Malta

In 2024, Malta was not a globally significant producer of mineral commodities. Mineral commodities produced in Malta included crushed and dimensional limestone and sea salt. The production of stone and sea salt represented only a minor part of the economy of Malta. The legislative framework for the mineral sector in Malta was provided by the Malta Resources Authority Act (Chapter 423) of 2001 and Act XVII of 2024. The Environment and Resource Authority was the agency that oversaw operations related to the quarrying of stone and administered all subsidiary legislation related to terrestrial mineral resources, including issuing quarry licenses and assisting with exports of stone. The Continental Shelf Department regulated licensing for activities such as petroleum exploration and seabed mineral exploration, serving as Malta’s geological survey for marine areas. Mineral commodities were produced by small, locally owned businesses and artisanal salt producers.