Prime Minister Robert Abela, visited Tastees Manufacturing Ltd in Santa Venera, and praised the company's growth after production increased by 103% over the past five years, following investment in machinery and factory expansion, a government statement said.

Abela was accompanied by Economy Minister Silvio Schembri.

Founded in 1969, Tastees Manufacturing Ltd is a household name in Malta, best known for producing the iconic Twistees snack, among other products.

The statement said that for more than five decades, the company has maintained a strong presence in the local market while continuing to expand its operations to meet growing demand.

In recent years, with the assistance of INDIS Malta, the company developed an extension to its existing factory, driven by a substantial increase in demand for its products, both locally and internationally, the statement said.

It said that over the past five years, production at the privately owned company has increased by 103%, a significant growth achieved through strategic investment in new machinery and the strengthening of its export operations.

Company representatives explained that the modernisation of equipment has led to greater efficiency, enabling the company to increase production capacity while maintaining quality standards.

Tastees Manufacturing Ltd has also benefited from support provided by Malta Enterprise through its investment aid scheme, as well as assistance from Trade Malta for participation in international trade fairs, the statement said.

It said that these initiatives helped the company further expand its presence abroad and promote Maltese products in foreign markets.

During the visit, the company's management spoke of the various measures and initiatives offered by the government through several public entities, as well as the dedication and professionalism of its employees and the continued trust of its customers.

Abela praised the company's resilience, innovation and contribution to Malta's manufacturing sector, describing Tastees Manufacturing Ltd as a clear example of how local industry can grow through strategic investment, government support and a dedicated workforce.

Abela said that the Malta Vision 2050 strategic plan, which outlines the country's direction for the next 25 years, identifies sectors such as manufacturing as central to Malta's long-term competitiveness.

The vision also highlights the importance of supporting companies operating within the manufacturing sector, the statement said.

During the visit, Abela and Schembri toured the company's facilities and met with its workers.