JA Malta Foundation, an NGO that assists youths in entering the entrepreneurial world, is asking the Government to allow those under the age of 18 to be allowed to register and run their own business.

This recommendation forms part of an extensive list of proposals JA Malta handed the Government ahead of its 2025 Budget.

JA Malta remarked that currently, under-18s are struggling to set up their own businesses because of legal complications. This is because, under-18s cannot set up their own businesses without obtaining emancipation from their parents or guardians.

Consequently, students are unable to obtain their own VAT number without it negatively impacting their stipends, a monthly sum provided by Government to students in post-secondary education on the island.

“This restriction hampers the entrepreneurial potential of young individuals who are otherwise deemed responsible enough to get married, run for elections, and be employed,” the Foundation said.

Given this, it is proposing that Government amends the VAT regulations to allow under-18s to apply for and obtain their own VAT numbers without affecting their stipends.

If the Government deems this as risky due to contractual obligations, the Foundation further recommends setting up an under-18 sandbox.

This will allow youths between the age of 16 and 18 to operate in a restrictive yet operational environment where they transact and trade in small amounts without capping and putting limitations. Later, when they reach the age of 18, youths would then register and operate normally.

This mechanism would enable them to start operations legally which would typically involve a period of R&D and development before trading in full capacity.  

Expanding further on the proposal, the Foundation highlighted that it comes with a number of benefits such as economic empowerment and growth, skills development, increased economic participation and government efficiency and savings.

Overall, JA Malta proposed 19 recommendations based on three key pillars:

1) Financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and work readiness

2) Unlocking untapped potential

3) Social empowerment and inclusion

Among the proposals, the Foundation is recommending a national financial literacy initiative. This would include a nationwide comprehensive financial literacy campaign to target everyone from children at the age of seven to pensioners, community workshops and online resources to ensure access to financial education.

In terms of digital entrepreneurship and e-commerce initiatives JA Malta is also recommending shipping and logistical support and e-commerce development programmes.

It is also proposing a 'Women in Entrepreneurship Initiative' to support female entrepreneurs through mentorship, networking opportunities, and financial assistance.

“This initiative should aim to address gender disparities in entrepreneurship and promote inclusivity. Supporting women in entrepreneurship can drive economic growth and foster a more diverse and inclusive business environment,” the Foundation highlighted.

Other proposals target rural entrepreneurship development and focus on the creative arts industry.

JA Malta also addressed digital and remote work skills training to prepare the workforce for the evolving job market, among others.

Commenting on the proposals, CEO Matthew Caruana emphasised that these represent “significant investment in Malta’s youth and future prosperity.”

“The Foundation has also proposed the creation of a Youth Innovation Fund, which would provide financial support for young entrepreneurs to bring their innovative ideas to life,” he concluded.