The formal opening of a Southern Division branch of the Ministry of Commerce, Manufacturing, Business Development, Cooperatives, and Consumer Affairs is imminent, and is aimed squarely at addressing the needs of customers in the southern region.
The Southern Division will operate from the 3rd Floor of the Uptown Business Centre on New Dock Road, Vieux Fort.
Commerce Minister Emma Hippolyte declared that this strategic expansion will significantly improve public access to government services, enabling efficient and effective service delivery to clients in the south of the island and surrounding areas.
“The expansion underscores the Ministry’s unwavering commitment to driving economic growth, fostering partnerships, and equipping businesses with essential resources to succeed in a dynamic global marketplace,” Minister Hippolyte asserted during a media briefing, on Monday.
The establishment of the Southern Division is specifically designed to direct the department’s resources to effectively address the unique challenges faced by clientele in this region.
Minister Hippolyte emphasized that small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs will receive comprehensive support and advisory services equivalent to those available at the Small Business Development Centre in the ministry’s main northern office, located on the 4th Floor of the Heraldine Rock Building, Castries Waterfront.
These services will encompass:
– Access to concessions, information, and training opportunities – Expert advice on financial planning, capital acquisition, marketing, and regulatory compliance
Larger businesses will also benefit from these services, which include the certification of forms and Minister’s Licences to facilitate the timely clearance of goods. Furthermore, consumers in the south will be empowered to swiftly lodge formal complaints and report any irregularities in pricing and quality of goods sold on the domestic market.
“With a dedicated officer for the southern region, the Consumer Affairs Department will proactively monitor price-controlled goods and efficiently conduct investigations in the area,” she affirmed.
Clients will also have the opportunity to obtain essential information regarding the functions and operations of the Department of Cooperatives, particularly regarding cooperative formation and registration. The new facility will feature a meeting room available for registered business owners to conduct business-related interviews, presentations, consultations, and meetings.
An impressive rooftop terrace will also serve as a venue for business outreach initiatives. “This development demonstrates that the concerns of the parliamentary representative and the southern business community are being addressed. We are eager to enhance our accessibility,” Minister Hippolyte emphasized.
She added, “This move ensures our clients receive tailored, localized support and guidance, thereby solidifying our connection with them. We anticipate this will ignite the revival of the Southern Business Association.”
The Southern Division of the Ministry of Commerce is on track to officially open on Wednesday, February 26th.