Introduction
Certify is a fiscal measure administered by Malta Enterprise (ME) to encourage eligible undertakings to continuously improve the quality of their products, services and processes through the attainment of industry recognised certifications and quality marks.
The scheme is intended to boost awareness of the added value that may be achieved through certification when competing in international markets. Though this scheme ME may approve a tax credits of up to €25,000 per undertaking to help recover the costs of achieving qualifying certifications, quality marks, or licences.
The fiscal support that will be available through this scheme should make it easier for undertakings to carry out investments that lead to superior products, services of higher value and more efficient processes.
Duration of the incentive
This scheme will remain ongoing until 31st December 2017.
The Incentive
This incentive will award tax credits to single undertakings that achieve qualifying Certifications awarded by a Certifying Body.
The Certifications must be required:
- To improve the processes, products or services of the undertaking; or
- To achieve growth in international markets.
The value of the tax credit shall be 50% of the eligible consultancy and certification costs.
Tax credits shall only be utilised against profits derived from the relevant trade or business activity. The tax credits shall be utilised from the first year of assessment following the date of the Incentive Entitlement Certificate issued by the Corporation and any unutilised tax credits may be carried forward to the next two years of assessment.
Maximum Support
The total aid that may be awarded to any single undertaking through this measure is capped at €25,000 for the duration of the Incentive.
Maximum Aid Intensity
The maximum the aid intensity shall be capped at 50% of the actual eligible costs incurred.
Eligible costs
Eligible costs must be incurred and paid for on a date which is after the launch of this incentive and prior to the submission of the application form to ME.
- Consultancy Costs – These refer to costs incurred in obtaining consultancy services leading to qualifying certifications shall be considered eligible. These services must be provided by a consultant holding a degree relevant to the Certification and who has at least five years of work experience in a sector similar to the one for which the consultancy is being provided.
- Certification Costs – These refer to costs incurred and paid to a Certifying Body as may be required by the undertaking to achieve the Certification. These costs may include first time audits, due diligence or verification service.