Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1544958
THE Gozo Business Chamber has called for greater regional autonomy for Gozo, a long-term accessibility masterplan and a new innovation-driven econom- ic model ahead of Malta's next general election, arguing that the island's future development requires a "decisive shift" in gov- ernance and planning. In a policy document published on Tuesday, the Chamber said Gozo should be recognised as a distinct island region with its own socio-economic realities and structural challenges, warn- ing against reducing the election campaign to a bidding war over promises for the island. The business lobby identified three priorities for the next legis- lature: stronger regional govern- ance, an integrated logistics and accessibility framework, and an economic diversification strategy focused on innovation, start-ups and higher value-added indus- tries. Among the proposals, is a call for "clear and measurable steps" towards greater regional autonomy for Gozo. The Chamber said that deci- sions affecting the island should be taken closer to the communi- ties and businesses impacted by them, describing this as a more responsive and accountable model of governance rather than "isolation or separation". The Chamber also renewed calls for major infrastructure investment aimed at reducing Gozo's dependence on a single maritime corridor. It proposed the development of a "Gozo Integrated Ac- cessibility and Logis- tics Masterplan", in- cluding a logistics hub near the planned rural airfield, an expanded and "fu- ture-proofed" Mġarr Harbour, an alternative fast ferry landing site at Marsalforn and a second road link to Mġarr Harbour, "prefera- bly through a tunnel". SMALL IS BEAUTIFUL FRIDAY 15 MAY 2026 • ISSUE 096 • PUBLISHED EVERY FRIDAY gozotoday €1.00 Gozo Chamber calls for greater autonomy and innovation growth 13 candidates are vying for your vote in Gozo on 30 May Find out which candidates are coming up in Gozo CONTINUES PAGE 4 LAURA CALLEJA lcalleja@mediatoday.com.mt A total of 13 candidates are con- testing District 13, which covers Gozo and Comino, in the 2026 general election on 30 May. The Labour Party is fielding five candidates, three of whom are ministers: Health Min- ister Jo Etienne Abela, Gozo and Planning Minister Clint Camilleri, and Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights Minister Anton Refalo, as well as Abigail Camilleri, who was LAURA CALLEJA lcalleja@mediatoday.com.mt CONTINUES PAGE 3 2026 ELECTION PROPOSALS: Among the proposals, is a call for clear and measurable steps towards greater regional autonomy for Gozo