Four investors have expressed interest in developing a marine hatchery at Fort San Luċjan, limits of Marsaxlokk, the Parliamentary Secretariat for Fisheries said.

Over the next days a board will be set up to evaluate the proposals put forward by the four companies, both local and foreign.

This public-private partnership will mean a €7 million investment that will include the design, construction and operation of the hatchery.

It will also include the setting up of a new research centre.

Such a project would help generate employment and other opportunities for young people, the secretariat said.

It will also create a space where Malta could contribute towards sustainable aquaculture.