The bill tends to “change the image of entrepreneurship in our country,” Development and Competitiveness Minister Costis Hatzidakis told the committee, and said that this bill serves as a message that Greece is dealing decisively with bureaucracy and opening up to entrepreneurship.

With few exceptions, the bill will allow a business’ operation without previous intervention by public administration, and include a Fast Track licensing process for all as well as online management.

Mr. Hatzidakis added that the Law 4014/2011 on environmental licensing of projects and activities will not change.

In addition, ministries will have eight months to prepare so that they may issue joint ministerial decrees. If they do not meet the deadline, then the the Ministry of Development and Competitiveness will have the right to issue the decrees.

He also added that a special work group will be set up to include a representative of the prime minister’s office and of each ministry, and the group will collaborate with the World Bank.