Interesting. Here's more on Malta:
Great Britain formally acquired possession of Malta in 1814. The island staunchly supported the UK through both World Wars and remained in the Commonwealth when it became independent in 1964. A decade later Malta became a republic. Since about the mid-1980s, the island has become a freight transshipment point, financial center, and tourist destination. It is an official candidate for EU membership.
AND:
The economy is dependent on foreign trade, manufacturing (especially electronics and textiles), and tourism.
FROM:
http://www.cia.gov/cia/publications/...k/geos/mt.html
I could see why this would be an attractive manufacturing location, from a labor cost and ease of shipment point of view. Looks like somebody did their homework before this decision was made.