community.

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Council of the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry

2014/2015

Board of Management

Past Presidents

President: Mr David G. Curmi Deputy President: Mr Anton Borg FCCA, FIA, CPA Vice President: Mr Frank V. Farrugia Member: Mr Tonio Casapinta Dip ID, FIPD (Lond), MCSD, KM* Member: Mr Sergio Vella Member: Mr Charles A. Zahra

Mr Louis Apap-Bologna BA (Hons) Econ Chev. Baron Adrian Busietta GCSJ Mr Joseph R. Darmanin Mr Anthony S. Diacono Mrs Helga Ellul Mr Louis A. Farrugia FCA Mr Martin Galea ACA Mr Victor A. Galea BA, MBA Mr Francis T. Gera Mr Stefano Mallia BA (Hons) Bus Mgt, MA European Studies Mr John E. Sullivan Mr Joseph N. Tabone CPAA, FIA, FCIS, FCIB, FBIM, KM Mr Tancred Tabone

Members Mr Norman Aquilina Mr Martin Borg Mr Charles Brincat B.Sc. (Eng.), CPIM Ms Claudine Cassar Mr Matthias Fauser Mr Reginald Fava BPharm, MRPharmS, DBA, MCPP Mr John Huber FMIT, Dip. Dipl Stud.

Mr Andrew W.J. Mamo Mr Mario Spiteri BA (Hons) Accountancy, FIA MIM CPA Mr Christopher Vassallo Cesareo Perit David Xuereb BE&A (Hons), MSc (Lond), DIC, EUR ING, A&CE

Hon. Legal Advisor: Dr Hugh Peralta BA LLD Hon. Architect: Perit Stephen Mangion Hon. Chaplain: Fr. Thomas Moore

* By virtue of article 4.22 of the Statute of the Malta Chamber of Commerce Enterprise and Industry, following the resignations of Mr Stefano Mallia and Ms Helga Ellul in view of their candidacy to the forthcoming European Parliament elections, Mr Tonio Casapinta joined Council as provided by Rule 4.8 of the Statute. The other position will remain unfilled for the remainder of the term as there were no further candidates from the Service Providers Economic Group in the March 2013 elections. Mr Casapinta was also elected as Member of the Board of Management at the Council meeting held on 8th August 2013. Mr William Wait resigned from the Board of Management, as required by Article 4.12 of the Statute, in order to take up the post of Deputy Chairman of Malta Enterprise. Mr Wait could no longer serve on Council following a change in his Corporate Membership.

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Economic Groups

Executive Board Members

Importers, Distributors and Retailers Economic Group Mr Andrew W.J. Mamo – Chairman Mr Martin Borg – Deputy Chairman Mr Christopher Vassallo Cesareo – Vice Chairman Mr Reginald Fava Mr Frank V. Farrugia Mr Charles A. Zahra

Manufacturers and Other Industries Economic Group Mr Matthias Fauser – Chairman Mr Norman Aquilina – Deputy Chairman Mr Sergio Vella – Vice Chairman Mr Anton Borg Ing Charles Brincat Mr William Wait (co-opted) Mr Joe Pace (co-opted) Ms Marisa Xuereb (co-opted) Mr Nick Xuereb (co-opted)

Services Providers Economic Group Mr David Xuereb – Chairman Ms Claudine Cassar – Deputy Chairperson Mr John A. Huber – Vice Chairman Mr Tonio Casapinta Mr Mario Spiteri Ms Genevieve Abela (co-opted) Mr George Debrincat (co-opted) Mr Peter Sant (co-opted) Mr Edward A. Woods (co-opted)

The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry Executive Staff Mr Kevin J. Borg Director General Mr Andre Fenech Head – Policy Development Mr Lino Mintoff Head – Sectors Mr John B. Scicluna Head – Quality & Administration Mr Edward Bonello Manager - Communications Ms Johanna Calleja Manager - Statutory Affairs & Administration Mr Klaus Pedersen Manager - Internationalisation Ms Rachel Bartolo Executive – Sectors Ms Lina El-Nahhal Executive – Internationalisation Ms Marilena Gauci Executive – Policy Mr Nigel Mifsud Executive – Sectors Ms Claire Rizzo Executive Assistant to President and Director General Ms Elena Scicluna Executive – Education Ms Cheryl Cardona Front Office Coordinator Mr Anthony Tanti Examinations Clerk Ms Bernice Azzopardi Support Secretary Mr Joseph Fenech Support Staff Mr Charles Maione Support Staff

* By virtue of article 4.22 of the Statute of the Malta Chamber of Commerce Enterprise and Industry, following the resignations of Mr Stefano Mallia and Ms Helga Ellul in view of their candidacy to the forthcoming European Parliament elections, Mr Tonio Casapinta joined Council as provided by Rule 4.8 of the Statute. The other position will remain unfilled for the remainder of the term as there were no further candidates from the Service Providers Economic Group in the March 2013 elections. Mr Casapinta was also elected as Member of the Board of Management at the Council meeting held on 8th August 2013. Mr William Wait resigned from the Board of Management, as required by Article 4.12 of the Statute, in order to take up the post of Deputy Chairman of Malta Enterprise. Mr Wait could no longer serve on Council following a change in his Corporate Membership.

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1. Malta Chamber discusses Economic Vision for Malta 2014-2020 2. June 2014 : Malta Chamber welcomes a Business delegation from Taipei 3. September 2014 : Malta Chamber hosts a Conference on the 116th China Canton Fair 4 -7. February 2014 : The Prime Minister Hon Dr Joseph Muscat takes questions from Malta Chamber members in a dialogue session 8-9. February 2014 : The Leader of the Opposition Hon Dr Simon Busuttil meets the Malta Chamber Council

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10-11. March 2014 : Mr Curmi addresses and participates in a round table event organised by The Economist 12-14. March 2014 : Mr Tonio Casapinta respresents the Malta Chamber in a Business delegation to the Gulf 15. April 2014 : Linking Enterprise at Smart City 16. May 2014 : Malta Chamber hosts members of the media to a Press Lunch 17. May 2014 : Launch of ‘An Industrial Policy for Malta’

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18-19. May 2014 : Malta Chamber Council pays a courtesy visit to the President of Malta Her Excellency Dr Marie Louise Coleiro Preca 20. February 2014 : Mr David G. Curmi presents funds raised from a Wine tasting event to Caritas 21-22. September 2014 : Summer drinks held at Smart City 23.

October 2014 : Prime Minister addresses members during the second dialogue session for 2014 24. October 2014 : A delegation from the Malta Chamber and the Malta Business Bureau meets MEPs Dr Helena Dalli and Dr Roberta Metsola

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25. October 2014: Deputy President Mr Anton Borg addresses the European Parliament of Enterprises 26. October 2014: Malta Chamber hosts a seminar about Traffic Management 27-31. November 2014: The Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition participate in a debate organised by the Malta Chamber on the subject of the Economic Vision for Malta 2014 - 2020 32. December 2014: The Malta Chamber hosts the Annual President’s Reception

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33. December 2014: The Malta Chamber hosts the Annual President’s Reception 34. January 2015: Annual Council dinner with the Prime Minister 35. Council members 36. January 2015: Annual Council dinner with the Prime Minister 37. January 2015: Malta Chamber Council hosts President of Malta to dinner 38. February 2015: Malta Chamber officials attend an MCESD meeting 39. September 2014: Renowned Communications Expert and Strategist Sir Alastair Campbell and Polish former Prime Minister Kazimierz Marcinkiewicz visit Exchange Buildings 40. September 2014: Mr David G. Curmi addresses the EY Attractiveness conference

The malTa chamber of commerce, enTerprise and indusTry AnnuAL ADMInISTRATIvE REPORT 2014

Policy Positions 2014 During the year under review, the Malta Chamber followed closely a number of issues on which it formulated position and strategic papers.

An Economic Vision for Malta 2014-2020 Central to the Malta Chamber’s effort in the past months was the publication of the document An Economic Vision for Malta 2014-2020. This document strived to provide a business agenda to Government rather than a Government Agenda for business.

Roping in the contribution of 20 of Malta’s leading CEOs and Chairpersons as well as the Rector of the University of Malta, the Vision advocates a focused and diversified successful economy, underpinned by a high quality, dynamic, productive and innovative private sector that positions Malta as a global hub for business and investment leading to increased prosperity by 2020.

The Economic Vision is intended to serve as a blueprint to guide all stakeholders in the allocation of scarce resources. It is also intended to support the business community in maximizing its contribution to the country in terms of wealth creation through their risk and through their endeavours.

Download from: www.maltachamber.org.mt

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An Industrial Policy for Malta The Manufacturing Economic Group within the Malta Chamber has ensured that the Malta Chamber’s Economic Vision for Malta which was published during the year included an appropriate policy which provides for a solid productive and innovative manufacturing industry.

This paper entitled “An Industrial Policy for Malta” identified the major pressing concerns faced by the industry and identified meaningful initiatives that can be embarked upon to address the key policy drivers for manufacturing. These areas include Policy Governance, Human Resources quality and cost, a competitive business environment and internationalisation.

This policy paper would also bring the manufacturing industry in line with the European Commission endeavour to reverse the declining role of manufacturing in Europe by increasing its contribution to GDP to 20 per cent.

The new industrial policy aims to address those factors which impact directly on Malta’s competitiveness and which are key priorities for investment decision makers. These include: factors such as skilled labour force at competitive wages, stable energy at competitive rates, investment support amongst others.

Pre Budget Recommendations The Malta Chamber submitted its macro-economic proposals for the 2015 budget to the Minister of Finance in the beginning of August. The Malta Chamber called for cost competitiveness and fiscal discipline to be maintained and improved to stimulate growth and further job creation. The document was written in the light of the afore-mentioned two strategic documents launched by the organisation in the previous months, namely the Economic Vision for Malta 2014-2020 and the Industrial Policy which specifically dealt with the present and future challenges of the manufacturing industry in Malta.

The Malta Chamber made a number of specific recommendations related to sustainable public finances, unfair competition and fiscal evasion, general fiscal policy and tax regime, eco-contribution, sustainability of the pensions and healthcare systems, the high energy costs for enterprises and the promotion of renewable energy sources and energy conservation, high labour costs and wage indexation, training education and skills, better regulation and the reduction in administrative burdens, efficient transport links, access to finance, and the promotion of research and innovation.

Download from: www.maltachamber.org.mt

In the month that followed, the Malta Chamber consulted its internal Economic Groups, Business Sections, Thematic Committees and general membership and presented another document to the Ministry of Finance with its sectorial recommendations.

Reactions to the 2015 Budget Speech Further to its preliminary public reactions to the 2015 Budget Speech, the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry undertook an in-depth review of the Speech and supplementary Budget documents.

The Malta Chamber’s comprehensive reactions were presented to the Ministry of Finance during the first week of December. The Chamber insisted that the 2015 Budget was seen as a continuation to the one presented the previous year especially in terms of measures aimed at encouraging more people to join the labour market.

The Chamber further welcomed the fact that the Budget Speech avoided any unnecessary shocks to the economy and, above all, it welcomed the fact that this Budget gave due recognition to the important role of the private sector in the economy through the proposed implementation of a number of Public Private Partnerships.

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The malTa chamber of commerce, enTerprise and indusTry AnnuAL ADMInISTRATIvE REPORT 2014

Maternity Leave In the run up to the Budget, the Malta Chamber was consulted on a measure to revise the method of funding maternity leave. In essence the measure suggested that as from 2015, Government would be paying for the 14 weeks maternity leave taken in the private sector through a purposely setup fund. This would be funded through a 0.3 per cent increase on the employer’s part of the National Insurance for all employees. The Malta Chamber consulted its members through a web based survey and the results were passed on to the authorities.

The Chamber’s final position stated that it supported the measure in principle as it was implemented to remove another barrier for women to join the labour market.

The Chamber nevertheless was concerned that the contribution of employers was not set for a foreseeable period and remained liable to increase in the event that the fund was insufficient to cover the full cost of maternity leave in any given period.

Another

aspect of concern was that the scheme did not address the position of negatively impacted companies, in sectors where, invariably, it is not naturally possible to achieve a healthy gender mix of employees. At the time of writing, consultation was ongoing on the way to implement the measure.

National Reform Programme 2014 During the month of April, the Malta Chamber gave its feedback on the draft 2014 National Reform Programme (NRP). The NRP and the Country Specific Recommendations (CSRs) are intended to ensure that every EU Member State aligns its budgetary and economic plans with the Stability and Growth Pact and the Europe 2020 strategy. The Malta Chamber agreed with prioritising the list of 5 CSRs for Malta in 2014 which were the following: CSR 1 Correct the excessive budget deficit by 2014 in a sustainable and growth-friendly manner; CSR 2 Ensure Long-Term Public Finances Sustainability & Reform the Pension System; CSR 3 Reduce Early School Leaving & Increase Labour Market Relevance of Education; CSR 4 Diversify the Energy Mix and Energy Sources; CSR 5 Further Strengthen Provisions for Loan Impairment Losses in the Banking Sector and Mitigate Risks from Exposure to the Real Estate Market.

The Malta Chamber submitted feedback on each CSR and also had an opportunity to present its findings during a stakeholders’ roundtable discussion organised by the European Commission’s Representation office in Malta during the month of June.

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Registered meetings with Diplomatic Corps Date Country Ambassador/Honorary Consul 2014 03 05 Austria Commercial Counsellor Dr Michael Berger 2014 03 06

Austria

Ambassador of Austria to Malta, H.E. Dr Petra Schneebauer

2014 03 25

India

High Commissioner of India to Malta, H.E. MR Azar A.H. Khan

2014 04 04

Oman

Non-resident Ambassador of Malta to Oman, Mr Joseph Mangion

2014 04 09

Malmo, Sweden

Honorary Consul, Mr Filip Buci

2014 04 14

USA

Ambassador of USA to Malta, H.E. Mrs Gina K. Abercrombie-Winstanley

2014 04 24

Germany

Ambassador of Germany to Malta, Mr Klaus-Peter Brandes

2014 05 06

Kuwait

Ambassador of Malta to Kuwait, Mr Faisal Sulaiman Ali Al Musaileem

2014 05 06

Tunisia

Ambassador of Tunisia to Malta, Ms Souad Gueblaoui

2014 05 15

Kuwait

Ambassador of Malta to Kuwait, Mr Patrick Cole

2014 05 16

Embassy of Malta, Lisbon

Chargé d’Affaires, Mr Walter Mallia

2014 05 21

Italy

Ambassador of Italy to Malta, H.E. Mr Giovanni Umberto de Vito

2014 05 29

Russia

Ambassador of Russia to Malta, H.E. Mr Vladimir Malygin

2014 06 04

Japan

Non-Resident Ambassador of Malta to Japan, Mr Andre Spiteri

2014 07 08

Saudi Arabia

Ambassador of Malta to Saudi Arabia, Mr Martin Valentino

2014 07 16

Qatar

Ambassador of Qatar to Malta, Mr Ali Saad A. Al Kharji

2014 09 02

Italy

Candidate for Honorary Consul, Mr Massimo Petrone

2014 09 10

Hungary

Non-resident Ambassador of Malta to Hungary, Giovanni Miceli

2014 09 19

Spain

Ambassador of Spain to Malta, H.E. Mr José Maria Pons Irazazabal

2014 11 13

Britain

British High Commissioner, H.E. Mr Robert Haydon Vernon Luke

2014 11 14

Bulgaria and Romania

Non Resident Ambassador to Bulgaria and Romania, Dr Lino Bianco

2014 11 21

Pakistan

High Commissioner of Pakistan, H.E. Javed Zia

2014 11 28

Morocco

Malta’s Non Resident Ambassador Designate for Morocco, Mr Tarcisio Zammit

2014 12 11

Ukraine

Ambassador of Ukraine in Rome, Mr Yevgen Perelygin

2015 01 22

Azerbaijan

Ambassador of Azerbaijan in Rome, Mr Vaqiv Sadiqov

2015 02 02

Ghana

Honorary Consul, Dr Wayo Mahama

2015 02 05

Tunisia

Ambassador of Tunisia in Malta, Ms Zohra Ladgham

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Economic Groups Importers, Distributors & Retailers Economic Group Executive Board The Importers, Distributors & Retailers Executive Board met throughout the year to discuss issues relating to the Business Sections that fall under it, namely: Health Care; Importers; Pharmacists & Pharmacy Owners; Wines, Spirits, Beverages & Tobacco.

In 2014, the Importers, Distributors and Retailers Executive Board organised an information session as part of the Board’s efforts at increasing awareness among its members of the core strengths and opportunities related to the use of ICT and e-Commerce and to encourage businesses to exploit web technology. The information session saw the participation of the National Statistics Office (NSO), giving an overview on the current state of play in the local scenario, with particular focus on the wholesale and retail industry. This was followed by an interpretation of the NSO’s yearly survey results entitled ‘ICT Usage and e-Commerce in Enterprises’.

Panel speaker Ms Claudine Cassar, Chairperson of the Malta Chamber’s ICT Business Section, sought to raise awareness on the potential economic benefits that could be derived from investing in this area and engaged the members present in a discussion on how local retailers could compete in an increasingly globalised e-Commerce environment. The participants’ feedback was a very positive one in that the Executive Board was taking proactive steps towards addressing this sensitive topic for its members. Indeed, through the organisation of such information sessions the Economic Group was at the forefront in understanding the reasons why certain businesses are reluctant to go online and whether there exist any barriers to the use of these services. In the future, the Board is envisaging organising a follow-up event showcasing best practice of Maltese businesses and how success through investment in this area of business can and has been achieved.

During the year the Executive Board followed closely the developments with regards to the Budget 2014 proposal on the extension of shop opening hours. The Executive Board discussed the survey carried out by the Malta Chamber which was based on the Government’s public consultation document on shop opening hours.

Whatever solution was adopted by Government, it was important labour law would also be taken into

consideration to minimise burden on businesses.

Hence, amendments to existing wage regulation orders may be required. With regards to public holidays the Executive Board also suggested that Government identifies in advance public holidays, which would fall close to or during the weekend, as days during which shops would be allowed to open, rather than issuing a legal notice each time when it occurs as per present practice.

Later in the year the Executive Board held meetings with the Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority (MCCAA) to discuss Unit Pricing in Malta in view of the directive which it had adopted through the Price Indication Regulations in 2002. In 2013 it became obligatory for shops over 200sqm to adopt unit pricing just like large supermarkets. This consultation coincided with the implementation process in order to avoid unnecessary distress to operators. MCCAA appreciated the Board’s suggestions of how it could help small businesses introduce unit pricing.

Finally, the Executive Board submitted its feedback for inclusion with the Malta Chamber’s reactions to the 2015 Budget. The Board welcomed the setting up of a specialised enforcement and Market Surveillance Unit to resolve the issues which the Chamber had been highlighting over a number of years. However, it was imperative that Unit does not become another layer of bureaucracy to pick on easy targets.

With regards to the announced increase in excise duty on all wines, the Board pointed to the fact that costs for producers/importers of wines alike would be more than the announced 0.20c per litre increase especially due to labour costs and warehousing involved amongst other issues.

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The malTa chamber of commerce, enTerprise and indusTry AnnuAL ADMInISTRATIvE REPORT 2014

Business Sections - Healthcare The Executive Committee of the HealthCare Business Section held regular Executive Committee meetings and continued with its series of meetings with the CPSU and other entities.

