The number of registered ships in Malta has increased by 36% making it the largest registry in Europe, Minister for Transport Ian Borg announced today.

Speaking at a press conference focusing on the maritime industry which was held at the Lower Barrakka Gardens in Valletta, Borg said that currently the country has 8,000 registered ships, up 6% when compared to the year before.

With regards to super yachts, this has been an area explored by the Labour government, and has seen a 97% since 2013.

The number of registered super yachts is up 15% from the previous year.

He said that it was important that country continued to invest in education in maritime in order to keep young people interested and involved in the field.

Borg said that the industry remained an essential part of the economy, as it generated jobs and was an important source of finance as it held many different facets, namely transport, registration, services, and bunkering.

“Over the last year and in the coming ones, a number of measures have been enacted which will address the negative consequences of the industry, such as the environment and sustainability.”

Borg praised the good working relationship between the government and the authorities, which he said will continue to yield positive results.