Fee waivers kick in for youth businesses

RETHABILE MOHONO

MASERU – In a major move to boost entrepreneurship and economic participation across the country, the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Business Development (MTIBD) has announced the implementation of sweeping exemptions on business registration and licensing fees for Basotho youth.

The announcement, made through a press release issued by the Ministry, follows the outcomes of the National Youth Dialogue held on 18 June 2025 at the Manthabiseng Convention Centre.

The initiative is guided by the Ministerial Directive issued on June 30 and officially came into effect on July 1. According to the statement, “All Basotho citizens are now allowed to register businesses without paying registration and licensing fees.”

This marks a significant shift in policy, aimed at removing financial and administrative hurdles that often prevent aspiring entrepreneurs from formalising their ventures.

In addition, the Ministry stated that “the requirement to present leases and occupancy certificates during business registration is waived.”

This move is expected to ease access for entrepreneurs who may not yet have formal premises but are ready to start operating their businesses. The exemptions, the Ministry clarified, are not limited to youth-owned businesses.

“These exemptions are applicable to all Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) in Lesotho – not limited to youth-owned businesses,” the release emphasized.

These measures will remain in place for three years.

“The exemptions will be valid for a period of three (3) years, subject to review,” the Ministry noted, indicating that the policy’s impact will be assessed and potentially adjusted after the initial period.

To ensure legal alignment, the Ministry also indicated that “where necessary, adjustments to the Business Licensing Act will be made to align with this directive.”

The initiative, as outlined in the release, “aims to eliminate barriers to entrepreneurship and business development, promoting economic growth and inclusivity.”

The MTIBD has encouraged Basotho citizens across the country to take advantage of this opportunity to formalise their businesses and contribute to the broader goal of sustainable economic development.