168 accountants join the ranks of the Malta Institute of Accountants

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The Malta Institute of Accountants (MIA) has welcomed 168 new members, bringing its total membership to just over 4,500 professionals. Their achievement was celebrated during the Institute’s New Members Ceremony held at the Hilton Malta, honouring the newest professionals joining Malta’s accountancy community.

A common theme emerging during the event was the importance of upholding integrity, strengthening public trust and safeguarding the reputation and credibility of the accountancy profession.

MIA President Dr Jonathan Dingli urged the new members to act as ambassadors for accountancy, stressing that their work reflects on the entire profession and beyond. “Reputation is built over time, but it can be lost overnight. Every time we sign a report, provide advice or interpret a regulation, we represent not only ourselves but the entire profession and, by extension, Malta’s credibility on the international stage”, he explained.

MIA Chief Executive Officer Maria Cauchi Delia reaffirmed the Institute’s role as the voice of the profession, highlighting its close collaboration with the Accountancy Board and its active participation in national and European fora, including constant dialogue with institutions such as the MFSA, MBR, FIAU and Accountancy Europe. “Every voice matters. We work to ensure that the profession is heard and that decisions taken at national and EU level reflect the realities in Malta”, she said.

Cristina Gutu, Vice President of ACCA International reaffirmed ACCA’s commitment to its partnership with the MIA and its Joint Examination Scheme. She noted that organisations increasingly require accountancy expertise in areas such as green and sustainable finance and ethical conduct, adding that while technical competence remains essential, integrity and trust are more valuable than ever. Prof Lauren Ellul, Associate Professor at the Faculty of Economics, Management & Accountancy at the University of Malta congratulated the new members and highlighted the importance of continuous learning as AI, technology and sustainability transform the profession. She emphasised that while technology can increasingly perform technical tasks, professional judgement, integrity, scepticism, communication and empathy remain essential qualities. Stressing that the profession is built on trust, Prof Ellul encouraged members to remain curious, challenge assumptions and consider the human consequences of their decisions.

The ceremony also recognised Malta’s top-performing ACCA affiliates during the past twelve months’ examinations. Marco Sbrana, Zach Ohayon and Julia Gafa’ placed first, second and third respectively in September 2025; Shirley Abdilla, Maxell Muscat and Joseph Rizzo in December 2025; Amy Gauci, Dea Rodrigues Fernandes and Mirea Vella in March 2026; and Mariah Agius, Alexander Camilleri and Kurt Gulia in June 2026.

The top three University of Malta accountancy students for 2026 were also honoured. Nikita Pisani received the award for Best University of Malta Accountancy Student, followed by Erica Falzon and Yasmin Spiteri in second and third place respectively.

The Kevin Mahoney Award for exceptional voluntary work and altruism was presented to Anatole Baldacchino. As founder and President of the Thalidomide Survivors Association Malta, he used his accountancy, governance and regulatory expertise to help secure state recognition and compensation for survivors, addressing a decades-old historical injustice.

During the event, the Institute also recognised several long-serving members of staff for their valuable contribution over the years.

Those honoured included Jacqueline Mamo, who has served the Institute for over 11 years; Catherine Mallia Bonavia and Dorianne Formosa, who have each been part of the MIA team for more than 10 years; and MIA Chief Executive Officer Maria Cauchi Delia, who has served the Institute for over 13 years, including 10 years as CEO.

Malta Institute of Accountants holds 62nd AGM

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The Malta Institute of Accountants held its 62nd Annual General Meeting on 24th September 2026 at Villa Arrigo, during which seven of its members were elected to its Council.

The elected members were Mr Fabio Axisa, Mr David Delicata, Dr Jonathan Dingli,  Mr Shawn Falzon, Mr Christopher Portelli, Mr Norbert Tabone, Ms Annabelle Zammit Pace. They joined Mr Edmond Brincat, Mr Mark Bugeja, Mr Thomas Galea, Mr Paul Giglio, Mr Ronald Mizzi, Ms Karen Spiteri Bailey and Ms Lucienne Pace Ross.

Addressing the Annual General Meeting, Institute President Dr Jonathan Dingli said: “At a time of significant regulatory, technological and economic change, the Institute has an important role to play in ensuring that accountants are prepared for what lies ahead. Through our policy engagement, professional development initiatives, work with students and young people, and stronger international relationships, we are strengthening our contribution to the profession and the wider economy”.

