New yacht marina for former Shipbuilding site in Marsa

Economy minister Chris Cardona today launched an international call for the expression of interest to develop a maritime hub at the former Malta Shipbuilding site in Marsa.

The EOI document will be available from the Privatisation Unit from Wednesday, 5 June up until Friday, 28 June, with a closing date for submissions on 5 August 2013.

The minister said "The maritime industry in Malta is vibrant and together with other sectors which we have successfully established such as financial services, we could continue developing Malta as a centre of maritime excellence."

It is anticipated that the hub will include yacht marina facilities and quays, a wide range of services including modification, conversion and maintenance of yachts, super yachts and other small-to-medium vessels, support services in ship management for insurance, maritime legal services and facilities to foster research on maritime development.

It is thought that the government is also considering the inclusion of the Maritime School in the maritime hub, however this depends on the projects submitted by the interested companies.

"We believe that Malta has great potential in the sector, thanks to our geographical position and harbours, but above all we have a tradition and culture which date back centuries," Cardona said.

Pointing out that the maritime services in Malta go beyond the country's strategic geographical position, Cardona stressed the need to build upon the excellent legal and regulatory frameworks which have made Malta the largest shipping register in Europe.

The land measures approximately 175,000 square metres and the land will be leased for 45 years. The expression of interest will be advertised on internationally renowned publications such as The Economist and Llyod's List, as well as on Euronews and local media.

"Government is looking towards boosting the maritime industry and also foster economic growth and increase the country's competitiveness," Cardona said.