PARALLEL IMPORTATION OF MEDICINAL PRODUCTS The Executive Committee made submissions on the Consultation Document on the Amendment to Legal Notice 437 of 2004 - Parallel Importation of Medicinal products Regulations received from the Medicines Authority. The comments sent to the Medicines Authority were based on those received from members of the Business Section. The Committee noted that the principle of parallel importation had been endorsed by the EU Commission for the purpose of providing benefit to the consumer. It felt that the granting of parallel import licenses should be subject to the price to the patient being more advantageous. This was in line with the government’s policy of making the price of medicines more affordable. If these values were to be truly endorsed then the aim of the granting of the licence should be to secure a decrease in price to the patient. The Executive Committee had noted that parallel importers were required to register variations although it was unclear how this was going to be enforced. It was also recommended that parallel importers pay a fee to cover services provided to the by the Medicines Authority related to pharmaco vigilance.

REGISTRATION FEES FOR ANNUAL LICENCES The Executive Committee had discussed the new fees proposed by the Medicines Authority. These were discussed during a joint meeting with the Pharmacists Pharmacy Owners Business Section and the Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Business Section.

Following some discussion, those present agreed on counter-proposals dealing with: the annual fee for each form/strength of all Marketing Authorisations; the increase of fees for new applications and renewals for Parallel Imports and Article 126a authorisations and the deletion of a clause referring to the “Annual Maintenance Fee in 2015 and beyond”. The Executive Committees called upon the authorities to address the excess in Article 126a authorisations.

MEETINGS WITH THE DIRECTOR OF CONTRACTS The Executive Committee held meetings with the Director of Contracts to discuss matters of mutual interest and obtained important clarifications on developments with regards to Single Bonds (performance) as well on operating systems The topics discussed were: equipment tenders; removal of three envelope system; to start MEAT adjudication for equipment (and indeed other) tenders; clarification

of tenders; submission of samples for consumables; simplification of tender documents; blacklisting of companies by the Department of Contracts on the grounds of precarious employment and confirmation of orders.

MEETINGS WITH THE CPSU The Executive Committee of the HealthCare Business Section held regular meetings with the Central Procurement and Supplies Unit (CPSU). The main topics discussed were: tendering procedures; the introduction of the pay-per-use system; revamping of the formulary; duration of contracts; single bonds; inefficiencies in the tendering system; consumption reports; transparency of processes.

The Malta Chamber offered its facilities to the CPSU for a Suppliers’ Conference on 17th October 2014.

The event was well attended by members who were welcomed by Mr Anton Borg, Deputy President.

MEETING WITH GFLAC A meeting addressed by Prof. Andrew Borg, Chairman of the Government Formulary List Advisory Committee (GFLAC), was held at the Malta Chamber on 16th December 2014. The presentation given by Prof.

Borg covered the workings and vision of the current GFLAC. Present for this event during which Prof.

Borg also fielded questions, were members of the Healthcare Business Section as well as members of the Pharmaceutical Research Based Industry Malta Association (PRIMA) who had been invited by the committee to participate.

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Business Sections - Importers During 2014, the Executive Committee of the Importers Business Section discussed a number of issues at its meetings including abusive trading, market surveillance and skills gap. It has also made necessary representations with Governmental Authorities with the aim to point out and possibly resolve the relevant issues pertaining to the sector.

Indeed, early in the year, the Importers Business Section Executive Committee wrote a letter to Customs and VAT Departments highlighting concerns in relation to challenges that importers were facing as a result of a lack of effective structures for the enforcement of market surveillance. The letter also requested a meeting with the departmental heads of the governmental authorities concerned, which meeting was also attended by the Ministry of Finance’s Chief of Staff and representatives for the Commissioner of Revenue. During the meeting the Executive Committee stated that, for a number of years, the Malta Chamber had been actively pursuing the concerns of its members arising from the existing unlevelled playing field between bona fide operators and abusive traders. It highlighted the issues of inadequate market surveillance structures and the lack of enforcement resources, which situation has led to an increase in the volume of abusive traded products which are not being subjected to Eco-Contribution, VAT, Excise Duties and Inland Revenue. The situation is not only placing the local bona fide operators in an uncompetitive and unlevelled playing field but it is also adversely

affecting the Government’s coffers. While the Executive Committee appreciated that the new Government Administration was taking forward the merger between the Inland Revenue, the VAT and Customs Departments, it suggested that the Authorities need to be adequately resourced to combat abuse and to ensure that goods placed on the local market are in full conformity with the necessary legal health standards and fiscal regulations.

While the Committee thanked the Authorities for their good work being carried out, the Authorities shared the Committee’s concerns, affirming their pledge to curb the existing abuse, and in undertaking further consultation meetings and cooperation with the Importers Business Section.

The Executive Committee also submitted its recommendations for inclusion with the Malta Chamber’s proposals for the Budget 2015. These included the Committee’s suggestion for government to continue on its efforts in combatting abuse and to give more focus to the current lack of skilled personnel to meet the Sector’s demand.

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Business Sections - Pharmacists Pharmacy Owners Executive Committee Report 2014 In the course of 2014 the Executive Committee held ten meetings. These included meetings with representatives of the Hon Dr Helena Dalli, Minister for Social Dialogue, Consumer Affairs and Civil Liberties; the Hon Dr Konrad Mizzi, Minister for Energy and Health and the Hon Mr Chris Fearne, Parliamentary Secretary for Health; the Hon. Dr Simon Busuttil, Leader of the Opposition and the Hon Mr Claudio Grech, PN spokesman for Health; the HealthCare Business Section and the Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Business Section; the Medicines Authority; the Chamber of Pharmacists and the GRTU. OPENING HOURS FOR PHARMACIES The Executive Committee discussed the move to liberalise opening hours for retail outlets including pharmacies. The Chairman had met with the Medicines Authority and with the Superintendent for Health and had recommended that opening hours should be regulated. The Chairman had proposed that the closing time should be changed to 9 p.m. and also that pharmacies open on Sunday afternoons from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. It had been recommended that the Medicines Authority issued one roster to include Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays.

The Section’s recommendations had been forwarded to the Prime Minister and to Minister for Energy and Health and copied to the Minister for the Economy, Investment and Small Businesses, the Parliamentary Secretary for Health, the Superintendent of Public Health and the CEO of the Medicines Authority. The proposals were as follows: 1. All pharmacies including those located at the airport, Smartcity and seaport described as “designated areas” were to be regulated by the roster. Pharmacies within the passport control area where access to the public in general is not possible are to be excluded.

2. The issue of new licenses for “designated areas” are not subject to relocation and are non-transferable.

3. Arrangements for the safety and security of staff and premises needed to be introduced.

4. Clear advertising of the roster for a full week was essential and must be enforced.

5. The opening hours on a Sunday should be 9 a.m. to 12 noon and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

6. The roster was to be strictly adhered to and evening opening hours should not be extended by pharmacies not on duty.

7. These regulations would be lifted throughout the month of December.

The importance of law enforcement and security for pharmacies in hamlets and remote locations had also been discussed. It was suggested that the police in these districts should be contacted and asked to visit the area regularly and also to consider the installation of alarms between pharmacies and police stations.

The proposals had been discussed with the Executive Committees of the HealthCare and Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Business Section and with the Chamber of Pharmacists and GRTU and most importantly with the Hon Dr Helena Dalli, Minister for Social Dialogue, Consumer Affairs and Civil Liberties.

PHARM.D DEGREE The Malta Chamber signed an agreement with the University of Malta whereby members of the Malta Chamber would provide work experience for PharmD graduates. The course had been set up by the University of Malta in conjunction with the University of Chicago. The graduates would work 28 hours a week for 52 weeks and would be paid €12,000 per annum as total remuneration. The employer would be obliged to provide employment for one year but with the possibility of extending the agreement for the second and third year and offering permanent employment after completing the course. The graduates would be offered the opportunity of working in industry or with distributors. The proposal had been discussed and approved by the Healthcare and Pharma Manufacturers Business Sections.

PHARMACY OF YOUR CHOICE The POYC had been discussed informally by the Chairman with the Hon. Dr Konrad Mizzi, Minister for Energy and Health during an informal meeting. The Chairman had explained the system being proposed by the Malta Chamber which would reduce delays and problems with the organisation of stock.

The President of the Malta Chamber wrote to the Prime Minister on 2nd February 2015. The purpose of the letter was to reiterate the importance of the Malta Chamber’s involvement in discussions effecting future changes to the POYC. The Prime Minister, even when Leader of the Opposition, had been regularly informed of the Chamber’s plans for the running of the POYC on a Public Private Partnership basis. It therefore follows that the involvement of the Chamber in future discussions on this important service is imperative.

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PHARMACY LICENCE REGULATIONS The Executive Committee had discussed the draft Pharmacy Licence Regulations prepared by the Medicines Authority and submitted comments on ‘Special Designated Areas’.

GOVERNMENT BUDGET 2015 The Pharmacists Pharmacy Owners Business Section had joined forces with the Healthcare and the Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Business Sections in order to discuss proposals to be included in the Malta Chamber’s budget document. The joint proposals of the three Business Sections included the introduction of a reimbursement scheme and the delivery of medicines to persons with mobility problems in their homes.

DISTRIBUTION OF MEDICINES The Executive Committee discussed and prepared its own proposals regarding the distribution of medicines.

These were discussed during a meeting with the Minister for Energy and Health and the Parliamentary Secretary for Health.

The Executive Committee’s proposals were that in order for a person to be entitled to receive deliveries at home he should be certified as immobile or incapacitated.

It was recommended that a centralised distribution system be set-up and that a tender should be issued for the system to be operated by the private sector.

Business Sections - Wines, Spirits, Beverages & Tobacco Business Section During 2014, the Wines, Spirits, Beverages & Tobacco Executive Committee continued to work on its efforts at addressing the issues related to excise duties and waste recovery schemes through active representations to the relevant authorities.

In February, the Executive Committee was granted a meeting with the Minister of Finance Hon Prof Edward Scicluna to discuss the increase in excise duties in the National Budget for 2014. The meeting was also attended by officials from VAT and Customs Departments. The Executive Committee stressed that the increases in excise duties were not only making Malta less attractive as a tourist destination as the costs of increase are transferred on to the consumer, but local bona fide operators were also in an uncompetitive and unlevelled playing field with abusive traders. The Executive Committee reiterated that these situations were leaving an adverse effect in the Government’s coffers and an increase in excise tax did not mean an increase in government revenue. Particular attention was given to the importance of adequate market surveillance structures to ensure a pro-active approach to enforcement to combat abusive tax evasion and counterfeit among others. Reference was also made to the subject of Eco Contribution, whereby the Committee pointed out that although the Polluter Pays Principle was adopted, queries remained on whether it was being properly applied. Finally, while the Executive Committee stressed on the importance of consultation between the Ministry and the Sector, the Minister appreciated that operators, as experts in the sector, have to give their insight in order for Government to execute its vision without giving unnecessary negative impact to the Sector.

Later in the year, the Executive Committee sought clarification with the Malta Environment & Planning

Authority (MEPA) with regards to members’ legal responsibility in relation to eventual under-performance of a waste recovery schemes they would have subscribed to. It seemed that although operators recognised their obligations as waste producers, operators who would have fulfilled their legal obligations and paid their dues, remain liable for the schemes should the authorities decide at a later stage that the schemes would not have reached their targets. It was suggested that once MEPA renewed the operational license of a scheme in a given year, this would serve as confirmation that the scheme had fulfilled its obligations and with that, the liability on members would likewise terminate.

Ahead of the National Budget 2015, the Executive Committee wrote a letter to the Minister for Finance to express its concerns at the potential increase in direct and/or indirect taxes and to highlight a few reasons to support such concerns. The Committee also made reference to another concern with regards to the VAT payable on excisable goods which becomes immediately due upon the placement of goods on the market. VAT on excisable goods should become due on point of sale with the payment of which being deferred to the following VAT return. Such a situation was creating undue pressure on the cash flow and liquidity of bona fide operators who, apart from bearing the brunt of such taxes must remain competitive with abusive traders who are placing items on the Maltese market without the fulfilment of any fiscal, environmental or consumer safety obligation. In light

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of this, the Business Section strongly suggested that VAT on excisable goods becomes due, as on all other products, on point of sale.

In November, the Executive Committee submitted its comments for inclusion with the Malta Chamber’s reactions to the 2015 Budget, in relation to the introduction of excise duty on all wines as well as the announced increases in excise duties on cigarettes and other tobacco products such as cigars, cigarillos and hand rolling tobacco. The Committee reiterated its disappointment at the lack of consultation with the relevant stakeholders and operators prior to the increase. Furthermore, it felt that the increases would not only widen the gap between consumer prices in Malta versus competitive tourist destinations but results in Malta’s pricing being one of the highest in Europe - on parity and sometimes more expensive than with western European countries with a higher standard of living.

With regards to the excise duty on wines, the Committee formed part of a Malta Chamber delegation at a meeting held with the Ministry of Finance’s Permanent Secretary and Customs officials which discussed the implementation of the said measure. The Executive Committee explained how due to labour costs and warehousing involved amongst other matters, the announced increase would be more than 0.20c per litre.

Another concern which the Committee tabled was with regards to the timeframe for implementation of the said measure, due to the fact that it was a very busy period for the Industry to restructure their operations to comply with the new rules. To this effect, the relevant authorities acceeded to the Executive Committee’s request of having the timeframes for implementation delayed in order to provide the operators with adequate time to comply. Additional discussions are now expected to be held with the relevant authorities in order to discuss the implementation of the Excise Duty on Wines post May.

Manufacturing and Other Industries Economic Group Executive Board The Executive Board of the Manufacturing Economic Group (MEG) continued to meet regularly throughout 2014, experiencing a busy and eventful year during which numerous discussion were held based on the demands of the active industrial sector. The main achievement of MEG’s year was the completion and official launch of the policy paper titled ‘An Industrial Policy for Malta’. Throughout 2014, the Executive Board was also heavily involved in consultation specific to the improvement of Malta’s competitiveness, precisely to find solutions to mitigate non-productive costs and other burdens, to identify new investment aid support, as well as to increase the island’s attractiveness for Foreign Direct Investment.

An Industrial Policy for Malta In 2014, the Manufacturing and Other Industries Economic Group Executive Board took a leading role in the realisation of The Malta Chamber’s policy blueprint document for the manufacturing industry titled ‘An Industrial Policy for Malta’. The Executive Board sought to address the industry’s present realities and challenges, avoiding stagnation and encouraging growth. The policy is intended to ensure that Malta is part of the industrial renaissance being promoted at the European level by the Commission and BUSINESSEUROPE to achieve a 20 per cent share of GDP across Europe by 2020. The Industrial Policy document fits in perfectly with the Malta Chamber’s Economic Vision 2014-2020, also launched during 2014.

The Malta Chamber’s Industrial Policy was launched during a press conference on Friday, 23rd May 2014.

The President, Mr David G. Curmi and Mr Matthias Fauser, Chairman of the Manufacturers and Other Industries Economic Group addressed those present as did the Hon. Dr Chris Cardona, Minister for the Economy, Investment and Small Business. The Industrial

Policy was entirely formulated in house and was pioneered by the Secretariat and the Manufacturers and Other Industries Economic Group. The main challenge was to enhance Malta’s standing as a prime location for manufacturing ventures to prosper.

The 4 main key policy drivers identified in the document by the Manufacturing and Other Industries were: Policy Governance, Human Resources, A Competitive Business Environment and Internationalisation. The fundamentals that the document strives to strengthen in order to secure present and future development of Malta’s Manufacturing Industry include a skilled labour force at competitive wages, stable energy at competitive rates, investment support, efficient and competitive transportation links, internationalisation support, access to finance, smart regulation and reasonable factory occupancy rates. The Manufacturing Economic Group, believes that the country must focus on creating the framework conditions that nurture long-term productivity and improve working conditions, hence spurring the fundamental and key policy drivers identified above.

The malTa chamber of commerce, enTerprise and indusTry AnnuAL ADMInISTRATIvE REPORT 2014

Economic and Industrial Policy Dialogue The Executive Board met with Central Bank Officials on a number of occasions throughout the year. Of continued concern to the Board is the negative Industrial Production Index trend, observable since mid-2013. By maintaining dialogue with the Central Bank, the Executive Board is able to ensure that the Central Bank is kept abreast on the realities pertaining to state of play of factors that affect daily operations of the industrial sector. It also ensures that the common sentiment of the industrial sector is accurately communicated to interested parties.

In June 2014, the Executive Board held a meeting with Dr Mario Vella, Chairman of Malta Enterprise, to discuss the Industrial Policy Document. The Document identified a number of fundamental priorities that require remedial action to ensure an improvement in the performance of the manufacturing sector, namely Investment support, the transportation issues in Malta, the costs of labour and energy.

For this purpose, a specialised Task Group was formed between The Malta Chamber’s Manufacturing Executive Board and Malta Enterprise. The intended scope to the Task Group is to construct concrete policy plans that substantiate the fundamentals identified in the Industrial Policy for Malta document, primarily tackling the aforementioned priorities. The Industrial Policy was well received by the Authorities as a valid blueprint for the local industrial sector’s immediate future, and therefore the Executive Board strongly believes that approaching Government with concrete proposals will provide the required impetus to achieve the targeted objectives.

Utility Tariffs Back in 2013, the Manufacturing Economic Group drew up a report presented to Minister Konrad Mizzi, comparing data of utility rates in Malta and the rest of the European Union during recent years. This was followed by a position paper depicting the total annual consumption and electricity costs for high energy consuming companies in Malta, concluded and presented to the Deputy Prime Minister in November 2013.

Throughout 2014, the Executive Board followed developments on this matter closely, reiterating how the utility costs for Maltese industry are comparatively much higher and negatively effecting the Country’s competitiveness at every opportunity to discuss with Government. The constant dialogue that the Executive Board maintained with authorities throughout the year, based on the findings of the reports in 2013, culminated during the Dialogue meeting for members with the Prime Minister in October 2014, during which Prime Minister Joseph Muscat confirmed that electricity rates

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for industry are to reduce by 25 per cent across all bands as of March 2015. While the Executive Board greeted this as a move in the right direction it still believes that more can be done to tackle the utility costs for industry that are still high when compared to other competitor countries.

Transportation Costs Of ever-growing concern to the Manufacturing Economic Group are the costs attached to shipping raw material to Malta and finished goods from Malta.

For this reason, a technical sub-committee has been formed consisting of members of the Executive Board and members of the Shipping and Bunkering Business Section Executive Committee to identify non-industry induced costs and practices and to find solutions to mitigate the resulting impact on Malta’s competitiveness. The technical committee will also carry out technical studies on factors linked to Malta’s remoteness that are contributing to the significant costs involved in the shipping of goods.

Malta’s remoteness from mainland Europe The Executive Board also actively addressed the negative impact of Malta’s permanent handicaps due to its remote position from mainland Europe. It is engaged in discussions with the relevant authorities to find practical solutions to ease the burden on Malta’s attractiveness for the industrial sector.

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Business Sections - Electrical and Electronics Manufacturers Business Section The Executive Committee of the Electrical & Electronics Manufacturers Business Section tackled the main issue of retaining and improving the industry’s competitiveness. With competitiveness always in mind, a substantial amount of the Executive Committee’s efforts focused on identifying solutions to reduce non-productive costs, enhance collaboration between the local industry and improve areas of operation that are inefficient. The issues facing the manufacturing industry as a whole are also felt by the Electrical & Electronics industry, and for this reason, the Executive Committee supports all the ongoing efforts to enhance competitiveness at MEG level, focusing instead on industry specific concerns.

