The strong relationship between Malta and the United Kingdom spans generations and remains one of the most enduring ones Malta has cultivated. While some may question the potential for growth in what might appear to be a well-trodden market, long-time business leader Joseph Zammit Tabona has spent nearly five decades championing Malta’s value proposition in the heart of London.

“In the post-Brexit scenario, Malta may offer an opportunity of access to Europe, which could interest UK-based businesses,” explains Mr Zammit Tabona. “Malta offers a suite of advantages for investors, which goes beyond the tax regime. Stability is paramount for prospective investors when choosing a jurisdiction to set up shop in, and Malta can boast a very stable economy, together with sharing the same language, accessibility, and a general ease of doing business. As a Commonwealth country with a natural understanding of British business culture, Malta can act as a practical link between UK firms and the wider European Union.”

This perspective has shaped an initiative that has now become a fixture on the annual calendar. Hosted by FinanceMalta at the historic Mansion House, the London reception brings together senior figures from the business and financial communities to promote Malta’s strengths within the UK market.

“The event has grown from strength to strength since the first edition in 2023. Interest is as high as it has ever been, both from attendees as well as interested sponsoring organisations,” Mr Zammit Tabona explains. A former High Commissioner to the UK and long-serving special envoy for business promotion, he has played a central role in reinforcing economic ties between the two countries.

“We managed to bring together leading figures from banking, business, audit firms and professional services, continuing to position Malta as a strategic and attractive jurisdiction for UK-based companies looking outward,” he reflects.

This year’s event drew close to 500 guests to Mansion House, underlining the increasing attention Malta is receiving within London’s business circles. Having personally led the sponsorship and fundraising efforts, Mr Zammit Tabona sees the reception as both a gesture of appreciation to those already engaged with Malta and an entry point for new partnerships.

The evening maintained a concise and focused programme, featuring brief addresses by FinanceMalta Chair George Vella and Minister for Finance Clyde Caruana, who outlined Malta’s economic context and the scope for further cooperation. This was complemented by a short presentation highlighting Malta’s appeal as an investment destination.

Beyond business promotion, the reception also serves as an important meeting point for the Maltese professional community in London, offering a connection to home and an opportunity to strengthen professional networks while acting as informal ambassadors for Malta.

While Mr Zammit Tabona has expressed a desire for sponsors to take on a more active organisational role in future editions, his commitment to promoting Malta remains unwavering.

“Even though you can describe Malta in detail as much as you want, nothing beats bringing investors over,” Mr Zammit Tabona insists. “No amount of explaining can replace jumping on a plane and bringing prospective investors to Malta. Nothing beats the experience of seeing and touching what Malta can truly offer first-hand,” he concludes.