Referring to the Institute’s activities on areas related to regulation, digitalisation, AI, sustainability requirements and ongoing talent challenges, Dr Dingli said that the Institute’s role is not simply to respond to change, but to understand its direction, prepare members for what lies ahead and ensure that Malta’s voice is heard in the discussions shaping the future of accountancy.

Presenting the key milestones of the Institute’s activity throughout the year, CEO, Ms Maria Cauchi Delia, highlighted the Institute’s role in ensuring that the profession remains well represented, well supported and equipped to respond to a changing environment. She pointed to the Institute’s contribution to the national policy debate, including, as well as its ongoing engagement with regulators and other stakeholders, including through the provision of feedback for 79 consultation documents or proposals.

She also shared details on the Institute’s programme of conferences, technical initiatives and member engagement activities. These initiatives, she noted, reflect the Institute’s commitment to remaining relevant to its members, providing practical opportunities for learning and engagement, and ensuring that the profession’s experience and expertise continue to inform wider discussions affecting the economy.

Ms Cauchi Delia provided an overview of the Institute’s recent and forthcoming international commitments, highlighting how these engagements strengthen its position, provide early insight into relevant developments, and create opportunities to influence ongoing debates. She also noted that representatives of the Institute’s Lithuanian PAO counterpart were present for the AGM as part of a visit to Malta, during which the two organisations held several discussions  to exchange experiences and share best practices.

Turning to the profession’s longer-term needs, Ms Cauchi Delia referred to the importance of attracting and developing talent, addressing skills shortages and strengthening the profession’s appeal to younger generations.

During the AGM, the members voted upon and appointed the Chairs and Deputy Chairs of the Disciplinary Committee and Appeals Board, together with the members of the Appeals Pool for the 2026-2029 period. These structures form an important part of the Institute’s regulatory framework, providing a clear and independent process for addressing disciplinary matters and considering appeals. The appointments therefore strengthen the Institute’s governance and oversight arrangements and reinforce confidence in the integrity of the profession.

Ms Maria Micallef and Mr Alan Craig were appointed Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson of the Disciplinary Board, while Mr Hilary Galea Lauri and Ms Elvia George were appointed Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson of the Appeals Board. At its first meeting following the AGM, Council appointed the members of the Disciplinary Pool.

During the first meeting of the new Council held shortly after the AGM, the four Officers of the Council were re-confirmed in their respective position. Dr Jonathan Dingli has been confirmed as the Institute’s President, Ms Annabelle Zammit Pace as Vice-President, Mr Paul Giglio as Secretary and Mr Shawn Falzon as Treasurer.

Financial Services Human Capital Study and Forecast for Malta’s Financial Services Sector in Support of EFIS and Vision 2050 Objectives

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The Financial Services Human Capital Study and Forecast for Malta’s Financial Services Sector, led by the University of Malta, is now underway, and we invite organisations and self-employed professionals operating within the financial services sector to participate by completing the official questionnaire.

This study seeks to assess the current workforce landscape, analyse skills and talent availability, project future human capital requirements for the period 2025–2035, and inform evidence-based policy recommendations that will support the long-term competitiveness of the sector.

The questionnaire requires one response per organisation, and it is therefore important that it is completed by the most suitable person within the organisation. Self-employed professionals are also requested to submit a single response reflecting their own activity within the sector.

The feedback requested is detailed and comprehensive and may take some time to complete. Respondents are strongly encouraged to first review the PDF version of the questionnaire in order to familiarise themselves with the questions and gather the required information internally. Please note that, in the online questionnaire, certain questions may appear or change depending on the options selected, and this may not be fully reflected in the PDF version attached. Responses should then be submitted through the online form available at the link below.

https://forms.office.com/r/jJbMaHUKhY

The deadline for submission of feedback is Thursday, 30th April, 2026

Your participation is essential to ensure that the study accurately reflects the realities of the financial services sector and supports meaningful, forward-looking recommendations for workforce planning and talent development in Malta.

Should you require any clarification or further information, please do not hesitate to get in touch on technical@miamalta.org

Call for Board of Studies

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The Malta Institute of Accountants (MIA) and the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) operate a Joint Examination Scheme to jointly provide an Examination Scheme which is inclusive of both:

  • the ACCA Qualification; and
  • the Malta variant examinations (Malta variant examinations), comprising of:  

– Corporate & Business Law Malta (LW MLA);

– Taxation Malta (TX MLA); and

– Advanced Taxation Malta (ATX MLA).

A Board of Studies (the Board) is being established to review, evaluate and provide recommendations on the syllabus of each of the Malta variant examinations to ensure it remains current and relevant.

