The Chamber of Small and Medium Enterprises (GRTU) was given details of government efforts to curb the problem of merchandise being brought into Malta irregularly – an issue its members cited as their biggest setback.

In a statement, the GRTU said it had a meeting with the Customs director general, customs officials and Parliamentary Secretary Tonio Fenech.

The chamber was given information on what is being done with regard to merchandise coming into the Maltese market through irregular channels.

This stock is placed on the market without taxes being paid. This creates unfair competition to the detriment of those who import their merchandise in accordance with the law, the chamber said.

The Customs director general gave details of the investigations being carried out in coordination with the National Statistics Office, the VAT Department and the Commerce and Agriculture departments.

Mr Fenech assured the chamber that the authorities involved will be taking all action to halt any form of abusive trade.

He said that although the government does not intend to interfere with the free movement of goods, entrepreneurs must be safeguarded from illicit competition.