The Angolan government has approved the elimination of the Habitability Certificate as a requirement for exercising economic activities. This move aims to simplify administrative procedures and improve the business environment in the country. According to Pedro Fiete Correia Raimundo, Secretary to the President of the Republic for State Reform, the decision was made during the 9th Ordinary Session of the Council of Ministers, chaired by President João Lourenço.
The Habitability Certificate was one of the requirements for obtaining a license to operate commercial, industrial, hotel, restaurant, and pharmacy establishments. Its elimination is part of the government's strategy to reduce bureaucratic burdens on economic operators and facilitate the licensing and operation of businesses. The measure is also aligned with the implementation of the "Project Simplifica," which aims to gradually reduce the number of sectoral licenses and authorizations required from economic operators.
The government has institutionalized a single licensing model for commercial activities, based on joint inspections and coordinated action by different public administration services. Under this new procedure, entrepreneurs will submit a single application, while technical, sanitary, and safety conditions will be verified through a joint inspection by multisectoral teams. This model aims to avoid repeated trips to different agencies and duplication of fees.
According to Pedro Fiete Correia Raimundo, the new model does not eliminate inspections, but rather makes them more efficient and less burdensome for investors. The government has assured that the simplification of administrative procedures will not compromise consumer safety or urban planning. The measure represents a change in the licensing model, reducing prior documentary requirements and strengthening the importance of verifying establishment conditions on the ground.
The elimination of the Habitability Certificate as a requirement is expected to reduce the costs and waiting times associated with starting a business. However, the implementation of the new model will require coordinated action from public services to ensure compliance with safety, hygiene, and health standards. The government aims to create a more favorable business environment and stimulate economic growth.
The "Project Simplifica" initiative is part of the government's efforts to improve the business environment and promote economic development. By reducing bureaucratic barriers and streamlining licensing procedures, the government hopes to attract more investment and create jobs. The project also aims to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of public services.
The implementation of the new licensing model will be closely monitored to ensure its effectiveness and identify areas for further improvement. The government has expressed its commitment to continuing to improve the business environment and promoting economic growth in Angola. The elimination of the Habitability Certificate requirement is seen as a positive step towards achieving these goals.
Key points
- The Angolan government has eliminated the Habitability Certificate requirement for economic activities to simplify administrative procedures and improve the business environment.
