A study by the Malta Business Bureau presented to Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi this afternoon highlighted problems businesses were facing with a  common European market.

The study, held on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the creation of the single market in the EU, is the result of a number of focus groups held with businesses in various sectors of the economy.

MBB president George Vella said that although some of obstacles were true, others could be based on perception. However, even these had to be addressed.

The problems noted included the geographical disadvantage of the island that created problems of accessibility. Businesses called for increased accessibility by sea.

Another problem was the bringing over of goods from Sicily to be sold in Malta by people who were not registered as businesses. The businesses noted that there were no controls on this kind of activity. The lack of controls could be a perception but even if they were, the problem still had to be addressed.

Another problem was the lack of economies of scale. One thing that could be considered was a clusters' policy with businesses of the same genre working as one unit.

The businesses complained that Malta was transposing EU directives too fast and Mr Vella called for more information campaigns, especially when directives were about to be transposed so as not to get people by surprise. He also proposed transposing directives in batches.

Businesses made positive comments on access to finance but were very critical of the role of the Stock Exchange, which they said was still very closed and it was still very difficult for SMEs get listed.

The stock market, Mr Vella said, could play an important role in providing new finance avenues for businesses.

Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi said that that country's economic success was partly achieved through the wise decisions taken by the business community.

He appreciated the fact that the study focused substantially on SMEs, which were the economy's strong backbone.

As he was addressing the all male MBB committee, Dr Gonzi said:

"I would like to see more women in business." He appealed to the business community to give space to women's voices and open up the doors for women to be active participants in the business world.