The MAPC, which was formally launched Sept. 28, will provide comprehensive services for the creation of any form of audiovisual production, from drawing board to final product.

Nestlé Malta was the initial promoter of the initiative, although MAPC is an independent firm that will provide services to any international company.

Companies that are backing the MAPC have clients such as Coca Cola, Renault, Adidas, the Disney Channel, Sky and Prada, and hope to bring some of their clients’ work to Malta, said Andrea Pardo, a representative of the backers.

He listed among Malta’s assets as its good weather, competitive salaries and costs, and the fact that it is a stepping stone to both Europe and North Africa.

Government IT and Investment Minister Austin Gatt said MAPC has agreed to provide student training and will help the government provide training programs as well for specialized skills in the TV advertising business for people working for Maltese TV companies -- skills which may transfer to the film industry.

Gatt said 2008 may be a bumper year for filmmaking in Malta, with two blockbusters already lined up although he offered no further details.

This year some €7.2 million worth of films was shot in Malta, leading to €30 million invested directly into the Maltese economy.

“We cannot guarantee success, but we have struck a win-win deal here which should kick-start the film-making industry in Malta,” he said.