German-Malta Chamber of Commerce

The German-Maltese Chamber of Commerce, launched at the German Maltese Circle in Valletta yesterday, will be taking over responsibility for the German pavilion at the International Trade Fair.

Until now the pavilion had been in the hands of the Circle.

The chamber was set up on the initiative of Henry Borg, its president, who has been involved with German companies since 1981, and has been instrumental in bringing investment here.

The chamber has already signed up seven members, ranging from the Kempinski Hotel, to Lufthansa Technik and Playmobil.

Germany ranks among Malta's top five trading partners taking into account tourism, financial services and industry, however, Mr Borg is convinced that there is scope for more development.

"We will look after existing companies, but will also explore the possibility of using Malta's location to reach markets in North Africa and the Middle East," he said.

One of the areas of concern in the past was the low number of German language speakers, especially given the growing share of German tourists.

"The German Maltese Circle is tackling this problem, and offers German classes every day. But there is still room for improvement," he said.

The chamber's postal address is c/o the circle at Messina Palace, St Christopher Street, Valletta. Mr Borg may be contacted at Sicons Opto Products at the Mosta Technopark, tel. 21 421767.