Economic Sector

Data, AI and New Space

The downstream elements — comprising satellite connectivity, navigation, space-based data and AI-driven automation — make up the largest part of the New Space market. The European Union is preparing its legal framework because of the sector’s importance, and at the same time the market expects the EU budget in this area to grow to between two and three times its current level.

Under Nationalist administrations, Malta has always been ready for emerging sectors, and this is why it gave rise to industries such as ship registration, services to the financial sector, iGaming and aviation. The time has now come for another sector: New Space!

The Maltese islands from Space (Artistic Render using several photos)

01 New Space

Size of the Downstream Segment

New Space is a sector that is growing at twice the rate of the global economy on average. We are particularly interested in the downstream segment.

High quality, well-paid jobs for all.

€ 400B

Downstream segment of the Sector

Of this, €78 billion is in Europe. According to Novaspace experts, the sector is expected to nearly double in size over the next ten years, with the downstream segment being the largest contributor to that growth.

€ 100M

Into the Maltese Economy in the first five years

Over the next five years, Malta should invest seriously in the sector, principally by strengthening its relationship with ESA. Our estimates show that this sector can bring €100 million into the economy during the next legislature. This is based on the return on this investment mainly through R&D and through attracting the market to Malta. As the sector grows, within 10 years it should be generating around €200 million per year.

€ 40B

EU Budget (2028–2034)

The market and industry experts are recommending a substantial increase in the European budget.

02 Benefits to Malta

Malta - innovative and ambitious about New Space

Our investment will make Malta a strategic hub in the European New Space economy. Not because we have a long history in the sector, but precisely because we do not have any incumbent company to protect — instead, we have the drive and experience to open new markets that can become the engine of a new economic model. A model that is not based on volume and long hours of work that keep us away from our families, but of an honest pay for workers and a high value-add for our country.

This is a sector that will give fresh momentum to the professional services ecosystem. It is a sector that will make the most of the strong capabilities of Maltese professionals in data technology, AI and engineering, while opening new opportunities in R&D. Malta has significant and well-known experience in regulation with good governance, without excessive bureaucracy.

Quality Jobs

Professionals in the professional services sector, technologists, engineers, data analysts and AI specialists — new careers in a rapidly growing sector.

Economic Growth

A return of €100 million over five years, which we intend to scale up so that it reaches €200 million per year within ten years.

Opportunities

We want to offer innovative companies the opportunity to be attracted to Malta. At the outset, they may serve only a small market, but from here they will develop their products with the intention of growing and selling into international markets.

03 Our Plan

Hitting the Ground Running

We will pass the necessary law in the first months of the legislature, then build capacity and credibility through targeted investment and partnerships.

First 100 days

Law We will enact the necessary law in the first months of the legislature.

First year

Central Coordination A coordination unit for space policy and representation with Europe. This will also be the unit that coordinates with Malta's public entities so that we can offer an attractive framework to those wishing to invest in this sector in Malta. It will also coordinate with the professional services sector build capabilities and education and be responsible for consolidating public procurement in this area.

Years 1-2

Regulatory Framework Our regulatory framework will be competitive, innovative and aligned with the EU's policy and direction.

This Legislature

Associate Membership in ESA We will secure Associate Membership with the European Space Agency during this legislature.

Settur Ekonomiku

Data, AI u New Space

Xogħol ta' kwalità. Ekonomija li tikber. Nifs ġdid għal pajjiżna.

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