Strengthening Local Publishing in Malta: How Supporting Maltese Books Can Boost National Culture and Tourism

Published on December 14, 2025

In recent years, the vibrant Maltese literary scene has come under increasing pressure. Despite the impressive energy and dedication shown by local writers, publishers, and the community, critical questions about the sustainability of the Maltese publishing industry are beginning to surface. As Malta’s rich culture continues to be a focal point for tourists and locals alike, the role of its literary output becomes more essential in both cultural and tourism landscapes. By investing in the local publishing industry, the country can foster a sustainable creative ecosystem that not only reflects Malta’s identity but also strengthens its tourism sector.

The Vital Role of Local Publishing in Malta

The Malta Book Festival remains one of the most significant events where writers, readers, and publishers gather to celebrate creativity and exchange ideas. It’s a beacon of hope for the Maltese literary community, showcasing the country’s commitment to nurturing local talent. However, amidst the festive atmosphere, it is clear that the local publishing industry faces several challenges.

The industry is alive, with new titles constantly emerging and high standards of editing, design, and production. Yet, behind this output, there are concerns that the current trajectory may not be sustainable in the long term. If publishers continue to face challenges in keeping their operations afloat, it’s important to consider the reasons behind this trend.

Could it be that the works produced by local writers are not captivating readers? Is the issue rooted in the national education system, which may not be fostering a strong reading culture? Or perhaps the rising costs of production and the lack of policies to support local publishers are to blame? The truth likely lies in a combination of these factors, which requires an open and honest dialogue about the future of the industry.

The Need for Government Support and Refinement of Existing Initiatives

Malta’s government has attempted to address the issue of reading culture through initiatives like the book voucher system. While such initiatives are well-intentioned and have played a role in encouraging children to explore literature, they fail to sufficiently support the local creative industry. To help boost the local publishing scene, government schemes should evolve to better support local creativity, from publishers to illustrators and booksellers.

A key improvement would be ensuring that a portion of every voucher, at least 50%, is spent on books published in Malta, particularly those carrying a Maltese ISBN. By doing so, the government would directly support local publishers, encourage readers to explore homegrown titles, and stimulate the Maltese creative ecosystem. This change would contribute to strengthening the cultural economy and promoting the local Maltese books market.

The Economic and Cultural Impact on Tourism

The connection between culture and tourism is well-established. Countries with strong cultural identities often attract visitors seeking to immerse themselves in local traditions, art, and history. Malta, with its rich literary history and vibrant modern cultural scene, has the potential to become a leading cultural destination in Europe. Supporting local publishing could be a pivotal step in this direction.

Visitors to Malta are often drawn to its history, landscapes, and unique heritage. However, few know that the island’s literature reflects its diverse history, its experiences, and its culture. By supporting local Maltese books, the country can offer tourists authentic cultural experiences that go beyond the typical tourist attractions. When tourists engage with local literature, they gain a deeper understanding of Malta’s identity, its people, and its rich cultural heritage.

Moreover, tourists who purchase Maltese books as souvenirs contribute to the local economy, directly benefiting the publishing industry, authors, and bookstores. These books, written in Maltese or other languages, reflect the unique perspective of the Maltese people and provide tourists with a tangible connection to the island’s cultural landscape.

The Role of Maltese Books in Strengthening National Identity

Supporting Maltese books is also about strengthening Malta’s national identity. Just as the country celebrates its food, wine, and crafts, it should also celebrate its literary heritage. Local publishing reflects the creativity, history, and values of Malta, offering a mirror to the country’s soul. These books carry stories and experiences that showcase the resilience, aspirations, and dreams of the Maltese people.

By investing in and supporting local publishing, Malta would be nurturing its creative talents and reinforcing its position on the global stage. Just as the Maltese food scene has gained international recognition, so too can its literary scene. Encouraging both locals and tourists to buy local literature would provide a sense of pride and ownership, allowing the people of Malta to preserve their cultural narratives for future generations.

A New Direction for Sustainable Publishing

It’s clear that the Maltese publishing industry has immense potential. The local authors, illustrators, and publishers have proven that they can produce works of high quality, yet they require more tangible support to continue thriving. The local Maltese books sector needs a refined approach from the government to ensure that it becomes a sustainable part of the island’s economy and culture.

This requires more than just government initiatives; it requires a cultural shift among the population. Supporting local books should be seen as an integral part of national pride, just like purchasing local food or wine. If every local resident embraced the idea of buying local books, it would not only help sustain the publishing industry but also support the local creative economy. By doing so, Malta could foster a more sustainable, thriving publishing scene that benefits both locals and tourists alike.

Turning Festivals into Long-Term Cultural Movements

The Malta Book Festival is an excellent opportunity for local authors and publishers to showcase their work. However, the true challenge lies in how to turn the energy and excitement of the festival into long-term growth for the local Maltese books sector. It is essential that the government and cultural bodies take a more structured approach to ensure that Malta’s literary talent receives the recognition and support it deserves year-round, not just during the festival.

An ideal solution would be to establish a more robust network of local bookstores, libraries, and cultural institutions that promote Maltese literature throughout the year. This would create a stronger presence for local books in the public consciousness, making them more accessible to both Maltese readers and visitors. By integrating local Maltese books into the national identity, the country can elevate its cultural status and offer something unique to travelers seeking authentic experiences.

Conclusion: The Path Forward for Malta’s Publishing Industry

To truly celebrate Malta’s cultural identity, the country must take proactive steps to support its publishing industry. This means not just celebrating the works of Maltese authors but also actively promoting them within and beyond the borders of Malta. Supporting local publishers and authors is not just about sustaining a literary tradition—it’s about investing in a thriving, sustainable future for Maltese literature, the national economy, and the tourism industry.

By buying local, readers can help shape the future of Malta’s publishing industry, supporting the voices that reflect the heart and soul of the nation. As Malta continues to attract visitors from all over the world, local books provide an authentic way to experience the country’s culture, history, and unique identity. Strengthening local Maltese books isn’t just a cultural endeavor; it’s a key element in the ongoing development of Malta’s tourism sector. By investing in the local publishing scene, Malta can turn its vibrant literary tradition into a sustainable and profitable part of its cultural and tourism economy.