Role Purpose: To assist in the execution of the Board of Studies’ tasks and to enable it to fulfil its roles and responsibilities.

Further details including roles and responsibilities of the Board and experts are outlined in the Terms of Reference.

Term: One-year contract-for-service, with payment provided. Renewal may be possible.

Requirements:

  • Minimum of 5 years of direct experience in the relevant field (law and/or taxation).
  • Strong commitment to maintain high academic and professional standards.
  • Excellent research and analytical skills.
  • Excellent communication skills.
  • Ability to work collaboratively.
  • Meticulous and detail oriented.
  • Ability to lead meetings, if and when requested.

Engagement Expectations:

  • Expected to participate in meetings and contribute to ongoing work throughout the year.
  • A higher volume of input will be required in the first half of 2026 due to ACCA changing their syllabi. Such input will also be required during the month of every October and as and when necessary.

Conduct Expectations:

  • Uphold strict confidentiality.
  • Declare any conflicts of interest.
  • Demonstrate impartiality at all times.

Submission of Application:

Interested persons are requested to submit their application online along with an updated CV by not later than 30 January 2026.

Enquiries: For more information, please send an email to ceo@miamalta.org

More information:  Click on the following links for an overview of the current syllabi. Please note that these are currently under review by ACCA.

Corporate & Business Law Malta (LW MLA)

Taxation Malta (TX MLA)

Advanced Taxation Malta (ATX MLA)

 

163 accountants join the ranks of the Malta Institute of Accountants

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The Malta Institute of Accountants (MIA) has welcomed 163 new members, who recently completed their qualifications with ACCA and the University of Malta. Their achievement was celebrated during a ceremony held at the Hilton Malta, providing a fitting occasion to honour the newest professionals joining the accountancy community.

In her address, MIA Chief Executive Officer Ms Maria Cauchi Delia reaffirmed the Institute’s commitment to education and lifelong learning, preparing professionals to thrive in an era shaped by digital transformation and artificial intelligence. “AI brings both challenges and opportunities, it is transforming every sector and reminding us of the need to continuously reskill,” she said. She added that accountancy remains a stable and rewarding career, offering real potential for growth and impact. “Accountants are value creators. Clients and organisations rely on us to help them move forward,” she noted, highlighting the Institute’s ongoing collaboration with regulators to strengthen the profession’s appeal.

MIA President Dr Jonathan Dingli congratulated the new members on reaching this important milestone and emphasised the importance of integrity and professionalism. He noted that accountants play a vital role in building trust and transparency across the economy. “Your work extends beyond numbers, it is about safeguarding confidence in business and public institutions alike,” he said.

In addition to the traditional presentation of certificates, the ceremony also recognised the achievements of the top-performing ACCA affiliates and the top University of Malta accountancy graduate. The awards were presented in the presence of Ms Melanie Proffitt, ACCA Deputy President, and Dr Marie Louise Mangion, Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Economics, Management and Accountancy at the University of Malta.

This year’s award recipients were Biagio Roca (1st in Malta Overall Performance, September 2024 ACCA Top Affiliate), Maya Xuereb (1st in Malta Overall Performance December 2024 1st in Malta Overall Performance), Lara Cocks (1st in Malta Overall Performance March 2025 1st in Malta Overall Performance), Kirsty Muscat (1st in Malta Overall Performance June 2025 1st in Malta Overall Performance), and Emily Raggio (Best University of Malta Accountancy Student 2025).

In her remarks, Ms Proffitt reflected on how the definition of success in business is evolving. “Investors and consumers today increasingly judge the value of organisations by their impact on people and the planet, not just their financial performance,” she said. She encouraged new accountants to embrace this broader purpose. “As professionals, you have the opportunity to shape a more responsible and sustainable economy, one that measures progress not only by profit, but by the positive difference it makes in society.”

Dr Marie Louise Mangion, Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Economics, Management and Accountancy at the University of Malta, speaking on behalf of Professor Simon Grima, stressed the importance of upholding the highest ethical and professional standards. “When faced with pressure to compromise, integrity must prevail. Professionalism should guide every aspect of our work to ensure that both private and public institutions operate as they should, because that is how we build a better society,” she said.

The New Members Ceremony also served as the backdrop to celebrate the winners of the Kevin Mahoney Award for exceptional voluntary work and sense of altruism.  This year’s award recipients, Ms Rachel Lee Curmi and Ms Ingrid Sammut, embody compassion and courage, and serve as a voice of encouragement and resilience for others.

