€1 million investment made to modernise Malta’s Public Abattoir

An investment of approximately €1 million in the Public Abattoir in Marsa is set to significantly modernise Malta’s meat sector, with the introduction of an innovative vertical pig dehairing system, the Ministry for Agriculture said in a statement.

The announcement was made during Festa Laħam 2026.

The project, co-financed by the European Union with a 60% contribution, replaces traditional processing methods with a modern system that allows for greater precision, reduced water and energy consumption, and improved operational efficiency. The upgrade is expected to increase processing capacity while ensuring higher quality standards.

A key advantage of the new system is its ability to handle significantly larger carcasses – up to 250 kilograms, compared to the previous limit of around 120 kilograms. This development opens up new opportunities for Maltese farmers to diversify production and tap into niche markets, including premium products such as prosciutto, pancetta, and guanciale.

The investment also enhances workplace health and safety by reducing manual handling and lowering the risk of injuries, creating a safer environment for workers.

Agriculture Minister Anton Refalo described the initiative as a clear example of the government’s vision to strengthen the agricultural sector and increase the added value of local products. He emphasised the government’s commitment to continued investment in modern technology and advanced infrastructure to build a more sustainable, efficient, and competitive meat industry.

Meanwhile, European Funds Minister Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi highlighted the role of EU funding in supporting the project, noting that €350,000 of the total investment comes from European funds. He stressed the importance of strategic investments that sustainably reinforce key sectors of Malta’s economy.

Public Abattoir Director Stefan Cachia added that the new system will further improve operational efficiency while raising national standards in meat processing.

Festa Laħam 2026 was also hailed as a success, attracting large numbers of Maltese families, the Ministry said. Visitors enjoyed a wide selection of traditional and innovative meat products, live cooking sessions, and educational activities for children, including contributions from Esplora. The event centred on quality, agri-food heritage, innovation, and community engagement.

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