Members of the Gozo Regional Committee (GRC) recently met with the Leader of the Opposition Alex Borg as part of the consultation process ahead of Budget 2027.
The Gozo Chamber was represented by Michael Galea, President of the Chamber and Chair of the GRC, Daniel Borg, CEO, and Perit Edward Scerri.
Michael Galea outlined the work being carried out by the GRC and presented an overview of its proposals, focusing on five principal areas: connectivity, economic diversification, education, health and the environment.
On connectivity, he highlighted strategic priorities including the expansion of Mgarr Harbour, the need for a second access road to the harbour, and the development of a logistics hub capable of supporting the needs of Gozitan businesses.
Daniel Borg focused on the need to strengthen Gozo’s innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystem. He highlighted the potential of the Gozo Innovation Hub to become a genuine platform for start-ups, scale-ups, co-working, mentoring and networking.
He also stressed the importance of developing local talent and creating opportunities in areas including AI, cybersecurity, green technologies, med-tech, agri-tech, digital media and other digitally enabled sectors.
Particular emphasis was also placed on encouraging young Gozitans to consider entrepreneurship, building on initiatives such as the Chamber’s Youth4Entrepreneurship, while creating concrete pathways through which promising ideas can eventually be implemented.
Perit Edward Scerri addressed a number of issues relating to the quality of Gozo’s existing infrastructure and built environment. He stressed that open spaces should not simply be residual spaces, while also highlighting the need for broader educational opportunities in Gozo, including specialised areas such as restoration.
He also referred to the potential for a stronger role for Local Councils, the critical shortage of suitable building stone in Gozo, the challenges being faced by smaller contractors, and the need for long-term measures to address demographic and family-related challenges in Malta and Gozo.
The Gozo Business Chamber said that it will ”continue contributing constructively to discussions with all stakeholders so that Gozo’s specific realities, economic needs and long-term priorities remain firmly on the national agenda.”
Photo: GBC