Common and Extra Stock Database As one main industry specific concern is to maximise the use of parts and avoid dormant stock, the Executive Committee agreed to organise an electronic platform that groups personnel in charge of purchasing and stock to create synergies and to trade extra, dormant or unwanted stock.

Courier Services Consolidation Based on the Horizontal Purchasing Consolidation (HPC) groundwork carried out in 2013, the Executive Committee progressed on this by focusing its efforts onto project intending to consolidate the use of courier services by the companies in the local industry. The Executive Committee believe that the successful realisation of this initiative is also tied heavily with the successful creation and implementation of the common stock database and for this reason will continue to focus primarily on the latter.

Business Sections - Food and Beverages Processors Business Section The Executive Committee of the Food and Beverage Processors Business Section continued to meet regularly, concentrating a significant amount of efforts on issues of a European Union nature such as Food Information Regulation, the provisions of which entered into force on 13th December 2014, as well as the so-called proposed TrafficLight Food Labelling system. At a local level, the launch of The National Food and Nutrition Policy and Action Plan (20142020) also engaged the Executive Committee in fruitful dialogue with the relevant authorities in order to ensure both recognisable health benefits for consumers, as well as the safeguarding of the food and beverage processing industry.

Food Handling Licencing During a meeting with the Health Environment Inspectorate and the Food Safety Commission, the Executive Committee was presented with the first draft copy of the Food Handling (Regulations) 2014 in order to discuss the proposed amendments to the Food Handling Regulations, under the Food Safety Act (Cap35). The Executive Committee led discussions on further amendments to the proposed changes to legislation requiring handlers of food to undergo a generic food handling course, such as encouraging internal refresher courses that promote best-practices and having supervisory staff also undergo an intermediate level of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) certification. It was also proposed that the legislation should provide for an acceptable audit trail of the training programme given by the recognised trainer, and that trainers are to be registered and approved by the Food Safety Commission ensure the quality and standards of the training being provided.

Food Information Regulation On 1st December 2014, the Executive Committee along with the cooperation of the Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority (MCCAA) organised an Information Session for all members. The Information Session dealt with the Food Information Regulation 1169/2011 and provided members with the last chance to update their operations in line with the then forthcoming changes to the legislation governing food labelling and food information to consumers and with the other provisions that entered into force on 13th December 2014.

Attendees representing the Food and Beverage industry, both from the producers and importers were also given the opportunity to clear all queries that arose out of the information presented on the changes.

The Executive Committee will continue its work to ensure that industry is consulted with and kept informed of the developments with regards to the national provisions which are planned to enter into force during 2015 and 2016, depending on the type of food.

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The National Food and Nutrition Policy and Action Plan (2014-2020) In light of the launch of the Government’s National Food and Nutrition Policy and Action Plan 2014-2020 public consultation document in February 2014, the Executive Committee took a proactive role and submitted substantial feedback to ensure that the role of, and impact on, the food and beverage industry in this new policy and action plan are at the forefront of discussions.

Overcoming the local lack of Laboratory Analysis Services The Executive Committee has launched discussions with the University of Malta’s Faculty of Health Science about possible collaboration when performing the required laboratory analysis of foods and ingredients.

The Executive Committee performed an information gathering exercise of tests that are carried out by local manufacturers, the frequency per year, and the average respective costs of these requirements.

In a meeting with the Health and Disease Prevention Directorate and the Department of Health, the Executive Committee were informed that the feedback from the Business Section was well received and taken into careful consideration when compiling the final Policy and Action Plan. The Directorate confirmed the modification of a number of proposals, as the industry’s perspective on measures how to concretely improve the well-being of Maltese citizens through the food they eat on a daily basis, were not as prevalent in the initial draft.

Discussions between the two parties are underway and the Executive Committee will strive to ensure a more cost-friendly laboratory analysis service while also providing a way for students to apply their studies and build experience.

Business Sections - Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Business Section Executive Committee Throughout 2014, the Executive Committee of the Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Business Section resumed discussions on numerous issues affecting the industry such as amendments as per L.N. 305 of 2014 Medicines Authority (Fees) (Amendment) Regulations, 2014, the Patents and Designs Act, Professional Indemnity Insurance, and the Delegated Act on the detailed rules for a unique identifier for medicinal products for human use, and its verification. The Executive Committee also kicked-off an initiative intended to create an accurate profile of the current Pharmaceutical industry set up locally, and engaged in discussions regarding the Trans-Atlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP).

Professional Indemnity Insurance Following up on discussions about L.N. 389 of 2013, transposing the EU Cross Border Healthcare Regulations and enacted in October 2013, the Executive Committee sought to clarify the requirement of professional indemnity insurance. The Superintendence of Public Health confirmed that Qualified Persons, as healthcare professionals, should be covered by insurance under the Cross-Border Healthcare Regulations even in the case of no direct contact with a patient.

Fee increases by the Medicines Authority The Executive Committee held discussions with the Medicines Authority on the impact an increase in fees would have on the industry. The proposed amendments to the fees were also discussed in collaboration with the Pharmacist Pharmacy Owners and the Healthcare Business Sections within the Malta Chamber. This collaboration culminated in the creation of a proposal which was presented to the Medicines Authority.

Trans-Atlantic Trade and Investment Partnership The Executive Committee held meetings with the Economic Policy Department within the Ministry of Finance in order to discuss the proposed EU-US freetrade area. During the meeting the Executive Committee was given the opportunity to discuss matters specific to the pharmaceutical industry being raised at an EU level on the Trans-Atlantic Trade and Investment Partnership, as the Free-trade area intends to reduce, or where possible, abolish, trade barriers between the EU and United States. The Executive Committee highlighted a number of observations about the proposed free trade area, through which the Economic Policy Department were given the opportunity to identify the offensive and defensive interest being faced by the industry operators. The Executive Committee continues to monitor developments that will undoubtedly arise throughout 2015 regarding the TTIP. The Chairman of the Business Section also had meetings on the Partnership with Mr Peter Chase, Vice President Europe

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of the United States Chamber of Commerce, Her Excellency Gina Abercrombie-Winstanley, United States Ambassador to Malta, and Ms Julieta Valls Noyes, Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs of the United States Department of State.

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Authority on developments regarding the drafting of the Delegated Act by the Commission, and the obligations that this will probably impose on the pharmaceutical industry in Malta. Albeit that the publication of the first draft of the Act is behind schedule, the Section continues to keep a watching brief on developments in this area.

Delegated Act on the detailed rules for a unique identifier for medicinal products for human use, and its verification The Chairman of the Business Section attended an information session organised by the Medicines

Business Section - Plastics and Rubber Manufactures Business Section During 2014, the Plastics and Rubber Manufacturers Executive Committee continued to meet and discuss a number of issues pertaining to the requirements of the industry. Similar to other Manufacturing Business Sections, the main concerns driving the initiatives of the business section are labour market issues and costs, energy costs, and collaborative projects intending to enhance efficiency.

Industry Sector Profiling Exercise Throughout 2014, the Executive Committee continued the initiative that originally kicked-off in 2013, intending to construct a clear profile of local activity in the plastics and rubber manufacturing industry. While the Executive Committee constantly adopts its position and reacts to policy proposals based on the best interests of the industry, the finalisation of the industry sector profile will equip the Executive Committee with current realities of the industry, thus ensuring that more realistic, effective proposals and targets are constructed and pursued.

Improving Polymer Technician Availability Building on the achievements in previous years and, in its continuous effort to increase the cohort of plastics process technicians, the Executive Committee discussed the possibility of pooling resources and creating a tailor-made training course. As the demands

of the industry are ever-increasing, the readily available manpower with the necessary skills is occasionally a challenge to come by. Therefore, it is the Executive Committee’s intention to bring companies present in the local industries together, pool their resources and design an intensive course training programme in the actual processes and machinery operated on a day-today basis.

Energy Issues As the representatives of a high energy consuming industrial sector, the Executive Committee participated in the drafting of the Malta Chamber’s Pre-Budget Recommendations Document, specifically regarding the state of energy rates.

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Services Providers Economic Group Executive Board The Services Providers Executive Board met throughout the year to discuss issues relating to the Business Sections that fall under it, namely: Financial Services; Information & Communications Technology; Real Estate; Remote Gaming; Road Contractors; Shipping & Bunkering; Tourism and Yachting Services.

In 2014, the Services Providers Executive Board held regular meetings with the Chairpersons of the respective Business Sections falling within the Economic Group. The Executive Board sought to provide strategic and political support to the specific issues raised by the various Business Sections which determined the priorities of the Board’s efforts for the year.

One of the specific issues raised to the Executive Board was in relation to pending applications and unissued permits for new marinas by the Malta Environment and Planning Authority (MEPA) for the Yachting Industry.

While the Committee welcomed the announced call for applications of Ta’ Xbiex, Sliema creek, Sa Maison and Marsamxett harbour, it stressed that the Yachting Industry was particularly different because every project needed years to complete once approved, would imply serious investment.

On another occasion, the Executive Board facilitated the setting up of meetings with stakeholders from the Financial Services and Banking sector to discuss bank Compliance Procedures related to non-Maltese Nationals.

Later in the year, the Central Bank of Malta expressed interest in following the work being carried out by members of the Malta Chamber in various sectors of the economy. A meeting was therefore held between the Services Providers Executive Board, with the participation of the Chairpersons representing the Business Sections and Central Bank officials. The meeting discussed the performance of the represented sectors and challenges experienced by members in the field of financial services, yachting, construction and the new tax regime announced in the Budget.

The meeting also noted that it was now difficult for a number of trades to find workers with the required skills, and less students were taking up certain careers required within the respective areas of this Economic Group. This implied that a more concerted effort is required between industry and education to address the existing skills gap.

The Board highlighted its concern with regard to the Libya crisis which could affect the economy due to the fact that there had been no measures for an emergency

fund or financial assistance, announced in the Budget for 2015 to assist in these shortcomings. Businesses that had operations in Libya may not be able to sustain their employees relocated to Malta for long, and this could see the number of people on the unemployment register increase. Another issue is related to security, due to the fact that all visas for Libyans have been stalled or suspended. Finally, reference was made to the fact that for various sectors, such as ICT and infrastructure, the local market is too small and having the Government being a significant client offered serious challenges to this market. As a consequence many businesses were increasing their efforts in internationalisation in an attempt to tap markets beyond the Maltese shores.

While the Executive Board committed to offer their insight and collaboration if and whenever required, Central Bank officials thanked the Services Providers Executive Board for the meeting and appreciated that direct feedback from operators as experts in the various sectors, was crucial to understand statistical information.

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Business Sections - Financial Services Business Section The Financial Services Executive Committee held a number of meetings during the year.

In February, the Executive Committee held a meeting with MCAST representatives. The main objective of the meeting was for MCAST to obtain direct feedback from the Executive Committee with regards to its proposals for a reformed curriculum of accredited work based learning complemented with apprenticeships.

Through this initiative MCAST would be providing its students with a knowledge base of the industry, an entrepreneurial attitude and work based skills. While giving suggestions for improvement, the Financial Services Executive Committee commended MCAST initiative of work based learning as it is a very important tool to help bridge the gap between educational institutions and Industry.

Throughout the year, the Executive Committee also sought to keep members abreast with developments in the Financial Services regulatory regime particularly through the provision circulars and guidelines issued by the Malta Financial Services Authority as well as through the organisation of information sessions as necessary.

Indeed, the Financial Services Business Section collaborated with the Young Entrepreneurs and Leaders (YEL) to organise a seminar entitled ‘Payment Services – The Way Forward’. The seminar was directed at local credit and financial institutions as well as other entities, professionals and students specialising in the

field. The panel of speakers for the seminar included Dr Yana Sammut from the YEL, Mr Hermann Ciappara representing the Central Bank of Malta, Dr Glenna Montefort on behalf of the Malta Financial Services Authority, Mr Godwin Mangion Chairman of the Malta Consumer and Competition Affairs Authority (MCCAA) and Mr Peter Sant, Chairman of the Financial Services Business Section.

The seminar focused on the ongoing discussions taking place at EU Level regarding the proposal of a second Payment Services Directive (PSD II), the implementation and effects of SEPA Regulation and the Proposal for a Regulation on Interchange Fees for card-based transactions. The panel explained the scope behind each of these legislative texts, their main features, the major changes that were likely to be brought about including changes for Malta’s banking sector, the impact on consumers and the way forward in addressing any present shortcomings. The seminar ended with a discussion involving the direct participation of the attendees.

In November, the Financial Services Executive Committee submitted its reactions to the Government Budget for 2015, for inclusion in the Malta Chamber’s position.

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Business Section - Information & Communications Technology Business Section The Information & Communications Technology (ICT) Executive Committee held a number of meetings throughout the year, including meetings with representatives from Government and the Opposition; MCAST officials and MITA. In January, the ICT Executive Committee held a meeting with Opposition MPs Hon Kristy Debono and Hon Claudio Grech. The meeting aimed at providing them with an overview of the sector and an understanding of the major challenges being faced by the Industry including a low rate of female participation in the labour market but especially within the ICT Industry, skills mismatch and internationalisation efforts of local ICT companies.

The Malta Chamber, as a founder member of the eSkills Malta Foundation that was launched in February, nominated Mr Keith Fearne, member of the ICT Executive Committee as its representative. The eSkills Malta Foundation sees Government representatives from Education and MITA working together with various key entities in investment, employment and industry to foster the professional ICT skills for the Digital Economy.

In March, the ICT Executive Committee held a meeting with the then Parliamentary Secretary for Competitiveness and Economic Growth, Hon. Edward Zammit Lewis. The meeting was also attended by MITA’s Executive Chairman Mr Tony Sultana together with Mr Emmanuel Darmanin, Department Manager of Strategy and Planning at MITA. The meeting discussed the Government’s policy and vision for the ICT Industry as well as important topics including the centralisation of IT procurement, EU incentives and funding schemes for IT projects and initiatives. The Hon Zammit Lewis while re-affirming his commitment to support the ICT Industry through Malta’s National Digital Strategy 2014-2020 (launched a few days after the meeting) which was in line with the European Commission’s Digital Agenda for Europe 2020, looked forward to continue with ongoing consultation meetings with the ICT Business Section.

Later in the year, the eSkills Malta Foundation organised a dialogue with stakeholders as part of the consultation process on the Framework for the Education Strategy for Malta 2014-2024 with the aim to create the skills base and life-long quality growth required for a digitally enabled knowledge economy. Among the speakers was Mr Keith Fearne, ICT Executive Committee member who gave a presentation regarding the view of the ICT Industry. During his speech Mr Fearne stated that the Business Section was pleased to note that the University had taken the recommendations of the

Industry on board and had launched a series of new degree courses targeted directly to fill the gaps in the market. Mr Fearne also suggested that ICT be not only embedded in all subjects in the early years of primary and secondary education but also that mainstream computer science subjects such as logic and code development be introduced.

The Executive Committee held a meeting with MCAST regarding accredited work based learning. MCAST delivered a presentation which included details of the reformed apprenticeship, together with an outline of MCAST’s plans for the next course intake, while also updating the Committee with feedback received from various ICT organisations. The Committee suggested that MCAST runs a study on the current available vacancies in the market and the students that graduate as well as an employability index which would display the salary that the students could expect for the various positions. In addition, the Committee requested MCAST to engage in talks with the Industry to develop specialised courses aimed at addressing the skills mismatch which exists in the market.

In September, the ICT Executive Committee submitted its feedback with regards to the ‘Computing as a Core Entitlement Framework’ report. The Committee also submitted a letter of support for a proposal by MITA together with partners from Fraunhofer – Germany and the Faculty of ICT – University of Malta, under the Horizon 2020 call for ‘Teaming of excellent research institutions and low performing RDI regions’. The project aims to acquire funds to produce a 5-7 years Business Plan for the creation of a Centre of Excellence focused on the smart specialisation areas indicated in the Malta National R&I Strategy 2020; and further funds for the implementation of the Centre of Excellence.

Finally, the ICT Executive Committee held a meeting with the now Parliamentary Secretary for Competitiveness & Economic Growth Hon Dr José Herrera, Head of Secretariat Mr Adrian Sciberras and MITA Deputy Chairman Mr Charles Formosa. At the meeting, the Committee discussed proposals for the setting up of ICT Malta as well as the “experience” criteria in the selection process for tenders, stressing on the principle that tenders should be awarded on the best value with quality rather than on the cheapest offer.

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Business Section - Real Estate During 2014, the Real Estate Executive Committee sought to keep members abreast of developments, guidelines and information within the regulatory regime.

Furthermore, the Executive Committee submitted its comments for inclusion with the Malta Chamber’s reaction to the National Budget for 2015. The Executive Committee was pleased to note Government’s commitment to the regulation of the sector and stressed that as stakeholders, the Real Estate Business Section looked forward to give its contribution to ensure that the Industry is self-regulated in the interest of the operators themselves but more so for their clients.

Emphasis was made on the importance of consultation at the early stages of the Government’s draft proposals

in this regard and not once the legislation is already a fait accompli, as was the case with the recently introduced ‘Final Witholding Tax’, which now replaces the previous Capital Gains Tax structure. The Committee strongly feels that this will negatively impact the market and needs to be addressed imminently. Finally, the Real Estate Executive Committee also welcomed the extension of stamp duty exemption on the first €150,000 of the property’s value for first-time buyers till the end of June 2015 as well as the provision wherein no duty is to be paid when a property is being divided and the owner acquires a section with the same value before it was divided.

Business Sections - Remote Gaming During 2014, the Executive Committee of the Remote Gaming Business Section met on a number of occasions with the main objective of addressing and raising the Industry’s challenges with the relative Authorities.

Early in the year, the Remote Gaming Executive Committee requested an introductory meeting with Dr Manfred Galdes of the Financial Intelligence Analysis Unit (FIAU) to exchange ideas and expectations for 2014. During the meeting which served as a basis for understanding the existing challenges, the Executive Committee presented a report on the EU’s proposed 4th Anti-Money Laundering Directive to Dr Galdes, which the Committee had commissioned and also submitted to the Hon Parliamentary Secretary for Competitiveness and Economic Growth and Mr Joseph Cuschieri, Executive Chairman at the former Lotteries and Gaming Authority, now officially rebranded as the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA).

The Remote Gaming Executive Committee organised a Business meeting for all operators in the Industry

entitled ‘The Remote Gaming Business Breakfast Plans for Reform: Where To?’, presenting them with an opportunity to present their ideas to the regulator on how to ensure that Malta remains a centre of excellence in the Remote Gaming Industry. The event was addressed by keynote speakers Hon Dr José Herrera, Parliamentary Secretary for Competitiveness and Economic Growth, Mr Joseph Cuschieri, MGA Executive Chairman, as well as visiting speaker Dr David Clifton.

MEPs Dr Miriam Dalli and Dr Therese Commodini Cachia together with Mr Stefano Mallia, rapporteur for online gambling within the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), were also present. Dr Olga Finkel, Deputy Chairperson of the Executive Committee gave an overview of the Business Section’s activities and a situation analysis with various recommendations on how to make the Maltese jurisdiction more competitive. The event ended with a discussion on the reform of the current legal landscape with direct participation of attendees, to ensure that Malta remains one step ahead of its counterparts as a solid and attractive jurisdiction for the Remote Gaming sector.

