Sharjah may cut fees to ease burden on businesses

The Government of Sharjah is considering cutting its fees to help ease the financial burden on businessmen arising from the economic downturn, an official has revealed.

A committee representing the different departments has been formed and is studying transaction fees with a view to reducing them, Nawal Askar, Director of Economic and Public Relations at the Economic Development Department, told Emirates Business.

"Our fees are already lower than those in neighbouring countries," she said. "However, if there is a possibility of reducing them, taking into consideration operational expenses such as rent, water and electricity in addition to recruitment and licensing fees, the committee will recommend this to the government."

Asked whether the government had agreed on a particular level of reductions, Askar said no such decision had been made and the committee was instructed to make recommendations regarding cuts.

"After completing the study the committee will submit its proposals to the government for approval," she said.

The department has already taken action to streamline its formalities and procedures, including those related to transactions and inspections, to lessen the impact of the economic downturn on businesses, she added.

And Askar said a transparency and governance initiative for the private sector would be announced in the fourth quarter of the year.

"Initiating working mechanisms and partnerships with the private sector based on transparency and good governance is very important to help reduce the impact of the crisis, push forward development and support businesses," she added.

The Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry's role had a consultative role, while the department was the executive party, Askar said.

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