New Commerce Minister engages business stakeholders on ease of doing business

Published on January 26, 2026

Commerce Minister Dr. Ernest Hilaire and John Paul Estephane, Minister in the Ministry have been meeting with business organisations with a sharp focus on improving the ease of doing business.

The Minister was accompanied by senior administrative and technical officers for the series of exploratory meetings. The meetings allowed for open and constructive dialogue on challenges, emerging opportunities and the potential pitfalls confronting the business community.

One such meeting was held with the members of the Coalition of Services and addressed a range of issues from training possibilities, challenges with recruitment, violation of regulations by imported labour, funding difficulties and the absence of platforms and structure in facilitating e-commerce possibilities.

The Minister signalled his intention to prioritize the ease of doing business and pledged to create a more inclusive and enabling environment for local manufacturers and entrepreneurs.

The Minister committed to initiating meaningful reforms and noted the importance of sustained engagement with the private sector.

Minister Hilaire promises to enhance policy coherence, streamline interministerial processes and support innovation and improvements to national productivity.