Malta Chamber issues stark warning to political leaders over campaign promises

The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry has issued a firm caution to Robert Abela and Alex Borg, urging them to abandon populist campaign pledges that could jeopardize the nation’s economic stability and business environment.

In an official letter addressed to the leaders of the Labour and Nationalist parties, Chamber President William Spiteri Bailey expressed “serious concern” regarding several “short-term” and “reckless” measures proposed during the current election cycle.

Spiteri Bailey emphasized the Chamber’s commitment to evidence-based policy, stating, “As The Malta Chamber, we have always been constructive and solutions-oriented. Our proposals are grounded in research, consultation, and international best practice. We will continue to engage in this spirit. However, we will not hesitate to speak out when proposals are clearly detrimental.”

He stressed that “populism cannot be allowed to dictate economic policy,” highlighting the disconnect between four-year political cycles and the long-term planning required by the private sector.

The Chamber president voiced particular apprehension regarding politically motivated tactics that disregard economic basics or place undue stress on employers and the labor market. He warned that such actions “risk undermining competitiveness, discouraging investment, and weakening Malta’s economic resilience at a time when global pressures are already intensifying.”

As the 2026 electoral campaign enters its second week, both major parties have introduced various voter incentives, including tax reductions and mandates for flexible working arrangements.

Spiteri Bailey noted that this current wave of campaigning contradicts the government’s own Vision 2050 strategy. He argued that the strategy “calls for a long-term, productivity-driven, and value-focused economic model,” whereas current promises “prioritise immediate electoral appeal over national interest.”

The Chamber concluded its message by calling for more responsible governance, with Spiteri Bailey writing, “We urge you to ensure that all commitments being made are credible, deliverable, and aligned with the long-term national interest. Productivity and competitiveness must remain at the core of any policy direction if we are to safeguard Malta’s future prosperity.”

 

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