The Malta Chamber and MBR Highlight the Power of Digitalisation during SME Week 2025

As part of SME Week 2025, The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry, in collaboration with the Malta Business Registry (MBR), hosted an informative session entitled “Simplification through Digitalisation.”

The event focused on how digital transformation is reshaping business operations and the relationship between companies and regulators. Discussions centred on the Centralized Data Repository, an initiative built around the once-only principle designed to reduce paperwork, enhance data efficiency, and ease compliance burdens for businesses.

In his opening address, William Spiteri Bailey, President of The Malta Chamber, underscored the importance of collective digital progress: “As we advocate for digitalisation and simplification from our institutions, we also encourage businesses to look inward — to modernise their own operations, adopt digital tools, and strengthen governance. It is only by moving forward together — public and private sectors, side by side — that we can build a business environment that is truly efficient, competitive, and future-ready.”

Dr. Geraldine Spiteri Lucas, MBR CEO & Registrar, outlined Malta’s ongoing efforts to enhance its competitive edge through legislative and digital innovation. She provided updates on advancements through the BAROS system, which facilitates work for practitioners and Corporate Service Providers (CSPs), as well as progress on the Malta Business Wallet — a new digital tool designed to empower businesses and investors while improving efficiency for authorities.

During a fireside chat, Dr Marthese Portelli, CEO of The Malta Chamber, emphasised the growing importance of AI education, AI readiness, and strategic planning in Malta’s digital transformation journey. She called for businesses to understand where AI adds real value, build governance frameworks, and align technology adoption with data-driven goals.

Annalise Zammit, MBR COO and Deputy Registrar, highlighted the MBR’s strong focus on transparency, data quality, and technological innovation: “Transparency and public access remain central to our mission of maintaining an up-to-date and reliable registry. The launch of BAROS marked a significant step forward, offering a globally accessible, digital platform enhanced with user-friendly features such as eIDAS integration. We are now exploring the integration of artificial intelligence to streamline processes — particularly in the registration and timely assessment of financial statements. This AI-driven approach reflects our digital mindset and reinforces our goal of delivering greater efficiency, accuracy, and value to the business community.”

She also noted that MBR is developing API packages to enable real-time information sharing and is investing in employee and stakeholder training to ensure alignment with its digital vision.

In a panel discussion, Nick Xuereb, CFO of Toly Products, shared insights from an industry standpoint, noting that digitalisation is essential for maintaining global competitiveness. He highlighted how automation and robotics are transforming operations by reducing repetitive tasks, and how AI in finance will enhance efficiency and real-time reporting. Xuereb welcomed the Business Wallet concept for simplifying KYC processes and reducing paperwork, while stressing the importance of cybersecurity vigilance and structured employee training to support digital transitions.

The “Simplification through Digitalisation” session reinforced the shared commitment of Malta’s public and private sectors to creating a smarter, more transparent, and competitive business environment. Through innovation, collaboration, and digital empowerment, Malta continues to strengthen its position as a forward-looking economy ready to meet future challenges.