The Maltese Government revealed plans to turn Malta into a centre for video gaming in Europe with the launch of Malta’s ‘Vision for Video Game Development and Esports’ presented last Wednesday.
Through the launch, the government highlighted its heavy focus on E-sports as well as game production. The vision, which is aligned with EU standards and directives, incorporated incentives aimed towards emerging and innovative organisations, and it is one which harmonises with other sectors such as data management systems and payment gateways.
Incentives and Contributions
Silvio Schembri, Parliamentary Secretary for the Digital Economy, said that the incentives will include benefits on personal income tax, start-up funding from Malta Enterprise, and tax rebates of up to €200,000 amongst others. By using Blockchain technology, Schembri said, Malta can further develop the gaming sector.
The government also announced that the plan outlined is a structured framework which aims to grow enough to contribute to 1% of the island’s GDP as well as employ between 2,200 to 3,000 individuals within 10 years of commencement.
To train individuals in the field, Gaming Malta and EGIM are working on scholarship schemes within the field, internships and work-placements, as well as Master Classes in Malta.
According to Schembri, the gaming sector reached $135bn globally in 2018, making its value more than both the film industry and music industry.
A Growing Gaming Sector
Malta already has an emerging esports and gaming sector with F1 and Angry Birds games being produced on the island, and this sector is set to continue to grow. Schembri announced an agreement with ESL, a large esports company, with whom the government will be signing a Memorandum of Understanding. As an international firm, ESL welcomes the idea of working with Malta and expanding its global network in countries where it can organise competitions and international events.
The overall vision is part of a strategic plan to utilise Malta’s potential and ascertain that the current growth in the economy not only continues to strengthen, but is sustainable across new developments within emerging industries. By attracting foreign investment and investing in related innovative fields, the government is planning to cultivate a robust framework for esports, gaming and game production. The overall vision not only seeks to develop key areas within the technologically evolving landscape but also to promote culture and education.
The Maltese Government revealed plans to turn Malta into a centre for video gaming in Europe with the launch of Malta’s ‘Vision for Video Game Development and Esports’ presented last Wednesday.
Through the launch, the government highlighted its heavy focus on E-sports as well as game production. The vision, which is aligned with EU standards and directives, incorporated incentives aimed towards emerging and innovative organisations, and it is one which harmonises with other sectors such as data management systems and payment gateways.
Incentives and Contributions
Silvio Schembri, Parliamentary Secretary for the Digital Economy, said that the incentives will include benefits on personal income tax, start-up funding from Malta Enterprise, and tax rebates of up to €200,000 amongst others. By using Blockchain technology, Schembri said, Malta can further develop the gaming sector.
The government also announced that the plan outlined is a structured framework which aims to grow enough to contribute to 1% of the island’s GDP as well as employ between 2,200 to 3,000 individuals within 10 years of commencement.
To train individuals in the field, Gaming Malta and EGIM are working on scholarship schemes within the field, internships and work-placements, as well as Master Classes in Malta.
According to Schembri, the gaming sector reached $135bn globally in 2018, making its value more than both the film industry and music industry.
A Growing Gaming Sector
Malta already has an emerging esports and gaming sector with F1 and Angry Birds games being produced on the island, and this sector is set to continue to grow. Schembri announced an agreement with ESL, a large esports company, with whom the government will be signing a Memorandum of Understanding. As an international firm, ESL welcomes the idea of working with Malta and expanding its global network in countries where it can organise competitions and international events.
The overall vision is part of a strategic plan to utilise Malta’s potential and ascertain that the current growth in the economy not only continues to strengthen, but is sustainable across new developments within emerging industries. By attracting foreign investment and investing in related innovative fields, the government is planning to cultivate a robust framework for esports, gaming and game production. The overall vision not only seeks to develop key areas within the technologically evolving landscape but also to promote culture and education.