Focus on technology makes Malta and Mexico ‘natural’ partners, says TradeMalta Chairperson

TradeMalta Limited Chairperson Liz Barbaro Sant has urged businesses in Malta and Mexico to open themselves up to possible partnerships, given the two countries’ “strong focus” on innovation and technology.

This came in her opening address for ‘Doing Business with Mexico’, an informative seminar held on Thursday in collaboration with the Embassy of Mexico in Italy and the Honorary Consulate of Mexico in Malta. The aim of the seminar was to discuss the business opportunities between the two countries.

While Malta and Mexico are extremely different countries, there are a number of reasons as to why they are natural business partners. Malta’s location is one of those huge advantages, given its position at the crossroads of Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, making it an “excellent gateway” for Mexican businesses looking to expand their reach to the region.

On the other hand, Mexico is a leading economy in Latin America with a thriving tourism industry, robust manufacturing sector, and an abundance of natural resources. Its geographical location also makes it an “ideal hub” for Maltese businesses looking to expand their presence in North, Central, and South America.

Beyond geographical advantages, both countries also share a commitment to free trade and open markets. Malta has been a member of the European Union (EU) since 2004 and has a well-developed trade infrastructure, while Mexico has a significant number of free trade agreements (FTAs), more than any other country in the world. 12 FTAs with 46 countries make it a “significant international trade hub and a manufacturing powerhouse”. Additionally, in 2018, the EU and Mexico reached an agreement on trade, with “practically all trade in goods” between the EU and Mexico being duty free, including the agricultural sector.

Ms Barbaro Sant highlighted that both countries have a “strong focus” on innovation and technology. She noted that while Malta has made “significant investments” in the tech industry, particularly when it comes to blockchain technology, Mexico is “making strides in the tech industry”, with a “growing” start-up scene and a “booming” e-commerce market.

“All these factors make Malta and Mexico natural partners for doing business. By working together, businesses in both countries can leverage each other’s strengths and overcome any challenges they may face in their respective markets,” she emphasised.

“I strongly encourage businesses in Malta and Mexico to explore the opportunities that exist for doing business together,” she continued.

“Whether it’s through trade, investment, or partnerships, there is enormous potential for growth,” Ms Barbaro Sant concluded.

Claudio Rodriguez, Partner at Hollanda & Knight Mexico SC, a trade expert with extensive international experience, delivered a keynote presentation about opportunities in Mexico with emphasis on the legal framework. He delved into corporate law, tax, international treaties, international trade law, customs law, and other topics.

The seminar was also addressed by Carlos García de Alba, Ambassador of Mexico to Italy, Albania, Malta and San Marino, who highlighted the trade opportunities and explained the free trade agreements. Cecile de Mauleón, Executive Director at the Economic Association of Mexico to Italy, also shared her practical expertise in actively doing business in Mexico, together with Honorary Consul of Mexico Tonio Ellul, who also addressed the seminar.