Malta’s labour market grows steadily as registered employment rises in November 2024

Malta’s labour market continues to expand, with newly released figures by the National Statistics Office (NSO) revealing a 3.5 per cent year-on-year increase in full-time registered employment and a 6.1 per cent rise in part-time jobs taken as a primary occupation.

According to Jobsplus administrative data, the total labour supply – excluding part-timers – stood at 292,552 in November 2024, marking a growth of 9,746 full-time workers compared to the same month in 2023. Registered unemployment also saw a minor uptick of 117 individuals, bringing the total to 1,067.

Private sector remains the engine of growth

The private sector accounted for the lion’s share of this growth, increasing by 8,109 to reach 238,049 full-time workers. Public sector employment also grew, albeit more modestly, by 1,637, totalling 53,436 persons.

Employment gains were particularly strong in the wholesale and retail trade sector (NACE 45-47), which added 1,692 full-time jobs, and accommodation and food service activities (NACE 55-56), with 1,449 new positions. These trends suggest sustained demand in consumer-driven industries and a recovering tourism sector.

Notably, the number of self-employed individuals rose by 814, while those registered as full-time employees increased by 8,932 year-on-year.

Growth driven by female participation

While employment rose for both genders, growth was more pronounced among women, with a 4.2 per cent increase compared to a 3.0 per cent rise among men. This continues a trend of improving gender participation in the workforce, particularly in services and knowledge-based sectors.

Part-time employment also on the rise

Registered part-time employment climbed eight per cent compared to November 2023, with accommodation and food services (+968) and professional, scientific and technical activities (+701) contributing most to the increase.

There was also a sharp rise in part-time workers who also hold full-time jobs – now totalling 45,261, representing a 9.6 per cent year-on-year jump. This dual-employment trend may indicate rising living costs or a growing appetite for flexible income streams.

Meanwhile, 35,333 people were employed in part-time work as their primary job – a 6.1 per cent increase from the previous year.

Implications for employers and policymakers

The steady rise in both full-time and part-time employment is a positive signal for Malta’s economic resilience, particularly in light of global uncertainty. However, the growing number of part-timers with full-time jobs may prompt further investigation into cost-of-living pressures and work-life balance concerns.

Additionally, sectors such as hospitality, retail, and professional services appear to be leading the way in job creation – a trend that employers may want to consider when planning workforce strategies for 2025.

With the total gainfully occupied population nearing the 300,000 mark, the challenge ahead will be sustaining this growth while ensuring workforce quality and adequate support systems for both employees and businesses.