Malta retains A+ rating with stable outlook – Scope

Malta has retained its A+ sovereign credit rating with a Stable Outlook from Scope Ratings, with the agency highlighting the country’s robust economic growth, resilient banking sector and improving fiscal trajectory.

In its latest rating report published on 15th May, Scope Ratings said Malta continues to outperform many European peers due to strong domestic demand, a resilient labour market and dynamic export sectors such as tourism and services. The agency noted that Malta’s growth is expected to moderate in the coming years but remain “significantly above the peer average”.

Scope also praised Malta’s record of “prudent fiscal management”, stating that strong economic performance and solid tax receipts are expected to support a continued reduction in fiscal deficits over the coming years. The report projects Malta’s general government debt to gradually decline below 40 per cent of GDP by 2031.

The ratings agency said Malta’s banking sector remains a key strength for the economy, pointing to robust capitalisation, liquidity and profitability metrics that enhance the country’s ability to absorb shocks. It also highlighted Malta’s sustained current account surplus and limited direct exposure to ongoing international trade tensions.

Scope forecasts Malta’s real GDP growth at 3.6 per cent in 2026, followed by growth rates close to 4 per cent through to 2031, well above the peer group average.

The agency said the Stable Outlook reflects balanced risks to the rating. Potential positive drivers include structural reforms that improve economic diversification and fiscal consolidation leading to a faster-than-expected decline in public debt.

However, Scope also warned about several challenges facing Malta’s economy. These include the country’s dependence on external demand and foreign labour, fiscal risks linked to energy subsidies and state-owned enterprises, as well as lingering institutional shortcomings.

The report further noted concerns related to environmental and governance factors, including Malta’s reliance on fossil fuels, demographic pressures and governance metrics that remain below those of rating peers despite what Scope described as “positive reform momentum”.