Mediterranean Observer, Author at The Mediterranean Observer

Mediterranean ObserverMarch 11, 2025

The Council has approved the VAT in the Digital Age package, modernising EU VAT rules to align with the digital economy. The reform, aimed at boosting competitiveness, reducing VAT fraud, and easing administrative burdens, includes a directive, a regulation, and an implementing regulation. Key measures include: fully digital VAT reporting for cross-border B2B transactions by […]

Mediterranean ObserverMarch 10, 2025

The EU recently launched the Union of Skills initiative to enhance basic skills, promote lifelong learning, and support workforce mobility across the EU. By 2030, it aims to reduce underachievement in literacy, mathematics, science, and digital skills to below 15%. The initiative also includes a Skills Guarantee pilot to help workers in restructuring sectors transition to new careers […]

Mediterranean ObserverMarch 5, 2025

The European Commission is launching the 2026 editions of the European Capital of Smart Tourism and European Green Pioneer of Smart Tourism competitions, inviting cities across the EU and Single Market Programme (SMP) countries to showcase innovative smart and sustainable tourism practices. Applicants must submit their proposals online by 30 May 2025 (17:00 CET). Shortlisted […]

Mediterranean ObserverFebruary 20, 2025

The European Union has taken a significant step towards sustainability with a provisional agreement between the Council and the European Parliament to reduce food waste and introduce new rules on textile waste management. The agreement sets the first-ever EU-level targets for food waste reduction by 2030, including a 10% reduction in processing and manufacturing and […]

Mediterranean ObserverJanuary 16, 2025

According to a recent report by Eurostat, in Q3 2024, the EU’s short-term rental market experienced notable growth, with 366.2 million guest nights booked via platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, Expedia, and Tripadvisor. This marked an 18% increase compared to Q3 2023 (310 million nights) – highlighting the ongoing rise in demand for platform-based accommodations. Growth […]

Mediterranean ObserverJanuary 9, 2025

The Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association (MHRA) welcomes the announcement that Qatar Airways will resume flights to Malta, enhancing the country’s global connectivity and supporting its strategic vision to attract high-value visitors. This development also strengthens Malta’s ties with key global markets, including the Far East and Australia, home to the country’s largest diaspora. MHRA […]

Mediterranean ObserverNovember 26, 2024

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MBB thanks outgoing CEO Joe Tanti for 15 years of sterling service Mario Xuereb has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Malta Business Bureau. Founded in 1996, the MBB is the EU business advisory organisation of The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry, and the Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association. […]

Mediterranean ObserverNovember 21, 2024

HOTREC and TOPOSOPHY are hosting a webinar on the top 10 digital trends transforming the food service industry, from innovative menu engineering and AI-driven solutions to the rise of automation. Date: November 29 – 10:00 AM Tailored for SMEs, this session will explore practical solutions to boost productivity and efficiency through technology. Click here […]

Mediterranean ObserverNovember 20, 2024

The European Parliament’s Tourism Task Force, within the TRAN Committee, has been established. This taskforce is responsible for integrating tourism considerations into EU transport and economic policies, engaging with industry stakeholders, monitoring the implementation of tourism-related initiatives, and advocating for measures and funding to support the sector’s sustainability and competitiveness. It aims to strengthen tourism’s […]

Mediterranean ObserverNovember 14, 2024

The European Commission has designated Booking.com as a “gatekeeper” under the Digital Markets Act (DMA), recognising its online intermediation services as a significant gateway between businesses and consumers. As a designated gatekeeper, Booking.com must comply with strict obligations to ensure fair competition, offering businesses equal access and consumers greater choice. If Booking.com is found non-compliant […]

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Author: Mediterranean Observer

EU Council adopts VAT in the digital age package

A Union of Skills to equip people for a competitive Europe

Applications Open: European Capital of Smart Tourism and European Green Pioneer of Smart Tourism 2026

The EU agrees to reduce food waste and set new rules on waste textile

Eurostat: Nights booked via online platforms up 18% in Q3 2024

MHRA Welcomes Qatar Airways’ Return to Malta

Mario Xuereb appointed as the new CEO of the Malta Business Bureau

Online Webinar: 10 Digital Trends to Watch in the World of Restaurants

Tourism Task Force formed

Booking.com now subject to the Digital Markets Act

EU Council adopts VAT in the digital age package

A Union of Skills to equip people for a competitive Europe

Applications Open: European Capital of Smart Tourism and European Green Pioneer of Smart Tourism 2026

Applications Open: European Capital of Smart Tourism and European Green Pioneer of Smart Tourism 2026

MHRA Welcomes Qatar Airways’ Return to Malta

Online Webinar: 10 Digital Trends to Watch in the World of Restaurants