Five Takeaways from the Leaders’ SME Chamber Debate

Malta’s political heavyweights faced off at the Malta Chamber of SMEs last night, their voices echoing through the grand halls of the Auberge de Castille. The debate, a first of its kind, saw Prime Minister Robert Abela and Opposition Leader Bernard Grech lock horns over the future of Malta’s small and medium enterprises.

1. The elephant in the room: COVID-19 recovery

The pandemic loomed large over the debate, with both leaders outlining their plans to revive Malta’s economy. Abela, the incumbent, stressed the government’s €1.3 billion recovery plan, highlighting investments in infrastructure and support for businesses. Grech, on the other hand, criticized the government’s handling of the crisis, promising a ‘new deal’ for SMEs if elected.

2. The great divide: Taxation and regulation

Taxation and regulation emerged as a key point of contention. Abela defended the government’s tax reforms, arguing they had made Malta’s tax system more competitive. Grech, however, accused the government of ‘taxing the poor to give to the rich’, promising a review of the tax system if elected.

Local business owners, many of whom were present at the debate, seemed divided on the issue. “I think the tax reforms have helped me grow my business,” said Mark, a small business owner from Birkirkara. “But I also see the point about the burden on lower-income families,” added Maria, a shop owner from Sliema.

3. The skills gap: Education and workforce

Both leaders acknowledged the skills gap as a major challenge for Malta’s SMEs. Abela pointed to the government’s investment in education and training, while Grech promised a ‘Marshall Plan’ for education if elected.

“We need more practical skills in our workforce,” said Joe, a local entrepreneur. “I’ve struggled to find the right people for my business, and it’s holding me back.”

4. The digital divide: E-commerce and technology

The debate also touched on the digital divide, with both leaders emphasizing the importance of e-commerce and technology for SMEs. Abela highlighted the government’s initiatives to promote digital adoption, while Grech promised to make broadband internet a ‘basic service’ if elected.

“E-commerce has been a lifeline for my business during the pandemic,” said Laura, a local online retailer. “But not all SMEs have been able to make the switch. We need more support.”

5. The future of work: Flexibility and work-life balance

The debate concluded with a discussion on the future of work, with both leaders acknowledging the need for more flexibility and work-life balance. Abela pointed to the government’s recent changes to maternity and paternity leave, while Grech promised a review of Malta’s labor laws if elected.

“I think we need more flexible working hours,” said Lisa, a local professional. “It would make a big difference for working parents like me.”

As the debate ended and the leaders shook hands, one thing was clear: Malta’s SMEs will be a key battleground in the upcoming elections. With so much at stake, it’s crucial that the voices of local business owners continue to be heard.