The business etiquette of Malta is very similar to that of Great Britain due to the influence of the British Empire. Maltese business people are fairly conservative and they expect formal dress and punctuality. Use the formal form of address (Mr. or Mrs. Etc.) when meeting contacts for the first time. Maltese society is hierarchical, so more respect is given to older and more experienced business people.
Shaking hands is the customary greeting even between people of different gender and business cards are often exchanged. To show respect to others have your business card and materials translated into Maltese and English, but most contacts will be happy to discuss business in English.
A lot of discussion takes place in a social context over a meal. The person who invited everyone to the meal is expected to pay. Make sure you are accurate and detailed in your business presentations. Do not exaggerate as you will lose the respect of your contacts by doing this.
