The Gozo Business Chamber has submitted its proposals for the upcoming Budget 2026, under the theme “Driving Diversification, Empowering People.” This document outlines a series of evidence-based measures aimed at addressing the structural challenges facing Gozo while unlocking its full economic potential.
Formulated on the basis of the Gozo Business Sentiment Survey (carried out in collaboration with the Gozo Regional Development Authority) and direct engagement with Chamber members, the proposals reflect the realities on the ground and the Chamber’s long-standing commitment to a resilient, inclusive and forward-looking development model for Gozo.
The proposals are built around five strategic pillars:
🔹 Accessibility and Connectivity – Proposals call for urgent investment in Mġarr Harbour infrastructure, improved Gozo Channel operations, expansion of fast ferry services, and the introduction of smart queueing systems at Ċirkewwa.
🔹 Economic Diversification and Digitalisation – These include the transformation of the Gozo Innovation Hub into a vibrant tech and business centre, digitalisation incentives for SMEs, support for business internationalisation, and the co-location of key support agencies in Gozo.
🔹 Human Capital and Workforce Development – Key measures include the establishment of a migrant workforce integration unit, new training programmes at MCAST Gozo (in collaboration with MDIA and other stakeholders), and the further development of the Youth4Entrepreneurship Gozo initiative.
🔹 Employee Wellbeing for Micro Enterprises – A dedicated scheme is proposed to support small businesses in implementing wellbeing activities, complemented by HR advisory sessions, toolkits, and awareness campaigns.
🔹 Real Estate and Cultural Heritage – The Chamber is proposing a fiscal incentive scheme for internal co-ownership transfers, particularly for culturally significant properties, to preserve Gozo’s built heritage while stimulating the property market.
The Chamber reiterates that these proposals are aligned with the Gozo Regional Development Strategy 2023–2033, and are intended to complement national policy frameworks such as Envision 2050 and the EU’s regional innovation and skills agendas.
You can download the full document here:
