The competitiveness of Malta in certain export crops

Abstract

The main purpose of this dissertation is the presentation of a comparative cost analysis and the measurement of profitability standards for certain export crops, which form the basis of this study. These basic criteria are then used to indicate the potential competitiveness of Malta over the major Mediterranean countries which are at present the main suppliers of these products to the European Economic Community. The export crops considered ate potatoes (early), onions, tomatoes (under cover), strawberries and cucumbers (undercover). While the Mediterranean countries that are included in this study are - besides Malta - Spain, Italy, Greece, Cyprus, Israel and Tunisia. Briefly summed up, this study shows that Malta - compared to the other six countries enjoys a fairly high production and market advantage mainly due to the high quality of its produce together with the achievement of medium to high yields in almost all the crops considered. The maintenance and improvement of Malta's competitive position depend heavily on the selection of a suitable 'product mix' and the flow of innovations in product and market development.