15 Mar 2017

Parliament has been informed that 18 companies have been issued 27 licences at the new Pilane Crossing Mall. Minister of Presidential Affairs, Governance and Public Administration, Mr Eric Molale said two companies have requested for exemption.

He noted that one requested to operate in a space that is reserved for citizens and joint ventures between non-citizens and citizens, the other one requested to operate a departmental store in a floor space less than the required 1500 square metres.

Speaking in Parliament, Mr Molale said both requests have been approved and are awaiting finalisation of the enabling regulations from Attorney General’s Chambers.

Mr Molale said the ministry is not aware of any company that has not been issued a trade licence at the new Pilane Crossing Mall. He further said the 18 retail companies outlined are operating, while two are awaiting the enabling regulations before they can apply for licences.

Minister Molale said the ministry continues to make follow-ups with Attorney General’s Chambers to check on the progress of the submitted requests.

Mr Molale said this in response to a parliamentary question from Mochudi West MP, Mr Mangole, on behalf of the Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry. MP Mangole had asked the minister to state the number and names of retail shops which have applied for trading licences at the new Pilane Crossing Mall.

He further requested the minister to state companies which have not been issued with trading licences and the reasons thereof. Mr Mangole had also asked when the retail shops will finally be able to operate and also enquired what the minister is doing to expedite the matter.ENDS