The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry issued a statement on Monday evening to welcome the reopening of all businesses as of 5th June.

Prime Minister Robert Abela, Deputy Prime Minister and Health Minister Chris Fearne and Superintendent of Public Health Charmaine Gauci jointly addressed a press conference on Monday evening to make the announcement.

“This is seen as an important step in the right direction for the country to continue to achieve normality and the economy to function once again,” the Malta Chamber said.

It added, however, that it could not help but note “the lack of detail in the Prime Minister’s press conference”.

“Businesses and investors need clarity which is only derived from guidance and operational principles in order to operate properly,” it emphasised.

“It is important for the necessary information to be issued without delay, in order for businesses to be in a position to enact and put in place the necessary protocols and procedures for the expected changes on Friday.”

The Chamber also welcomed the decision to reopen the ports and airport as of 1st July, without the obligatory need of quarantine.

It is therefore “paramount that the strictest and clear health and safety protocols are adhered to”.

With reference to the reopening of summer school and childcare centres, the Malta Chamber said, “it is very important that priority is given to families who require these services in order for the parents to be able to return to their work routines”.

“The whole of Maltese society has made great efforts to keep this pandemic under control by respecting the measures in place. We trust that this controlled and disciplined approach will continue in the weeks and months ahead.”