Key Moments:
- Eight companies have pledged a total of €60 million in investments for Malta’s gaming and esports industries by the end of 2026
- Approximately 1,300 new high-paying jobs are expected as a result of these investments
- Esports Imperial and BLAST TV are establishing or expanding their presence in Malta, with significant commitments to the region
Investment Surge Fuels Growth
Malta’s digital industries are experiencing renewed momentum, fueled by fresh investments from international firms. According to the Economy Ministry, eight major organizations spanning gaming, esports, video game development, and iGaming sectors have committed €60 million collectively, setting the stage for the creation of around 1,300 new high-paying positions.
The announcement was made following a meeting between Economy Minister Silvio Schembri and key figures from several industry leaders, highlighting Malta’s ongoing appeal as a destination for digital business expansion.
Major Esports and Gaming Entrants Establish Headquarters
The esports sector is also gathering pace in Malta. Esports Imperial, a leading team from Brazil, has chosen Malta as the site of its primary European headquarters, opening in December. This move is set to enhance Malta’s standing as an esports destination.
Meanwhile, BLAST TV, an esports broadcasting firm, is aiming to reach a global audience of 3.2 billion by 2025. The company is in the final stages of its Malta registration and intends to invest €10 million over three years, bringing significant competitive events to the islands.
Focus on Training and Local Talent
Unity, a major provider of video game development technology, has signaled intentions to broaden its training programs in Malta, with a goal of equipping local youth for roles in game development and interactive media.
Digital Marketing and Media Expansions
On the digital marketing front, Clever is launching new offices in Gżira with an investment of €6 million and is allocating an additional €1.5 million to NARC, a venture focused on video gaming. Gentoo Media is increasing its workforce from 70 to 130 by upgrading its facilities through an investment of €1.2 million.
iGaming Sector Expands Workforce and Infrastructure
Within iGaming, Soft2Bet has outlined plans for a €20 million rollout over four years, with new premises in Mrieħel and expanded training for Maltese professionals. Religa is targeting rapid workforce growth, aiming to increase its employee count from 200 to 700 by year-end following a €21 million investment. Eeze is set for the largest staff increase, projecting growth from 500 to 1,200 employees by early next year, backed by a €30 million investment in new offices, staff training, and technology.
| Company | Sector | Investment (€ million) | Key Expansion Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Esports Imperial | Esports | Not specified | European headquarters opening in Malta |
| BLAST TV | Esports Broadcasting | 10 | Event hosting, audience goal of 3.2 billion by 2025 |
| Unity | Game Development | Not specified | Expanding training programs |
| Clever | Digital Marketing | 6 (+1.5 to NARC) | New offices in Gżira, NARC video gaming venture |
| Gentoo Media | Media | 1.2 | Workforce growth to 130, upgraded facilities |
| Soft2Bet | iGaming | 20 | New premises in Mrieħel, local training programs |
| Religa | iGaming | 21 | Increase from 200 to 700 employees by year-end |
| Eeze | iGaming | 30 | Growth from 500 to 1,200 employees by early next year |
Strengthening Industry and Community Ties
Minister Silvio Schembri emphasized Malta’s status as a center for innovation in video game production and encouraged further reinvestment, particularly in sports initiatives supporting local athletes and facilities.
Ivan Filletti, CEO of Gaming Malta, characterized the developments as indicators of a united and purposeful sector. He stated that these advancements align with Malta Vision 2050 and are underpinned by growth in office space, skills, and esports activities.
Malta’s trajectory in gaming and esports continues to advance, supported by a wave of investments, growing employment opportunities, and an ongoing focus on talent development.
- Author
Daniel Williams
