Several Maltese companies seeking to maximise their investment and expand overseas have expressed interest in benefitting from the opportunities provided by Malta's ambassadors, following the diplomats' tour of major industrial plants.
The tours were part of the three-day annual conference themed "Maximising Malta's network abroad" which aimed to familiarise the 27 ambassadors better with efforts to support local businesses in their bid to internationalise or identify suitable partners for joint ventures overseas.
"Establishing close contact with diplomats may serve to build a solid basis for foreign investment," one company official commented after the ambassadors' visit. "Although large companies may already have their own contacts with foreign firms, a contact of this sort is fundamental especially to identify new markets."
The ambassadors praised the initiative by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Malta Enterprise, saying it strenghthened their ability to understand and respond to the difficulties faced by firms, especially in the light of the international economic crisis. Toly Products general manager Andy Gatesy explained that the cosmetics packaging manufacturer had faith in Malta and continuously supported the government's policy to promote Malta as a strategic location for investment.
Saw Ltd general manager Joe Cacopardo said the ambassadors' visit to the company plant could help it promote its expertise in the field of local craftwork. SAW Ltd, he said, often turned to Maltese embassies to make use of their services.
Video camera equipment manufacturer New Energy Ltd intended to consolidate contacts with Maltese diplomats as it planned to expand under the 'Blueshape' name and identify opportunities on the international market.
Ambassadors also visited Rimus Riley, Actavis, Playmobil, Lewis Press, Medichem, Baxter, Methode, and Gutenberg.
The ambassadors' annual conference heard how embassies offered crucial assistance to around 50 companies showing an interest in investing in Malta each month. Foreign Affairs Minister Tonio Borg encouraged ambassadors to step up their efforts to promote Malta as an ideal location to invest and do business.