New scheme allows 16-year-olds to run their own companies

Prime Minister Robert Abela has announced a new legal framework allowing young people aged 16 to 18 to start and run their own companies.

They will be able to do this with assistance from the Malta Business Registry, Aġenzija Żgħażagħ, and JA Malta. The scheme removes previous legal barriers that prevented minors from running their own companies.

As outlined in this year’s budget, the scheme titled Intrapriża16, was announced during an event held at Ġ. F. Abela Junior College.

“Young people are one of the most important elements of our society,” Abela said. “We are preparing those who will someday be the economic drivers of our country.”

Youth Parliamentary Secretary Keith Azzopardi Tanti said that Intrapriża16 is not only a legal reform, but also a clear statement of the government’s trust in the next generation of entrepreneurs.

The latest scheme follows a series of reforms aimed at increasing youth participation in their communities, including lowering the voting age to 16 and allowing 16-year-olds the possibility to become mayors in local elections.