Throughout the year, the Executive Committee continued to hold regular bi-monthly meetings with the MGA, discussing various aspects relating to the Industry.

Following the Remote Gaming Executive Committee’s reports and consultation meetings held with the MGA, operators had received official communication with information on a number of “Quick Wins”, through which

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the MGA was aiming at simplifying processes in order to eliminate unnecessary bureaucracy.

Further to another proposal which had been made by the Committee through a technical report the LGA set up a Technical working group to introduce guidelines and standards on Cloud Computing for the Industry.

Upon the MGA’s invitation, the Remote Gaming Executive Committee nominated Dr Angelo Dalli as its representative. Additional consultation meetings are expected to discuss the LGA’s proposals.

On another occasion, the Executive Committee gave their reaction to the first set of quick wins which had been launched earlier in the year by the MGA. The meeting discussed the MGA’s plans to revise the Remote Gaming Regulations; technical working groups on Cloud Computing and crypto currencies; the

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proposals for training and certification of Key Officials; as well as the Executive Committee’s feedback on the MGA’s planned questionnaires for Industry Performance and Industry Statistics Reports. Upon the MGA’s request, the Remote Gaming Executive Committee had also submitted its feedback and recommendations to the MGA’s proposed regulation for Digital Games of Skills with Prize.

Later in the year, the Remote Gaming Executive Committee held a meeting with the Hon Silvio Schembri, Chairman of the Responsible Gaming Foundation. At the meeting, the Hon Schembri briefed the Committee on the planned objectives, projects, funding and initiatives of the said Foundation. The Hon Schembri concluded the meeting by affirming his commitment to support the Industry and looked forward to continue with ongoing consultation meetings with the Remote Gaming Business Section.

Business Sections - Road Contractors During 2014, the Road Contractors held a number of meetings both at the Executive Committee level, as well as with the group of Business Section members who are participating under Level III of the Framework Agreement. The main focus of these discussions centred around issues pertaining to the industry such as pending payments owed to the contractors and the resultant effects on liquidity; and the unnecessary burden of guarantees among others.

Throughout the year, a number of meetings were held with Transport Malta to conclude the process of the new Framework Agreement in order to avoid further hardship to contractors until a new contract was in place. The Road Contractors Executive Committee is pleased to note that the new Framework Agreement has been concluded and signed to the satisfaction of the contractors involved.

The Business Section also discussed proposals to submit for inclusion in the Malta Chamber’s recommendations prior to the Budget, including a possible revision of licences of trucks which increased drastically. Finally, the Business Section further suggested, in relation to public procurement policies, to have one rolling performance guarantee rather than a bank guarantee on every tender the road contractors would be undertaking.

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Business Section – Shipping and Bunkering The Executive Committee of the Shipping and Bunkering Business Section held regular meetings throughout the year.

INSURANCE OF PORT WORKERS In the course of the year port workers implemented a regulation whereby ship agents had to insure foremen whenever work was being carried out outside a terminal. A copy of the regulation had been obtained and the information circulated to all members.

PALUMBO SHIPYARDS Mr Antonio Palumbo had requested a meeting with the Executive Committee. Mr David G. Curmi, President of the Malta Chamber was present for the meeting. Mr Palumbo asked for the meeting in order to discuss ways of improving the services provided by the Palumbo Shipyard and also to exchange ideas and opportunities.

Members present discussed the importance of promoting Malta as a high standard maritime hub and about the need for a common method for its promotion.

It had been suggested that a forum should be created to set-up this maritime hub. The forum could include all operators and stakeholders and would discuss promotion, standards and efficiency.

Members of the Executive Committee had also been Mr Palumbo’s guests at a lunch at the Palumbo Shipyards on 15th July 2014. During the lunch Mr Palumbo expressed his commitment to the local shipyard and to providing a service to the shipping community.

MEETINGS WITH TRANSPORT MALTA On 4th July and 15th September 2014 representatives of the Executive Committee met Mr James Piscopo, CEO, Mr Ivan Sammut, Registrar General of Shipping & Seamen and Capt. David Bugeja, Chief Officer Operations from Transport Malta. Topics discussed during the meeting were the establishment of Maritime Malta, the setting-up of a Maritime Academy and the service at Valletta Port and Bunkering.

MARITIME MALTA The Executive Committee is working on the establishment of Maritime Malta. It was felt that members had vast professional experience and could make a considerable contribution to the positive development of this venture. Maritime Malta would be based on the Finance Malta model and would promote Malta as a maritime hub. The proposal had the support of Transport Malta. The founders of Maritime Malta would be Government, Associations and larger companies such as the Freeport. Founder members would have a seat on the board. Individual companies could be admitted as members.

MARITIME ACADEMY The Executive Committee discussed a proposal for the establishment of a Maritime Academy during a meeting with the Hon. Mr Joe Mizzi, Minister of Transport. The Minister confirmed that plans were already in hand for the setting up of a Maritime Academy. The proposal had also been discussed with Transport Malta. It was expected that these courses could eventually lead to potential employment in the various shipping related industries across the island.

BUNKERING Several complaints had been received from members connected to bunkering. These included: discrepancies in amounts delivered; bunker providers obliging charterers to use their ship agency services; the quality of bunkers and service; provenance of petroleum and regulation of the service. Many owners were black listing Malta as a bunker provider and there were issues regarding the quantities, quality and related services.

There was also the possibility of loss of business in other related sectors such as hotel services, travel arrangements, disembarking/embarkation of personnel, transport services, supply of spare parts and other possible ancillary earnings. The matter was discussed with Transport Malta which was aware of the difficulties being faced by the bunkering industry in Malta. A meeting was also held with the Department of Customs on the matter.

WORLD FUEL SERVICES The Executive Committee had discussed the agreement reached between Government, MOBC and World Fuel Services (WFS). WFS would be taking over the MOBC facilities for a period of two years. From media sources, members had been given to understand that this agreement was for a definite period of time and WFS would be leasing the entire MOBC facilities to blend, store and trade their products. The intention as stated by WFS to a number of service providers within the industry was not to operate a bunkering operation (directly) but to trade their products internationally with the possibility of selling to the local bunker operators. It however appeared that they had a very close collaboration with one local bunker operator.

The contract had not been subject to a tender process which would have provided foreign and Maltese operators with the opportunity to participate in such an operation.

A request had been made to the President of the Malta Chamber to intervene and write to the Minister

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of Energy and Health regarding this issue. At the same time the Executive Committee had written to World Fuel Services congratulating them on the acquisition of the MOBC facility.

TRANSPORTATION COSTS SUB-COMMITTEE The Executive Committee are holding meetings

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with the Malta Chamber’s Manufacturers and Other Industries Economic Group in order to discuss issues related to transportation of goods and their effects on competitiveness on the local manufacturing sector.

The focus was on local charges and particularly those applied by Shipping Agents.

Business Section – Tourism In February, the Tourism Executive Committee held a courtesy meeting with Minister for Tourism Hon Karmenu Vella and Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) Mr Josef Formosa Gauci with the aim to re-establish a close relationship with the Ministry and MTA. At the meeting, a discussion on the Business Section’s objectives as well as the Government’s Tourism Police initiative ensued.

At the end of the meeting, the Hon Vella affirmed his commitment to keep an open dialogue with the Tourism Business Section and welcomed any proposals which the Tourism Executive Committee would want to make in the future.

The Executive Committee discussed the Tourism Police initiative in further detail at a meeting held with the National Tourist Zones Committee In this regard, the Executive Committee remarked that the Tourism Police’s main role, as in other neighbouring Mediterranean countries, should be to guide tourists by being conversant in Maltese culture, roads, and hospitality in order to be able to assist tourists, independently of their age and the nature of their visit to Malta. While confirming that the tourism police would be undergoing particular training in hospitality, an overview of what the National Tourist Zones Committee was working on was presented, including roads’ signage, maintenance of Tourism Zones, as well as proposals in the pipeline for the regeneration of various touristic localities.

Following the cabinet reshuffle announced by the Prime Minister, the Executive Committee met with the newly appointed Minister for Tourism Hon Dr Edward Zammit Lewis to provide for a basis of collaboration between the parties. The meeting also discussed the Ministry’s vision for the sector, which included a revision of laws including the Travel and Tourism Services Act, possibly the composition and functioning of the MTA Board as well as the national tourist zones.

In seeking to strengthen relationships with stakeholders in the Industry, the Tourism Executive Committee held a meeting with the Gozo Tourism Authority (GTA). The Committee explained that the scope of the meeting tied in with one of the aims of the Executive Committee, which was to meet with various associations such as GTA to identify whether there existed commonalities

on any fronts, consolidate the views ensure the collaboration of the different entities for a better future of the Industry.

The Tourism Executive Committee also sought to establish an insight on the issues that were deemed to be the most important for the members of the Business Section. The objective of the exercise was to substantiate the Committee’s ongoing representations made to local and European authorities. It emerged that a) improving accessibility, in terms of routes, seat capacity, and visas; b) dissemination of more information relative to EU funding for tourism; c) call for a more concentrated effort towards training and development in tourism; d) the strengthening of on-going consultation between Government entities and the Industry on all matters affecting tourism directly or indirectly at national and EU level; were the most salient issues that required immediate action or attention.

At the end of the year, the Executive Committee held a meeting with the Ministry for Tourism in relation to the National Tourism Policy which the Ministry was drafting for the period 2015-2020. Among the issues that were discussed, the Executive Committee went a step further to suggest the setting up of an interministerial committee to enhance collaboration between various Ministries and ensure they take a common front when addressing horizontal issues. It was also proposed that the Ministry increases its investment in Human Resources, in terms of bilingualism and cultural sensitivity through training and education of people working in tourism as front liners. The Committee also stressed on the importance of marketing, market research and a coherent MTA branding throughout all tourism segments. Finally, the Executive Committee stated that it was important to have a policy in place outlining the Government’s direction, vision and strategy. Nonetheless, the bone of contention laid in the implementation of the policy itself and the budget allocated to ensure the successful fruition of the initiatives proposed. Finally, the Tourism Executive Committee committed to further contribute towards the implementation process and urged the Ministry to keep the Business Section involved in the consultations to follow.

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Business Section – Yachting Services During 2014, the Executive Committee of the Yachting Services Business Section discussed a number of issues at its meetings and made necessary representations to Governmental Authorities with the aim to possibly resolve the relevant issues pertaining to the Industry.

The Yachting Services Executive Committee held a meeting with MEPA to highlight challenges pertaining to the Industry and stressed on the need for MEPA to consult with stakeholders/experts in the Industry on decisions impacting the maritime yachting sector.

The Committee explained that its Business Section members operate actively in a wide range of yachting services, and with such expertise, the Committee is in a very strong position to act as a consultation partner with MEPA when it comes to practical issues, initiatives and challenges of the industry. At the meeting, the Executive Committee expressed its appreciation towards the increase in the number of berths and marinas. However, it also stated that the increase has been marginal for the Industry and the larger infrastructural projects like Ta’ Xbiex and Sa Maison needed to be fast tracked.

The meeting also discussed other matters in relation to waste water management, Environmental Impact Assessments Regulations and other relevant legislation.

Finally, both parties looked forward to continue with close collaboration for a better of future of the Yachting Industry in Malta.

Later in the year, the Executive Committee held an equally important meeting with Malta Tourism Authority CEO Mr Josef Formosa Gauci. At the meeting, the Committee stressed on the fact that the Yachting Industry is being referred to as ‘Coastal Tourism’, a term, which should help authorities look at a bigger picture. The meeting also discussed the possibility of introducing a Quality Charter for Super Yachts’ Services Providers; the limited leisure opportunities within the immediate vicinity of marinas to attract yacht owners and high net worth individuals; as well as the possibility for MTA to conduct a study with the aim to identify and establish routes from Malta to the South of France through various airlines or regional aircrafts.

Finally, in anticipation of the Budget 2015, the Executive Committee submitted feedback to be included in the Malta Chamber’s recommendations.

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Policy Committees Energy and Environment During the year under review, the Committee held several internal meetings of the Executive Committee as well as external meetings with Government officials and stakeholders in the energy and environment sector, centering around a number of issues, including green buildings, setting up of a Green Building Council for Malta, renewable sources of energy, energy efficiency, waste management, waste-to-energy and climate change.

The Ministry of Energy and Conservation of Water addresses the Executive Committee On 15th January, the Executive Committee was addressed by officials of the Ministry of Energy and Conservation of Water as part of its exercise to carry out a study on energy consumption in local buildings. Members of the Committee embarked on their strong support towards having more green buildings developed to ultimately assist the country in establishing a green industry. Specifically, the Committee spoke of the significant potential of having property value improved through energy efficient buildings.

restrictions, aimed at reducing the consumption of lightweight plastic carrier bags.

The significant role of education in this matter was not overlooked as Committee members also mentioned the importance of having a strong educational campaign developed to have all relevant stakeholders and society in general become well-informed about the benefits and results of investing in energy certified buildings. Having such knowledge instilled in property investors will eventually lead to the further development of energy efficient buildings. The Committee’s commitment to support the development of a Green Building Council forms part of this objective.

Malta Chamber forms part of the National Waste Stakeholders Committee As part of the public consultation process launched by the Ministry for Sustainable Development, the Environment and Climate Change, relating to a renewed waste plan for Malta, the Executive Committee was actively involved in discussions with Ministry officials, and also formed part of the National Waste Stakeholders Committee, through which it provided Government with its feedback and extensive proposals, which were presented to Hon. Leo Brincat.

Specifically, the Committee proposed the possibilities of privatisation waste management options currently operated by WasteServ. A final document entitled ‘A Waste Management Plan for the Maltese Islands: A Resource Management Approach’ was launched in January 2014.

Malta Chamber participates in MEUSAC Consultation Session On 22nd January, the Malta Chamber was represented during a consultation session organised by the MaltaEU Steering and Action Committee (MEUSAC), together with the Malta Environment & Planning Authority (MEPA), on the proposed European Union (EU) Directive to reduce the consumption of lightweight plastic carrier bags. The session specifically focused on the EU’s plan to tackle environmental degradation caused by plastic littering and this resource’s inefficient use. Moreover the session discussed potential national reduction targets, in the form of economic instruments or market

During the session, Malta Chamber Head of Policy Development Andre Fenech enquired about the impact such Directive would have on the local scenario given that the country had already implemented sufficiently strict measures in reducing the use of plastic bags through the implementation of the Eco-Contribution Act. Also, the need to strengthen the enforcement of illegal importation of plastic bags in Malta was emphasised

by Mr Fenech, who also shed light upon the very broad definition of ‘plastic carrier bags’.

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the Environment and Climate Change, H.E. KlausPeter Brandes, Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany, foreign and local experts, as well as major stakeholders who were invited to participate in a general discussion on the economic and ecological means with which waste could be better managed.

The country’s imminent need to establish a sound economic and environmental measure for Government to pave the way for Malta’s strategy on the conversion of waste to energy was emphasised by Minister Brincat who also shed light on the viability of having some of the country’s waste exported to other European countries lacking the quantity of waste necessary for their incinerators to continue operating in an economic and efficient manner.

As part of its Linking Enterprise programme, the Malta Chamber Energy and Environment Committee organised an event on 30th April at SmartCity, focusing on green buildings and efficient energy measures.

An all-encompassing presentation on SmartCity’s infrastructure and its qualifications to the certification for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) was delivered by Facilities Manager at SmartCity Malta Ing. Norman Zammit who put forth the building’s green designs and construction features, as well as a number of facilities that have been put into place for the improved usage of resources. Ing. Zammit explained how such sustainable measures have provided SmartCity Malta with the ability to attain a number of sufficient savings, some of which include: 1. 52.3 per cent reduction in irrigation water consumption; 2. 17.6 per cent reduction in energy consumption; 3. 10.02 per cent of total building material and products being extracted, harvested and manufactured.

Participants were also given a tour of the premises to understand better the actual implementation and benefits of SmartCity’s energy-efficient measures, together with the resultant positive impact upon the environment and the business’ day-to-day running costs.

A Malta Chamber Roundtable Conference on Waste-to-Energy On 13th June, the Malta Chamber’s German Maltese Business Council in collaboration with the Energy and Environment Committee organised a Roundtable Conference on ‘Waste-to-Energy: Risks and Chances’ to discuss the potential of waste to energy in the local context.

Committee Chairperson David Xuereb welcomed the Hon. Leo Brincat, Minister for Sustainable Development,

Committee member Ing. Mario Schembri delivered a comprehensive presentation on Malta’s circular economy and the potential to turn the waste sector into a resource industry, during which he outlined the Malta Chamber’s position with regards to Malta’s potential to recover materials and energy from its waste, particularly in view of its strong dependence on fossil-fuelled energy. Ing. Schembri highlighted the European Union’s need to adopt a resource-efficient and regenerative economy due to the growing pressures on countries’ resources and environment, Malta being no exception.

The Executive Committee augured that this event would serve as a springboard for a strong collaboration to be built across Malta and Germany for the country’s improved handling of waste and energy matters.

Malta Chamber participates in Dialogue Session with Hon. Leo Brincat Committee Chairperson David Xuereb and Malta Chamber Head of Policy Development Andre Fenech represented the Malta Chamber during a dialogue session with Hon. Leo Brincat, Minister for Sustainable Development, the Environment and Climate Change, focusing on sustainable growth and the environment.

The event was organised by MEUSAC as part of a series of events organised in relation to the current evaluation of the Europe 2020 Strategy. Minister Brincat explained his Ministry’s work over the year under review, including the drafting of a Climate Action Act, legislation relating to noise pollution abatement and the implementation of the waste management strategy, amongst others.

Issues relating to Eco-Contribution and the need to restructure the current system to allow the full implementation of producer responsibility directives related to waste were raised by Perit Xuereb and Mr Fenech, who also pointed out issues relating to competitiveness and industrial emissions. In view of this, it was argued how the EU must set emission

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targets, subject to other economic blocs that are not implementing strict measures to abate climate change.

Other interventions were carried out, specifically focusing on sustainable development, bio-diversity, water management and EU targets.

Climate Action Bill During the month of November, the committee was directly consulted on the enactment of a new Climate Action Bill. The Bill’s main objective is to provide for action so as to contribute to the mitigation of Climate Change by limiting greenhouse gas emissions. The Chamber through its committee prepared some initial

feedback to the law and presented them at an MCESD meeting on the 24th of November. The main issues from the committee’s side included whether any schemes of assistance for Industry and households were being contemplated and whether the private sector will be obliged to commit any financing into a national fund which will be created to mitigate the impact of anthropogenic emissions. It was clarified that the fund will be voluntary. The Chamber also insisted that the private sector should be represented on the new Climate Action Board.

Human Resources During the year under review, the Committee focused on a number of issues, including flexible working arrangements, family friendly measures, career guidance, skills mismatches, industry-academia collaboration, work based learning, work exposure schemes, Jobs+ initiatives and the national employment strategy amongst others.

Linking Enterprise Event on Flexible Working Arrangements As part of its Linking Enterprise programme, the Malta Chamber Human Resources Committee organised an event focusing on: 1) flexible working arrangements; 2) work/life balance measures; 3) changes in the working environment.

