Bobb: Trade Licensing To Be Streamlined
Deputy Director Dr Lincoln E. Bobb says improving the trade licencing process is a major focus for the Department of Trade, Investment Promotion and Consumer Affairs. He told ZBVI listeners the department has begun a review, will present recommendations soon, and recognises frustration among business owners over current delays.
Bobb has confirmed that making the trade licencing process “far more efficient” is a top priority for the Ministry and the Department of Trade, Investment Promotion and Consumer Affairs. Speaking on the Talking Points programme on ZBVI 780 AM on Monday, October 6, 2025, Dr Bobb said a formal review of the trade licencing system is already under way. “One of the major things within the ministry, as well as the department, is really a focus on trying to see how best we can make the trade licencing process far more efficient,” he told listeners.
Dr Bobb said the review is a shared concern among departmental leadership, the minister and the Premier, and that he expects to present recommendations soon. “I actually have a presentation to make pretty soon about, you know, it's giving suggestions and stuff because both the premier and the minister also recognise that there are setbacks and how frustrating it could be for business people,” he said.
The comments come amid continuing complaints from business owners about delays and administrative hurdles when applying for or renewing trade licences. For a small, open economy such as the British Virgin Islands, timely licencing affects day-to-day operations for retail traders, food and hospitality businesses, and service providers that support tourism and local communities.
Dr Bobb acknowledged capacity challenges within the department, noting it is “understaffed” like many government services, but praised his team for working hard. “They always try to see the best they can go, the extra mile, to see how best we can get things done,” he said. He added the department must also examine its own processes to find internal efficiencies: “But, you know, we really need to sit down and analyse and see how well we could actually make this as efficient and effective as possible.” While Dr Bobb did not provide a specific timeline for reforms, his remarks signal an intent to address both procedural bottlenecks and resource constraints.
Possible improvements being considered include a thorough process review, internal workflow changes and proposals to the ministry based on that review, though no specific measures have been announced. Dr Bobb reassured the public that the department has heard concerns and is committed to working diligently to resolve them.
Residents and business owners can expect further updates once the department’s recommendations are presented to ministerial leadership.
Primary source: VINO