VALLETTA, Malta, June 26, 2023
Malta Film Commissioner Johann Grech, in his speech at the inaugural Mediterrane Film Festival, outlined a bold and ambitious strategy for Malta’s film industry. The strategy aims to create a sustainable, year-round film industry that provides increasing opportunities for the Maltese people.
“Our strategy is bold and clear. It is ambitious. And together I know we can make it happen. We are setting out where we need to be as an industry and as a country,” said Grech. He emphasized the importance of creating a truly sustainable film industry, stating, “The ‘Next Level’ for film in Malta means creating a truly sustainable, year-round film industry – giving ever more opportunities to our people.”
Grech also highlighted the importance of workers’ rights and standards in the industry. “With support comes responsibilities. We won’t let -up in our mission to build a world-class film industry in Malta. But in return for world-class support, together we need to deliver a world-class environment for the crews whose hard work and talent contribute so much to making films ‘Made in Malta’ worldwide hits. Doing the right thing for workers isn’t an abstract social obligation. It is not just a moral obligation. It is a standard we MUST all stand by. It is essential to recruiting and retaining the talent we need. And it is essential to retaining public and political support for the price tag Malta pays for backing the film industry so wholeheartedly,” he said.
Dustin Chorodowics from Saffery Champness highlighted the potential of Malta’s film industry, emphasizing that fiscal incentives need to be accompanied by human resources. Stephen Stivala from KPMG detailed the implementation plan for the industry’s growth.
Last year, Malta saw a record 24 productions, contributing significantly to the economy. The strategic framework, driven by the Malta Film Commission, aims to shape a bright future for Malta’s film industry.
Tourism Minister Clayton Bartolo highlighted Malta’s blueprint strategy until 2030, expressing his vision for Malta to become a leading global hub in the Mediterranean. “In order to make the film industry an economic powerhouse we must plan ahead to assure that Malta’s story in filmmaking continues to flourish in the years to come,” outlined Minister for Tourism Clayton Bartolo.