The well-attended event was held on 4th February at Vodafone Malta’s new Head Office premises at SkyParks Business Centre.

A detailed presentation on work/life balance measures was delivered by Head of Human Resources at Vodafone Malta Martin Gregory who put forth the work/ life balance philosophy that Vodafone Malta embraces, and how the implementation of flexible working hours, teleworking and reduced hours, among others, allows employees to benefit from working hours that enable them to balance their working life with other priorities.

Mr Gregory explained how this helps foster a culture where employees feel central to the company’s success story and embrace a more positive attitude towards their work.

Participants were also given a tour of the premises to understand better the actual implementation and benefits of such measures, together with the resultant positive impact upon the business’ day-to-day operations.

Benchmarking Forum on Flexible Working Arrangements Following the success of the Linking Enterprise event

held earlier during the year, the Committee organised a Benchmarking Forum event on 29th April with the aim of sharing information, discussing companies’ best practices and comparing company policies on the particular subject of flexible working arrangements and the implementation of family friendly measures (FFMs).

A presentation was delivered by Malta Chamber Policy Executive Marilena Gauci who put forth the philosophy behind the concept of work-life balance and flexible working arrangements, whilst expounding upon the importance of having FFMs integrated in a company’s practices within the entire framework of cost competitiveness, ensuring that such introduction is as cost neutral to business as possible.

As the session went on, participants shared their companies’ experiences and current implementations, whilst questions relating to flexible working hours, employees’ performance, reduced absenteeism, cost savings, teleworking and data protection were addressed: A legal perspective relating to the subject of flexible

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working arrangements and recent European Court of Justice Rulings was provided by Dr Matthew Brincat, senior associate at Ganado Advocates, who provided the forum with the necessary legal background to concerns relating to data protection, risk assessments and leave entitlements, among others.

of performance management and performance appraisals was provided by Committee member Antoinette Caruana, Company Secretary and Group HR Manager at Simonds Farsons Cisk plc, who also shared her experience in effective management and its implementation in the day-to-day running of a business.

Launch of the National Employment Policy Following months of consultation held between the Ministry of Education and Employment, the Malta Council for Economic and Social Development (MCESD) and the newly-formed Jobs+ Committee, on which the Malta Chamber is represented by the Malta Chamber Human Resources Committee Chairperson Catherine Calleja and Malta Chamber Director General Kevin J. Borg, a National Employment Policy Document was presented on 2nd May. A number of initiatives were launched, including the tapering of unemployment benefits for those who have found a job and free childcare centres.

The advantages of having clear and specific departmental objectives aligned with overall corporate objectives were also outlined, the most important being optimised overall performance and clear communication between management and employees. Ms Caruana closed off her intervention with a recapitulation of the PEAK process carried out within Simonds Farsons Cisk plc.

Information Session on New Apprenticeships and Traineeships Schemes The Committee organised an Information Session on new apprenticeships and traineeships schemes on 5th June, giving Malta Chamber members the opportunity to voice their concerns and clarify any pending issues. Chairperson Catherine Calleja explained how the Committee felt it would serve as a fruitful exercise to have members of the Malta Chamber become more well-informed on work-based learning schemes, following a working group that has been set up by Government to chart the way forward for apprenticeships and traineeships schemes.

ETC Chairperson Clyde Caruana, who was invited to the session as the main speaker, stressed ETC’s current efforts to upgrade various aspects of its service in the areas of employment, work training and placements, among others. Mr Caruana went on to explain that general guidelines on the new schemes should be established by no later than the first quarter of 2015.

Background Information on career guidance services and the local NEET issue (youths not in education employment or training) was also given to the members present.

Benchmarking Forum on Performance Management The Committee organised a Benchmarking Forum event focusing on performance management on the 27th November. The participants discussed companies’ best practices and existing policies relating to performance appraisals, scoring methods, key performance indicators (KPIs) and business development plans.

An overview of the philosophy behind the concepts

As the session went on, participants shared their companies’ experiences and strengths and weaknesses of various systems, whilst questions relating to management engagement with the various systems, training provision and remuneration systems were addressed.

Malta Chamber Participates in EURES Seminar for PSD Teachers On 16th December, Committee Chairperson Catherine Calleja participated in a seminar organised for PSD Teachers and Career Guidance Staff by the European Employment Services (EURES) in Malta within the ETC, to promote the principle of worker mobility in Europe and the critical need for a stronger link to be established between industry and academia.

Ms Calleja delivered a presentation on building a bridge between training and education, during which she emphasised upon a number of areas that the Malta Chamber views as being of main concern in establishing closer links between industry and academia, these being: 1) building closer links and institutionalising these

links with Guidance Teachers; 2) developing an employability index; 3) addressing skills mismatches through active

industry involvement; 4) promoting job exposure and work-based learning; 5) facilitating research and development (R&D).

In her closing remarks, Ms Calleja explained that with industry and commerce constantly changing, the institutionalisation of contact and facilitation of constant exposure of guidance teachers on their own first and then with school groups to the workplace is crucial to the better understanding of the local economy’s needs, as is the insertion of career guidance and work exposure as a fundamental cornerstone of the curriculum at all levels of our educational system.

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Internationalisation The Internationalisation Desk operates under the guidance of the Internationalisation Committee, which consists of the following members: • • • • •

Mr Peter Grima, Chairman Mr Tonio Casapinta, Vice Chairman Mr Karl Aquilina Mr Michael Farrugia Mr Hugh Arrigo

The Internationalisation Desk is manned by Manager Klaus Pedersen and Executive Lina El-Nahhal.

The mission of the Malta Chamber Internationalisation Desk is to help members internationalise. The Desk was established in 2006 with the aim of giving membership that added value, and attract further involvement in Chamber business. Furthermore, through the efforts of the Desk, the Chamber has created a vast network of internationalisation contacts with other chambers and trade promotion organisations in various countries that also led to signing of new Memoranda of Understanding.

The role of internationalisation is gradually growing in importance to the average member of the Malta Chamber, and the number of activities which are related to foreign companies and organisations is also growing steadily. Consequently, the role of the internationalisation desk at the Malta Chamber is becoming increasingly important.

Most of the work undertaken is reactive in its nature and consists of responding and reacting to inquiries from members and foreign companies and organisations.

The two main thrusts of the work of the desk, stem from two main areas:, the internationalisation survey, and the Business Councils. The former is a database, which bases itself on an ongoing survey.

The Internationalisation Desk identifies Malta-based companies which are engaged in international activities and calls them up to conduct an interview. The data gathered identifies the countries in which the company does business, as well as the countries in which they would like to do business, and for each of these countries, the activity and sector are identified. The resulting data allows the desk to draw conclusions about the internationalisation activities of Maltese companies at a macro-level, but it also allows the Desk to identify individual companies, when there are contacts or activities which may be of relevance to these companies.

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The other main group of activities managed by the Internationalisation Desk are Business Councils.

These are horizontal committees within the Malta Chamber that focus on promoting business exchanges between Malta and specific countries or regions. The concept was developed as an internal policy by the Internationalisation Committee as a way of creating entities within the Chamber, so that the secretariat can ensure greater coordination, control, continuity and integrity, than can be exercised over with bi-lateral chambers that operate completely independently of the Malta Chamber. These business councils have proven successful in activating members and even generating new membership and they have become catalysts for the creation of events and activities which benefit the participating members as well as the Maltese business community as a whole.

The Internationalisation Desk is also responsible for trade consultation, where it consults with members on issues related to trade policy. This is mainly done by processing the information received from the Economic Policy Division within the Ministry of Finance and disseminating this information via Chamberlink, targeted e-mails and, at times, by contacting the affected companies directly.

In 2014, the Malta Chamber partnered with the Maltese Government to establish Trade Malta Ltd which will become the national trade promotion agency. The Internationalisation Desk’s main role will therefore be setting the agenda for Trade Malta Ltd through its various Business Councils, by being the main point of reference and in a position to indicate the interest and aspirations of its members in international markets.

Scandinavian Business Forum Malta • Dr Mark Fenech, Chairman • Mr Christer Gustafsson • Mr Neville Cutajar • Dr Gege Gatt • Mr Christer Jansson • Mr Karl Diacono • Mr Pierre Mifsud • Mr Stefan Magnusson This committee had another successful year under the leadership of its very dynamic Chairman, Dr Mark Fenech.

One can read more about the Scandinavian Business Forum Malta on its web-site: www.sbfmalta.com

078 Events: • 2014 03 13 • 2014 05 15

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Seminar on Leadership in Business Seminar on Leadership with a mission

German-Maltese Business Council Committee Members: • Mr Karl Aquilina, Chairman • Mr Armin Eckermann (AE) (Chair) • Mr Matthias Fauser • Mr Ivan Mifsud • Mr Michael Farrugia • Ms Adrienne Buedinger 2014 saw a number of activities and initiatives by this committee. Apart from the two activities listed below, the committee met various stakeholders and key individuals.

The committee is currently planning another two events in February 2015.

Events: • 2014 06 13 Waste-to-Energy – Risks and

Chances • 2014 10 30 The Future of Traffic Management in

Malta – Innovative Mobility North African Business Council (An expansion of the Tunisian-Maltese Business Council) Members interested in this Committee: • Mr Simon Alden, Chairman • Mr Tonio Casapinta, Vice-chairman • Mr Peter Zammit Lupi • Mr Edward Papps • Mr Roberto Pachi • Mr Saviour Zammit • Mr Anthony Farrugia • Mr Anthony Bartolo • Mr Alexei Sciberras • Mr Rainer Hoebel • Mr Patrick Spiteri Staines • Mr Ivan Mifsud • Mr Mario Duca • Ms Nathalie Farrugia • Ms Mary Gaerty • Dr Hugh Peralta • Mr Joseph Micallef • Mr Joseph Cutajar • Mr Tonio Briffa As a result of the increasing interest in North African markets, the Malta Chamber saw the need of expanding the remit of the Tunisian-Maltese Business Council to become the North African Business Council and include also Morocco, Algeria, Libya and Egypt.

The North African Business Council is at its initial stages and held its launch on 4th March 2015.

Middle East Business Council Committee Members: • Mr Tonio Casapinta, Chairman • Mr Peter Frendo, Vice-Chairman • Dr David Zahra • Mr Mark Vassallo • Mr Joseph Camilleri • Ms Liz Barbaro Sant • Mr Matthew Sammut • Mr Ivan Cachia This business council has been extremely active since its establishment and has been constantly engaged in meeting key stake-holders in Government, organisations and institutions and private companies. These meetings have, apart from the events listed below, resulted in two business missions to the Gulf in 2014 as well as incoming delegations from the Gulf to Malta.

One of the key highlights of 2014 was the signing of a Strategic Partnership Agreement with Dubai Chamber, following a visit to the Malta Chamber by the President and CEO of Dubai Chamber, H.E. Hamad Buamim.

Other events include the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with Abu Dhabi Chamber and the signing of an agreement for an Omani-Maltese Business Council with Oman Chamber.

In 2014, MEBC has also spearheaded together with FinanceMalta the concept of Islamic Finance. As a result of this, it was included in the Financial Estimates for 2015 by the Maltese Government.

One can read more about the Middle East Business Council on its web-site: www.mebc.com.mt.

Events: • 2014 01 17 Think Tank meeting on Consortia Formation • 2014 06 09 Dubai – Racing Ahead. A Modern

Model for Economic Development in the Region • 2014 11 27 Doing business in the MENA region

with German Companies Maltese-Portuguese Business Council • Mr Garry Crossan, Chairman (Retd.)

• Mr Kevin Busuttil, Vice-Chairman • Mr Charles Mizzi • Mr Chris Naudi • Mr Mario Cassar • Mr Francis Ladden This business council was launched on 26 February 2014 at the Malta Chamber at a very successful event which included a number of Portuguese companies which also made up a mini-trade fair in the Chamber’s courtyard for two consecutive days.

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Maltese-Turkish Business Council • Dr Mark Bencini, Chairman • Mr Roger De Gaetano, Vice-Chairman • Mr Simon Mifsud Bonnici • Mr Pierre Brincat • Ms Sonia Cashetto • Mr Ates Erguler • Mr Mustapha Gulen • Mr Charles Mercieca • Mr Raymond Farrugia • Jean Marc Smits, East Wind Malta Ltd • Ezgi Harmanci, EMD Advisory Services Ltd. • Ms Genevieve Abela • Mr Ian Fitzpatrick • Dr Adrian Delia • Ms Danica Caruana • Mr George Barbaro Sant, Alberta Fire and Security • Kevin Spiteri, International Machinery Ltd.

In 2014, there were outgoing business missions to the following destinations:

An expression of interest to create a Maltese-Turkish Business Council was issued in the first half of 2014 and a number of Maltese companies as well as Turkish companies have joined. The business council is currently planning to hold its launch on 9 April 2015.

The Maltese Turkish Business Council is also planning an outgoing delegation to Turkey with the assistance of the Turkish Embassy in Malta.

• 2014 06 16

• Contributing to the annual plan for outgoing

missions, with a basis in the research done as

part of our profiling exercise.

• Disseminating information about upcoming

missions, via newsletters and dedicated

mailing lists.

• Identifying a participant from the Malta

Chamber to represent the Malta Chamber

on such missions, typically a member

of the Board of Management or the Council.

• Supporting Malta Enterprise with contacts to

local chambers of commerce.

• Supporting the participating officer with

addresses and market information as necessary.

• Preparing MoUs with other Chambers when necessary.

Date City / Country / Malta Chamber Rep 21-24/01/14 Vienna, Austria 15-21/03/14 Dubai, UAE / Abu Dhabi, UAE / Doha, Qatar

Mr Tonio Casapinta,

Mr Klaus Pedersen 21-26/09/14 Dubai, UAE / Muscat, Oman

Mr Tonio Casapinta

Information Session on Turkey

The following are some of the other activities undertaken and/or supported by the Internationalisation Desk in 2014: • 2014 01 23 Doing business with the Netherlands • 2014 05 05 Viet Nam – Malta Economic

Roundtable • 2014 06 03 Business Forum on Taipei • 2014 09 05 A Promotional Conference on the

116th China Canton Fair • 2014 12 12 Malta Mediterranean Forum On Governance: Libya - Regional Perspectives on Governance and Security Challenges • 2015 01 13 Is Hong Kong still the gateway to China?

• 2015 01 22 Doing business with Azerbaijan Outgoing Business Delegations Malta Enterprise is usually the main organising organisation of outgoing business missions, with a dedicated staff and budget to undertake and financially support such activities. As part of a declared policy of working closely with Malta Enterprise, the Internationalisation desk at the Malta Chamber participates in these missions by:

Incoming Business Delegations Throughout the year, a number of foreign delegations come to Malta on business-related missions, be they institutional visits, delegations of businessmen, politically led missions or for example groups of journalists on exploratory visits.

In all these cases, the Internationalisation Desk is one of the first ports of call from the planning stage, through promotion and dissemination and up to the actual meeting and hosting of such delegations.

The following are some of the delegations that we have received this year, either at the Malta Chamber or as part of events organized at Malta Enterprise: Date 2014 05 05

2014 06 02

2014 06 03

2014 06 09

2014 06 09

Name / Country Embassy of the Republic Socialist of Vietnam in Italy - Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Russian Federation - Russia Chinese International Economic Cooperation Association - Taiwan European Chamber of Commerce Taiwan - Taiwan Dubai Chamber of Commerce - United Arab Emirates

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2014 09 05 China Foreign Trade Centre - China 2014 11 17 Budapest Chamber of Commerce

and Industry - Hungary 2015 01 13 Bank Muscat - Oman Meetings with Stakeholders and the Diplomatic Corps One of the declared objectives of the Desk is to work closely with stakeholders, especially Malta Enterprise, Finance Malta, relevant ministries and the diplomatic corps in Malta as well as that of Malta abroad. It is therefore natural that a lot of time is devoted to meetings and communication with these entities.

The Internationalisation Desk is also represented at the Joint Stakeholders Working Council of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs by Mr Tonio Casapinta. Monthly meetings are held where stakeholders discuss market strategies, outgoing and incoming delegations and events such as Malta’s participation at Expo 2015 in Milan and CHOGM events held in Malta in November 2015.

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number of Maltese companies that do business in Libya, met with several stakeholders to discuss issues such as VAT payments, visas and employment.

Meetings were held with the Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr George Vella, Minister for the Economy Dr Christian Cardona, then Minister for Home Affairs Dr Emmanuel Mallia, the Principle Permanent Secretary Mr Mario Cutajar, Malta Enterprise Chairman Dr Mario Vella, Identity Malta Chairman Mr Joe Vella Bonnici, Officials from the Central Visa Unit, ETC, and the Head of the Government’s Libya Crisis Unit amongst others. The Committee also made a number of proposals to provide solutions to problems businesses are facing on the ground which proposals are being followed regularly.

The committee worked closely with the Council of the Libyan Maltese Chamber of Commerce.

Furthermore, the internationalisation desk of the Malta Chamber is the first call for many stakeholders and businessmen who visit Malta from abroad. We invest time and effort in meeting these visitors, because we hope it will lead to contacts for our members, and also to explain to visiting companies, the newly introduced international membership. These meetings are announced in Chamberlink for the benefit of members interested in being put into contact with these Consuls.

Libya Action Committee As the second Libyan crises in the space of three years unravelled, the Malta Chamber re-instated the Libya Action Committee. A high-powered but lowkey committee was originally set up to assist Maltese companies in business in Libya which were affected by the 2011 uprising. The Libya Action Committee has the aim of addressing issues Maltese businesses are facing as a result of the ensuing turmoil. This year the Committee was chaired by Vice President Mr Frank V. Farrugia.

The Malta Chamber is aware that Libya’s second crisis has brought a sudden halt to normality and an abrupt suspension to commerce. This has led to a situation where companies have had to suspend their operations haphazardly, with very serious repercussions. The Libya Action Committee was tasked with pursuing local authorities for support to companies facing the unfortunate developments in Libya.

The Libya Action Committee, which is made up of a

Marketing During the year in review, the Marketing Committee has met seven times and has continued to carry out work related to its mission, as well as assist the Malta Chamber with work related to its own marketing efforts.

Following a review process carried out by the Marketing Committee, in July, the Malta Chamber’s weekly newsletter Chamberlink migrated completely to a new digital platform, and is being sent out primarily electronically. This is allowing better monitoring of the newsletter efforts, in order to maximise on existent resources. This method of monitoring is currently still in process and minor adjustments are being tested in order to assess the success of the newsletter. During the same process, led by the Marketing Committee, the design of the same newsletter was also altered, in order to provide a better experience to the end-user.

The first event of the Malta Chamber Marketing for members and marketers which took place on April 10th, 2014 saw the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Malta Chamber and The Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM). The keynote

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speaker at the event was Allied Group of Companies Managing Director Adrian Hillman who delivered a talk entitled “Selling Content – the 21st Century challenge of knowledge Society: The case of Times of Malta”.

The Malta Chamber Marketing Committee also contributed to the Malta Chamber’s recommendations for the National budget. The Marketing committee proposed a thorough investigation should take place, upon the importance and business relevance for local companies to carry out sufficient investments in establishing marketing departments within their operations. The Marketing Committee also encouraged Government to look into the potential of developing a strong landmark through the country’s unique inheritance and culture, by which increased commerce could be attracted towards the country’s economic activity. And finally, in view of Malta’s strong economic dependence upon services, the Marketing Committee advocated the betterment of service provision for the country to build upon its potential and competitiveness.

