Economic Activities in Malta: Primary, Secondary, Tertiary, and Quaternary

As of 2024, Malta has a population of 574,250, ranking among the smallest nations in the world. Located in the Mediterranean Sea, Malta covers a total area of 320 square kilometers, ranking 179th globally, just below Grenada.

As of 2024, Malta’s economy is relatively stable, with a GDP of approximately $24.97 billion. In terms of GDP per capita, Malta recorded approximately $43,899, placing it among high-income economies.

Despite facing challenges, Malta’s economy continues to show resilience and potential for growth, positioning it favorably in the global economic landscape.

What are the economic activities of Malta?

• Primary activities: 1.1% of GDP.
• Secondary activities: 10.2% of GDP.
• Tertiary activities: 88.7% of GDP.

Primary Sector of Malta

Malta’s primary sector, particularly agriculture, thrives due to its Mediterranean climate and fertile soil. With 27.34% of the land dedicated to agriculture, the country produces a variety of crops and animal products, including milk, tomatoes, onions, potatoes, and pork. Despite contributing only 1.1% to the GDP, agriculture remains significant for food security and employment.

The top ten agricultural products, such as chicken, cabbages, and grapes, showcase the diversity and importance of Malta’s agricultural sector.

The geological diversity of Malta contributes to the availability of natural resources such as limestone, salt, and arable land. These resources play a significant role in the country’s economy, with limestone used in construction, salt in food production, and arable land supporting agriculture and food security.

Secondary Sector of Malta

What is the secondary sector or what are secondary activities?In Malta, key industrial products include electronics, ship building and repair, construction, food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, footwear, clothing, tobacco, aviation services, and information technology services.Manufactures play a crucial role in Malta’s total exports, accounting for 82.28% in 2023. This highlights the significance of the manufacturing sector in driving the country’s economic growth and trade competitiveness.

Tertiary sector of Malta

What is the tertiary sector or what are tertiary activities?The tertiary sector in Malta encompasses services that contribute to the economy through knowledge and time. Key activities include Restaurants, Healthcare, Education, Banking, Communication, Tourism, and Transportation. These services enhance productivity, performance, and meet various needs in both consumer and business settings.Of particular importance, Malta’s economy heavily relies on tourism, contributing significantly to its GDP. As of 2024, with an impressive 3,563,618 annual inbound tourist arrivals, the island nation boasts popular destinations like the historic Valletta and the picturesque Blue Grotto, attracting visitors worldwide.Another example of tertiary economic activity is the mobile cellular sector, with approximately 702,000 subscriptions, equating to 132 per 100 inhabitants. This connectivity fosters technological growth, enhancing innovation and digital services.

Military Activities and Economic Sectors of Malta

In the primary sector, resources are extracted for military use. The secondary sector involves the manufacturing of military equipment. The tertiary sector includes services provided by the military, while the quaternary sector focuses on military research and development.

In Malta, the military expenditure for 2023 is 112.6 million US dollars, which is 0.499% of the country’s GDP. The active military force consists of 1,950 personnel, resulting in about 4.7 active military members for every 1,000 people in the country.

International Trade of Malta

Import Activities of Malta

As of 2024, import activities in Malta are crucial, totaling approximately 9.45 billion USD (around 38% of GDP), highlighting their significant economic impact.Malta’s key import activities include ships, refined petroleum, aircraft, integrated circuits, and packaged medicine. Its top import partners are Italy (14%), China (11%), South Korea (11%), Germany (10%), and Canada (5%).

Exports Activities of Malta

As of 2024, Malta’s total exports amounted to approximately $3.78 billion (around 15% of GDP). Exports remain critically important to Malta’s open, trade-reliant economy.Malta’s export activities are diverse, with top partners like Germany, Italy, France, Japan, and Singapore. Key export commodities include integrated circuits, medicine, petroleum, fish, and postage stamps/documents.

Malta economy challenges in 2024

In 2024, Malta faces economic strain due to rising food and energy costs. High immigration and welfare demands strain resources. Tourism and trade sectors struggle amidst global uncertainties. The educated workforce seeks stability amid challenges.

Sources

• World Bank Open Data: Malta
• CIA World Factbook: Malta
• IMF: Malta Country Profile
• National Statistics Office (NSO) Malta
• Trading Economics: Malta
• UN Comtrade Plus: Trade Flow

Last updated: June 19, 2026