On Saturday, Minister for the Economy and Industry, Silvio Schembri, inaugurated the launch of a local e-commerce platform, okmalta.com.

The private sector initiative will serve as a digital platform that brings together local businesses looking to boost their market reach with online sales.

Local vendors can open their own ‘store’ on the platform. At present, it is only accepting vendors who are registered with a valid Maltese VAT number, whether a private company or a sole trader.

Welcoming the OKMalta initiative, Minister Schembri referred to a recent survey conducted by the Malta Communications Authority (MCA) among e-commerce consumers, which clearly demonstrates how most Maltese shoppers buy from foreign and local websites if they want a variety of products.

At the same time, the survey shows that the use of local websites is gaining momentum and that, with the additional impetus provided, they are essential for strengthening businesses. Of the more than 700 correspondents, 58 per cent buy online whilst 42 per cent do not. Moreover, this survey looks at the frequency of online shopping, with 30 per cent buying once a month, a substantial amount wherein the age is between 18 and 24 years. An interesting aspect that emerged from this survey is that the most common age for weekly online shopping is over 65, a scenario that suggests growth.

“The local online market is gaining in popularity as, among others, it is using social media for advertising in an innovative way, it is using and seeking guidance tools, as well as showing a stronger commitment to become more familiar with this sphere, while at the same time sustaining its businesses”, said Minister Schembri.

Mark Bugeja, owner of okmalta.com through his company MYNE Company Limited, said that through the website “we are paving a local online path for all sellers and businesses”.

 “We believe that this is the best way to complement your existing e-commerce store with one which is already established on this path. Imagine for a moment as if you were opening another shop on the main street in Valletta, which thousands of people visit every day.

“This is also a great opportunity for small retailers to do the same without having to invest in their own e-commerce platform. Sellers have total control of their stores, for example when listing products for sale, items out of stock, listing new products and even closing down for a short period when on holiday.

“The whole business will be focused on attracting consumers to okmalta.com and thus ensuring that the stores get their rightful share of daily visitors. Buyers can register in the normal way through the website or by logging onto social media. A credit card payment system will be in place so that transactions can be carried out securely,” he said.