The recent long-awaited European Commission decision on
the Maltese Tonnage Tax System has been welcomed by the shipping
community, both locally as well as from other member
states.
The European Commission rightly concluded that Malta was not
abusing the European State Aid guidelines for shipping in an
attempt to grow its registered fleet and hence was satisfied that
Malta was not taking an unjust competitive advantage with respect
to the other member states.
Furthermore, the Maltese Tonnage Tax System was endorsed by the
Commission for a period of 10 years – this will create
certainty and stability for owners intending to use the flag,
giving them the confidence to properly plan ahead.
