Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry has warned that emergency storm reconstruction funds must not be extended to businesses operating illegally, arguing that public money should support compliance with the law, not reward breaches.

The Chamber was reacting to recent statements indicating that businesses operating from illegal structures may still be eligible for assistance under the storm reconstruction fund. It described this position as deeply concerning, saying it risks undermining good governance, the rule of law and ethical public policy.

In a statement, the Chamber stressed that laws and regulations exist to ensure fairness, safety and accountability, and that these principles must be upheld even in times of crisis. Supporting businesses that are in breach of planning regulations, building standards, or contractual obligations tied to public property would, it said, contradict the very foundations of responsible governance.

The Chamber has long argued for stricter monitoring and enforcement to ensure that businesses operating within the law are not disadvantaged. It warned that extending public funds to operators with outstanding illegalities sends a dangerous signal — that non-compliance can be financially rewarded.

According to the Chamber, businesses that invest time and resources to secure permits, meet safety requirements and comply with regulations are now at risk of being treated on the same footing as those who flout the law. This, it said, creates an uneven playing field and erodes trust in the integrity of public funding mechanisms.

“A level playing field starts with respect for the law,” the Chamber said, adding that emergency assistance should not be used to legitimise illegal structures or operations. It warned that weakening eligibility criteria for public aid could encourage further disregard for planning, environmental and safety regulations.

The Chamber called on the government to introduce stricter eligibility rules for the storm reconstruction fund, explicitly excluding businesses operating with illegalities. It argued that public funds — financed by taxpayers and compliant businesses — must be directed towards lawful and responsible operators.

Reiterating its long-standing position, the Chamber said that good governance cannot coexist with the rewarding of illegality. Upholding the rule of law and supporting ethical business practices, it added, is not only a matter of fairness but a prerequisite for Malta’s long-term economic credibility and sustainable development.