MHRA is amongst those surprised that Malta is not on the UK government's ‘Green List' for travel.

The Malta Hotels and Restaurants association said that Malta is meeting the COVID-19 related safety requirements and this was even recognized by leading British media who have been quoting Malta to be a favourite destination to be included in the safe list.

MHRA agrees with the general opinion being expressed by the major British travel and tourism stakeholders that the decision to put so few European countries into the green tier is not justified by the data or the science.

This decision will negatively impact the tourism sector in Malta at least for June. If not addressed urgently this situation Malta will lose what was appearing to be a good start to the summer season.

MHRA, appealed to the Maltese authorities, in particular the Office of the Prime Minister and the Maltese diplomatic corps to take all the necessary action to ensure that Malta is featured in the UK green list since this is expected to be reviewed in the coming three weeks. MHRA pleadged its support to stand together with the relevant authorities to ensure that the tourism sector in Malta will be relaunched successfully for a sustainable and gradual growth over the coming months whilst ensuring safety for all.

In the meantime, MHRA welcomed the news that Germany has declared that Malta is no longer a COVID-19 risk area.