The GRTU will raise its pressure on the government if energy tariffs for small businesses are not reduced by 30 per cent to help them retain a competitive edge, the association's president, Paul Abela said today.

Mr Abela was speaking during the presentation of budget proposals.

He said the GRTU had been informed that the government was buying energy through the interconnector for between 4c and 7c per unit. This, coupled with the BWSC’s efficiency and a decrease in international oil prices led the GRTU to propose a 30 per cent reduction, which “was more than conservative”, some weeks ago.

Higher Freeport, Valletta Gateway Terminal charges as from tomorrow

Mr Abela also complained about “high” port charges.

“We are ready to take up the matter with the government and go to the European Commission with our complaint as we do not agree with the port charges," he said.

“The rates are not competitive. It costs €300 to unload containers. Moreover, there will be a five per cent increase on the already high prices at the Valletta gateway terminal and Freeport from tomorrow.”

Apart from reducing energy costs, GRTU’s top priorities for this budget include improving access to finance, empowering SMEs to conquer digital challenges, setting up a start-up hub for business ideas and alleviating traffic pressures.

Traffic problem affecting productivity

CEO Abigail Psaila Mamo said traffic and parking were affecting productivity, and the GRTU was calling for “aggressive measures” such as a decrease in road tax to encourage drivers not to go out at peak hours, encourage carpooling, and have an efficient and reliable public transport.

Meanwhile, the Valletta CVA system needed to be revised as the parking problem in the capital has not been solved.

The GRTU's proposals can be read in the pdf link below.