SMEs Sound Alarm: Electoral Promises Made Without Their Voice

Imagine this: you’re a small business owner in Malta, bustling around Republic Street, trying to keep your enterprise afloat. Suddenly, it’s election time. Promises are flying left and right, but you’re not sure if anyone’s listening to your concerns. That’s the reality the Malta Chamber of SMEs (Għaqda Ħieles u Żgħażagħ) is warning about.

Promises in the Air, Consultation Nowhere

The Chamber has raised the red flag, stating that political parties are making electoral promises without consulting the very people who’ll be affected – the small and medium enterprises (SMEs). These are the backbone of Malta’s economy, employing around 60% of the private sector workforce. Yet, their voices seem to be lost in the political rhetoric.

“We’re seeing promises on tax cuts, on incentives, on regulations. But are these promises based on what SMEs actually need? We don’t know because no one’s asked us,” says Marthese Portelli, the Chamber’s President. She’s not mincing her words, and she’s not alone. Many SME owners feel the same way.

Local Impact: From Birkirkara to Żurrieq

From the bustling streets of Birkirkara to the quieter lanes of Żurrieq, SMEs are the lifeblood of Malta’s towns and villages. Yet, their concerns aren’t being heard, according to the Chamber. Take, for instance, the promise of digital transformation. While it’s great in theory, many SMEs lack the resources to implement it. They need help, not just promises.

“We need practical solutions, not just words,” says Joseph Xuereb, owner of a small retail outlet in Żurrieq. “I’m not against progress, but I need help to keep up. I’m not sure any of the parties understand that.”

What SMEs Want: A Practical Wishlist

The Chamber has a wishlist for the next government. It’s not about grand gestures, but practical steps that can help SMEs thrive. This includes tax incentives for investment in technology, easier access to finance, and a simplification of regulations.

“We’re not asking for the moon,” says Portelli. “We’re asking for practical steps that can make a real difference to SMEs. We’re the ones creating jobs, driving the economy. We deserve a say in what happens next.”

So, as the election season heats up, remember the SMEs. They’re not just numbers on a spreadsheet. They’re the people serving you your morning coffee, fixing your car, selling you your vegetables. They deserve a voice, and they deserve to be heard.