The Nationalist Party said that the Association of Catering Establishments expressed support for the Nationalist Party proposal to reduce VAT for the catering sector from 18% to 7%, saying that establishments require greater support as operating costs continue to rise.

The declaration was made by ACE President Michelle Muscat during a meeting between the PN and the Association, where she said the organisation has long been calling for stronger support for catering establishments, a PN statement said.

During the meeting, PN Leader Alex Borg said that a new Nationalist government would continue strengthening tourism as a key pillar of the Maltese economy, while shifting the sector towards a value-based model.

Borg said the party's vision is centred on quality tourism rather than quantity, with greater emphasis on protecting communities, strengthening Maltese and Gozitan identity and respecting residents' quality of life.

Borg also outlined the PN's tourism proposals, saying a Nationalist government would leave more money in the pockets of workers and business owners, while the multiplier effect of economic growth would create greater competitiveness and sustainability within the sector.

The PN leader said the party's broader economic vision is based on sustainable growth, improved efficiency and a more favourable environment for businesses to continue investing and creating quality jobs.

Borg was accompanied during the meeting by PN candidates Jerome Caruana Cilia, Adrian Delia, Mario de Marco and Charles Selvaggi.

The PN said the meeting formed part of its ongoing consultation process aimed at delivering "A Fresh Start" for the country.