Is the path to future growth driven by smart infrastructure? Growth in travel needs is fast outpacing the development of traditional transport infrastructures, resulting in gridlocked roads, and goods & services not reaching businesses and consumers in time. This session will explore logistics in Malta, the role that alternative mass transit systems, self-driving cars, the internet of things and other smart technologies could help to alleviate the problems of today for tomorrow.

With the recently launched and visionary ‘National Blockchain Strategy’, Malta is positioning itself on the frontline of innovation for building a burgeoning FinTech sector. But turning a vision into reality is a formidable challenge. This session will examine the institutional ecosystem needed to develop and commercialise blockchain, fintech models and disruptive innovation.

iGaming has rapidly become one of the cornerstones of the Maltese economy. With an outstanding reputation as an iGaming destination it is important to be responsive to the industry’s changing needs. This session will discuss the implications of the new regulatory framework and further opportunities which are driven by new technologies.

Technological advancements have been disrupting business models for centuries. The Internet of Things (IoT), virtual reality, artificial intelligence, robotics, and genetics all promise to be even more revolutionary. Today’s businesses, government and individuals are responding to shifts that would have seemed unimaginable even a few years ago. This session will explore what new advancements might be on the horizon and what Malta should be focusing on.

Today, more than ever, Malta’s business ecosystem should aim to create a sustainable and advantageous playing-field for start-ups. Challenges and obstacles will persist for any young company but with the right measures and assistance in place, start-ups will have a short capacity-building curve which leads to success. This session will face these challenges and the ways to address them head on.

Following the UK’s 2016 Brexit referendum, many uncertainties persist as to what Brexit really means for the EU and its member states, including Malta. Strong bilateral relations between Malta and the UK will be crucial going forward. This session amongst key public and private stakeholders seeks to explore how we can leverage our existing strong ties and position in Europe to support UK businesses. 

Malta’s economic success has resulted in unprecedented levels of low-unemployment, creating a recruitment challenge for employers, especially in the high-skilled sectors. This session will discuss whether it is possible to sustain economic growth through massive population growth and how Malta’s educational system needs to cater for the new digital economy.

Gozo has many unique selling points which can play a big part in attracting investment. Recent discussions have centred on the need to develop a permanent link between the islands. This session seeks to explore the possibility of connecting Gozo to Malta, explore new economic initiatives, stemming the brain drain and others. Clearly, this is the right time to work on a new vision for Gozo’s economy and its FDI component.