FinanceMalta signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Fintech Association of Japan during this week’s current trade mission in Japan, a move the Government is called a “marking a major step in deepening financial ties” between the two countries.

The agreement, signed during a meeting by a FinanceMalta delegation with the Fintech Association of Japan, sets a framework for cooperation on fintech innovation, from digital payments to blockchain, and aims to boost cross-border investment confidence.

The MoU comes as FinanceMalta also seeks a double taxation agreement (DTA) with Japan, the only G7 country without such a treaty with Malta.

Without a double taxation agreement, businesses face duplicate tax burdens, discouraging investment. Officials say securing the treaty is a strategic priority to facilitate long-term trade and position Malta as a gateway to Europe.

The trade mission is informed by a study commissioned from PKF Malta, which identifies fintech, sustainable finance, and insurance as sectors where Malta and Japan can build complementary partnerships. The report also highlights regulatory, cultural, and operational hurdles, underscoring the importance of local partnerships and long-term collaboration.

“Maltese fintech firms are agile and used to EU regulations, making them ideal partners as Japan moves toward digital finance,” said Graziella Grech, FinanceMalta COO.

“The PKF Malta report provides a clear roadmap for success.”

The mission coincides with 60 years of Malta-Japan diplomatic ties and Malta’s pavilion at Expo 2025 in Osaka, providing a platform to showcase Malta’s regulatory and innovation strengths.

Officials hope the visit will lay the groundwork for enduring financial integration, with benefits expected to be felt for decades.

The MoU was signed by Joseph Camilleri, FinanceMalta Governor, and Takafumi Ochiai, Vice Chair of the Fintech Association of Japan.