Malta's strategic position has, since time immemorial, placed the island at
the forefront in the maritime world. Its position, at the heart of the
Mediterranean Sea and in the middle of one of the major shipping arteries,
have enabled Malta to offer a whole range of international maritime services
and facilities. This, coupled with its deep natural harbours and well
equipped ports, offer a haven for international shipping.
With the 1973 promulgation of the
Merchant Shipping Act, Chapter 234 of the Laws of Malta, the Malta Flag formally
established itself as an ‘open’ register. “The Malta Maritime Authority (‘the
Authority’ or ‘MMA’) is responsible for the administration and functioning of
the Malta Flag. During the last 10-15 years the flag has grown in a steady pace
and has established itself as one of the eight largest registers in the world.
In addition to its renowned
international ship register, Malta offers additional services, including
bunkering; ship supplies and towage services; ship building and ship repair
yards; modern facilities for transhipment and distribution; a cruise liners hub;
international yacht marinas; a very successful and efficient Freeport and oil
terminal; high level training for officers and a very well respected nautical
school.
According to the Global Financial Centres Index report, Malta has been
identified as one of the top three financial centres worldwide likely to
increase in importance over the next two to three years. This is due to its
sophisticated legal and financial regime, by the huge investment in
infrastructural services, and by the sheer determination to succeed. This is
manifested in the professionalism shown by the government administration branch,
as well as the highly trained professionals who provide back-up services.
INTER-SERV advises and represents
clients in matters dealing with ship registration and finance, the sale and
mortgage of vessels, charter-parties, bills of lading and marine insurance. The
firm acts in Malta for several of the major London firms of solicitors & law
firms which specialise in shipping matters and directly for owners and operators
of vessels.
