Malta has one of the largest ship registries worldwide and the main reason for such success is that Maltese registered ships benefit from various advantages.

Malta is an E.U. member and vessels flying the Maltese flag are deemed to be E.U. Vessels.

The Maltese Flag has been upgraded to the White list on the Paris MoU, making unnecessary controls less likely on ships flying the Maltese flag.

Malta also has bilateral agreements with foreign governments where Maltese Ships receive preferential treatment in respect of Port charges and taxes.

Low costs and swift registration of the owning or operating company and of the vessel.

Complete exemption from all local taxes favour owners, charterers and financiers of Maltese ships in respect of profits derived from the ownership, sale, operation, chartering and financing of Maltese ships;

Exemption from all duties and other charges in respect the sale or transfer of a ship and the allotment of any share or stock of a company owning such a ship; and from succession duties, capital gains tax, VAT and also in respect of exchange control formalities.

All types of vessels, from pleasure yachts to oil rigs, may be registered although there may be some restrictions on vessels of twenty-five years or more. .

No restriction on nationality of Masters, owners and crew.

No restrictions on sale and mortgaging of Maltese ships.

It is possible to register ships which are under construction as well as other marine structures such as oil floating docks, floating hotels pontoons and barges.

Simple procedure for the closing of the registry.

Easy and immediate access to the decision makers of the shipping industry minimizing costly delays.

Bareboat charter registration both inwards and outwards; and the certificate of registry may be issued in the name of the vessel's charterer (including a time charterer).

Low costs, including registration, tonnage dues and professional fees both for the registration and administration of company and vessel.

Time necessary for the registration of the company is 24 hours. The vessel can be registered on the next day.

Adequate safeguards to the mortgagees making the finance of Maltese vessels more secure and attractive for the banks.

The Malta Maritime Authority also offers a twenty four hours service seven days a week providing emergency services.