Focusing on its regular endeavours, the Marketing Committee has continued to discuss ways of reaching its goal, which is to promote and reinforce the Marketing profession in Malta.

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fragmentation that exists among the different players of the R&D sector.

A document entitled ‘Meeting the RTDI Needs of Industry’, summarising proposals compiled by the Committee, was presented to Hon. Bartolo, who pointed out that the implementation of some of the proposals presented by this document have already taken off and how an audit is to be carried out so as to assess whether or not that which has thus far been effected is reaping significant results. Here, Committee members made reference to the recommendation put forth by this document to facilitate VISA applications to allow more third country national researchers as it was mentioned that the Ministry believes very strongly in this proposal as it could significantly help establish favourable conditions for researchers from third country nationals to work in Malta.

Hon. Evarist Bartolo also pointed out that the Ministry is indeed very aware of the need to have R&D repositioned at the forefront of Government’s agenda.

With this, Minister Bartolo confirmed his Ministry’s support to the setting up of an industry driven body to pave the way for the country’s successful R&D activity.

In so doing, the Marketing Committee will be organising a Marketing Forum event in the first quarter of 2015 which will discuss issues central to the day-to-day operation of marketers as well as business and enterprise. The topics will include Digital Marketing, Marketing Trends, Ethics on Use and Abuse of Marketing Channels, and the Dynamic and Fastchanging nature of Marketing in today’s business environment.

To close off the meeting, Mr Borg also presented Minister Bartolo with a document compiled by the Malta Chamber, Enterprise and Industry, launching an Industrial Policy for Malta, outlining sixty four recommendations. Mr Borg remarked that it was now imminent for concrete action to be taken by Government in the light of pushing forward proposals presented by the Malta Chamber, to help alleviate the country’s manufacturing industry.

Research, Technology, Development and Innovation (RTDI) Committee

Malta Chamber participates in Seminar on EU Funding and Technical Assistance for Innovative Start-ups and SMEs On 27th October, the Malta Chamber was represented

by Malta Chamber Deputy President Anton Borg during a seminar on EU funding and technical assistance for innovative start-ups and SMEs, co-organised by the Malta Business Bureau (MBB), the Malta Chamber and the European Representation in Malta.

During the year under review, the Committee held several internal meetings of the Executive Committee as well as external meetings with Government officials and stakeholders in the R&D sector, centering around Malta Chamber Deputy President and RTDI Committee meet Hon. Evarist Bartolo On 29th May, Malta Chamber Deputy President Anton Borg, together with the Executive Committee, were welcomed by Hon. Evarist Bartolo, Minister for Education and Employment, as well as Hon. Chris Agius, Parliamentary Secretary for Research, Innovation, Youth and Sport.

During the meeting, Mr Borg and RTDI Committee members made reference to the importance that R&D merits for the country’s competiveness, whilst remarking the critical need for Malta to address the sufficient

Mr Borg shared the utmost importance of RTDI for Malta’s ongoing competitive enhancement and long-term economic development as he stated the importance of nurturing the raw power of creativity and innovation by providing start-ups with a proper and sustainable infrastructure. In turn, this will reap constant long-term added value for Malta’s entire economy. In his address, Mr Borg also emphasised upon the Malta Chamber’s firm belief in research and innovation (R&I) as being one of the foremost pillars upon which our country’s economy must be built.

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In view of Malta’s limited size, Mr Borg explained that we must realise the country’s particular economic dependence on R&I; hence, the importance that it merits. A culture of innovation and creativity must be built to secure Malta’s economic strength and resilience at a macro level. Furthermore, the existing collaborations between the Malta Chamber and academia were explained; hence, displaying the Malta Chamber’s pledge towards ensuring innovative, dynamic and competitive solutions to the global demands our country continuously seeks to meet.

In his closing remarks, Mr Borg put forth the Malta Chamber’s firm commitment towards the establishment of an Innovation, Research and Development Strategy for start-ups, as this is key to industries’ enhanced business growth. Mr Borg concluded by thanking the European Commission, The Enterprise Europe Network – Malta and the Malta Business Bureau for their continued collaboration and support.

Malta Chamber attends Launch by Hon. Christian Cardona On 24th November, Committee Member Mr Jeanine Rizzo attended the launch of a new initiative by Hon. Christian Cardona, Minister for the Economy, Investment and Small Business, aimed at fostering Malta’s attractiveness in the intellectual property sector.

This new initiative assumes a public private partnership where Government will provide the financial and logistic support for the efforts required to develop and promote the sector, whereas the private sector will participate in project management, research, legislative drafting and promotion of the concepts developed for the sector to give Malta innovative solutions in a digital sector.

During the launch, it was explained how the evergrowing importance and relevance of Intellectual Property (IP) as an industry has resulted in the need for Malta to embark on a thorough project to revolutionise its offering for this sector in order to attract more of the business and related commercial activity to its shores.

SME and Family Business Committee The SME and Family Business Committee continued its work programme to reflect the importance of SMEs and family businesses in our economy and undertook a number of initiatives throughout 2014.

The Committee continued discussions on issues touching on Family Businesses. A related subject – business transfers – was dealt with in a seminar organised in October which touched upon policy and support measures to facilitate the continuity of businesses, the majority of which are family businesses.

During the year a survey was conducted to identify the sentiments of members in respect of the shop opening hours reform promoted by the Ministry for the Economy, Industry and Business. This helped the Malta Chamber to present its official position on the matter.

The Committee was also engaged in continuous discussion with the respective authorities responsible for public procurement procedures. The SME Committee had meetings with the Director of Contracts to discuss proposals for the simplification of public procurement procedures and to ensure that SMEs have a better chance of participating in tendering opportunities. It also participated in the Small Business Act consultation process organised by the EU Commission by proposing its views on significant areas which are earmarked for review.

Regular meetings were also held with the respective authorities to discuss changing patterns in the business sentiments and demand behaviour. The Committee also analysed some specific aspects of EU legislation and recommendations such as the reduction of regulatory burdens and matters arising from the environmental issues.

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Executive Committees Business Sections Electrical and Electronics Mr Simon Alden Chairperson Ing. Conrad Pace Deputy Chairman Mr Stefan Farrugia Ing. Anthony Galea Mr Noel Micallef Mr Nigel Mifsud Financial Services Mr Peter Sant Chairperson Mr James Bonello Deputy Chairperson Mr Mark Richard Hogg Mr Julian Mamo Mr Michael Scerri Ms Rachel Bartolo Food and Beverage Processors Mr Stephen Bonnici Chairperson Mr John Sammut Deputy Chairperson Mr Benjamin Brincat Mr Joseph Pace Mr Chris Degiorgio Mr Nigel Mifsud HealthCare Mr Robert Magri Chairman Mrs Vanessa Said Salomone Vice Chairperson

Mr Paul Apap Bologna Mr Marcel K. Mifsud Mr David Stellini Ms Johanna Calleja Importers Mr Gino Cutajar Chairperson Mr Anthony T. Camilleri Deputy Chairperson

Mr Charles Borg Mr Josie Ellul Mercer Mr Charles Mercieca Ms Rachel Bartolo Information and Communications Technology Ms Claudine Cassar Chairperson Mr Francois Grech Deputy Chairperson Mr Marcel Joseph Cutajar Mr Keith Fearne Mr Roland Scerri Ms Rachel Bartolo

Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Mr Claude A. Farrugia Chairperson Mr Patrick Cachia Deputy Chairperson Mr Jurgen Azzopardi Mr Vittorio Giromini Mr Dino Mangion Mr Nigel Mifsud

Tourism Ms Genevieve Abela Chairperson Mr Ian Fitzpatrick Deputy Chairperson Mr Ivan Mifsud Mr Robin Oakes Mr Iain Tonna Ms Rachel Bartolo

Pharmacists Pharmacy Owners Mr Reginald Fava Chairperson Mrs Marisa Dalli Deputy Chairperson Mr Anthony Sant-Portanier Prof. Anthony Serracino-Inglott Mrs Eliza Vella Ms Johanna Calleja

Wines, Spirits, Beverages and Tobacco Ms Christina Busuttil Chairperson Mr Stephen Rausi Deputy Chairperson Mr Alexander Arrigo Mr Jeremy Cassar (co-opted) Mr Stephen Ellul Mr Tarcisio Piscopo (co-opted) Ms Rachel Bartolo

Plastics and Rubber Manufacturers Mr Kenneth Caruana Chairperson Mr Olaf Zahra Deputy Chairperson Mr Joseph Borg Mr Robert Borg Mr Ivan Gerada (co-opted) Mr Kenneth Micallef Mr Walter Vigar (co-opted) Mr Nigel Mifsud Real Estate Mr Ian Casolani Chairperson Mr Douglas Salt Deputy Chairperson Mr Trafford Busuttil Mr Kevin Buttigieg (co-opted) Mr Luke Coppini Ms Rachel Bartolo Remote Gaming Mr George Debrincat Chairperson Dr Olga Finkel Deputy Chairperson Dr Simona Camilleri Dr Anton Dalli Dr James Palmier-Gonzi Ms Rachel Bartolo Road Contractors Mr Vincent Borg Chairperson Mr David Bonnici Deputy Chairperson Mr Mario Agius Mr Joe Vella Ms Rachel Bartolo Shipping and Bunkering Mr Alfred Pace Chairperson Mr Leslie Brooks Vice Chairperson Mr Michael Cooper Mr Stephen Parnis-England Mr Peter Sullivan Ms Johanna Calleja

Yachting Services Mr Edward Anthony Woods Chairperson Mr Pierre Balzan Deputy Chairperson Dr Ann Fenech Mr Peter Fiorini Lowell (co-opted) Mr Niki Travers Tauss Ms Rachel Bartolo

Policy Committees Energy and Environment Perit David Xuereb – Chairperson Mr Godwin C. Micallef Ing. Charles Cuschieri Ing. Mario Schembri Ing. Adrian Vigar Mr Adrian Mallia Ms Mary Gaerty Mr Mark Bajada (MB) Mr Andre Fenech Ms Marilena Gauci Exchange Buildings Maintenance Committee Mr Frank V. Farrugia Mr William Wait Mr David Xuereb Mr Kevin J. Borg Fast Moving Consumer Goods Mr Norman Aquilina Chairman Mr Pierre Fava Mr Matthew Camilleri Mr Victor Galea Mr Ray Portelli Mr Paul Bonnici Mr Martin Borg Mr Andre Fenech

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Human Resources Ms Catherine Calleja Ms Antoinette Caruana Ms Alexia Frendo Ms Madeleine Sammut Dacoutrous Ms Ruth Farrugia Ms Monica Incorvaja Ms Theresa Fabri Mr Joseph Pace Ms Marilena Gauci Internationalisation Mr Peter Grima Chairperson Mr Hugh Arrigo Mr Tonio Casapinta Mr Michael Farrugia Mr Karl Aquilina Mr Kevin J. Borg Mr Klaus Pedersen Mrs Lina El Nahhal La Valette Business Centre Committee Mr David G. Curmi Mr Reginald Fava Mr Mario Spiteri Mr William Wait Marketing Mr Louis Olivieri Chairperson Ms Anna Agius Mr Morgan Parnis Mr Chris Vassallo Cesareo Ms Emma Zammit Ciantar Mr Edward Bonello RTDI Ing. Roger Galea Chairperson Prof Ing. Jonathan Borg Prof Joseph Cilia Mr Jeanine Rizzo Ms Claudine Cassar Ms Marilena Gauci Rent Laws Committee Mr Louis Apap-Bologna Chairman Mr Alfred Gera de Petri Prof. Ian Refalo ad hoc Adviser Mr Andre Fenech SME and Family Business Mr Frank V. Farrugia - Chairman Mr Tonio Casapinta Mr Joseph Cortis Mr Charles Farrugia Ms Maronna Filletti Mr Peter Sant Mr Chris Vassallo Cesareo Mr Lino Mintoff

Statute Revision Commission Mr David G. Curmi Mr Reginald Fava Mr Anton Borg Mr Kevin J. Borg

Business Council

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Mr Mario Duca Ms Nathalie Farrugia Ms Mary Gaerty Dr Hugh Peralta Mr Joseph Micallef Mr Joseph Cutajar Mr Tonio Briffa Maltese Turkish Business Council

German-Maltese Business Council

Mr Karl Aquilina Chairman Mr Matthias Fauser Mr Michael Farrugia Mr Armin Ackermann Mr Ivan Mifsud Ms Adrienne Buedinger Mr Klaus Pedersen Mrs Lina El Nahhal Middle East Business Council

Mr Tonio Casapinta Chairman Mr Peter Frendo Vice Chairman Dr David Zahra Mr Joseph Camilleri Mr Mark Vassallo Ms Liz Barbaro Sant Mr Matthew Sammut Mr Ivan Cachia Mr Klaus Pedersen Ms Lina El-Nahhal North African Business Council

Mr Simon Alden Chairman Mr Tonio Casapinta Vice-chairman Mr Peter Zammit Lupi Mr Edward Papps Mr Roberto Pachi Mr Saviour Zammit Mr Anthony Farrugia Mr Anthony Bartolo Mr Alexei Sciberras Mr Rainer Hoebel Mr Patrick Spiteri Staines Mr Ivan Mifsud

Dr Mark Bencini Chairman Mr Roger De Gaetano Vice-Chairman Mr Simon Mifsud Bonnici Mr Pierre Brincat Ms Sonia Cashetto Mr Ates Erguler Mr Mustapha Gulen Mr Charles Mercieca Mr Raymond Farrugia Jean Marc Smits Ezgi Harmanci Ms Genevieve Abela Mr Ian Fitzpatrick Dr Adrian Delia Ms Danica Caruana Mr George Barbaro Sant Mr Kevin Spiteri Mr Klaus Pedersen Mrs Lina El Nahhal Scandinavian Business Forum Malta

Mr Mark Fenech Chairman Mr Pierre Mifsud Mr Stefan Magnusson Mr Christer Gustafsson Mr Karl Diacono Mr Neville Cutajar Dr Gege Gatt Mr Christer Jansson Mr Klaus Pedersen Mrs Lina El Nahhal

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Malta Chamber Commissions set up by Statute Electrical and Electronics Commercial Agents Commission (Statute Art 11.1) Mr Charles A. Zahra Chairman Mr Anthony T. Camilleri Mr Louis A. Cuschieri Mr Josie Ellul-Mercer Mr Frank V. Farrugia Electoral Commission (Statute Art 6.1) Mr Josie Ellul-Mercer Chairman Mr Louis Apap Bologna Mr David Borg Cardona Mr Victor Camilleri Mr Michael Cutugno

Conflicts Resolution Panel (Statute Art 10.1) Mr Michael Mallia Chairman Mr Victor A. Galea Mr Mario Duca Mr Joe Pace Mr Michael Scerri Ethics & Disciplinary Commission (Statute Art 8.2) Mr Albert P. Mamo Chairman Mr Louis Apap-Bologna Mr Louis A. Farrugia Mr Martin Galea Mr Michael Scerri

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Consultation Malta Council for Economic and Social Development (MCESD)

The Malta Chamber is a firm believer in social dialogue and has long been an active contributor to the process on a local level. In the twelve months under review, it was actively engaged in discussions on the conduct of social dialogue at the national level, in particular with the functioning of the Malta Council for Economic and Social Development (MCESD). It was represented by President David G. Curmi, Deputy President Anton Borg, Council Member Norman Aquilina and Director General Kevin J. Borg.

Restructuring Throughout the year, the Malta Chamber made several public statements to denounce the fact that the social partners had not agreed to discuss such a crucial matter as Competitiveness within MCESD. To this end, it recommended measures to improve the relevance and autonomy of MCESD and suggested concrete ways to ensure better management of meetings and building of an agenda that addressed, in a holistic manner, the economic and social priorities of the country. These suggestions were largely made within the MCESD Restructuring Committee which was appointed last year and concluded its report last June – which report was presented to the Plenary in September. The Chamber was represented on this Committee by the Director General.

Throughout this process, the Chamber insisted that MCESD be given true independence and autonomy.

To this end, it suggested that MCESD be given similar autonomy as the Office of the Auditor General and that it should not report to any Minister. It maintained that only if MCESD is well equipped, resourced and directed, can it fulfil its function as an essential institution for the attainment of non-partisan approach to economic and social development. In terms of structure, the Chamber supported the model of a three-tiered format composed of the Council (at the highest level); technical Working Groups (at the lowest level); and a Bureau at intermediate level.

Further recommendations were also made for enhanced links with Maltese representatives on the European Economic and Social Council. The Chamber also expressed the need for MCESD to communicate better with the general public.

Economic Vision In September, the Malta Chamber presented to the MCESD its ‘Economic Vision for Malta 2014-2020’.

Addressing the meeting which was called by the Malta Chamber, the Hon Dr Helena Dalli Minister for Social Dialogue, Consumer Affairs and Civil Liberties, praised the Malta Chamber’s work, especially its initiative to compile the Economic Vision for Malta 2014-2020. She also acknowledged the Malta Chamber’s contribution to the restructuring process of the MCESD. In his presentation, Malta Chamber President David G. Curmi said that the Economic Vision 2014-2020 aimed to give a business agenda to Government rather than wait for Government to provide business with its agenda. This is symptomatic of the fact that the document is the work of 20 of Malta’s leading CEOs and Chairmen, making it a technical blue-print for economic development. He said that Malta should ensure a diversified economy in order to minimize economic risk.

Kevin J Borg, presented further detail of the Economic Vision, outlining the 6 fundamentals that the Malta Chamber is regarding as priorities: Securing economic prosperity, fostering human development, supporting the further development of business and enterprise, building an innovative infrastructure, investing in infrastructure and environment, and Government partnership with business and enterprise. He also outlined the 52 specific recommendations to Government which need to be addressed in order to reach the goals of the same vision. Members present praised the Malta Chamber for its initiative, and agreed that reaching the objectives of the Economic Vision was vital for the country’s future economic and social development.

Competitiveness As stated above, the Chamber, on numerous occasions, requested comprehensive discussions on national competitiveness to take place at MCESD. To this end, it reiterated its concerns related to manufacturing industry a number of times, namely higher operating costs, lower productivity and the imminent termination of the regional aid regime for large undertakings. This latter

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issue was deemed to be the most urgent by the Council and, at the Chamber’s request, a meeting was held to discuss this matter in the presence of Ministers Christian Cardona, Helena Dalli and tax expert Dr Neville Gatt.

lack of enforcement capacity, further increases would continue to create market distortions between Chamber members and operators that imported goods through informal channels.

The meeting discussed the issue of permissible Regional Aid falling to 0 per cent (for large undertakings) and implications on local operators and potential investment. There was general agreement with the Chamber at MCESD that the repercussions of this restriction were too serious for all, particularly in view of Malta’s need to export and to ascertain a balanced and diversified economy.

National Employment Policy The Malta Chamber welcomed the launch of the National Employment Policy and the very positive measures presented. The Malta Chamber had already sent extensive feedback during the initial consultation process with the Jobs+ Committee and MCESD. Speaking on behalf of the Malta Chamber, the Director General told the MCESD that proposal concerning payment for maternity leave by Government needed further research and consultation as it could have a negative impact on employers who would fund the proposal through an increase in employers’ national insurance contributions. He hoped that this matter would be further discussed with all social partners at MCESD level.

