The Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the agricultural sector through the SMART Food project, a Malta-Italy initiative designed to enhance transparency, traceability and sustainability within the agri-food chain.

Speaking at a conference organised by the Malta Food Agency, the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights, Anton Refalo, stated that the project represents a significant step towards a more reliable and technologically advanced food system. The initiative, funded under the Interreg programme, will see the development of a digital platform utilising Artificial Intelligence and blockchain technology to provide real-time information on food products from production to consumption.

The project seeks to address increasing consumer demand for greater cclarity regarding the origin, safety and sustainability of food. At the same time, it is intended to support farmers, producers and industrry operators in adapting more efficient competitive practices.

Minister Refalo noted that the initiative goes beyond technological advancement, emphasising its role in strengthening trust across the food chain and empowering consumers. He added that Malta's scale positions it favourably to adopt innovative solutions and take a leading role in modernising the sector.

The Malta Food Agency is playing a central role in the project's implementation, including its management, development and training components. Chief Executive Brian Vella highlighted that the initiative is aimed at safeguarding the quality of local products, improving traceability and reinforcing consumer confidence in Maltese produce. He described the project as an investment in the long-term value of the work carried out by local producers.

The conference also provided an opportunity to present preliminary studies and technical developments related to the platform, while facilitating discussion among stakeholders from government, industry and academia.