Business updates

The MCCI organised an information session for its Members on the main provisions of the new Business Facilitation Act 2019, in collaboration with the Economic Development Board (EDB). The BFA is a legislation which brings amendments to various enactments in order to provide for the simplification and harmonisation of the process for the application of permits and licences with a view to facilitating enterprise development, facilitate trade, and payment of trade fees as well as align with best practices for doing business.

During the presentation,  the Act and its accompanying regulations were explained. The latter provides amongst others for the following:

- Facilitation of trade fee payments

- Review of construction permits

- Review of Fire Safety compliance

- Streamlining of business licences including Mauritius Qualifications Authority (MQA), excise duties

- Trade Facilitation: Pre-market approval, clearance at import, permits for plant and plant products, fish, dangerous chemicals, toys and plastic and polyethylene pipes and fittings, electric cables and electrical appliances, ICT equipment, amongst others

- Setting up of Maritime Single Window at Mauritius Ports Authority (MPA)

Other amendments  which are in line with best practices for doing business include mandatory disclosure of individual compensation of directors by companies, deduction of 150% of case filing fee for mediation and arbitration services from the taxable income of companies. A number of measures on Openness have been further introduced following the Budget 2019/20 i.e. the Post-Study Visa, Significant Employer Scheme and a review of Retired Non Citizens Residence Permit

A copy of the Presentation can be downloaded here.

Members requiring further information or having comments on the new provisions of the legislation may send us an e-mail at mcci@mcci.org