Malta needs to allocate more financial investment to research, innovation and development if we want to ensure the country remains competitive, Labour MEP Miriam Dalli said during a visit to Abertax Technologies Limited.

Abertax Technologies Limited manufactures battery accessories which are then exported and used in electric vehicles, or used as storage batteries. Research and innovation is an integral part of the work carried out by this company to further enhance its products.

During the visit, Dalli spoke on the intrinsic link between research, innovation and development and their impact in ensuring sound economic developments. Dalli acknowledged the increase in the budget allocated to research and innovation, yet investment in this sector still accounts for less than 1% of Malta’s Gross Domestic Product.

“It is paramount that Government and entities involved provide incentives for this sector to flourish. This can be achieved through financial schemes as well as putting in place the necessary infrastructure to encourage collaboration between businesses and researchers,” Dalli emphasised.

Dalli spoke of the increasing role of the battery manufacturing industry, especially in the electric vehicles sector. Within the European Parliament, Dalli is leading the negotiations on EU legislation aimed at lowering the CO2 emissions emitted from vehicles.

Describing Abertax as a pioneer in research and development, the MEP said she was pleased that in Malta there already was such a company, placing Malta on the forefront of an industry that is not usually associated with Malta. “It is for this reason that we have to ensure that Malta invests more in research and development to help out important industries, including the battery industry,” Dr Dalli said.

The company’s CEO, Prof Dr Joseph Cilia explained how research and innovation in this industry is helping the company create better technology that facilitates more efficient batteries, including those which are used for electric vehicles and boats, as well as storage batteries.

During the visit MEP Dalli met with CEO Prof Dr Joseph Cilia, Deputy CEO Malcolm Tabone, General Manager Eng. George Schembri and Plant Manager Mr Pierre Hili.