The Gibraltar Federation of Small Businesses (GFSB) welcomes the introduction of the Fair-Trading Act 2023 which comes into effect from the 1st of October. This reformed legislation promises to simplify the business license application process. Whilst changes are welcomed, the GFSB feels the new Act could have included further amendments on the previous Act and that there are areas where more clarity is needed.

Owen Smith, the GFSB’s Chairperson commented, “The GFSB welcomes the proactive engagement and consultation by the GoG on this Act, even though its implementation was delayed by many years. Streamlining processes, expediting licensing, and introducing online procedures will positively impact our members and the wider business community. It’s a step in the right direction, but we feel that some aspects of the Act still need ongoing attention, especially regarding its enforcement.”

The GFSB praised the Government of Gibraltar (GoG) for listening to the concerns of its members through solid and consistent consultation in developing the Act. It hopes the new Act will make starting and running a business easier, speed up many processes, and allow businesses to do important tasks online. These changes are a great step forward and will help to encourage a spirit of entrepreneurship in Gibraltar. Whilst the GFSB is optimistic about the Act, not all member concerns have been addressed. The GFSB would like to see services entirely removed from the Acts remit and confirmation that the law will apply equally to everyone conducting business in Gibraltar, including government and government owned companies. Effective enforcement of the Act is also essential for local and cross-border unlicensed businesses.

The GFSB looks forward to confirmation that the Office of Fair Trading will be sufficiently resourced to carry out enforcement effectively. Lastly, it highlights the importance of revising the legislation regularly to ensure it moves with the times and remains relevant to the changing needs of local businesses. “The implementation of this revised legislation has taken years so we look forward to this process becoming far speedier and more fluid”.

The GFSB represents a cross-section of local businesses and is committed to working closely with the GoG,the Chamber of Commerce and the wider business community. It believes working collaboratively on projects like this can make Gibraltar an even better place to do business.

Has the time come for sweeping reforms to the existing law?

The GFSB are organising two Town Hall style meeting events that will be held in the GFSB conference room 122 Irish Town offering the chance for commercial landlords and tenants to have their say anddiscuss the current laws that bind them.

The meetings are on Tuesday the 26th of September (tenant focused meeting), Tuesday 3rd October (landlord–focused meeting) at 7:30 pm.

Members of the GFSB have raised the issue that the existing laws were created some time ago and inevitably in today’s world and current climate these are now dated, unfit for purpose and even bias.

The GFSB feels it is important everyone has ample opportunity to have their say and the GFSB wish to encourage both members and future members, landlords and tenants to attend and get involved with shaping these policies.

Organise your concerns and speak with a collect voice.

To register please contact the GFSB 200 47722 or email gfsb@gfsb.gi

This year the GFSB is incorporating a new event to the social calendar, providing another great opportunity for its members to meet, network, collaborate and strengthen bonds.

The casual BBQ-style summer party will take place at the Viceroy on the 28th of September 7 pm to 10 pm and tickets are on sale now via Buytickets and the GFSB office.

For this year the event will also be open to non-members with a limited amount on tickets available for purchase.

During the evening the GFSB will be giving a sneak peek into the substantial changes the GFSB is undergoing under the steer of Chairman Owen Smith. Including a new refreshed look to the GFSB branding, a new and improved website and a sneaky peek at the newly reenergised GFSB magazine.

The GFSB board will be present through-out the evening to discuss other changes that are on the horizon which will bring increased value to the GFSB membership moving forward.

This new and exciting summer event has been made possible by the very generous sponsors Lewis Stagnetto Importers and Distributors of premium quality drinks and Bassadone Motors who themselves will have a fabulous surprise of their own for attendees to get involved with on the night.

Come and join us for a wonderful evening of great food, networking, sneaky peeks, music, raffle and fun, as we wind up summer and launch a new era of the GFSB.

Tickets are on sale now: Members: £40 pp – Non–Members £50 pp