Unemployment in January climbed to 7,758, an increase of 770 persons when compared to January 2009 and by 78 over last December, the NSO said today.
It said there were 6,972 unemployed persons in Malta and 786 in Gozo.
The NSO said the the number of men on the unemployment register increased over the year by 624 or 11.6 per cent, whilst the number of women went up by 146 or 9.2 per cent.
All age groups showed an increase in unemployment. The larger year on year changes were reported amongst persons aged 45 years and over with an increase of 434.
Among men, occupations related to sevices and trades were the most sought-after jobs, whereas women tended to seek jobs which were clerical or service-oriented.