Maltese executives ‘turning AI curiosity into commitment’ – Gege Gatt

Executives in Maltese businesses are asking how AI can reduce costs, strengthen customer experience and address labour shortages, with many in large enterprises moving “from curiosity to commitment,” according to EBO.ai Founder and CEO Gege Gatt.

Speaking to MaltaCEOs.mt, Dr Gatt says there has been “a noticeable shift.”

“Two years ago, conversations were exploratory. Today the conversations are urgent.”

Nonetheless, he warns, “adoption is still too narrow, too dependent on a few technology-forward organisations.”

“Caution persists. Not because of fear of the technology, but because of uncertainty around implementation. Many companies still lack the data maturity required to take full advantage of AI. Others are navigating regulatory complexity, especially in health and finance.”

Initiatives announced in the Government Budget for 2026 are meant to accelerate AI adoption by Malta-based companies, with offerings ranging from financial support to access to high-performance computers.

Dr Gatt believes these initiatives lower the barrier to entry for experimentation, “sending a clear signal that Malta intends to be competitive in the digital economy.”

AI, he continues, can raise productivity in sectors that have historically struggled with scale , such as healthcare, tourism, financial services, public administration.

“The opportunity lies in using these tools to help local firms modernise.”

The AI entrepreneur continues: “We also need stronger national programmes for AI literacy so that business leaders, civil servants, and educators understand not only what AI can do, but how it should be governed responsibly. Without that, we risk building infrastructure without building capability.”

“Put simply: Malta has the scaffolding; now it needs the skills.”

Dr Gatt sees “openness rising, and confidence emerging,” but notes that “execution discipline still needs to mature.”

“The winners will be the firms that build AI capacity now rather than waiting for a mythical moment of perfect readiness.”