Facilitating Access to Agricultural Land Through Landmark Agreement

Riżorsi Agrikoli Malta Facilitating Access to Agricultural Land Through Landmark Agreement

Public Service Expo 2025
During the Public Service Expo 2025, a historic agreement was signed between Riżorsi Agrikoli Malta (RAM) and the Lands Authority to ensure that currently vacant government-owned agricultural land is allocated for organised and sustainable agricultural use. This initiative marks a milestone for Malta’s agricultural sector, as it seeks to unlock land that has long been abandoned or underutilised and place it back into productive circulation.

Breathing New Life into Agricultural Land

Through this agreement, parcels of agricultural land that are no longer used for their original purpose will be transferred from the Lands Authority to RAM. A national repository of agricultural land will be established and allocated primarily to young farmers, new entrants seeking to establish themselves, and established farmers looking to expand their operations. Speaking at the event, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights, Anton Refalo, underlined the importance of returning abandoned land to cultivation. While such land may appear unattractive, he explained, it represents a wasted opportunity if left unused. Restoring it to productive use will create more cultivated fields, improve the quality of local produce, and generate economic benefits for rural communities, while also strengthening Malta’s food security.

Transparent and Fair Allocation

Minister for Lands, Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi, described the agreement as a vital step in enhancing the value of agricultural land in Malta. He stressed the importance of a transparent mechanism and rental rates that reflect fair pricing. “Thanks to this pilot project, the Lands Authority will continue to maximise the agricultural resources under its control, while providing an opportunity for those interested in starting an agricultural activity,” Minister Zrinzo Azzopardi affirmed. He added that the government is committed to delivering the reforms outlined in the 2025 Budget and electoral programme, ensuring a strong and sustainable future for the agricultural sector.