As consumers grow more choice-conscious about what they consume, actively preferring higher quality produce, local agri-food operators can still struggle to penetrate large-scale commercial channels, and compete on the local market.

“Far from it being a matter of quality, small and family-run producers are known to face challenges when trying to grow their operation, especially when facing certain market requirements,” Justin John Camilleri, Chief Business Development Officer at the Malta Food Agency, explains.

In response, the Malta Food Agency has launched a new pilot initiative aimed at strengthening the competitiveness of Maltese agri-food producers and helping them expand their presence within the local market: The Business Expansion Pilot Initiative (BEPI).

“Malta’s agri-food sector is rich in tradition and craftsmanship, with producers deeply rooted in local agriculture, fisheries and artisanal food production,” Mr Camilleri states. “However, while many businesses excel in production, entering mainstream markets such as retail outlets, hospitality venues, and online platforms often requires investments and expertise that are beyond the smaller operators’ realm of possibilities.”

BEPI addresses such hurdles through financial support aimed at assisting producers become market ready.

“The initiative focuses on easing the transition into structured sales channels by supporting improvements in areas such as packaging, branding, labelling, and compliance with buyer requirements. By doing so, the Malta Food Agency is helping businesses present their products more effectively, meet commercial standards, and reach a wider local audience,” Mr Camilleri continues.

“The food sector offers viable business models and plays a strategic role in Malta’s economic stability. Through this initiative, we are supporting Maltese and Gozitan food producers at a crucial point in their growth by helping them transition into structured markets and operate with the confidence of established businesses. Strengthening the local agri-food sector ultimately strengthens the country’s economy,” Mr Camilleri further illustrates.

By encouraging producers to engage more confidently with retailers, hospitality operators, and digital platforms, BEPI supports business growth while reinforcing the role of local products within the domestic market.

BEPI is a pilot programme, which will allow the Malta Food Agency the flexibility to assess demand and impact, ensuring that future support measures are shaped by empirical evidence and real business needs.

Furthermore, a structured monitoring framework will ensure accountability, while collaboration with the State Aid Monitoring Board guarantees compliance with national and EU regulations.

“Ultimately, BEPI represents a practical and targeted intervention that demonstrates how the Malta Food Agency is actively working with businesses to overcome growth barriers. By supporting producers at a critical stage of market expansion, the agency is contributing to a more resilient, competitive and sustainable agri-food sector, aligned with national priorities for food security and economic development,” Mr Camilleri concludes.