Consequently, the Council agreed that the Maltese Government needed to renegotiate Malta’s status with the new EU Commission at the highest level and within the announced State Aid Regulations review in 2017.

The Chamber offered its support to Government via Business Europe Pre-Budget MCESD meetings The Malta Chamber presented its 2015 pre-Budget proposals to the MCESD during a meeting held in October in the presence of the Minister of Finance Edward Scicluna and the Minister for Social Dialogue, Consumer Affairs and Civil Liberties Helena Dalli.

The objectives of the Chamber’s proposals for 2014 were two-pronged. They called for increased economic growth through continued enhanced competitiveness and the rationalization of public finances. A number of concrete proposals were made in terms of both overriding objectives.

In November, the Malta Chamber was represented at another MCESD meeting to discuss the 2014 Budget in the presence of the Minister of Finance.

On this occasion, the Chamber was represented by the President, the Deputy President and the Director General.

On presenting the Chamber’s priorities, Malta Chamber President David G. Curmi insisted that the forthcoming budget needed to aim at public finance consolidation and on the enhancement of national competitiveness to facilitate export-led growth. Reference was made to recent negative indicators in export-related data which are reinforced by internal data collected by the Chamber. The need to render operating costs more competitive was made especially in the light of austerity measures that were being taken in other countries to the benefit of their cost-competitiveness.

At this meeting, the Chamber continued to insist for clarifications on the indirect tax measures proposed

by Government. It continued to claim that due to a

The National Employment Policy document was presented in May and included initiatives such as the tapering of unemployment benefits for those who have found a job; payment of maternity leave for the full duration by Government; free childcare centres; and the obligatory acceptance of a job, within the scope of their chosen profession, for those unemployed registered with ETC. Tourism Minister for Tourism, the Hon Dr Edward Zammit Lewis addressed an MCESD meeting held on February 11 on the Draft Tourism Policy 2015-2020 document.

Intervening during the meeting, the Malta Chamber welcomed the fact that one of the guiding principles of the policy was raising the level of quality across the tourism value chain. This value closely mirrored one of the recommendations made by the Malta Chamber in its Economic Vision for 2014-2020, whereby it advocates quality and the adoption of a ‘nothing but the best’ mentality across the economy.

On a related note, the Malta Chamber also raised its concern about issues of enforcement. The Malta Chamber expressed its disappointment on the state of affairs at the new entrance to Malta’s capital where a handful of hawkers seemed to have been given the sacrosanct right to block Valletta’s new entrance with shabby stalls and kiosks. This is certainly not in line with the image which Malta means to project for quality tourism. The Malta Chamber said that MTA needed to monitor the Island on a continuous basis through officers who viewed public areas through the eyes of tourists.

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Malta Chamber also spoke about the need to address the skills shortage in the tourism industry. It was remarked that a friction was evident in the labour market because it was impossible that certain positions for low to semi-skilled individuals in tourism could not be absorbed from the pool of unemployed persons.

The Malta Chamber welcomed the fact that for the first time, an entire section in the draft tourism policy was dedicated to the Yachting niche of tourism.

During the same meeting, the Malta Chamber requested a clarification about the methodology used to calculate the Tourism share of the national Gross Domestic Product.

On the subject of Air Malta, the Malta Chamber commended the Minister when he said that the country could not afford to depend on foreign airlines, as Air Malta was an indispensable asset for Malta’s Tourism industry. The Malta Chamber said that these same views were made public by the Chamber on a number of occasions and that the national carrier was of extreme strategic importance also for a large portion of the economy outside of Tourism.

In his reply, Minister Zammit Lewis spoke very highly of the Malta Chamber and its endeavours, its cooperation with his Ministry and the quality of feedback and ideas that it put forward.

Energy and Fuel PriceS At a meeting held on 9 February, addressed by the Minister for Energy and Health the Hon Dr Konrad Mizzi, the Malta Chamber remarked that the subject of fuel and energy prices were seen as an important determinant of competitiveness which, in turn, was a priority for the Chamber. With this in mind, the Chamber stated that it appreciates a degree of stability in fuel prices for businesses and industry but such stability must not hold the country’s competitiveness to ransom.

At the same time, the Chamber appealed for the elimination of market frictions that existed at retail level through the intervention of the pertinent regulator.

The same argument on stability was also made for energy prices and the Chamber reminded the Minister about a recommendation it had made to allow heavy energy users to hedge their price if they wished to do so, or opt for the prevailing price of energy if stability for them was not crucial. The Chamber also enquired about the dispatch rights between the various options of energy generation units.

Minister Mizzi said that the 25 per cent cut on commercial rates in March will bring Malta close to the EU average and will improve the national competitive position over the next five years during which he

reassured members of the MCESD that prices of energy would not increase. He also said that night tariffs would be reduced to 7c comparing well with those in countries such as Germany.

Malta – EU Steering Action Committee: MEUSAC

During the year under review, the Malta Chamber’s representatives on the MEUSAC core group, Mr Chris Vassallo Cesareo and Mr Andre Fenech, were actively involved in several meetings on a variety of subjects.

MEUSAC core group meetings The Malta Chamber’s representatives attended a number of meetings which focused specifically on a number of topics which included Government’s preparatory work for Malta’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union during the first months of 2017, a joint MEUSAC-MCESD meeting to discuss the National Reform Programme 2014. Towards the end of May, the core group also met some of the newly elected Maltese Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) to discuss the committees they were to sit on and to create stronger links for the local MEPs to consult local stakeholders. The core groups also held a number of meetings with the Prime Minister prior to each European Council to discuss the council’s agenda. Amongst the issues raised were the new European Investment plan, the formation of the new European Commission, employment and competitiveness. Another item discussed at MEUSAC were the negotiations related to the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP), which is a free trade and investment treaty currently being negotiated between the European Union and the United States. Mr Vassallo Cesareo and Mr Fenech participated actively during these meetings and on many occasions presented the Malta Chamber’s positions on the matters at hand.

Consultation meetings on proposed EU legislation Mr Andre Fenech, attended a number of consultation meetings organised by MESUAC on a number of proposed EU legislation ranging from lightweight plastic bags, TTIP, ICT skills, waste management, environmental impact assessments amongst others.

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Examination Services IELTS (International English Language Testing System) In today’s world it is becoming increasingly important not only to know the English language but also to demonstrate such knowledge through credible and trusted third party certification such as that provided by the International English Language Testing System - IELTS. Such requirements usually arise at the place of work, in education and in cases of emigration.

Businesses that require client-facing employees to be proficient in the English language are increasingly requiring potential applicants to submit an IELTS test report form as part of the recruitment process. This will confirm their ability to communicate in English across all four language skills – listening, reading, writing and speaking.

Many students travel to Malta to study English language, practise their skills within the community, and assess their proficiency by attaining an IELTS qualification. Such certification is usually a pre-requisite for students from non-English speaking countries who wish to further their education in English speaking universities and centres of higher education.

Finally, proof of ability to communicate in English is usually demanded from persons who would like to emigrate, attain professional registration or seek employment opportunities in various countries such as Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States of America.

The Malta Chamber was appointed as the only official IELTS testing centre in Malta in 1998 and it has been offering this service ever since. There has been a constant growth in the demand for IELTS testing in Malta in the last few years and in 2014 IELTS Malta offered 16 test sessions for a total of 886 candidates – a 20 per cent increase over the preceding year.

Much of IELTS reputation can be attributed to the rigorous quality standards it demands from all its test centres. In August IELTS conducted an unscheduled audit of the Malta Centre covering all aspects of its operations ranging from Centre Management, to Results Processing, Records Management, Management of IELTS Materials, and the Customer Journey. The outcome of the audit was very positive with 100 per cent compliance rating being achieved in many of the areas audited.

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This year, for the first time, the Malta Centre was a main sponsor of the third edition of the annual English Language Teaching conference, which took place between 24 and 26 October 2014. The conference, which emphasised the significance of continuing professional development for teachers of English in Malta, was organised by the English as a Foreign Language Monitoring Board and was attended by around 300 delegates, working in both private language schools and the mainstream educational sector.

Throughout the conference, the Malta Centre had a manned stand promoting the IELTS test and showcasing IELTS materials.

Additional information pertaining to the IELTS test can be sourced at www.maltachamber.org.mt/ielts

Surveys The Malta Chamber, in collaboration with PricewaterhouseCoopers, continued to conduct its monthly business surveys during 2014. The Industry, Investment, Construction, Services and Retail surveys are part of the European Commission’s Joint Harmonised EU Programme of Business and Consumer Surveys (BCS).

The objective of these surveys is to gauge perceptions and expectations of operators in the above sectors.

Internationally, these surveys serve as a lead and timely indicator of actual performance and the data gathered is used to build composite indicators to track cyclical movements, both in specific sectors and also in the economy as a whole. However, they are not meant to substitute official data on the performance of the sector.

Emphasis is on short-term performance rather than on structural issues which would require more in-depth study. The programme allows for comparisons among different countries’ business cycles and has become a recognised tool for monitoring the evolution of the EU and the euro area economies, and applicant countries.

In November 2014, Malta Chamber Head – Quality and Administration John B Scicluna and Executive – Policy Marilena Gauci attended the annual workshop on business and consumer surveys organised by the European Commission in Brussels. The workshop was attended by representatives from various institutes and organisations that undertake the surveys in their respective countries throughout the EU. The workshop allowed participants to share their ongoing working experience, reached a conclusion for actions on further harmonisation of specific data, and included a number of technical presentations which explored the possibilities for current economic indications, as well as forecasting through the use of data gathered by the BCS.

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Administration

ISO 9001:2008

Staff Three new employees joined the Malta Chamber during 2014. In July Mr Edward Bonello took up the post of Communications Manager Mr Nigel Mifsud, Executive – Sectors joined the Chamber August and Ms Cheryl Cardona, Front Officer Coordinator was recruited in September.

The Malta Chamber has been certified by the Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority to comply with the requirements of MSA ISO 9001:2008 since December 2010.

Certificates of Origin During 2013 the Malta Chamber issued 2,873 certificates of origin.

The scope of the Malta Chamber Quality Management System (QMS) is to support, safeguard and promote the interests of members and influence the formation of policy at National and European level. The QMS is designed to provide documented procedures and a control mechanism to assure the quality of its service, provide controls for the prevention of non-conformities, and assure consistent delivery.

Maintenance In 2014 repair work was carried out on the St Frederick Street side of the Exchange Buildings. Damaged stones were replaced and the entire façade was cleaned and restored. A faulty beam was replaced as was the wooden handrail of the balconies in the Sir Agostino Portelli Hall.

The Malta Chamber monitors the effectiveness of its QMS, and its compliance with the requirements of the standard, through regular Internal Audits and Management Review Meetings.

However, this year a great deal of work also went into further development, where the need was felt to enhance the service provision of the Malta Chamber to its clients. In fact the Malta Chamber updated 7 procedures, 1 form (and introduced 1 new one), and 6 work instructions.

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Public Relations and Communications The Malta Chamber has in the past 12 months continued to consolidate its strong presence on the various national media channels, by contributing to the national debate on matters of economic matters. On various occasions, Malta Chamber officials were invited to provide the point of view of the Chamber on current affairs TV programmes such as Reporter, TVAM and Newsfeed, radio shows like Għandi xi Ngħid, news bulletin features, newspaper articles as well as regular opinion pieces. On various occasions the Times of Malta singled out the sterling work of the Malta Chamber and its researched opinions in its leading articles.

During the period in review, the Malta Chamber issued 33 Press Releases which were in turn covered extensively by the media, the Malta Chamber web portal maltachamber.org.mt was regularly kept updated with information of interest to members, and the weekly newsletter Chamberlink was received by members a total of 50 times.

Chamberlink underwent a process of redesign, as it migrated to a digital platform in July 2014.

The newsletter is now sent to subscribers electronically as it sports a fresher design which links and directs traffic to articles on the Malta Chamber website. The digital platform allows the Chamber to monitor the patterns and feedback of the newsletter and hence provides an opportunity for timely adjustments to the formula. Slight variables are adjusted from time to time, in order to test the viability of the newsletter such as content style, choice of images and the occurrence of the newsletter. This process is ongoing.

Six issues of Commercial Courier were published during the period in review, and were duly sent to all Malta Chamber members. The bi-monthly publication once again featured numerous researched articles about an array of subjects, interviews with Malta’s leading politicians,

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Marking its publication of “An Economic Vision for Malta 2014-2020”, the Malta Chamber also published a commemorative publication on the same subject, which was also sent to all members. Titled “Economic Vision for Malta: The Way Forward”, the publication took a behind the scenes glance at the workings of the Economic Vision, and interviewed some of the individuals behind it. The publication also took the views of the Prime Minister, Leader of the Opposition, and speakers for the Economy on both sides of Parliament. They all had words of praise for the Malta Chamber’s proactive initiative in publishing the document.

authority officials and academics, as well as insights in business sectors.

On a lighter note, the Exchange Buildings served as the backdrop for an episode of the popular TVM programme ‘Madwarna’ hosted by Salvu Mallia. The show, which shares with viewers intriguing facts about history and historical buildings around Malta, dedicated an entire episode to the Exchange Building and the Malta Chamber, detailing the historical importance of the edifice and the organisation it houses.

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Press Releases 2014 03 27

Minister for Energy and Conservation of Water addresses Members of the Malta Chamber

2014 03 27

When business works better, the country works better

2014 04 01

Free movement of goods does not equate to free for all

2014 05 06

Malta Chamber takes contentious matter to Parliament

2014 05 14

Business Sentiment Is Leading to a Decline in Commercial Lending

2014 05 15

Developing ongoing contact and dialogue

2014 05 20

Business will not be dragged into politics

2014 06 20

Time is of Essence in the Reduction of Industry Electricity Tariffs

2014 07 03

Chamber Vindicated by Prime Minister Announcement on Fair Level Playing Field

2014 07 22

Economic Vision

2014 08 18

Business should benefit from Blackout compensation

2014 08 20

Higher cargo handling charges will make Malta less competitive

2014 08 26

Manpower survey needed to assure sustainable employment with public service

2014 09 03

Malta Chamber calls on parties to keep competitiveness as No1 priority

2014 09 09

Taxpayers Must Not Be Taken For A Ride

2014 09 16

Malta Chamber comments on Fitch Rating and other recent international reports on Malta

2014 09 23 Malta Chamber of Commerce and University to support Pharmacists for Postgraduate Doctorate in Pharmacy 2014 09 25

BUSINESSEUROPE congratulates Malta Chamber of Commerce

2014 10 01

Business Council established between Malta Chamber of Commerce and Omani counterpart

2014 10 15 Opening address by Mr David G. Curmi, President on occasion of a dialogue session for members of the

Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry with the Prime Minister of Malta, the Hon Dr Joseph Muscat 2014 10 22

COLA for 2015

2014 10 22

Mr John Huber Re-elected Director on the EUROCHAMBRES’ Board, Budgetary Committee

2014 10 22

Malta Chamber attends European Parliament for Enterprises

2014 10 24

Malta Chamber meets EESC’s President of the Employers Group

2014 10 30

Malta Chamber welcomes action against workers’ abuse

2014 11 20

Competitiveness is a serious matter

2014 11 17 A Public Private Collaboration for Economic Prosperity: A Preliminary Reaction by the Malta Chamber to the Budget Speech 2014 12 12

Distribution of medicines to the homes of the elderly

2015 01 12

Property tax to have an adverse effect on market

2015 01 15

Malta Chamber calls on all stakeholders to abandon past practices and focus on sustainability for Air Malta

2015 01 15

Malta Chamber welcomes two high level international delegations in one day

2015 01 30

Malta Chamber urges Government to lower fuel, utility prices

2015 02 05

Maxim of quality needed in open air market move

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International Scene BUSINESSEUROPE BUSINESSEUROPE is the leading business lobby group in Europe. It is recognised as a social partner and it represents all-sized enterprises in 33 European countries. Its direct members are the national business federations in each respective State.

During the year in review, the Malta Chamber participated in two Councils of Presidents meetings presided by BusinessEurope President Emma Marcegaglia, one in May which took place in Athens, and one in November which took place in Rome.

On both occasions the Malta Chamber was represented

by President Mr David G. Curmi and Director General Mr Kevin J. Borg. The agenda at the May meeting included an exchange of views with the Greek Minister of Development and Competitiveness, Kostis Hatzidakis on Industrial competitiveness and how his country was dealing with this challenge.

Following, a discussion on the status of the European economy ensued, which was opened with a presentation of the results of a pan-European survey of national economic indicators undertaken in April. The Main results showed that Europe’s economic recovery was gaining strength, with GDP expected to grow by 1.6 per cent in the EU in 2014 and by 1.2 per cent in the Euro Area.

The meeting also discussed the international scenario and thus was dominated by the situation unfolding in Ukraine particularly with regards to business-related implications such as the black-listing of EU companies by the Ukrainian Government. Particular concern was shown by representatives of the Latvian, Polish, Estonian, Finnish and Lithuanian Federations.

The meeting also discussed the then upcoming European Parliamentary Elections scheduled for May 2014 and the role of Federations in the respective MEP campaigns. Several Federations (in particular France, the Netherlands, UK) expressed concern of negative electoral outcomes as a result of protest votes going to EU sceptic parties and possible low turn-outs.

In conclusion the BUSINESSEUROPE Council of Presidents received an update on the status of negotiations and discussion on the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP).

In Rome, the Malta Chamber was represented by President Mr David G. Curmi and Director General, Kevin J. Borg. At an official dinner at Galleria Doria Pamphili, BusinessEurope President, Emma Marcegaglia spoke about the 10 priorities which BusinessEurope had recommended to Jean-Claude Junker in advance of the publication of the new Commission’s plan of action.

The following day, the meeting started with an exchange of views with the Italian Prime Minister, Matteo Renzi. Mr Renzi outlined the importance of implementing reform both in Italy and in Europe in an effort to ensure competitiveness and jobs. He outlined his message of radical change in 7 points based on Education, Fiscal System, Public administration, Justice, Labour Market Structures, Electoral Law and Constitutional Reform.

He also outlined his message of growth for Europe specifically the need to be forward looking and ready to implement the necessary process of change. Europe, according to Renzi, needed to focus less on enforcing its bureaucratic systems and more on the channels to future growth that lie in the digital economy, technology and education. He commended the introduction of the EU Investment Plan.

The Council of Presidents resumed with its agenda, following which it received a presentation on BusinessEurope’s draft position paper and expectations on President Juncker’s €315bn investment plan which was to be unveiled in the days immediately after the meeting.

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The malTa chamber of commerce, enTerprise and indusTry AnnuAL ADMInISTRATIvE REPORT 2014

EUROCHAMBRES Created in 1958, EUROCHAMBRES is the European Association of Chambers of Commerce and Industry, and forms one of the key pillars of business representation to the European institutions.

EUROCHAMBRES voices the interest of over 19 million member enterprises in 45 European countries through a network of 2000 regional and local Chambers represented by 45 national and one transnational organisation.

The Malta Chamber has been a member of EUROCHAMBRES since 2004, having been an associate between 1989 and 2004.

John Huber re-elected Eurochambres’ Director as well as Member to the Strategic and Budgetary Committees Malta Chamber Council member, Mr John A. Huber was re-elected as a Director on the EUROCHAMBRES Board. Furthermore, he was also elected to sit on the Eurochambres Budgetary committee.

