Maltese foreign minister talks boosting business with Japan

Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Promotion Carmelo Abela met the Malta-Japan Chamber of Commerce at his ministry in Valletta in order to strengthen trade relations with Japan, including advanced manufacturing, the services sector, blockchain, tourism and the teaching of the English language, according to a press statement issued by the Maltese government’s Department of Information (DOI).

Japan represents, in fact, Malta’s 6th biggest Trade Partner outside the European Union. Malta’s highest trade surplus for 2018 is with Japan with importation standing at around €67m, exportation at around €150m and with trade balance standing at a surplus of around €84m. 

“Our goal is to improve the level of trade by assisting the development of further business opportunities between Japan and Malta”, said Mr Micallef.

The President of the Malta-Japan Chamber of Commerce Anthony Micallef stated that 44 companies in Malta export to Japan products like steel, metal alloys and electrical switches. 

In addition, the minister spoke about Malta’s commitment to open an embassy in Japan by 2020 as part of its holistic strategy to expand its horizons worldwide. The preparations are currently underway in the identification of premises, according to the DOI press statement. 

The representatives present of the Malta-Japan Chamber of Commerce were President Anthony Micallef, General Secretary Stephanie Mizzi, Treasurer Joseph Pirotta and Council Member Jesmond Pace. 

The Ambassador of Malta to Japan André Spiteri and Chief Executive Officer of Trade Malta Anton Buttigieg were also present. 

Mr Abela also noted that Malta has politically supported Japan’s bid to host the World Expo in the city of Osaka between 3 May and 3 November 2025 under the theme “Designing Future Society for Our Lives”.