Katrina Cassar
An offshoot of US healthcare giant Baxter International is set to invest €150 million in a new pharmaceutical manufacturing facility in Ħal Far, Prime Minister Robert Abela announced on Wednesday.
The project will be operated by Vantive, a specialised healthcare firm focusing on therapies for vital organs. The announcement was made on Wednesday during a joint news conference held by government officials and company representatives.
According to the plans, the facility will be constructed on a 16,000-square-kilometre site, with works expected to commence later in 2026. Construction is projected to be completed by 2027, while the plant is targeted to become fully operational by 2029.
Vantive’s operations at the new site will centre on advanced treatments for organ care, with a particular emphasis on kidney therapies and dialysis solutions.
Speaking at the event, Prime Minister Robert Abela highlighted the long-term vision underpinning the investment, pointing to its role in creating around 250 career opportunities for Maltese workers.
“These are the types of investments that create careers for our students,” Abela said. “An investor will not commit €150 million in a country that lacks a clear vision for the future.”
He referenced the government’s long-term strategy, Malta Vision 2050, as a key factor in attracting such projects.
“We have given a clear direction of where we want to be in 25 years,” he said.
Abela also emphasised the broader societal impact of the investment, noting that the facility’s output will directly contribute to healthcare outcomes.
“This sector is one of excellence, and the products manufactured will improve people’s quality of health,” he said, adding that such projects are “tangible investments that contribute to the betterment of our society.”
Meanwhile, Economy Minister Silvio Schembri highlighted the significance of securing a major investment of this scale, noting that Malta’s track record and credibility continue to attract international players.
“It is not easy to secure investments of this level in our country, but we have built the experience and credibility to do so,” Schembri said. “With every challenge comes an opportunity, and we have brought an international company, Vantive, to operate in Malta.”
He added that construction on the site is expected to begin in the coming weeks and be completed by 2027, while encouraging students to prepare for future opportunities linked to the project.
“When you finish your studies, you can benefit from the opportunities we are creating,” he said, describing Vantive as “the type of investment our country needs.”
Schembri stressed that economic growth must translate into real improvements in people’s lives.
“Economic numbers are important, but they mean nothing if they do not better the lives of people. We want the economy to work for the people,” he said.
