1. Background

Whether for their aesthetic beauty or for their practical use, artisanal products have been an integral part of Maltese heritage and local traditions for centuries; yet, a holistic strategy that addresses the challenges of the artisan sector and looks at opportunities that ensure long-term sustainability of the sector has to date never been published locally.

As part of its role to enable the preservation and appreciation of local crafts, the Malta Crafts Foundation, a public entity established in 2021, has recognized this lacuna and is proposing this draft national strategy.  

2. Crafting Ahead – A National Strategy for the Artisan Sector in Malta 2024-2030 

The overall objective of the strategy is to identify strategic targets and proposed actions for the artisanal sector for the coming six years. The strategy aims to provide a roadmap that contributes to the long-term sustainability, viability, and growth of the artisan sector. This would be particularly the case for traditional crafts that form an integral part of Maltese heritage and which are among those at a higher risk of extinction if no action is taken to safeguard them for future generations.

To ensure this strategy truly reflects the needs and challenges of the local artisan sector, the Malta Crafts Foundation sought to incorporate feedback from various stakeholders, and particularly from a large number of artisans. Data was collected through a questionnaire that was sent to all artisans registered with the Commerce Department, as well as during a national conference focusing on the artisan sector held in 2022, and subsequent focus groups.

The findings of the research led to the identification of eight (8) priority action areas within the artisan sector that require attention. For each of these priority areas, based on the feedback gathered from the artisans, the strategy proposes targeted actions that would transform the challenges into opportunities, thereby contributing to the long-term sustainability, viability, and growth of the sector, as well as the survival of those crafts that are currently at risk of extinction.

2.1 Priority Action Areas

2.1.1 Financial Aid and Support

There are various support measures in place for start-ups and SMEs provided by different government entities, which artisans can already take advantage of.  That said, there is still the opportunity to increase awareness of these measures.  This strategy will ensure that awareness is enhanced and address gaps in financial and non-financial support measures.   Regular stakeholder engagement is essential for all interested parties to interact and implement measures to take the sector forward.

2.1.2 Protection and Regulation of the Sector

To further strengthen the measures implemented under the priority action area in 2.1.1 above, this strategy aims at strengthening the national artisan registration system and enforce EU Geographical Indicator regulations to protect Maltese crafts.  This in addition with other initiatives outlined in the draft strategy, will ensure that artisans feel protected while competing in a safer and fairer market.

2.1.3 Business Support

Many artisans have not yet focused their full attention to their craft, or maybe they are hesitant to make a full-time switch in what may be perceived as a volatile sector, even though they enjoy doing what they do.  This priority area focuses to equip artisans with tools and the required confidence to make the transition from part-time to full-time operations, reducing bureaucratic barriers.

2.1.4 Awareness Campaign

As trends evolve, more people are gradually shifting away from mass-produced goods and recognising the value of handmade or custom-crafted products.  However, many remain unaware of the artisans behind these creations, the processes involved in making them, and the significant time, care, and effort invested in their production.  This priority area will mainly focus on the promotion and increased respect for artisans, educate locals and tourists on the heritage value of crafts, and encourage the purchase of authentic Maltese products.

2.1.5 Promotional Efforts

This priority area focuses on measures to increase artisans’ reach including measures to expand retail opportunities in key locations, artisan markets, online presence, and participation in international initiatives.

2.1.6 Education and Training

As we grow increasingly aware of the declining number of highly-skilled manual labourers, key measures under this priority area will emphasise on fostering traditional skills among younger generations and supporting lifelong learning opportunities for artisans through partnerships and collaboration with educational institutions and vocational programmes.

2.1.7 Adaptability, Sustainability, and Collaboration

While many artisans in Malta are either newcomers to the sector or have recently relocated from abroad, others have been practicing their craft or running the same business for decades.  While it may be evident to some that strategies from 25 years ago may not suit today’s markets, artisans may require support to adapt their mindset, updating their ideas, processes, and products to align with current demands. Initiatives under this priority area will encourage artisans to modernize their practices, embrace sustainability, and participate in both local and international collaborations.

2.1.8  Sector Innovation

This strategy aims to support artisans with modern approaches, helping their ideas and initiatives thrive.  Key efforts include promoting collaboration, providing training in advanced tools and techniques, encouraging the use of sustainable materials, and facilitating participation in national and European projects.

Overall, the strategy aims to transform challenges into opportunities, safeguarding Maltese crafts for future generations.

https://commerce.gov.mt/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Strategy_EN-1.pdf