Malta has been rated as having the best levels of optimism in eurozone countries, European Commission research shows.

In a statement, the Department of Information said that the EC conducts research on businesses and consumers and for the “13th consecutive month has found that Malta has the best levels of optimism.

“This month’s index was 114, or 14% more than the average ever since such indicators started to be measured.

“Optimism was also witnessed in the month of June in practically all industries. For the third consecutive month, optimism among sales operators was rated as the highest ever since such research started to be conducted. Construction was rated as the second best in terms of optimism levels.

“At the same time, Malta’s service sector continued to express confidence in the whole of the EU.

“Research also shows that the manufacturing sector registered an increase in production during the last few months. The manufacturing industry has stated  that it is expecting further improvements in the months to come. This is the reason why the industry is about to enhance its workforce.

“Maltese families have claimed that their financial situation is improving, opposed to the situation on other Member States whereby only a few countries have expressed such sentiment.”