We live in antagonistic times, in a world that is constantly been shaped by the winds of change and, moreover, one that is undoubtedly becoming smaller due to advances in technology. The Department of Trade and Industry accepts this providence and thus endeavours to create an environment where businesses will thrive and grow.

This department is the successor to the Department of Economic Development. Whilst historically the Department would have dealt exclusively with economic activity generated within Gibraltar, it has of late become equally oriented towards the promotion of inward investment with the aid of InvestGibraltar.

Commerce

The Department of Trade & Industry deals with general commercial and economic development in Gibraltar. This includes the attraction of inward investment and the assistance of locally established businesses through the simplification of processes and the

It houses the EU Funds Secretariat, which is responsible for the promotion and administration of the EU funds from which Gibraltar benefits. Among the schemes administered by the EU Secretariat, there are those geared towards providing assistance to small and medium sized enterprises; particularly in the innovation area of economic activity.

Contact details:

EU Secretariat
Department of Trade & Industry
Suite 631, Europort
Gibraltar

Tel: +350 20073255
Fax: +350 20071406
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The InvestGibraltar Office has also made the Department of Trade & Industry its home. InvestGibraltar has been strategically set up to become the frontline Office acting as a bridge between the private and public sector. It is moreover a proactive Office that will provide business-related advice and support to registered businesses as well as aid those that aspire to start up, diversify or expand an enterprise in Gibraltar.

InvestGibraltar’s remit is as follows:

• Packaging and promoting Gibraltar’s main investment opportunities under one banner
• Assisting the Government in the fulfilment of its commercial policy objectives
• Developing and co-ordinating investment proposals
• Providing support to new investors and to Gibraltar’s Small and Medium Enterprise base

Furthermore, the InvestGibraltar Office has general responsibility for development projects, including the promotion and expansion of e-commerce/e-business.

Contact details:

GOVERNMENT OF GIBRALTAR
InvestGibraltar Office
Department of Trade & Industry
Suite 771, Europort
Gibraltar

Tel: +350 20052634
Fax: +350 20052635
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Trade Licence

Any person wishing to buy or sell any product by way of business, whether wholesale, retail or via certain commercial activities, which have been listed below, requires to be licensed under the Trade Licensing Act 1978. A Trade Licence is also necessary to obtain a Customs code for the importation of goods in commercial quantities.

Building Contracting Carpentry Catering*
Electrical Contracting Decorating Hairdressing
Manufacturing Joinery Painting
Plumbing Woodwork  

*Catering covers canteens, caterers, clubs, hoteliers, and publicans

Contact details:

Trade Licences & other licences
Department of Trade & Industry
Suite 631, Europort
Gibraltar

Tel: +350 20052052 Ext. 5
Fax: +350 20071950
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Building Control & Planning Division

The Building Control Section's main duties are the administration and enforcement of Building Regulations made under the Public Health Ordinance by inspection of deposited plans. This is followed up in-situ with the necessary inspections to determine that the works have been carried out according to the approved plans and specifications. On satisfactory completion of the works a joint exercise is put in place with the Environmental Agency and the Fire Prevention Department to establish whether the new building is fit for occupation. This is then followed with the issuing of a Certificate of Fitness. Additional duties include the overseeing of demolition operations and the provision of technical advice to the Town Planning Section.

Contact details:

Mr R Santos
Building Control Officer
Department of Trade & Industry
Suite 631, Europort
Gibraltar

Tel: +350 20075483
Fax: +350 20074086
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Town Planning

The Town Planning Section's remit covers all aspects relating to the control and use of land, and to the appearance of the built and natural environment. The section is responsible for forward planning, formulation of planning policy and development control. All "development" in Gibraltar requires planning permission (in addition to approval under the Building Regulations where relevant) before works may start. The decision-making authority is the Development & Planning Commission.
The section works closely with the Building Control Section in undertaking this function. The Town Planning section's work also covers a variety of other areas such as the administration of advertisement consent applications, applications for tax relief on external improvements, tables and chairs licences and sandwich board licences. The section works closely with other Government departments, agencies and non-statutory bodies on matters relevant to Town Planning.

Contact details:

Mr Paul Origo / Paul Naughton-Rumbo
Town Planning Section
Department of Trade & Industry
Suite 631, Europort
Gibraltar

Tel: +350 20075483
Fax: +350 20074086
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