Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1540705
CHAMBER of SMEs President Paul Abela does not mince his words when reflecting on the results of a survey among members: "The Maltese want to have their cake and eat it." He was reacting to the findings that showed businesses stating that the major problem they face is a lack of workers, while also naming Malta's greatest concern as overpopulation. In an interview with MaltaToday, Abela acknowledges that this makes no sense. He mentions an anecdote from his time as Swieqi mayor when the council was considering creating reserved parking for residents but people rejected the idea when they realised they will not have a reserved spot outside their home. Many peo- ple, he tells me, simply want it all without having to face any conse- quences. Abela also points to unfair compe- tition as another major concern busi- nesses have. New realities like online commerce are drivers of an uneven playing field. On the recent discourse surround- ing the four-day work week, Abela dismisses this completely, explaining that this would only increase the de- mand for workers. The SME chamber president is sceptical of calls for a change in Mal- ta's economic model. He notes that those calling for change are not pro- viding alternatives. He further cau- tions against "applying the breaks" on the economy, stressing that this would ultimately lead to discrimi- nation between those allowed to do business, and those who aren't. 4 maltatoday | SUNDAY • 26 OCTOBER 2025 INTERVIEW Paul Abela: 'The Maltese want to have their cake and eat it' Chamber of SMEs President Paul Abela speaks about the contradicting answers businesses listed when they were asked about their biggest concerns in the organisation's latest survey. He sits down with Matthew Farrugia