Botswana Government Pledges Business Reforms to Improve Ease of Doing Business

Botswana Government Pledges Business Reforms to Improve Ease of Doing BBusiness. Botswana’s government has reaffirmed its commitment to improving the country’s business environment through regulatory reforms, digitalisation and stronger collaboration with the private sector. Minister of Trade and Entrepreneurship Tiroeaone Ntsima made the commitment during the official opening of Day Two of the National Business Conference 2026.

Ntsima said government continues to engage businesses through sectoral meetings and other platforms to identify challenges affecting the cost and ease of doing business. He said these engagements should result in practical solutions and timely action.

As part of the planned reforms, government is reviewing existing regulations with the aim of removing unnecessary and duplicative requirements. It is also developing a digital one-stop shop intended to simplify business registration, licensing and investor services.

Ntsima stressed that reforms would only be meaningful if businesses experienced tangible improvements. He called for stronger coordination between government institutions and measurable progress in addressing concerns raised by the private sector.

The minister also urged local businesses to invest in skills and technology, improve productivity, meet quality standards and strengthen their ability to supply larger markets. He highlighted the importance of increasing local participation in supply chains and promoting value addition so that more economic benefits remain within Botswana.

Ntsima identified the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as an opportunity for local businesses to expand exports and access regional markets. However, he said businesses would need practical information about trade procedures, market requirements and standards to make use of those opportunities.

He said resolutions from the conference should guide engagement between government and business after the event, with clear actions, responsible institutions and mechanisms for monitoring progress.

Speaking under the conference theme, “From Dialogue to Delivery: Business Driving Transformation,” Ntsima called on delegates to engage openly, challenge ineffective approaches and propose practical recommendations.