The future of the construction industry in Malta

Driving along the Triq San Ġwann in Birkirkara, it’s hard to miss the forest of cranes dotting the skyline. They’re a testament to Malta’s construction boom, but what does the future hold for this industry that’s reshaping our islands? We’ve crunched the numbers, talked to the experts, and here’s what we’ve found.

Malta’s commitment to sustainability is driving a shift towards green building. By 2030, we can expect to see more projects like the Smart City in Ħal Far, a €1.4 billion development that promises to be one of Europe’s most sustainable urban projects. This means more energy-efficient buildings, renewable energy integration, and green spaces.

But it’s not just about the big projects. “We’re seeing a rise in demand for green certifications like LEED and BREEAM even in smaller residential projects,” says architect and sustainability consultant, Dr. Maria Attard. “It’s not just about compliance anymore, it’s about attracting tenants and buyers who care about sustainability.”

Tech is revolutionizing the construction industry worldwide, and Malta is no exception. BIM (Building Information Modeling) is becoming the norm, with local firms like Camenzuli & Sons and Hili Construction leading the way. “BIM allows us to detect clashes, optimize designs, and manage projects more efficiently,” says Hili Construction’s BIM manager, Stephen Attard.

Drones are also taking off, quite literally. They’re being used for site surveys, progress tracking, and even inspections. Local firm, Drone Malta, has seen a surge in demand from construction companies. “We’re seeing more innovative uses every day,” says co-founder, Mario Vella. “Recently, we helped a client monitor a concrete pour in real-time using thermal imaging.”

Malta’s construction industry employs around 12,000 people, but the sector faces a skills gap. “We need more people trained in digital skills and sustainability,” says Malta Construction Federation’s CEO, Joseph Tanti. “We’re working with educational institutions to address this, but it’s a challenge.”

The industry is also looking at ways to attract more women. “We’ve seen a slight increase in female enrollment in construction-related courses, but we need to do more,” says Dr. Attard. Initiatives like the ‘Women in Construction’ campaign by the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry are helping to raise awareness.

Malta’s construction industry is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.5% until 2030, according to a report by PwC. But this growth needs to be managed sustainably. “We need to plan for this growth, ensure we have the right skills, and protect our environment,” says Dr. Attard.

And what about those cranes on the Triq San Ġwann? They’re a symbol of Malta’s construction industry today, but in 2030, they could be a symbol of an industry that’s greener, more efficient, and more sustainable.

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