We caught this quick summary of what the Malta budget means to the culture industry on the Islands from Toni Attard’s Facebook stream. Toni is an advisor on government’s Creative Economy Working Group within the Ministry of Finance, which is developing a national strategy for the cultural and creative industries in Malta. We think the list represents a very exciting future for culture and creatives.
It’s putting some micro detail and real flesh on areas that have been mooted for a long time. And it fits in with gearing up to see Valletta as European Capital of Culture in 2018. It may just kick-start a new wave of cultural regeneration and inspire us to explore creative, entrepreneurial ideas as day jobs. Let’s hope so. On the basis of this list, all credit to Toni and his counterparts.
1. An increase of 1 million Euro to public cultural organisations
2. Income from copyright is tax exempt.
3. Authors can claim public lending rights
4. Living and working in Valletta will have a tax deduction for artists
5. Government property in Valletta will be transformed into a creative cluster
6. The ‘Create‘ scheme is extended to all Valletta
7. New companies setting up in the cultural sector will be exempt from registration tax for 3 years.
8. Malta Game Fund set up
9. Tax credits to companies who commission games
10. Tax rebate for restoration works on scheduled properties
11. Cultural Diplomacy fund established
12. Fine Arts Museum to move to larger venue and better location
13. 100 Euro income tax deduction for cultural education.
14. 15% income tax for international professionals in digital games who move to Malta.
Photo: courtesy Nigel Bewley