Economy ministry proposes cuts to licensed activities list

September 27, BPN. Belarus considers licensing only those activities that may “create risks or violate legitimate business interests,” Minister of Economy Alaksandr Čarviakoŭ told the Council of the Republic, the upper chamber of the National Assembly.

The bill he presented on September 26 proposes a cut in activities subject to licensing to 37 from 165 in 2003.

Čarviakoŭ said that the bill is intended to improve the business environment and encourage competition. It also will allow foreign companies to obtain a license without opening a permanent representation in Belarus, the minister noted.

At the same time, licenses would be required for preschool and secondary education, as well as for retail sales of nicotine-containing products and liquids.

The official noted that the bill would eliminate the need to obtain a separate license document, cutting the costs both for businesses and for the government. Transition to electronic licensing would also eliminate redundant requirements and reduce waiting periods, he added.

The upper chamber of the National Assembly supported the bill. It may come into force after Alaksandr Łukašenka signs it into law.