PARAMARIBO — In ‘De Nieuwslijn’, the Surinamese Business Association (VSB) reports that it has once again asked the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Entrepreneurship and Technological Innovation (EZ) for an urgent update on the implementation of the amended state decree ‘Negative List’. In its letter, the VSB refers to its first letter of September 8 and the ministry’s response fifteen days later. It stated that applications would continue to be processed according to the previous procedures until October 31 and that information sessions would be organised.
The VSB believes that entrepreneurs still need clarity about the procedures and required documents. There is also uncertainty about the coordination between the Ministry of Economic Affairs and customs. “The consequences are noticeable for goods that remain at the port. Delays can lead to additional costs and disruptions to business operations,” the VSB warns.
She therefore asks the ministry for an update on the coordination between the authorities involved, the planning of the announced information moments and the measures for goods that are currently stuck. The VSB also asks what procedure will apply from November 1: will the amended rules be fully applied and will there be transitional arrangements for current applications or shipments?
The umbrella organization insists on clear communication before October 31, so that entrepreneurs can prepare for the new situation in time and implementation is carried out in a predictable and uniform manner. The association has offered EZ to contribute to communication with the business community where necessary.
