The role of Malta Enterprise in the promotion and financing of export-oriented companies

Abstract

The aim of this dissertation is to study the role of Malta Enterprise (ME) in assisting export-oriented companies with specific reference to the incentives and schemes aimed towards helping such companies. A critical analysis will be made of whether ME, through its structure and services, has successfully addressed the needs of export-oriented companies. Suggestions will be made as to what improvements are needed. ME is the agency responsible for the promotion of foreign investment and industrial development in Malta. Its mission is to sustain Malta's overall competitiveness and to create the right environment for establishing successful enterprises in Malta. Companies generally commented that there was increased efficiency and reduced bureaucracy within ME but noted that improvement is needed in certain areas. Smaller companies reported that the assistance given by ME was crucial with some commenting that it helped them become more competitive and innovative. Others didn't consider this assistance as being crucial but said that investing would have been harder without this help. Differing views were given about the current incentives/schemes available for export-oriented companies. Some preferred the older ones as they held less restrictions and better financial assistance. However ME and some other companies praised the new incentives/schemes as they helped companies to infiltrate foreign markets, rather than just providing financial help. Companies requested a more direct approach to each different sector to ensure more specialisation. ME should improve the promotion of its smaller schemes. It was recommended that ME should strive for a closer liasion with other governmental entities. It should also focus more on assisting companies to enter foreign niche markets. Overall this dissertation aimed to analyse the present practice of ME while suggesting ways in which such practice could be bettered.