Updated memorandum of understanding signed between the Central Bank of Malta, the Malta Statistics Authority and the National Statistics Office

An updated Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed between the Central Bank of Malta, the Malta Statistics Authority, and the National Statistics Office (NSO). This MoU focuses on the exchange of statistical information and strengthened cooperation in the area of economic and financial statistics.

The signatories to the agreement are the Governor of the Central Bank of Malta, Professor Edward Scicluna, the Chairman of the Malta Statistics Authority, Dr Carl Camilleri, and the Director General of the National Statistics Office, Mr Etienne Caruana.

The MoU builds upon a long-standing professional cooperation between the Central Bank of Malta and the National Statistics Office. It includes appropriate provisions covering a wide range of statistical areas within which the entities collaborate to fulfil their national and international mandates. Among others, these areas include the sharing and transfer of statistical data and registers, the exchange of knowledge and resources, and the fulfilment of enhanced statistical requirements at the European and international level.

Through the MoU, the institutions also commit to maintaining the highest statistical standards while further enhancing cooperation in statistical information systems and IT infrastructure.

During the event, Mr Caruana underscored the strategic importance of enhanced collaboration between the National Statistics Office and the Central Bank of Malta. He highlighted that the exchange of data strictly for statistical purposes is essential to improving the quality and timeliness of official statistics. Mr. Caruana expressed his satisfaction with the progress made in recent years, noting that the partnership has strengthened considerably. This joint effort is guided by the principles of producing more robust statistical outputs and adhering to the once-only principle.

Dr. Carl Camilleri remarked that the signing of subsequent agreements stands as a testament to the ongoing cooperation between the two institutions. He emphasized that the sharing of information and expertise is essential in today’s fast‑paced, globalized economy.

Professor Scicluna noted that “this agreement will further enhance collaboration among the Parties, fostering the exchange of vital statistical data and supporting continuous improvements in quality and standard.’’

Brussels, 2-7 November 2025

This year marked the 20th anniversary of the enactment of the European Statistics Code of Practice through Decision No 235/2008/EC. To commemorate this milestone, Eurostat and the European Statistical Governance Advisory Board (ESGAB) hosted a series of high-level events in Brussels, bringing together leadersand experts from across the European Statistical System (ESS).

Background

Since its adoption, the European Statistics Code of Practice has served as an ethical and moral compass for National Statistical Institutes (NSIs) within the ESS. It has guided institutions in upholding the principles of independence, integrity, and accountability, ensuring that official statistics remain trustworthy and credible for policymakers and citizens alike.

Malta Statistics Authority’s Contribution

• ESGAB Seminar Participation

Dr. Carl Camilleri, Chairman of the Malta Statistics Authority (MSA), took part in ESGAB’s seminar “Establishing of a European Network of Statistics Governance Institutions.”

The proposal for setting up such a network was met with mixed reactions, reflecting both enthusiasm for stronger European cooperation and caution about preserving national independence and avoiding institutional overlap.

• Eurostat Conference

Dr. Camilleri was also an active participant in Eurostat’s conference, serving as a panel member in the discussion “Ensuring professional independence in daily work.”

During this session, NSIs presented proposals and recommendations aimed at reinforcing the independence of official statistics, particularly at a time when rapid technological advancements are reshaping production methods and data ecosystems.

Key Takeaway

Malta’s contribution to the anniversary events underscored its commitment to safeguarding professional independence and engaging in the evolving dialogue on statistical governance. The discussions highlighted both the achievements of the past 20 years and the challenges ahead, as the ESS adapts to new technologies while remaining anchored in the principles of the Code of Practice.