TV ADVERTISING MALTA
ADVERTISE ON TV IN MALTA
Television is dominated by three forces: the state public broadcaster PBS, whose flagship is TVM, and two openly party-owned channels – ONE TV, run by the Labour Party, and NET TV, run by the Nationalist Party. Programming runs largely in Maltese with English mixed in, and viewing often follows political allegiance. Brands must therefore weigh a channel’s partisan tilt against the broader, more neutral reach that PBS delivers nationally.
The stations contained below represent a balanced cross-section of the most successful stations targeting a range of audiences.
With sound industry knowledge, we are well placed to help you create a successful TV ad campaign.
ADVERTISE ON THESE MALTESE TV STATIONS
BBC One is the first and flagship television channel of the BBC in the United Kingdom. The channel is funded by the television licence fee together with the BBC’s other domestic television stations, and shows uninterrupted programming without commercial advertising. It is currently the most watched television channel in the United Kingdom.
Rai 1 is the flagship television channel of Rai, Italy’s national state broadcaster, and the most-watched television channel in the country. It is a free-to-air, general-entertainment channel, mainly focused on shows, movies and public-service messages. In Malta it is received by some tv antennas and watchable on demand.
NET Television is a Maltese TV station that concentrates on news items and some generalistic content. It is owned by Media.link Communications, controlled by the Nationalist Party, and thus is makes part of the Media strategy of the Nationalist Party of Malta. It broadcasts in the Maltese language.
One is a television station in Malta owned by One Productions, controlled by the Labor Party of Malta. The Maltese language is the only language used within this TV station.
The Public and most watched TV of Malta. TVM broadcasts a mix of news, sport, entertainment, magazine programming and children’s programmes.
Most programmes are broadcast in Maltese, however English also features, mainly in BBC and ITV titles. Sunday evenings are dedicated to classic British comedy, and English language films are shown on Saturday evenings.
The English language feed of Euronews is also broadcast daily. It is the only major TV station that produces news not in line with a political party’s media strategy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors influence TV advertising costs in Malta?
Rates vary by station, the programme or time slot, spot length and the number of insertions, with prime-time and popular shows commanding more. Production of the commercial is costed separately. Because every campaign differs, Empire assesses your reach goals and budget and returns a tailored quote rather than a fixed published rate.
Which Maltese TV channels reach which viewers?
TVM, the national public broadcaster run by PBS, delivers wide general reach across news and entertainment. Net TV and One TV carry strong followings around news and current affairs, while Smash TV offers a neutral mix of sport, discussion and news. Empire recommends the channel and programme blend that best matches your audience.
What content and approval rules apply to TV ads in Malta?
Commercials must comply with Maltese broadcasting and advertising standards, with claims that are accurate and substantiated, and some categories need extra care or pre-clearance. Adverts are generally reviewed before airing and may require formal approval. Empire manages the approval workflow and advises on compliant creative so your spot is cleared smoothly.
Is TV advertising in Malta seasonal?
Yes. Viewing and demand climb during the summer tourism peak and again across the Christmas and Q4 retail season, when inventory tightens. Major sporting events and festive programming draw larger audiences too. Empire plans bookings ahead of these high-demand periods and aligns your campaign timing with when your customers are most engaged.