OUR MISSION

The main role of the Continental Shelf Department is to promote and attract investment for the exploration and exploitation of Malta’s natural resources in a safe and environmentally sustainable manner. It also regulates activities on Malta’s continental shelf and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), including petroleum exploration operations, submarine cables and pipelines, marine scientific research, and offshore structures.

As Malta’s Geological Survey, the Department represents the country within EuroGeoSurveys and contributes to European marine-data and geological initiatives, including EMODnet and the Geological Service for Europe. The Department is also the custodian of the Geological Map of Malta and is responsible for the upkeep of this map.

The Department advises Government and other entities on Malta’s sovereign rights and maritime boundaries. Geographic information on Malta’s basepoints, baselines and maritime zones is available upon request from the Director General through the contact us page.