SCCI Chairman Outlines Four Key Constraints Facing Seychelles Businesses

VICTORIA, Seychelles — Seychelles businesses continue to face significant challenges, but there are also opportunities for growth and innovation, according to Oliver Bastienne, chairman of the Seychelles Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI). In a recent interview, Mr Bastienne shared his views on the key issues affecting businesses and what steps can be taken to ensure a stronger economic future.

According to Mr Bastienne, businesses in Seychelles struggle with four main constraints — land, labour, laws and lending. He urged the government to take decisive action to address these constraints towards a more stable and prosperous business environment. He noted that the cost and availability of land, the cost and quality of labour, the regulatory environment and access to finance all combine to limit the ability of local businesses to grow, invest and compete regionally.

Mr Bastienne offered ideas on how a stronger economic future can be built, suggesting closer dialogue between the private sector and policymakers, predictable regulation, targeted support for small and medium-sized enterprises, and reforms to improve the ease of doing business. He said the SCCI will continue to engage with the government and other partners to push for reforms that unlock private-sector growth.