Accountants urged to lead business transformation as rapid technological and regulatory developments redefine business needs

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Malta’s accountancy profession is stepping forward to lead change, as rapid technological and regulatory developments redefine how accountants deliver value to businesses. The Malta Institute of Accountants (MIA) is calling on practitioners, particularly those serving small and medium-sized enterprises, to take the lead in driving innovation, investing in digital tools and expanding their advisory role to help clients adapt to a changing economy.

Opening the Institute’s annual Conference dedicated to small and medium-sized practitioners (SMPs), MIA Chief Executive Officer Maria Cauchi Delia said that the profession must view transformation as an opportunity rather than a threat. “Change is the only constant, and our response to it will define the future of our profession,” she said. “While audit exemptions and digital reporting may alter traditional practices, they open new doors for accountants to strengthen their role as trusted advisers. This is the moment to evolve, to broaden our services and to invest in both technology and professional development so that we continue adding value to businesses and to Malta’s economy.”

Newly elected MIA President Dr Jonathan Dingli emphasised that the Institute’s mission is not only to respond to change but to lead it. “The future of our profession lies in embracing digitalisation, data analytics and automation, while ensuring that technology enhances, rather than replaces, human expertise. We must go beyond compliance. Our true value lies in helping businesses grow stronger, more resilient and more sustainable,” he said.

The conference brought together leading experts in the sector, including Paul Gisby, Senior Director at Accountancy Europe and Harpal Singh, Principal for Small & Medium Size Practices and Thought Leadership at the International Federation of Accountants, who underscored that agility and innovation are now indispensable to the profession’s future. They highlighted that as automation increasingly handles repetitive tasks, accountants have a growing opportunity to focus on insight, strategy and long-term value creation.

Tax Commissioner Joseph Caruana described this as a “period of significant change,” noting that upcoming real-time reporting obligations under the European Union’s (EU’s) Value Added Tax in the Digital Age (ViDA) package will transform the way businesses interact with tax systems. He said practitioners will play a vital role in supporting clients through this transition, ensuring compliance and enhancing data-driven decision-making.

The conference also featured updates from the Financial Intelligence Analysis Unit on Malta’s National Risk Assessment and discussions on the establishment, and the impact, of the EU Anti-Money Laundering Authority. These sessions highlighted how regulation, technology and transparency are increasingly converging, reshaping the accountant’s role within Malta’s evolving business landscape.

The conference was supported by Scope, Fyorin and Finance Incorporated Limited.

Malta Institute of Accountants holds 61st AGM

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Mr Jonathan Dingli appointed as new MIA President

The Malta Institute of Accountants held its 61st Annual General Meeting on 25th September 2025 at Villa Arrigo, during which seven of its members were elected to its Council.

The elected members were Edmond Brincat, Mark Bugeja, Thomas Galea, Paul Giglio, Ronald Mizzi and Lucienne Pace Ross, all returning to the Council through re-election, alongside Karen Spiteri Bailey, who joins for the first time. They joined existing members Fabio Axisa, David Delicata, Jonathan Dingli, Shawn Falzon, Christopher Portelli, Annabelle Zammit Pace and Norbert Tabone.

During the AGM, members of the Institute discussed and voted various motions aimed at strengthening the Institute’s structures and enhancing overall efficiency in its operations.

Addressing the Annual General Meeting, outgoing President Mark Bugeja outlined the Institute’s work over the past two years, guided by five key priorities, sustainability, taxation, anti-money laundering, digitalisation as well as talent development and retention. He described these as central to Malta’s resilience, competitiveness and reputation as a trusted jurisdiction. Mr Bugeja also highlighted the Institute’s growing international role, contributing to EU and OECD reforms while ensuring Malta’s realities are considered. Engagement with local policymakers, regulators and stakeholders has evolved into a year-round dialogue, allowing the Institute to provide practical, business-oriented input on key regulatory changes.

CEO Maria Cauchi Delia outlined the Institute’s current activities, highlighting the presentation of a comprehensive set of proposals for the forthcoming 2026 Budget, which have been formally submitted to both Government and the Opposition. She also drew attention to a series of events being hosted by the Institute, including a conference for small and medium-sized practitioners, a conference for professional accountants in business, the annual tax conference and the Meet the Regulator sessions, which are giving members a valuable opportunity to engage directly with Malta’s key financial regulators.

