A permanent physical link between Malta and Gozo remains an "absolute priority", Gozitan entrepreneurs have said in their pre-budget proposals. 

"Connectivity remains the main stumbling block for business to grow in Gozo," the Gozo Business Chamber argued, noting that Gozo Channel ferries' carrying capacity "has now reached saturation point." 

The Chamber urged the government to push ahead and allocate funds necessary to study an eventual undersea tunnel linking the two islands, while also suggesting the addition of a fourth Gozo Channel ferry. 

Some of the other pre-budget proposals put forward by the Chamber included: 

• Fine-tuning the prepaid ferry ticketing system and introducing off-peak prices for heavy vehicles. 
  
  
• Suspending stamp duty on the acquisition of immovable property in Gozo for one year.
  
  
• Suspending any limitations on foreigners buying property in Gozo for three years. 
  
  
• Tax incentives for new hotels. 
  
  
• Identifying a theme park area.
  
  
• Finding space for new yacht marinas.
  
  
• Urgently reconstructing Marsalforn's breakwater, using private investment if need be. 
  
  
• 10-year tax holiday for new businesses employing 25 people within two years in niche markets. 
  
  
• Reorganising traffic flow in Victoria and completing the Mġarr- Dwejra road.