SME BAROMETER (Q3 2024) traffic congestion and overpopulation feature as important issues impacting businesses
30 October 2024
The Malta Chamber of SMEs earlier today published the results of the SME Barometer (Q3 2024)...
GRTU has met Mr Godwin Warr and his colleagues from the Commerce Department, as responsible for trade licences, for an introductory meeting prior to the launch of the formal consultation of the revision of the Trade Licensing Act.
Mr Warr explained that the requirement for a revision was pushed by the need to simplify the legislation and iron out any issues that used to create complications and confusion sometimes.
The most important revision is that we will be moving away from the requirement of submitting applications for a trade licence for most sectors. Meaning that the sectors that are not connected with health or food shall no longer need to apply but simply notify the Department. With the notification one will be able to pay immediately instead of waiting for the acknowledgement. This should further accelerate the process.
The list of sectors and activities falling under the scope of the Department will be clarified. The requirement to submit a full MEPA permit will be waived and replaced by the requirement to only provide the MEPA permit number.
The commitment to issue a licence within 10 days is reiterated. Cancellation of licence will also be simplified however it is imperative for the fees and arrears to be paid. In addition the revision would introduce the concept that licences are automatically renewable subject to the conditions of the licence being respected.
GRTU in general welcomes the changes proposed. The consultation document will be published shortly and members are invited to participate.
GRTU takes this opportunity to remind all businesses that all economic operations require a trade license to operate.
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