Parliamentary Ombudsman visits Malta Food Agency

Parliamentary Ombudsman visits Malta Food Agency

Published August 05, 2025

The Parliamentary Ombudsman, Judge Joseph Zammit McKeon, paid an official visit to the Malta Food Agency (MFA), where he was welcomed by Chief Executive Officer Mr Brian Vella and Chief Business Development Officer Mr Justin John Camilleri.

In his introduction, Mr Vella outlined the vision of the Agency that of leading quality and valuable local food products to different markets. He explained that the MFA works to add value to local food production by supporting and strengthening the entire value chain — from production, trading, and processing to sales, marketing, and food manufacturing. He emphasised that the Agency places workers, consumers, and producers at the centre of its operations, with a strong focus on governance and transparency.

Judge Zammit McKeon thanked the Agency for the invitation, noting the importance of learning about the crucial behind-the-scenes work of public entities, much of which often goes unnoticed.

The MFA team presented the Ombudsman with the Agency’s strategic initiatives, including empowering producers to respond effectively to market dynamics, strengthen the supply chain, enhance consumer engagement, drive digital innovation, and promote entrepreneurship. The meeting also showcased the Agency’s ongoing projects and its commitment to modernisation and efficiency.

Established in 2021 the agency was created to regulate, strengthen, and support the marketing of food derived from farming and fisheries, while enhancing the competitiveness and sustainability of these sectors. The Agency also administers the operations of the Pitkalija and Pixkerija, ensuring transparency, fairness, and traceability. The MFA also plays a strategic role in conducting market-based research, supporting infrastructure and advisory services, and improving the reputation and market access of Maltese produce.

The Ombudsman commended the MFA’s work in boosting the importance of local produce and assisting farmers and fishermen to modernise and become more efficient. He also observed that since the establishment of the agency in 2021, the Office of the Ombudsman has not received any complaints against the Agency, a positive sign of its effectiveness.

The meeting was also attended by Chief Projects Officer Mr Josef Vella, Chief Market Regulation Officer Ms Josephine Schembri, Chief Corporate Services Officer Mr Silvan Camilleri, as well as Dr Brian Said, Head of Investigations, and Mr Jurgen Cassar, Head of Communications and Research from the Office of the Ombudsman.