Biological constraints and on-farm limitations affecting meat rabbit productivity in Malta

Literature on the production characteristics and constraints of intensive commercial rabbit meat production in Malta is scarce. This paper presents the current situation of the sector as it emerged through questionnaires addressed to the various stakeholders and professionals working within the sector. Agriculture holdings in Malta are limited in size, thereby restricting farm design, which very often requires improvised adjustments and compromises based on the available footprint. Furthermore, Malta’s geographical position is a consistent constraint whenever imports are required; hence, all manufacturing and production industries, rabbit production included, have a significant disadvantage over their European counterparts as there are added expenses associated with transport costs. Other constraints are that the sector is not organised to harmonise production. Furthermore, producers are in need to upgrade their skill sets with regards to the basic principles of husbandry and stockmanship.