Written reply to PQ on proposed committee for streamlining of government processes for doing business

Question

Mr Kwek Hian Chuan Henry: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry (a) whether the Ministry will consider setting up a formal committee to coordinate whole-of-Government efforts to streamline Government processes to reduce the complexity of doing business in Singapore; and (b) whether the Ministry can explain how such a committee’s efforts will differ from the role played by the Pro-Enterprise Panel.

Written Answer by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong

1. In April 2024, the Government set up the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) for Pro-Enterprise Rules Review to oversee agency efforts to improve regulatory efficiency and reduce compliance burden, especially for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). The IMC provides ministerial guidance to resolve major regulatory issues that cut across Government agencies. The Committee also supports the review of regulations by individual agencies. It aims to help SMEs better navigate Government rules and regulations.

2. The IMC works closely with and complements the efforts of existing government units and channels, including the Pro-Enterprise Panel (PEP). The PEP, chaired by the Head of Civil Service and comprising business leaders and senior public officials, brings the private sector and the public service together to cooperate and advocate for a pro-enterprise environment through regulatory innovation.