Dr Lincoln E. Bobb, Deputy Director of the Department of Trade, Investment Promotion, and Consumer Affairs, has said there is a focus on making the trade licencing process 'far more efficient'. Photo: Facebook/File

During the Talking Points programme on ZBVI 780 AM on Monday, October 6, 2025, Dr Lincoln E. Bobb, Deputy Director of the Department of Trade, Investment Promotion, and Consumer Affairs, stated that improving the efficiency of the trade licencing process is a major focus within the ministry and the department. Photo: Internet Source

Deputy Director of the Department of Trade, Investment Promotion, and Consumer Affairs, Dr Lincoln E. Bobb, right, on Talking Points on October 6, 2025. Photo: Facebook

During the Talking Points programme on ZBVI 780 AM on Monday, October 6, 2025, Dr Lincoln E. Bobb, Deputy Director of the Department of Trade, Investment Promotion, and Consumer Affairs, stated that improving the efficiency of the trade licencing process is a major focus within the ministry and the department. 

"One of the major things within the ministry, as well as the department, is really a focus on trying to see how best we can make the trade licencing process far more efficient.’’

He noted that the review of the trade licencing process has already begun, as it is a shared concern for both the department, the minister, and the Premier. "I actually have a presentation to make pretty soon about, you know, it's giving suggestions and stuff because both the premier and the minister also recognise that there are setbacks and how frustrating it could be for business people," he said.

Understaffed

Dr Bobb acknowledged that the department is currently understaffed but emphasised their commitment to finding ways to work more efficiently within the team.

"And, you know, we also, within the trade department, said that we also have to look at ourselves and see if it is that we can find ways, Dr Bobb said, as he commended his staff for their hard work.

"So, as all government services, you know, we are understaffed and those things, but they always try to see the best they can go, the extra mile, to see how best we can get things done."

He concluded by stating, "But, you know, we really need to sit down and analyse and see how well we could actually make this as efficient and effective as possible."

Dr Bobb reassured the public that the department has heard their concerns regarding the trade licencing process and is committed to working diligently to address these issues.