Shipping

Malta has been at the centre of shipping for many centuries.  The first major shipping nation, the Phoenicians used Malta as a regular port of call and set up settlements here. The use of Malta in this sense has carried on through the Romans, Arabs, Aragonese, The Knights of Malta, The British Empire and now as a major port in the Mediterranean within the new reality that is The European Union.

Malta's central geographical location in the Mediterranean, together with its natural harbours has meant that throughout the ages, the island has featured prominently as a crucial link between the key ports of the region and as a focal point for international trade. In recent years it has been the policy of the Maltese authorities to consolidate the maritime vocation and tradition of Malta and this coupled with the comprehensive range of maritime services facilities which Malta provides has significantly enhanced the island's reputation as an important maritime services centre.

Any type of vessel, from pleasure yachts to oilrigs, may be registered under the Maltese flag provided it is wholly owned by Maltese citizens or Maltese corporate bodies.  The law also provides for the bareboat charter registration in and out of Malta.

Malta offers extensive bunkering, freeport services, cruise liner terminal and yacht marinas.

Within this progress as a marine hub there has been further progress made in the field of vessel registration in Malta. Malta has now been in the top eight (tonnage totals) for a number of years and will continue to be so. Vessel registration under the Malta flag and the operation of the Maltese ships is regulated by the Merchant Shipping Act, a law based in the main on United Kingdom legislation, subsequently revised and amended in 1986, 1988, 1990 and 2000.

Why choose Malta to register your vessel

No income tax in respect of profits derived from the operation and ownership of a Maltese registered vessel. Also, shareholders of Maltese  shipping companies are not subject to taxation in  Malta on the dividends they receive;
No duty in respect of the sale, transfer or  transmission of any vessel, or of any shares in a company owning such vessel;
No restrictions on the sale or mortgaging of a  vessel registered in Malta or on the transfer of  shares of a Maltese company owning such vessel;
No restrictions on the nationality of the master,  officers and crew;
Low registration and labour costs;
No trading restrictions;
Malta is a party to the major international maritime conventions.