Prime Minister Robert Abela emphasised that the economic stability Malta continues to offer is essential for more businesses to have the confidence to invest, grow, and create quality opportunities for workers and families, the Office of the Prime Minister said in a statement.

Abela said this during the launch of the Eterna Group, a new corporate identity bringing together a number of established Maltese companies operating in food production, catering, health, and community care.

The Group, which began in 1989 as a small family business, has today developed into an organisation employing around 6,600 people; it operates in various essential sectors and maintains a growing presence in international markets.

In his address, the Prime Minister noted that Eterna's development exemplifies how a Maltese business can grow sustainably through continuous investment, innovation, and confidence in its workforce. 

"We want Malta to remain a country where it makes sense to invest, grow, and plan for the long term. Our goal is not simply more investment, but quality investment-investment that creates better jobs, boosts productivity, and generates greater value within our economy," Abela said. 

The Prime Minister also said that Eterna Group has continued to invest substantially in its operations, including an investment of over €50 million in 'The Food Factory' at Bulebel. Abela said that such investment thrives in a stable economic environment that allows for long-term planning. In this context, he referred to the government's policy of continuing to protect families and businesses from sharp increases in energy and fuel prices.

"Subsidies not only provide peace of mind to families but also offer businesses greater certainty regarding their costs. That certainty fosters the confidence to invest, create jobs, and look to the future with greater ambition," the Prime Minister said. 

He added that the next chapter of the Maltese economy must prioritise not only growth but also the quality of that growth, through increased productivity, technology, skills, and value added.

The Prime Minister concluded by extending his best wishes to the entire Eterna Group team, noting that their story demonstrates how a Maltese investment that continues to evolve can create thousands of opportunities and further strengthen the country's economy.