Malta

Malta is a single-chamber parliamentary republic with a head of government - the prime minister - and a head of state - the president - whose role is largely ceremonial. The country is divided into 5 regions. Each has its own regional committee, which serves as the intermediary between local and national government.

Location on the EU map

The most important sectors of Malta’s economy in 2020 were public administration, defence, education, human health and social work activities (18.3%), Professional, scientific and technical activities; administrative and support service activities (17.3%) and wholesale and retail trade, transport, accommodation and food services (14.0%).

Intra-EU trade accounts for 50% of Malta’s exports (Germany 17%, France 9% and Italy 7%), while outside the EU 6% go to both Singapore and Hong Kong.

In terms of imports, 57% come from EU Member States (Italy 20% and Germany and France 7%), while outside the EU 8% come from China and the United Kingdom.

European Parliament

There are 6 members of the European Parliament from Malta. Find out who these MEPs are.

European Parliament office in Malta

Council of the EU

In the Council of the EU, national ministers meet regularly to adopt EU laws and coordinate policies. Council meetings are regularly attended by representatives from the Maltese government, depending on the policy area being addressed.

Presidency of the Council of the EU

The Council of the EU doesn't have a permanent, single-person president (like e.g. the Commission or Parliament). Instead, its work is led by the country holding the Council presidency, which rotates every 6 months.

During these 6 months, ministers from that country's government chair and help determine the agenda of Council meetings in each policy area, and facilitate dialogue with the other EU institutions.

Dates of Maltese presidencies:

Jan-Jun 2017

Presidency of the Council of the EU

Current presidency of the Council of the EU

European Commission

The Commissioner nominated by Malta to the European Commission is Helena Dalli, who is responsible for Equality.

The Commission is represented in each EU country by a local office, called a "representation".

Commission representation in Malta

European Economic & Social Committee

Malta has 5 representatives on the European Economic and Social Committee. This advisory body – representing employers, workers and other interest groups – is consulted on proposed laws, to get a better idea of the possible changes to work and social situations in member countries.

European Committee of the Regions

Malta has 5 representatives on the European Committee of the Regions, the EU's assembly of regional and local representatives. This advisory body is consulted on proposed laws, to ensure these laws take account of the perspective from each region of the EU.

Permanent representation to the EU

Malta also communicates with the EU institutions through its permanent representation in Brussels. As Malta's "embassy to the EU", its main task is to ensure that the country's interests and policies are pursued as effectively as possible in the EU.

How much does Malta pay and receive?

How much each EU country pays into the EU budget is calculated fairly, according to means. The larger your country's economy, the more it pays – and vice versa.
The EU budget doesn't aim to redistribute wealth, but rather focuses on the needs of Europeans as a whole. 

Figures on the EU budget, revenue and spending:

• EU budget
• EU spending & revenue by year and by country

EU-funded projects in Malta

The money paid into the EU budget by Malta helps fund programmes and projects in all EU countries - like building roads, subsidising researchers and protecting the environment.

Find out more about how Malta benefits from EU funding.