Tourism in a small island economy: the case of Malta

Abstract

For many small countries, especially those concentrating on the development of their manufacturing industry, the establishment of a stable economic base has proved difficult. In the case of Malta, tourism has emerged during the last decade as an alternative source of foreign exchange earnings. This paper is concerned with the development of Maltese tourism, and with the problems that have arisen within the last three years. Malta's position of weakness as a small economy in the international markets is emphasized as a serious problem, as is the dependence upon the UK tourist markets. Ultimately, the causes of the malaise currently afflicting Maltese tourism are similar to those which have dogged Maltese manufacturing activity.