A representative from the Malta Environment and Planning Authority (Mepa) will be at the Business First office in Pietà every Friday morning, thereby enhancing the service offered from the one-stop-shop for businesses, which already gathers more than 50 government services under one roof.

While applications will still need to be submitted directly to Mepa, at Business First clients can check the status of their Mepa application as well as obtain explanations on the pre-screening process and on the general parameters of permits for specific developments.

The staff at Business First has also been given basic training on Mepa procedures in order to be able to provide basic guidance to businesses throughout the rest of the week.

The addition of the service to Business First’s offering reflects the commitment to monitor and analyse clients’ feedback to see what business services are required and, where possible, start offering such services.

The initial list of services was also based on a survey carried out with 200 enterprises, which were asked what the major issues of concern for local enterprises are and what services are expected from such a one-stop-shop facility among others.

Business First already provides services related to the legal entity establishment, employment registration, registration for tax purposes, registration for VAT services, residence permits, licences including trading and tourism-related licences, and applications related to utilities services, among others.

Moreover, under its professional guidance, Business First can help businesses find their way through the various requirements they need to adhere to, what applications need to be compiled, what documentation needs to be submitted, and – equally important – where all this can be done.

By carrying out most formalities under one roof at Business First, businesses can save time and unnecessary running around and focus more on their business operations.

The growth and successful operation of businesses is also supported through the guidance and provision of Malta Enterprise schemes and services.

Since its launch in January, more than 3,700 clients have contacted Business First, which opens on weekdays between 8:15am and 5pm, with extended hours until 7pm on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Further information can be obtained from the dedicated website www.businessfirst.com.mt or by calling the Business First helpline on telephone number 144.