Malta to build first national aquaculture and fisheries research centre

MALTA – Malta is set to establish its first-ever national research centre dedicated to aquaculture and fisheries, following a landmark agreement between the Lands Authority and Aquatic Resources Malta, according to an article by Lovin Malta. 

The deal, signed in the presence of Lands Minister Owen Bonnici and Parliamentary Secretary for Fisheries, Aquaculture and Animal Rights Alicia Bugeja Said, transfers public land in Marsaxlokk to the state agency, marking a pivotal step in strengthening Malta’s maritime sectors.

The new facility will be constructed on a parcel of land in Triq il-Barrakki, adjacent to the historic Fort of San Luċjan. 

The fort, which already serves as a base for aquaculture research, will now fall under the formal responsibility of Aquatic Resources Malta. 

Together, the fort and the forthcoming research centre will form the cornerstone of a national strategy to develop cutting-edge expertise and infrastructure for fisheries and aquaculture.

Driving innovation and economic growth

The research centre is expected to be outfitted with top-of-the-line tools and resources to support scientific research and technological innovation in aquaculture and fisheries. Minister Bonnici described the project as a catalyst for economic advancement and job creation.

“This land transfer represents a significant step in areas where Malta is actively investing,” Bonnici said. 

“It will not only enhance our research capabilities but also create new, high-quality jobs. Our government remains committed to ensuring that public land and property are used in the best possible way to serve a better quality of life for Maltese and Gozitan families, and to bolster the economy across all its sectors.”

The agreement reinforces Malta’s long-term maritime strategy, particularly Vision 2050, which outlines the country’s ambitions to position itself as a leader in sustainable and innovative marine development.

Parliamentary Secretary Alicia Bugeja Said underscored the importance of continuous investment in maritime research, noting that this initiative will elevate Malta’s regional standing.

“It is crucial that we continue to invest in research supporting aquaculture and fisheries. Projects such as this demonstrate our Government’s commitment to strengthening maritime sectors sustainably and innovatively,” Bugeja Said stated. 

“The improved use of public property to create Malta’s first research centre in aquaculture and fisheries is a key step that will reflect economic growth, quality job creation, and investment in local talent.”

She added, “This project will not only strengthen research and development, but it will also position Malta as a leading hub in the Mediterranean in this sector.”

Aquatic Resources Malta to lead development

Aquatic Resources Malta, established in 2024 and led by CEO Dr. Frank Fabri, will oversee the development of the new research centre. 

The agency has already been active at Fort San Luċjan, conducting upgrades and spearheading research projects aimed at enhancing Malta’s aquaculture and fisheries industries.

With the newly transferred land, the agency is now tasked with designing and constructing a facility that aligns with the highest international standards. 

According to the Ministry for Culture, Lands and Local Government, the new centre will be essential in achieving the “ambitious targets outlined in Vision 2050.”

Once operational, the centre is expected to become a vital hub for scientific collaboration, sectoral development, and policy innovation in the Mediterranean region.

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