Chamber calls for coherent approach by business bodies

The time is ripe for employer bodies representing the business community to present a more coherent approach when making important representations, particularly on issues of national interest, the editorial of the Malta Chamber of Commerce magazine, The Commerical Courier says.

"In most cases, the interest of the entrepreneur is the same whether he is involved in retailing, manufacturing, tourism or any other sector of business. Hence, it would be of great advantage to the business community and the country at large if all organisations representing business were to present a common and united front in making claims on behalf of all their members," it said.

"A dire need is felt by the chamber for a strategic reorganisation of the manner in which representations are made by employer bodies in respect of government and other authorities, both local and foreign. These representations are best coordinated with a view to be more considered, coherent and indisputable in terms of ideas and claims. Naturally, it would be harder for the government or any other social partner to ignore a more solid and sound voice of the business community."

The Chamber of Commerce regularly comments on the problem of fragmentation in trade. The chamber president said recently that as more and more businesses continue to set up shop in the country, the problem of over-saturation and duplication in all sectors of business continues to be exacerbated and everyone stands to lose.

"In the interest of sustainability, it was consequently suggested that business plans are prepared by new entrants to the market to ensure the viability of new business applications.

"It is important that business start-ups are perceived viable a priori and do not jeopardise the livelihood of whoever is involved in them. This would also be conducive towards innovation and long-term specialisation and competition. Above all, however, our economy would be strengthened because entry in the private sector - which is the driving force of economic progress and wealth - would be based on more solid foundations.

"This national problem is mirrored in the domestic representation of business. In fact, the voice of private enterprise in the country is also as fragmented as the general business situation. The employer's side in social partnership is composed of five separate bodies - some of which represent one specialised interest or another."

The situation borders on the ridiculous when one considers that five internal committees made up of five teams of experts are simultaneously considering one single issue on which their organisation has been consulted, the editorial argues.

"For the purposes of this consultation, the respective councils and secretariats would also be mobilised."

The chamber argued that employers' organisations must build on the strong common denominators that exist, and form the strategic alliances that are still lacking to give the voice of the business community all the attention it deserves.

"The country's economic development and prosperity certainly merits no less," it says.