Foreword

Abstract

The main argument on which the book is based is that it is essential for Malta to further build and sustain its international competitiveness in order to achieve its long-term development aspirations. Competitiveness is a multi-faceted phenomenon, which spans economic, social, political and international dimensions, involving all the players in the economy. Competitiveness cannot, in the long run, be sustained unless all the dimensions contributing to it are properly addressed. It is however often the case that these dimensions result in conflicting priorities, especially in the short run where, for example, the attainment of social objectives may conflict with economic efficiency considerations.