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Chamber of Commerce conference on the “Four Freedoms”
by a staff reporter
The four freedoms form the basis of European Union legislation.
As these allow for the free movement of people, goods, services
and capital they are bound to influence the local business community
on Malta’s EU accession. The Malta Chamber of Commerce
has decided to hold a national conference entitled “Understanding
the Four Freedoms”. This is aimed at the business community
and will be held on Friday 10 November, at the New Dolmen Hotel.
In the past, Maltese business leaders have often stated that
through membership of the EU, Malta would benefit from these
freedoms. But, what exactly are these benefits and are there
any threats? How can Malta effectively exploit the opportunities
of operating in the EU’s internal market?
John E. Sullivan, President of the Chamber explained that this
conference would, “provide participants with a micro overview
of each of the four freedoms, as well as an overall
perspective as to how these would relate to the Maltese scenario”.
Experts on the European Union, business leaders and financiers
from both Malta and abroad will address this conference. “The
Chamber of Commerce feels that the time is ripe to analyse these
four freedoms in detail and their practical implication. This
conference will provide an opportunity for Chamber members and
others to clarity any misconceptions about the real effects
of Malta’s EU membership,” continued Mr Sullivan.
Subjects to be tackled include the impact of the free movement
of people on the Maltese labour market, unemployment levels
and skills. The effect of the free movement of goods will also
be addressed with discussion focusing on the removal of levies
particularly where vulnerable sectors like furniture and agriculture
are concerned. A snapshot will be provided of the extent to
which economic restructuring in Malta has been achieved.
The free movement of services and capital are also set to have
an impact on the Maltese
economy. The possibility of a transition period or derogation
from the EU on the free movement of capital could limit a possible
negative impact on housing prices The free movement of services
will also have a bearing on the financial services industry
in Malta.
The National Programme for the Adoption of the Aquis involves
the introduction of a large amount of new legislation. The conference
will examine whether the necessary administrative structures
are also being put in place to effectively implement and enforce
this legislation.
Dr Leonard Mizzi, director of the Malta Business Bureau in Brussels,
said: “With accession negotiations well underway, the four
freedoms are already under discussion. These freedoms are fundamental
for the future growth of businesses in Malta.”
“It is important not only to understand the rules of the
game within the EU, but also how these rules will be applied
in Malta. This conference will highlight the potential problems
as well as the emerging opportunities which can be exploited
by Maltese business,” said Dr Mizzi.
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