Malta bids to increase its share of the conference market

Since joining the EU in 2004, Malta has benefited from improvement funds in excess of £550 million. The majority of this has been used to develop the transport infrastructure and the countries historic venues. Next year, Malta joins the euro and the Malta Tourist Authority (MTA) is keen to assure event planners that the destination will continue to offer the same value for money.

The Government, wary of the price increases that have been a feature of previous changeovers to the euro zone, has set up the national Euro Changeover Committee. This body will regulate the changeover and closely monitor its effects. Although the changeover does not take effect until 1 January 2008, prices are already been shown in euros and Maltese Lira.

Valetta Waterfront

Although it has been able to offer accommodation in 13 five star hotels and boast impressive conference facilities, Malta has not been able to provide a conference venue capable of accommodating the really large international events.

This has now changed with the opening of the Malta Fairs and Convention Centre (MFCC).

The venue will ultimately be able to accommodate up to 10,000 people seated but will initially focus on the international associations market and conferences of around 3,000 delegates.

Malta is ideally located with easy access from around the UK and a great choice of hotels, activities and dining options. In addition, the professional expertise in event production, exhibitions, hospitality and destination management is already in place. The friendly and hardworking people of Malta have always been regarded as its greatest asset and their determination to succeed will be a key element in the further development of the market. 

The MTA is confident that the infrastructure investment will enable the country to compete to increase its share of the MICE market over the coming years.