These elections took place during the 115th Plenary Assembly.

The main role of the budgetary committee is to oversee the organisation’s overall finances and present them during plenary assemblies in which all the European Chambers are represented.

115th Eurochambres Plenary Assembly Mr Huber, accompanied by the Director General represented the Malta Chamber at the Eurochambres’ 115th plenary assembly held in Brussels on the 17th October.

This forum was an opportunity to meet and discuss bilateral cooperation with the other 46 delegations.

The Assembly was addressed by Mr Vincent Degert, Head of Division, European External Action Service, Directorate for Russia, Eastern Partnership, Central Asia, Regional Cooperation and OSCE. The theme of his presentation was “EU-Russia Relations and the Impact of Sanctions”.

Furthermore, the Assembly discussed routine administrative matters such as the President’s Report; 2015 Priorities; Budgetary Issues; Membership; and

Elections for Board of Directors, Vice Presidents and the Budgetary Committee.

Eurochambres Economic Survey 2014-2015 The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry participated in the annual Economic Survey on Business Expectations and Performance in the Maltese Islands for the 15th consecutive year. The survey is part of a pan-European exercise co-ordinated by Eurochambres.

The EUROCHAMBRES Economic Survey (EES) is the largest European qualitative survey of business expectations. Its annual survey is conducted across the whole of Europe and gathers the expectations of approximately 53,000 businesses on six economic indicators: business confidence, total turnover, domestic sales, export sales, employment and investment.

The results of the European Economic Survey 20142015 were derived from a series of questions that, for the first time, introduced considerations regarding Risk, omitted reference to the value of annual Turnover and aggregated the replies to businesses in general without distinguishing between the sectors of Manufacturing and Services. This year’s approach thus focused solely on the business community’s results for 2014 and their expectations for 2015 and bypassed the statistical problem arising from sample size.

Twenty four per cent of the Chamber’s membership participated in this year’s survey. Aggregate demand for the businesses surveyed was described as weak for 2014 but having a more promising outcome in 2015.

Local sales were reportedly hard hit and net exports performance was at a standstill. However, data referring to investment and employment was quite positive for both years, while business sentiment was overall favourable.

European Parliament for Enterprises On 16th of October, a Malta Chamber delegation headed by Deputy President Anton Borg attended the third European Parliament for Enterprises (EPE) organised by Eurochambres at the European Parliament Hemicycle in Brussels. Over 750 SMEs from the 45 European countries attended this year’s event.

The concept of the EPE originated from the consideration that there exists a democratic gap between the EU institutions and the main actors of economic growth which are the entrepreneurs.

The event was addressed by amongst others, the President of the European Parliament Mr Martin Schulz, Eurochambres President and Secretary General, Mr Richard Weber and Mr Arnaldo Abruzzini respectively.

The malTa chamber of commerce, enTerprise and indusTry AnnuAL ADMInISTRATIvE REPORT 2014

During the EPE, entrepreneurs also exercised their voting rights on major EU business-related issues.

These included four different sessions which focused on issues of interest to the business community. These included finance, internationalisation, energy and skills.

Mr Anton Borg addressed the plenary meeting of the European Parliament of Enterprises. During his intervention that focused on the needs of isolated states and regions such as Malta, Mr Borg explained that these countries’ limitations such as external dependencies and remote insularity keep such regions from achieving competitive electricity rates and affect cost competitiveness of all economic sectors particularly industry and tourism He appealed for the adoption of the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, rather than a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach, so as to recognise differences between countries’ economic and technical capacity to tackle certain inherent challenges.

For further info on proceedings please refer to: www.eurochambres.eu/content

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European Economic and Social Committee It was another busy year at the European Economic and Social Committee as the economic crises and the lack of growth continued to dominate the European agenda.

The EESC brings together the European representatives of employers, unions and civil society with Malta having 5 members. The debate within the EESC for 2014 on the issue of economic growth has centred around the approach taken by the EU to address the crises and what tools are best used to take Europe forward.

This debate has brought to the fore the often different philosophies of the Employers’ and Unions’ groups with the former arguing for more economic reform whilst the latter advocate a more social Europe. Stefano Mallia who represents Maltese employers within the EESC, was often the appointed spokesperson to represent the views of the Employers’ Group during the debates in plenary which often involved high ranking European officials. One such debate dealt with Europe 2020, the EU’s growth strategy where Mallia whilst addressing President Barroso said that Europe was losing its way on growth and that an urgent and serious review was required.

Irregular immigration in the Mediterranean was another issue that Stefano Mallia worked on extensively during 2014. Although strictly speaking this is not considered to be a business issue, immigration was considered a priority given its national importance. Following on from the 2013 EESC report which was authored by Mr Mallia, efforts continued to be made to push the European authorities and indeed the Member States themselves to take real concrete action to assist the frontier Member States to handle the heavy inflows of people attempting to reach Europe through dangerous journeys across the Mediterranean. As a result of these efforts, the EESC issued a declaration urging the EU to take note of the volatile situation in Libya and to allocate more resources to the frontier Member States.

In 2014 Mr Mallia who represents Maltese employers within the EESC, consolidated his position as vicepresident of the employers’ group, taking a more active role within the Committee on issues such as industrial policy, regional policy and Cohesion Funds, state aid, tourism and the Trans-Atlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP).

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The malTa chamber of commerce, enTerprise and indusTry AnnuAL ADMInISTRATIvE REPORT 2014

Malta Business Bureau During 2014, the MBB had various unprecedented achievements, which are expected to lead to more ambitious projects in the upcoming years.

Publications The MBB edited a publication in collaboration with the other Maltese business representatives, highlighting their priorities and expectations in view of the European Elections that were held in 2014. The manifesto was entitled “We’re in business together” and collected a number of recommendations for the MEP candidates to actuate once they become members of the European Parliament.

Recommendations put forward by the MBB highlighted ways that the MEPs can improve the promotion of business interests in Europe. One way that this can be achieved is for them to have constant contact with business organisations in order to ensure that MEPs will be up to date with what is currently at European Commission proposal stage, as well as the position of the Maltese business towards it.

They should also pursue better inter-parliamentary collaboration between the European Parliament and the shadow committees tasked with the equivalent scope of activities within the National House of Representatives.

This would allow for a framework whereby the House of Representatives tasks elected MEPs with debriefings of the ongoing work in the various European Parliament committees in order to ensure that the National Parliament is kept as up to date as much as possible.

EU Funded Projects (i) Investing in Water Project 2014 saw the successful conclusion of the EU LIFE+ Investing in Water project, which by the end of it announced savings of 141,000,000 litres per annum amongst businesses and hotels collaborating with the project.

The project carried out audits in 135 enterprises and the amount of water being saved is enough to meet all the needs of 2 medium sized four star hotels and 3 large water-consuming factories. Furthermore, some enterprises are still in the process of planning or implementing water saving measures, and the amount of water saved in the long term is therefore expected to increase further.

Through its Investing in Water Project, the MBB was awarded first place at the 4th edition of the National Enterprise Support Awards. This was organised by the Commerce Department which forms part of the Ministry

for the Economy, Investment and Small Business.

Subsequently, as a result of this award, the MBB was nominated to compete in the prestigious European Enterprise Promotion Awards and classified runner-up in the ‘Supporting the development of green markets and resource efficiency’ category. Furthermore, MBB project manager Geoffrey Saliba was presented with an award by the European Projects Association for his role in managing the EU LIFE+ Investing in Water Project, at an awards event held at the European Parliament.

Looking forward, following consultation with the Malta Chamber and MHRA, in 2014 the MBB submitted an application for a new EU LIFE+ project that will focus on Energy Efficiency. The outcome of this application is expected for mid-2015. (ii) ESF 4.245 Innovation Leaders: Improving Knowledge on EU Direct Funds In November 2014, the Malta Business Bureau announced its new European Social Fund project: ESF 4.245 - Innovation Leaders: Improving Knowledge on EU Direct Funds.

The ESF-funded programme will provide training on the three EU direct funding programmes of great benefit to private industry: Horizon 2020, Erasmus+ and Creative Europe. The MBB aims to create a Learning and Exchange Network on EU direct funding programmes in co-ordination with its Brussels-based transnational partner, the European Projects Association (EPA).

This network will act as a “train-the-trainers” structure revolving around training key individuals from private enterprises, on how EU direct funding works, the identification of potential project opportunities, the process of filling out an application, the structuring of project consortia as well as project implementation and reporting, all under the direct mentoring of the expert trainers sourced through the EPA network of experts.

Participants will be required to work on simulated proposals as an integral part of their training programme. The most feasible proposals will be selected to attend an institutional study visit in Brussels organised by the MBB in conjunction with the EPA. For more information on the ESF4.245 project contact MBB Project Coordinator Karla Chetcuti Bonavita on karla@mbb.org.mt or 2125 1719.

The malTa chamber of commerce, enTerprise and indusTry AnnuAL ADMInISTRATIvE REPORT 2014

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Information Seminars and Conferences

JANUARY – The European Commission, in collaboration with the Malta Business Bureau, held a business seminar aimed at informing businesses on the EU’s measures to facilitate cross border business and debt recovery in the European single market. The event was held as part of a European Commission’s campaign to help SMEs recover debts across borders. This aims to inform SMEs on how to take advantage of existing laws and tools in order to pursue debtors in other countries more successfully.

FEBRUARY – Anticipating the changes of a new EU Regulation on the provision of food labelling and information to consumers, the MBB organised two practical workshop sessions aimed at educating and informing the hospitality sector and food importers.

This was done in conjunction with the British High Commission.

The new regulation includes a requirement to state nutritional information on processed foods, the origin of unprocessed meat from pigs, sheep, goats and poultry. Furthermore it became mandatory to highlight allergens, such as peanuts or milk, in the lists of ingredients.

MAY – A political debate held by the MBB highlighted that safeguarding competitiveness through economic growth, environmental protection, and social responsibility should be priority for the next European Parliament legislature (2014-2019). The debate, entitled “European Elections – Debating the Real European Issues” focused on issues at a European level which will

be tackled by the newly elected European Parliament over the next five years. Such issues will also have a profound impact upon the business community at large.

SEPTEMBER – The MBB collaborated with the European Union Programmes Agency and Agenzija Zghazagh in organising a high-profile round-table event that focused on bridging the communication between the private sector and youth workers/career advisors. The session explored in what ways youths’ attitude and soft skills determines the selection for a job. This was reflected particularly in the context of low skilled jobs that do not require a high level of education. This was part of an Erasmus+ project entitled ‘Cross Over’, aiming to foster cooperation between organisations in the fields of youth work and non-formal learning for young people.

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The malTa chamber of commerce, enTerprise and indusTry AnnuAL ADMInISTRATIvE REPORT 2014

OCTOBER – The MBB and the Ministry for the Economy, Investment and Small Business organized a business seminar on start-ups and crowdfunding as part of the 2014 SME Week Activities. Among other key note speakers, Oliver Gajda, President of the European Crowdfunding Network, addressed the seminar. Mr Gajda discussed the surge of crowdfunding in recent years and how this offered an alternative financing means to start-ups and SMEs at a time when the credit market was slowly recovering from the economic crisis.

Participation in International Forums

MARCH – Following a nomination by BUSINESSEUROPE, MBB CEO Joe Tanti participated in the first of a series of workshops that focus on the modernisation of higher education under the strategic framework of “Education and Training 2020”. The working group aims to enable policymakers, on the basis of country evidence, national and institutional good practices, to develop effective strategies for reforms and to identify the conditions needed for implementing these.

JUNE – MBB CEO Joe Tanti represented Eurochambres in a dialogue meeting on higher education, with the participation of southern Mediterranean representatives.

This forum was setup by DG Education and Culture in 2012 with the objective of providing a regional platform for policy dialogue on higher education, and to share good practice as well as experience among the participants.

OCTOBER – MBB President Mario Spiteri, CEO Joe Tanti, and Permanent Delegate Omar Cutajar, accompanied the Malta Chamber delegation at the European Parliament for Enterprises in Brussels. The Maltese delegation was led by Deputy President Anton Borg, and also included members of the Chamber’s Council and Board of Management.

NOVEMBER – MBB President Mario Spiteri was invited to participate on a panel debate by Eurochambres. Mr Spiteri shared his experience as an entrepreneur as well as his views on the challenges of SMEs to access finance. The workshop’s objective was to come up

with a set of recommendations for SMEs in general to improve their prospects of accessing finance, for national and EU institutions to set up a vision and introduce effective solutions for SME financing. Mr Spiteri was also accompanied by the MBB Permanent Delegate Omar Cutajar.

Malta Business Bureau – Looking ahead The MBB has high hopes for 2015. It has restructured itself internally to embark on an effective lobbying strategy in Brussels. It identified a number of issues that are of most relevance to Maltese businesses and developed a position with specific recommendations on each of the topics. A series of meetings are continuously being held with EU officials and MEPs in order to communicate the MBB proposals and ensure that EU legislation is drafted in a way to be positively perceived by Maltese businesses.

2015 will also see the MBB joining the Malta Chamber, Malta Enterprise and the Malta Council for Science and Technology in a consortium to implement the Enterprise Europe Network programme in Malta. This is an exciting project that will bring the synergies of four different organisations together in order to offer a more consolidated and added value service to Maltese enterprises, particularly the ones with the potential to internationalise.

Furthermore it will look forward to implement the ‘ESF4.425 Innovation Leaders: Improving Knowledge on EU Direct Funds’ successfully and increase the participation of private enterprise tapping EU funding.

In 2015, the MBB will continue to look for EU opportunities from which Maltese enterprises benefit. It will also commence with the preparations for its active participation in Malta’s EU Presidency taking place in 2017.

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The malTa chamber of commerce, enTerprise and indusTry AnnuAL ADMInISTRATIvE REPORT 2014

Nominees on Boards and Committees Be Smart Online Advisory Board Mr George Sammut Building Industry Consultative Council (BICC) Mr Frank V. Farrugia Mr David Xuereb Corporate Social Responsibility Task Force Mr Kevin J. Borg Crafts Council Mr Joe Said E.Business Awards - Independent Adjudication Committee Mr John B. Scicluna eSkills Board of Governors Mr Keith Fearne Employment Relations Board & Guarantee Fund Administration Board Mr Frank V. Farrugia Mr John B. Scicluna Employment and Training Corporation Mr Frank V. Farrugia Jobs Plus Committee Ms Catherine Calleja Mr Kevin J. Borg Industrial Tribunals Mr Reginald Fava Ms Mary Gaerty Ms Marlene Seychell Malta Arbitration Centre Mr David Zahra Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology - Gateway to Industry Ltd: Board of Directors Malta Council for Economic & Social Development (MCESD) Mr David G. Curmi Mr Anton Borg Mr Norman Aquilina (alternate) Mr Kevin J Borg (alternate) Malta Council for Economic & Social Development (MCESD) Restructuring Committee Mr Kevin J. Borg Malta Council for Economic & Social Development (MCESD) – Administration Committee Mr Kevin J. Borg

Malta Council for Science & Technology (MCST) Board of Directors Ms Claudine Cassar Mr Roger Galea Malta Enterprise Board of Directors Mr David G. Curmi Mr Anton Borg Malta Environment & Planning Authority (MEPA) Users’ Committee Mr Ian Mizzi Mr David Xuereb Malta Statistics Authority (representing all employers) Mr Emanuel P Delia Malta-EU Steering Action Committee (MEUSAC) Ms Claudine Cassar Mr Andre Fenech Ministry for the Economy, Investment and Small Business Family Business Act Committee Mr Lino Mintoff Ministry of Foreign Affairs Joint Stakeholders Working Council Mr Tonio Casapinta Monitoring Committee for Operational Programme II, Cohesion Policy 2007-2013: Empowering people for more jobs and better quality of life Mr Andre Fenech Mr Joe Tanti Monitoring Committee for Operational Programme I, Cohesion Policy 2007-2013: Investing in competitiveness for a better quality of life Mr Andre Fenech Mr Joe Tanti National Accreditation Board (Malta) Mr Charles M. Mercieca Mr Adrian Zahra Ing. Noel Micallef Ing. Charles Brincat National Commission for Sustainable Development Mr David Xuereb

National Employment Authority Mr Reginald Fava National R & I Strategy 2020 Core Group Mr Anton Borg National SEPA Coordination Committee Mr Peter Sant National Waste Management Plan Stakeholders Group Mr David Xuereb Panel of Assessors Mr Louis Apap-Bologna Rent Index Board Mr Reginald Fava Retail Price Index Consultative Committee Mr John B Scicluna Sectors Skill Committee Mr Anton Borg

Trade Malta Mr David G. Curmi Mr Frank V. Farrugia Mr Tonio Casapinta Valletta Alive Foundation Mr Anthony T. Camilleri Valletta 2018 Foundation Mr David G. Curmi Working Committee on Pricing of Medicine Products Mr Robert Magri Mr Daniel Vella Friggieri Working Group - Cruise Liner Operations Mr Joe Gerada Permanent Residency Scheme Commission Mr John Huber

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The malTa chamber of commerce, enTerprise and indusTry AnnuAL ADMInISTRATIvE REPORT 2014

Employers’ Nominees on Boards And Committees of the European Community (representing all Malta’s Employers) Be Smart Online Advisory Board European Agency for Health and Safety at Work - Bilbao Agency Mr John B. Scicluna European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training (CEDEFOP) Mr John A. Huber European Community Advisory Committee on Free Movement of Workers Mr John A. Huber European Community Advisory Committee on Safety & Health Protection at Work Mr John B. Scicluna European Community Advisory Committee on Social Security for Migrant Workers Mr John A. Huber European Economic and Social Committee Mr Stefano Mallia

Malta Chamber Nominees on Non-Government Boards and other Committees Be Smart Online Advisory Board European Agency for Health and Safety at Work - Bilbao Agency Brewers of Europe Mr Louis A. Farrugia Mr Anthony J. Tabone (alternate) BUSINESSEUROPE - The Confederation of European Business Mr David G. Curmi BUSINESSEUROPE Entrepreneurship and SME’s Committee Mr Lino Mintoff BUSINESSEUROPE Executive Committee Mr Kevin J Borg CEPS - European Spirits Association Mr Anthony Miceli-Demajo Conservatorio Vincenzo Bugeja Committee Mr Andrew W.J. Mamo Mr Gino Cutajar Mr David Xuereb

Enterprise Policy Group Mr Norman Aquilina EUROCHAMBRES Board of Directors Mr John A. Huber EUROCHAMBRES DG’s Committee Mr Kevin J Borg EUROCHAMBRES Strategic Committee Board of Directors Mr John A. Huber Eurofound Governing Board Mr David G. Curmi European Organisation for Quality Mr John B. Scicluna Industrial Management Development Foundation (IMDF) Mr Edmund Tabone Malta Business Foundation Mr Anton Borg Mr Charles Zahra Mr Charles Brincat Mr Mario Spiteri Malta Chamber Foundation Mr Michael Scerri Mr Norman Aquilina Mr Frank V. Farrugia Malta Community Chest Fund Mr John Huber Mr Mario Spiteri Malta Trade Fairs Corporation Mr Gino Cutajar Mr Aldo Calleja Mr Mario Spiteri Mr Charles A. Zahra Maltese-Arab Chamber of Commerce Mr Frank V. Farrugia Mr Joseph Pace Swiss-Maltese Chamber of Commerce Mr Reginald Fava