There is a need for a clear and forward-looking vision to ensure that the tariffs being introduced by the American Government have the least possible impact on Maltese and Gozitan workers, as well as on employers, PN Leader Bernard Grech said.

He addressed the issue on Tuesday afternoon during a meeting with the leadership of The Malta Chamber, held as part of the PN's programme of activities for Workers' Day. The two sides discussed the potential impact of these newly announced tariffs.

The PN Leader said that an entity such as The Malta Chamber is a vital partner in helping the country identify what coordination is required to address new challenges as they arise. For this reason, the he said the PN will ensure that strong and ongoing dialogue continues, helping to strengthen and deepen the relationship between the two sides.

Grech stated that the PN will maintain such meetings in order to develop the solutions Malta needs to bring about the much-needed change. He reiterated that the PN offers a vision of excellence, one that translates into prosperity that is shared by all, ensuring that no one is left behind.

On his part, the new President of The Malta Chamber William Spiteri Bailey noted that the Chamber was among the first, during various MCESD meetings, to highlight the urgent need for a long-term national vision. However, he also stressed the importance of ensuring adequate controls are in place and that the national vision is continuously updated, particularly in light of new goals regularly introduced by the European Union.

Regarding the tariffs imposed by the United States, the Chamber reiterated the importance of also addressing the indirect challenges that businesses will face, particularly those resulting from new import and export costs.

During the meeting, the PN Leader was accompanied by Shadow Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade Beppe Fenech Adami, Shadow Minister for the Economy and Enterprise Jerome Caruana Cilia, Shadow Minister for Finance Graham Bencini and Shadow Minister for Consumer Rights and Animal Welfare Janice Abela Chetcuti.