Malta strengthens strategic business cooperation with South Africa at SiGMA Africa 2025

Cape Town, South Africa – March 11, 2025 – The inaugural day of SiGMA Africa  2025 hosted a compelling keynote session, The Malta Case for Business Cooperation, at the Sun Exhibits – GrandWest Complex. Led by H.E. Dionisio Vella, Non-resident Ambassador of Malta to South Africa, alongside Jurgen Zammit, Head of External Relations at Malta Enterprise, and Shirley Pulis Xerxen, Head of News at SiGMA Group, the discussion outlined new opportunities for economic collaboration between Malta and South Africa, emphasising investment incentives, regulatory frameworks, and industry development, particularly in gaming, fintech, and digital innovation.

As Malta continues to solidify its role as a strategic gateway between Europe and Africa, the discussion provided key insights into how both nations can leverage their economic strengths to foster bilateral growth.

Driving bilateral business growth

Beyond trade, Malta and South Africa share longstanding diplomatic ties that pave the way for deeper collaboration in research, education, and talent development. “Malta and South Africa have shared strong diplomatic ties for years. While trade relations are healthy, there remains untapped potential for foreign direct investment. We are committed to strengthening this collaboration through agreements in research, innovation, and tourism,” emphasised H.E. Dionisio Vella, highlighting the significance of fostering long-term partnerships beyond commercial interests.

Malta’s economic infrastructure presents a robust framework for South African businesses seeking expansion into the European market. The nation offers competitive corporate tax incentives, direct financial support, and a highly attractive business environment. “Malta Enterprise actively supports businesses with tailored financial incentives, from startup grants to corporate tax schemes, making it an ideal base for companies looking to expand into Europe,” noted Jurgen Zammit, underscoring the strategic advantages Malta provides to foreign enterprises.

Key takeaways from the session

• Malta as a Gateway for South African Businesses: With its strategic position in the EU, Malta offers South African enterprises a valuable entry point into European markets, backed by a competitive corporate tax structure and funding support.
• Gaming and Digital Economy Collaboration: As the first EU member state to regulate online gaming, Malta provides a successful model for South Africa to develop its own regulatory framework, with the potential to emerge as Africa’s gaming hub.
• Investment in Talent and Innovation: Malta’s highly qualified persons programme and competitive tax rates create an attractive ecosystem for skilled professionals in fintech, gaming, and cybersecurity.
• Business cooperation could take different forms from trading to FDI to strategic alliances, technology transfer, joint ventures, licensing, franchising and distribution agreements.

Unlocking future opportunities

As both nations work toward expanding their economic ties, this dialogue reaffirms Malta’s commitment to supporting South Africa’s business growth trajectory. With access to extensive EU funding programs, attractive corporate incentives, and expertise in digital transformation, Malta offers a compelling case for South African enterprises looking to scale in international markets.The discussions initiated at SiGMA Africa 2025 are expected to translate into actionable partnerships, paving the way for long-term collaboration.