Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade, Ian Borg, described the selection as a moment of national pride and a confirmation of Malta’s evolution into a global voice in tourism. Borg stressed that this event offers a unique occasion to showcase the heritage, innovation, and hospitality that distinguish Malta, while fostering synergies between local operators and leading international brands. In his view, the Summit will position Malta as a leader in discussions on sustainability, community participation, and resilience in tourism, all key areas for the sector’s responsible development.
Gloria Guevara, interim CEO of the WTTC, expressed her enthusiasm about bringing the Summit to Valletta, which she described as “one of the most beautiful capitals in Europe.” Guevara highlighted that tourism is a pillar of Malta’s economy, projecting that this year the sector will generate €3.6 billion, 43.5% more than in 2019. She further noted that tourism supports one in five jobs in the country, reflecting an 18% increase compared to pre-pandemic levels.
Carlo Micallef, CEO of the Malta Tourism Authority, emphasized that hosting the Summit is a statement of intent about the role Malta aspires to play in global tourism. Beyond the short-term impact, he argued that the event will strengthen Malta’s reputation as a center of tourism excellence with lasting benefits for the economy, the sector, and citizens.
The choice of Malta as host brings multiple strategic advantages. It provides a stage to showcase the archipelago’s cultural, natural, and heritage treasures—its historic cities, coastal landscapes, and Mediterranean legacy—as well as its capacity for innovation in areas such as destination management, digitalization, and sustainability. The event will also foster ties between local and international actors, promoting alliances and investment projects that could outlast the Summit itself.
From an economic perspective, the arrival of delegates, exhibitors, media, and high-profile visitors will generate a multiplier effect across accommodation, dining, transport, and related services. The media impact of such a high-level gathering will also elevate Malta’s visibility as a tourist destination, potentially translating into additional growth in arrivals in subsequent years.
A key challenge will be organizing a large-scale event aligned with the principles of sustainability and social responsibility demanded by modern tourism. Efficient logistics, capable infrastructure, and environmental mitigation measures will be essential to ensure the Summit stands out not only for its attendance but also as a model of how tourism can be integrated with social and ecological wellbeing.
It is anticipated that the Summit will address pressing issues such as resilient tourism in the face of global crises, community integration, new technologies in the sector, market diversification, and the political governance of tourism in small and medium-sized countries. As host, Malta will not only participate in these debates but also influence the global agenda and demonstrate its leadership capacity.
The confirmation of this Summit represents a milestone in Malta’s tourism trajectory. It will be a major international gathering that strengthens its credentials as a contemporary destination committed to excellence, sustainability, and innovation. The 26th WTTC Global Summit in 2026 will not only attract attention and resources to the island but also send a powerful message: Malta is not just part of the global tourism conversation—it is ready to help set the course.
