Online Reporter
Government is walking the talk on its commitment to implement the ease of doing business reforms.
A total of 291 reviewed licences, permits, levies and fees have been fully implemented as Government accelerates reforms meant to reduce the cost of doing business.
In June this year, Government approved sweeping reductions in regulatory fees, licences and compliance costs affecting key sectors of the economy.
Compliance fees for all local authorities were revised downwards and in some cases levies were abolished.
The move is expected to, not only boost businesses, but also improve profit margins and promote investment. Retail outlets are expected to benefit more from abolished fees which were discouraging businesses from expanding.
In the past a retail outlet which wanted to expand to include a bakery, had to obtain a fresh licence but this has since been abolished. Retail outlets can now expand their range of services to include takeaways, restaurants and bottle stores without seeking new licences as was the case in the past.
Motorists are also among those enjoying the benefits of the ease of doing business reforms as parking fees have been capped at 50 cents an hour for all local authorities while clapping fees are now capped at USD20.
Some local authorities used to charge clapping fees as high as US$85. We want at this juncture to commend Government for its efforts to continue improving the ease of doing business environment as we work to build the Zimbabwe we all want.
On their part, rural and urban local authorities should constantly review their by-laws to keep abreast with the changing business environment.
The aim should be to attract new investors as well as encourage the existing businesses to expand and employ more people.
Government has made a commitment to continue implementing reforms meant to remove barriers to production and support the growth of businesses and entrepreneurship.
The implementation of reviewed licences, permits, levies and fees have put to shame the country’s detractors who were accusing Government of politicking when it announced the sweeping reductions.
It is our fervent hope that local businesses will take advantage of the relaxed business operating environment and reduced cost of doing business to grow their businesses and create jobs.
The obtaining environment, we have no doubt, will encourage more people to venture into business while also attracting foreign companies to invest in our cities and towns.
This means more revenue for councils whose mandate is to provide services to both the business community and residents.
We want to once again implore local authorities to complement Government efforts to enhance ease of doing business by creating a conducive business operating environment.
