A public discussion on the construction sector was organized with the participation of state authorities and entrepreneurs

A public discussion on the construction sector was held, focusing on the current situation and planned measures for obtaining construction and operation permits, and entrepreneurs’ proposals were heard.

The discussion, entitled “Current situation regarding the time and costs required to obtain construction and operation permits and opportunities for their optimization”, took place at the Baku KOB House.

The event was organized by the Public Council under the Small and Medium Business Development Agency (SMBDA) with the support of the Baku City Architecture and Urban Planning Department under the State Committee for Urban Planning and Architecture, and the National Confederation of Entrepreneurs (Employers) Organizations of Azerbaijan. Entrepreneurs operating in the construction sector and representatives of relevant authorities attended.

Samir Abdullayev, Chairman of the Public Council under SMBDA, stated that the event was organized to discuss, within the framework of public-private sector cooperation, compliance with construction legislation, the issuance of construction and operation permits, and the challenges faced by SMEs in this area, as well as to expand collaboration.

Vusal Shikhaliyev, Head of the Sector of Economic Policy and Industry Issues at the Administration of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, noted that holding public discussions on the work carried out and planned measures in the field of construction and operation permits is important for exchanging views on sectoral challenges, coordinating activities, and developing public-private sector cooperation. Such events are also useful for optimizing existing procedures and implementing relevant reforms.

Read Gasimov, Head of the Baku City Architecture and Urban Planning Department, emphasized that the “Electronic Construction Portal” was launched in 2019 to digitalize the construction sector. Currently, all processes are fully digital, ensuring transparency and trust. Systematic work continues on sectoral reforms and process improvements. The main document guiding the long-term development of the capital is the Baku City Master Plan until 2040, which provides a clear direction for urban development: every new project is aligned with the overall concept, chaotic construction is prevented, a balance is maintained between residential, business, and public spaces, and the architectural image of the city is preserved.

Orkhan Mammadov, Chairman of SMBDA, highlighted that simplifying procedures related to construction and operation permits, particularly through electronic permit systems, opens new opportunities for SMEs. This minimizes time and resource losses, allows more flexible operations, and contributes to the development of the business environment. However, changes in permit procedures must be assessed in advance based on their impact on entrepreneurs’ activities. The capabilities of a unified electronic platform for receiving and processing applications should be expanded, and digital solutions and innovative approaches should be supported to reduce SMEs’ time and resource losses. Entrepreneurs should familiarize themselves with existing legislation and regulatory requirements, actively use electronic permit platforms, adopt digital signatures, and prepare all necessary documents in advance to minimize time loss. SMBDA will continue providing coordination and support in this area.

Mammad Musayev, President of the National Confederation of Entrepreneurs (Employers) Organizations of Azerbaijan, noted that measures have been taken to digitalize and simplify procedures for issuing construction and operation permits. Nevertheless, further optimization of the relevant processes remains a priority for entrepreneurs.

During the event, entrepreneurs’ proposals and challenges were heard, discussions on their resolution were conducted, and questions were answered.

(Source: SMBDA)