In a Press Release issued to local media this week, the Gibraltar Federation of Small Businesses (GFSB) has made detailed written submissions to the Minster for Business regarding the Government’s Residency Policy. While recognising the Government’s objective of protecting public services and ensuring long-term fiscal sustainability, the GFSB says the proposed measures represent a significant change to Gibraltar’s previous residency policy. 

Over the past few weeks, Gibraltar businesses have received a steady flow of Treaty-related information. This has included technical customs guidance, FAQs, Town Hall meetings, residency proposals and updates on customs procedures. Taken together, these have helped businesses build a clearer understanding of how the new arrangements will work, and that progress is widely recognised.  Whilst uncertainty and concerns remain the effort being made by political and civil Government is clear.  As implementation approaches, our attention is increasingly turning to another aspect of the transition: how businesses will manage the associated costs.