The Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) is an autonomous body with a distinct legal personality to regulate financial services in Malta and those offered from Malta. As the primary Regulator of the financial services sector, the principal activities of the Authority are:

• the supervision and monitoring of international commercial and financial activities as well as registration of trusts;

• the regulation and supervision of banks, insurance and investment services.

The Regulatory Unit of the MFSA, is central to the whole set-up and a director heads a specialised unit dealing with each sector. The Unit is further supported by expert resources providing services of a legal, corporate, and investigative nature. The Regulatory Unit issues licences, directives and guidelines as provided for in the relative legislation.

The International Tax Unit (ITU) draws its staff from the Inland Revenue Department but forms an integral part of the MFSA's overall structure and is housed within its premises. This ensures that all tax related matters with respect to international operations are dealt with efficiently and effectively. The ITU has, as part of its responsibilities, the issuing of Advance Revenue Rulings. These rulings provide certainty on the tax treatment of any international undertaking.

The MFSA also houses the Registrar of Companies thereby ensuring that the international business community will find within the same set-up all company incorporation services as would be required. Moreover, the MFSA assists new promoters in setting up their operations in Malta and is committed to provide such companies with services of the highest standard.

Further information may be obtained from:

The Director
International Business Unit
Malta Financial Services Authority
Attard, Malta

Telephone: (+356) 2144 1155
Fax: (+356) 2144 1188
Email: registry@mfsa.com.mt