TradeMalta launches the fourth edition of the Malta International Business Awards
TradeMalta invites Malta-based businesses that are exporting, growing, expanding into new markets, innovating, or diversifying internationally to put their achievements in the spotlight and participate in the fourth edition of the Malta International Business Awards (MIBA) 2027.
Held under the theme “Exporting. Growing. Expanding. Innovating. Your international journey deserves to be recognised,” MIBA 2027 celebrates the achievements of Malta-based businesses as they navigate their internationalisation journeys, from entering new markets and growing exports to expanding their international footprint, innovating, and diversifying across markets.
In his opening address Daniel Galea, Chairperson of TradeMalta, said:
“I am pleased to welcome the launch of the fourth edition of the Malta International Business Awards. MIBA reflects TradeMalta’s commitment to supporting Malta-based businesses in pursuing international opportunities and recognising their achievements in overseas markets. Through these Awards, we aim to showcase their success, inspire others to follow their example and encourage more businesses to take their next steps internationally. Today’s launch brings together organisations and partners who share a common goal of strengthening Malta’s presence in global markets.”
Announcing the opening of applications, Tania Brown, CEO of TradeMalta, said:
“The Malta International Business Awards recognise the ambition and achievements of the businesses driving Malta’s international success. TradeMalta continues to support businesses in taking their products, services and expertise beyond Malta, and these Awards provide an important platform to celebrate those making that journey. Whether entering a first international market or building an established global presence, every step towards international growth strengthens Malta’s competitiveness. If your business is building its future beyond Malta, we want to hear your story. Put your achievements forward, showcase your international success and be recognised among the businesses shaping Malta’s presence in global markets.”
During the same Press Conference, Christopher Cutajar, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry for Foreign and European Affairs, said:
“Malta’s international economic success depends, in no small measure, on the ability of our businesses to compete, grow and establish themselves in markets beyond our shores. Supporting businesses in their internationalisation efforts is therefore an important part of strengthening Malta’s international economic presence.
The Malta International Business Awards provide an opportunity to recognise the ambition, innovation and commitment of businesses that are successfully taking their products and services into international markets. By highlighting their achievements and experiences, we also encourage a culture of international ambition and enterprise.”
The Press Conference was also addressed by Marthese Portelli, CEO of The Malta Chamber, and Joyce Grech, Head of Commercial Banking at HSBC Bank Malta, who shared their perspectives on the importance of international growth and the opportunities available to Malta-based businesses.
Dr Marthese Portelli, CEO of The Malta Chamber, said:
When we talk about the future of Maltese business, we are invariably talking about our horizon,” said Dr Portelli. “As an island state with an open economy, domestic growth will always reach physical boundaries. If our businesses want to scale, internationalisation is not merely an alternative path – it is an economic imperative.” Dr Portelli highlighted that operating on an international level incentivise local companies to raise their standards, compete on high value-add rather than volume, and adopt cutting-edge digital and sustainable practices. She congratulated companies that are on an internationalisation path and said “these companies prove every day that geographic size is no barrier to world-class achievement.
Joyce Grech, Head of Commercial Banking, HSBC Bank Malta, said:
“At HSBC Malta, we are committed to supporting the growth and internationalisation of Maltese businesses. We have supported TradeMalta since its inception in 2015 and our commitment remains unwavering. For this reason, we are very pleased to be a strategic partner for the Malta International Business Awards for the fourth time. These prestigious Awards provide an excellent platform to celebrate and recognise the achievements of our local exporters. They serve to showcase the diversity and ambition of local businesses that trade internationally and align with our mission to help businesses thrive on the global stage. I had the privilege of serving on the judging panel for the last two editions. On both occasions, was impressed by the quality of local products and services, and by the determination and passion behind our exporters’ success beyond our shores. I encourage Maltese companies to submit their nominations. Your achievements inspire other local businesses to explore opportunities beyond Malta.”
Four categories celebrating international business
MIBA 2027 features four award categories designed to recognise businesses at different stages of their international journey:
- Micro and Small Exporter Excellence Award
- Medium and Large Exporter Excellence Award
- Emerging Exporter Award
- Export Innovation and Diversification Award
One winner will be selected in each category, with the four category winners then competing for the Overall Export Excellence Award, recognising outstanding achievement in international business.
Applications are now open!
Applications for MIBA 2027 are now open and will remain open until Monday, 16 November 2026.
Malta-based businesses engaged in exporting their products or services internationally are invited to put themselves forward and share their international journey, achievements, and ambitions.
The Malta International Business Awards are organised and administered by TradeMalta, in collaboration with HSBC Bank Malta p.l.c. as Strategic Partner and with the participation of Grant Thornton. The Awards are endorsed by the Ministry for Foreign and European Affairs and The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry.
There is no registration fee to participate. For more information and to apply, kindly click here, or contact the MIBA team at miba@trademalta.org
