The Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) has joined the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) as a Destination Partner, marking a significant step in Malta's efforts to strengthen its position within the global tourism industry ahead of hosting the WTTC Global Summit in 2026.
The partnership comes as Malta prepares to welcome some of the world's leading tourism executives, government ministers and investors to Valletta for the WTTC Global Summit, scheduled to take place from 7 to 9 October 2026.
The MTA said in a statement that the agreement reinforces its commitment to promoting Malta as a high-quality, sustainable and year-round destination while strengthening collaboration with international tourism stakeholders.
As Malta's tourism regulator, industry partner and destination promoter, the authority works to enhance the country's tourism offering, support the sector's competitiveness and develop experiences across a range of niche markets. Officials said the partnership with WTTC will provide an additional platform to showcase Malta's tourism strategy and exchange best practices with global industry leaders.
Hosting the WTTC Global Summit is expected to place Malta at the centre of international discussions on the future of travel and tourism. The event will bring together chief executives, policymakers and investors from around the world to discuss key issues affecting the sector, including sustainability, innovation and long-term growth.
Tourism Minister Jo Etienne Abela described the partnership as an important milestone for both the country's tourism sector and preparations for next year's summit.
"Malta's partnership with the World Travel & Tourism Council comes at an important moment for our tourism sector and for our country as we prepare to welcome the world to Valletta for the 2026 Global Summit," Abela said.
He added that the partnership would strengthen Malta's engagement with global tourism leaders while providing opportunities to share the country's experience, learn from international partners and identify new avenues for sustainable growth.
"We want Malta to remain a destination that offers quality, authenticity and memorable experiences, while ensuring that tourism continues to create value for our economy, our communities and future generations," he said.
WTTC President and CEO Gloria Guevara welcomed the Malta Tourism Authority as a Destination Partner, saying the collaboration comes at "a particularly exciting time" for the destination.
"As Malta prepares to host WTTC's Global Summit in Valletta, it will have the opportunity to showcase its unique heritage, hospitality, and vision for sustainable growth to industry leaders from around the world," Guevara said. "We look forward to working together to highlight Malta's position as one of Europe's most compelling tourism destinations."
MTA Chief Executive Carlo Micallef said becoming a Destination Partner represented "a major step" for the authority, providing Malta with direct access to leading decision-makers across the international travel industry.
"As we prepare to host the 2026 Global Summit in Valletta, aligning with the WTTC highlights our strong commitment to continue developing a sustainable and resilient tourism industry for the Maltese Islands, building on the unique experiences and rich heritage that only Malta can offer," Micallef said.
The WTTC is the global body representing the private sector of the travel and tourism industry. Its membership includes the chairpersons, presidents and chief executives of major international travel companies, including airlines, hotel groups, airports, cruise operators, tour companies, technology platforms and destinations. The organisation works with governments and industry leaders to promote sustainable tourism growth, shape global policy and provide research on the sector's economic contribution worldwide.