President Wavel Ramkalawan, alongside Minister for Investment, Entrepreneurship and Industry Devika Vidot, hosted a strategic consultative meeting with leading business associations at State House on Thursday. The high-level engagement focused on bolstering the ease of doing business in Seychelles and advancing the country's broader economic development agenda.
In his opening remarks, President Ramkalawan conveyed deep appreciation for the private sector's pivotal role in driving national growth and enhancing Seychelles' global economic standing. He underscored the importance of stakeholder input in shaping a more dynamic and responsive policy framework.
"The invaluable insights shared today will directly inform our policy framework as we strive to create an environment where businesses can flourish with minimal bureaucratic impediments," stated President Ramkalawan.
Minister Vidot reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to reform, unveiling two flagship initiatives aimed at improving service delivery: the Ease of Doing Business Portal and the Government Business Service Centre. These innovations are designed to streamline investment procedures and reduce administrative friction for entrepreneurs and investors.
"These digital and physical infrastructures represent our administration's dedication to reducing administrative barriers and enhancing operational efficiency for all business stakeholders," Minister Vidot remarked.
Participants received detailed briefings on the functionality and impact of the new platforms, followed by robust discussions on pressing industry concerns. Topics included land availability for investment, barriers to business expansion, the regulatory environment, and labour market challenges.
Mr. Oliver Bastienne, Chairman of the Seychelles Chamber of Commerce and Industry, welcomed the government’s inclusive approach, describing it as closely aligned with the expectations and priorities of the private sector. He also called for deeper collaboration between government and educational institutions to address critical skills shortages in the workforce.
"We remain committed to building an economic environment that is efficient, inclusive, and resilient," Mr. Bastienne affirmed.
The meeting concluded with consensus on the establishment of a Joint Economic Forum, scheduled to convene before the end of May. The Forum is envisioned as a permanent mechanism for dialogue and partnership between the public and private sectors, enabling real-time monitoring of reform progress and ensuring sustained momentum in improving the national business climate.