Establish a Trading Company in Malta

Foreign entrepreneurs deciding to start a trading company in Malta are subject to various requirements and legal frameworks. First of all, they must select the type of structure they will operate under. The Maltese Commercial Law provides for the main types of companies to be incorporated in Malta. Secondly, they must understand the specifics of the trading activities in Malta which fall under the regulations of:

• -          the Trading Licenses Act;
• -          the Trading Licenses Regulations.

Our Maltese lawyers can offer information about all the laws above and can help you with the company registration process.

Types of trading licenses in Malta

All trading companies must apply for the relevant license. The following activities require a trading license:

• -          wholesale and retail trade activities;
• -          manufacturing and sale of food and beverages;
• -          other manufacturing activities.

Furthermore, trading companies involved in import and export activities in Malta are required to apply for the appropriate import or export license with the Trade Services Directorate within the Commerce Department. Import and export permits are issued in accordance with the Importation Control Regulations issued in 2004 and depend on whether the goods are coming or going within the European Community or outside the EU.

How to open a trading company in Malta

The most common type of company used to carry out trading activities in Malta is the limited liability company. Our Maltese law firm can help you register a limited liability company. Then the company must register for VAT in order to apply for the necessary permits. Also, EORI registration is required when involved in cross-border activities, such as trading.

The following documents are required in order to obtain a license for a trading company in Malta:

• -          a prescribed application form;
• -          the company’s name, country of origin and registration number;
• -          the identification documents of the applicant;
• -          the VAT registration number.

Depending on the goods to be imported or exported, additional conditions may apply. Also, other special permits may be required.

For complete information about the requirements a trading company must meet, please contact our lawyers in Malta.