Country Profile: Malta

Malta is a small archipelago located in the central Mediterranean, south of Sicily. With a population of over 521,000, the country has a rich history influenced by various cultures and civilizations. Its economy is primarily service-oriented, with significant contributions from tourism, trade, and manufacturing. Governed as a parliamentary republic, Malta has embraced democratic principles since its independence from British rule in 1964 and has been a member of the European Union since 2004.

Geography

Malta comprises three main inhabited islands: Malta, Gozo, and Comino. The total land area is approximately 316 sq km, making it slightly less than twice the size of Washington, D.C. The climate is Mediterranean with mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers, while the terrain features low rocky plains and coastal cliffs.

198.8 km of coastline
25.9% of land used for agriculture (2023)
Highest point: 253 m (Ta'Dmejrek on Dingli Cliffs)

People and Society

The population of Malta is estimated to be 521,828 (2025), with a majority identifying as Maltese. The official languages are Maltese and English, and over 90% are Roman Catholic. The country exhibits a high urbanization rate, with 94.9% of the population living in urban areas.

42.1 years median age (2025)
83.6 years life expectancy at birth (2024)
7.67 births/1,000 population (2025)

Economy

Malta has a high-income economy characterized by a diversified portfolio, notably in services. The Real GDP is projected to reach $34.731 billion (2024), indicating steady growth. However, the country remains dependent on food and energy imports.

2.8% unemployment rate (2024)
80.8% of GDP from services (2024)
46.6% of GDP from household consumption (2024)

Government

Malta is a parliamentary republic with a political system that includes a unicameral legislature known as the House of Representatives. The current president is Myriam Spiteri DEBONO, and the Prime Minister is Robert ABELA. The country's constitution was adopted on 21 September 1964, and universal suffrage is granted at the age of 18.

65 members in the House of Representatives
The most recent election for parliament occurred on 27 March 2024.

Military and Security

The Armed Forces of Malta (AFM) consists of land, maritime, and air components, with a focus on external security and domestic safety. The military budget represents 0.5% of GDP (2024), ensuring capabilities for various missions including peacekeeping.

Approximately 2,000 active personnel (2025)
Voluntary military service for ages 18-30

Energy

Malta enjoys 100% electrification, with its electricity mix dominated by fossil fuels, accounting for 86.4% of the total installed capacity. Renewable sources, particularly solar power, contribute 13.2% of capacity.

2.766 billion kWh total electricity consumption (2023)
444.715 million cubic meters natural gas consumption (2023)

Environment

Malta faces environmental challenges such as limited freshwater resources and deforestation. It is a participant in various international environmental treaties aimed at addressing climate change and protecting biodiversity.

1.5% of land area covered by forests (2023)
Only 10.5% of municipal waste recycled (2022)

Transportation

Malta has a robust transportation system with one airport and a merchant marine fleet of 1,957 vessels. The country boasts two key ports: Marsaxlokk and Valletta.

1 international airport (2025)
2 heliports in operation (2025)

Communications

The telecommunications sector is well-developed, with high rates of mobile and internet subscriptions. Approximately 92% of the population are internet users, reflecting a strong digital infrastructure.

767,000 mobile subscriptions (2024)
259,000 fixed-line subscriptions (2023)

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Population	521,828 (2025 est.)
Total area	316 sq km
Real GDP	$34.731 billion (2024)	PPP
Unemployment rate	2.8% (2024 est.)	% of labor force
Life expectancy	83.6 years (2024 est.)
Birth rate	7.67 births/1,000	(2025 est.)
Urban population	94.9% (2023)
Total energy consumption	234.698 million Btu/person (2023)
% of GDP from services	80.8% (2024)
Military expenditures	0.5% of GDP (2024 est.)