Agricultural land use : suggestions for reform

Abstract

Agriculture is the oldest industry in the Maltese Islands. Until a few years ago, agriculture was not given the importance it truly deserves. However, with the increased stress on the development of the national economy, following the change-over from the Island's position as a British Fortress, it was emphasized that agriculture had a very important role to -play. Together with manufacturing industry and tourism, it was to become one of the main pivots on which to base Malta's economy for the future The main targets now are to produce enough vegetables and fruits to meet the increasing demand for these commodities even in the way of import substitution aa well as to be in a position to export. The future development of the agricultural sector must be based on increased productivity to be derived from the limited area of land under cultivation; and it must be admitted that the area of land available, already comparatively small, presents problems since its size is constantly being reduced.