KINGSTON, Jamaica (JIS) – The Government is working to simplify the process of starting a business, says Minister of Industry, Commerce, Agriculture and Fisheries, Karl Samuda.

He explained that this is being done to ensure that entrepreneurs follow the stipulated procedures and avoid illegal engagements.

The minister was speaking at an Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Development workshop, held at the Spanish Court Hotel in New Kingston today.

Samuda noted that it is often “tedious and bureaucratic” to establish a company, which causes persons to “take the short route”.

“We are trying to change that and get people from doing business underground,” the minister said.

Samuda said the Government remains committed to supporting the growth and development of entrepreneurship by facilitating access to financial and human capital, providing the necessary education and skills, creating a competitive business environment, and establishing clear regulations that do not put unnecessary bureaucratic burdens on businesses.

“In seeking to facilitate and empower our entrepreneurs, therefore, we take the position that entrepreneurship thrives best in a policy and regulatory environment that keeps barriers low, and where entrepreneurs are able to play a leading role in providing valuable input into policy, and in building ecosystems,” he argued.

He added that creating this ecosystem means facilitating access to domestic and foreign markets; focusing on human capital/workforce development; improving the government and regulatory framework; providing support systems, such as incubators and mentors; and ensuring the availability of education and training, not just for the workforce, but also for entrepreneurs.