The MAGI has been set-up with an aim to focus on the growth of GI in Malta, identify the principal GI stakeholders, outline a vision, purpose and long-term benefits of GI, and delineate the scope of the association. The initial “logistics” presentation concentrated on how the players arrived to the current state of affairs; outlined the first steps taken; identified the potential roles of the association; suggested possible statute, fora, special interest groups and membership structures; and proposed the way forward. MAGI received major backup to set up this association from the European Umbrella Association for GI. Initial MAGI dynamics included discussions on a GI White Paper, the need for an information campaign and public awareness issues.

The approach employed by MAGI is based on the development of a network of GI professionals, the promotion of a national GI strategy and the initiation of various activities to bring together the different interests.

The main objectives include:

• Promote a national strategy
• Act as a catalyst and focal point
• Represent the varied interests of the wider GI community
• Create a network covering the public and private sectors
• Expose Maltese GI players to European and international initiatives
• Act as a promoter of GI issues
• Be a dynamic, sustainable and independent association

Long-term benefits are also envisaged where the main objectives include the development of the GI capacity of the nation, the promotion of information flows and synergies induction of a strong, sustainable GI market and the promotion of GI issues as well as presenting its expertise in the formulation of a national GI strategy.