AmCham says government not listening

TIRANA, June 12 – Prime Minister Berisha met on Thursday with Philip Bay, the President of the American Chamber of Commerce in Albania, who expressed his concern that state institutions have not taken into account the suggestions of Albanian businesses related to several draft laws. The President of the AmCham pointed out that the Albanian state institutions should cooperate more and be opener to the suggestions of Albanian businesses. Bay further explained the work carried out by the AmCham in defending the rights of the businesses and in creating a supportive business environment. AmCham praised some of the latest initiatives undertaken by the Albanian government such as the reduction in the number of licenses necessary to conduct business, the introduction of the flat tax, and other initiatives. Mr. Bay pointed out that the dialogue between Albanian businesses and Albanian state authorities is necessary, especially related to the drafting of new laws that have a direct impact on business activity. AmCham opposed the Albanian law on penalties that demanded businesses pay 15 percent of penalties before they could appeal the decision of tax authorities. The businesses complained to the Albanian Constitutional Court, which agreed that particular article violated the Albanian constitution. (Tirana Times Staff)