Jonathan Dingli appointed new MIA President

During the first meeting of the new Council held shortly after the AGM, the four Officers of the Council were elected. Jonathan Dingli has been elected as the Institute’s new President, Annabelle Zammit Pace as Vice-President, Paul Giglio as Secretary and Shawn Falzon as Treasurer.

Jonathan Dingli, who had held the role of Institute Secretary for the past two years, expressed his gratitude to the Council members for the trust they placed in him. He also expressed his appreciation to the outgoing President, Mark Bugeja, acknowledging his service during a transformative term for the Institute.

Looking ahead to his presidency, the newly elected President outlined the key challenges confronting both the Institute and the wider accountancy profession. He pledged his commitment, together with that of the Council, to shoulder the responsibility of strengthening the Institute’s influence and contribution, positioning it as a central stakeholder and a driving force in advancing Malta’s development into a more competitive, digital and sustainable economy in the years to come.

MIA, MIT and IFSP focus on competitiveness, talent and productivity in Budget 2026 proposals

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The three Institutes present budget proposals to Government and Opposition.

Representatives of the Malta Institute of Accountants (MIA), the Malta Institute of Taxation (MIT) and the Institute of Financial Services Practitioners (IFSP) submitted their joint pre-Budget proposals for 2026 to the Prime Minister, Hon. Dr Robert Abela, Minister for Finance, Hon. Clyde Caruana, Opposition Leader, Hon. Dr Alex Borg, the Shadow Minister for Finance, Hon. Graham Bencini and Shadow Minister for the Economy and Enterprise Hon. Jerome Caruana Cilia.The Institutes highlighted the key issues of competitiveness, skilled talent and productivity in their submissions, while insisting that meaningful consultation with stakeholders must take place before introducing major policy or regulatory changes. They cautioned against measures that risk “shocking the system,” while advocating for carefully planned transitions that give businesses and professionals time to adapt.

The representatives reiterated that enhancing productivity across all sectors should be a national priority, supported by policies that reduce bureaucracy, simplify processes and modernise government systems through the appropriate use of technology and Artificial Intelligence.

On the issue of labour market shortages, the Institutes emphasised that shortages in skilled talent are one of Malta’s most pressing economic challenges. They called on authorities to identify further measures which support upskilling and reskilling, incentivise internships and apprenticeships, attract Maltese professionals working abroad back to the country, and make Malta a more attractive location for skilled international talent through competitive policies and streamlined procedures.

In their budget proposals, the three bodies jointly presented various recommendations aimed at enhancing efficiency, fairness and the competitiveness of the Maltese economy. These included an appeal for the urgent overhaul of Malta’s tax penalty system to ensure it is fair, equitable and compliance-driven, in line with European Union legislation and standards of practice. They also called for updates to the fringe benefit rules to reflect modern workplace realities, such as wellbeing measures, work-from-home arrangements, green mobility and stock option schemes.

The Institutes also recommended the introduction of targeted fiscal measures to advance Malta’s Environmental, Social and Governance agenda, particularly through incentives for green projects, mental health support and waste reduction initiatives.

This joint submission by the MIA, MIT and IFSP shows the unwavering commitment of the three bodies towards the safeguarding and enhancement of the competitiveness and resilience of the Maltese economy. 

MIA Announces Corporate Sponsorship Agreement with Finance Incorporated Limited

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The Malta Institute of Accountants is pleased to welcome Finance Incorporated Limited as a new corporate sponsor. As a leader in digital payment solutions, Finance Incorporated Limited brings valuable expertise to the financial and accounting sectors.

With a strong focus on financial technology, regulatory compliance, and secure transactions, Finance Incorporated Limited supports businesses in adapting to the evolving financial landscape. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to fostering innovation, professional development, and knowledge sharing within the industry.

We look forward to a successful collaboration that will create new opportunities and add value for our members and stakeholders.



Scope Solutions – Corporate Sponsor of the MIA

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The MIA is proud to renew its corporate sponsorship agreement with Scope Solutions for the third consecutive year. As a leading expert in cloud applications for businesses and accounting firms, Scope Solutions continues to drive digital transformation within the industry.

As the first locally established, fully cloud-native app specialist and integrator, Scope Solutions brings invaluable expertise in identifying, implementing, and integrating tailored cloud solutions that enhance efficiency and innovation in the accounting sector.

This ongoing partnership underscores our mutual commitment to advancing technology, knowledge sharing, and professional development within the profession. Together, we look forward to creating new opportunities and delivering even greater value to our stakeholders.