SPACE INDUSTRY
Malta’s Space Law A New Frontier
Malta’s Space Law A New Frontier
Malta’s Space Law A New Frontier
In recent years, Malta has taken bold steps to position itself as a forward-thinking jurisdiction in emerging industries. Among the most promising of these is the space sector, with the country actively developing a legal and strategic framework to support space-related activities. With the introduction of a draft Space Activities Act and
In recent years, Malta has taken bold steps to position itself as a forward-thinking jurisdiction in emerging industries. Among the most promising of these is the space sector, with the country actively developing a legal and strategic framework to support space-related activities. With the introduction of a draft Space Activities Act and the implementation of a National Space Strategy (2022–2027), Malta is aiming to become a hub for space innovation, business, and regulation.
WHY SPACE
Malta’s Space Law A New Frontier
Malta’s Space Law A New Frontier
The strategic move into the space sector reflects Malta’s broader economic diversification strategy. With a strong record in maritime, aviation, and financial services, Malta now seeks to replicate its regulatory success in the space industry—a sector projected to be worth over $1 trillion globally by 2040. Space technologies also offer p
The strategic move into the space sector reflects Malta’s broader economic diversification strategy. With a strong record in maritime, aviation, and financial services, Malta now seeks to replicate its regulatory success in the space industry—a sector projected to be worth over $1 trillion globally by 2040. Space technologies also offer practical benefits to small island states like Malta. Satellite data can improve weather forecasting, environmental monitoring, maritime surveillance, and urban planning. Thus, investing in this sector is not just about economic opportunity—it also supports national resilience and development.
Malta’s introduction of a dedicated Space Law and its National Space Strategy signal a new era of innovation and international engagement. By laying a solid legal and strategic foundation, Malta is positioning itself to play a meaningful role in the rapidly evolving global space economy—opening doors to new industries, partnerships, and possibilities far beyond its borders.
Introducing Malta’s Space Activities
Introducing Malta’s Space Activities
Introducing Malta’s Space Activities
In 2024, the Maltese government published the Draft Space Activities Act for public consultation. This proposed law seeks to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework for any space-related activities carried out from or connected to Malta. The goal is to create a robust yet business-friendly legal environment that can attract private
In 2024, the Maltese government published the Draft Space Activities Act for public consultation. This proposed law seeks to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework for any space-related activities carried out from or connected to Malta. The goal is to create a robust yet business-friendly legal environment that can attract private sector investment while ensuring compliance with international obligations.
Draft Law's objectives are:
- Licensing and Oversight: Entities conducting space activities would require official licensing, ensuring that operations meet safety, technical, and legal standards.
- Liability and Compliance: The law outlines the responsibilities of space operators, including liability for damage, third-party insurance, and adherence to environmental and safety regulations.
- Regulatory Authority: The legislation proposes the designation of a competent authority—likely Xjenza Malta (formerly the Malta Council for Science and Technology)—to supervise and enforce these rules.
- Alignment with International Law: The Act ensures Malta's compliance with international treaties such as the Outer Space Treaty, Liability Convention, and others, establishing the country as a responsible space-faring jurisdiction.
This legislative move reflects Malta’s ambition to not just enable, but actively regulate and encourage innovation in satellite technology, launch services, Earth observation, and other space-related industries.
National Space Strategy (2022–2027)
Introducing Malta’s Space Activities
Introducing Malta’s Space Activities
Preceding the draft law, Malta launched its first-ever National Space Strategy in 2022, following extensive public consultation. The strategy sets a five-year roadmap aimed at building national capabilities, attracting investment, and fostering international collaboration in space activities.
Five Pillar Strategy
- Attracting Space Business &
Preceding the draft law, Malta launched its first-ever National Space Strategy in 2022, following extensive public consultation. The strategy sets a five-year roadmap aimed at building national capabilities, attracting investment, and fostering international collaboration in space activities.
Five Pillar Strategy
- Attracting Space Business & Foreign Investment: Malta aims to provide a competitive regulatory and tax framework to entice international companies working in space technologies.
- Fostering Innovation in Space: The strategy supports research and development in satellite applications, space data analytics, and cutting-edge technologies.
- Human Capital Development: Education and training programs are being introduced to cultivate a skilled workforce capable of supporting Malta’s space ambitions.
- International Legal Compliance: A significant part of the strategy involves ratifying key international treaties and ensuring all space activities comply with global legal standards.
- Embracing Emerging Technologies: The strategy encourages the use of AI, blockchain, and advanced data tools in space operations, promoting Malta as a forward-looking jurisdiction.
The strategy includes concrete measures such as setting KPIs, establishing responsible entities, and sequencing initiatives to ensure sustainable progress.