The Office of Fair Trading's latest Annual Report reveals record numbers of businesses, plans to simplify licensing through a new Business Act and fewer consumer complaints. GFSB's Business Support Manager, Kim Chang, breaks down what the proposed reforms, increased digital services and stronger enforcement could mean for businesses, and why the GFSB's role in shaping policy has been recognised.

What a year it's been! From the Treaty moving from negotiation to reality to AI, workplace pensions, business confidence and everything in between, this year's Thrive EDIT has helped members navigate one of the busiest periods in Gibraltar's recent history. Before we take a short summer break, Editor David Revagliatte looks back at the stories that shaped the year and thanks readers for joining us on the journey.

Could Gibraltar be missing a golden opportunity? GFSB Board Director Brian Ross believes the answer is yes. In this thought-provoking opinion piece, he argues that Gibraltar should consider a residency route for financially self-sufficient individuals, attracting experienced people with the wealth, expertise and international networks to strengthen our economy. Could this be the next step in keeping Gibraltar competitive?

For many SMEs, the success of the business has been built on the expertise, relationships and commitment of its owner. This entrepreneurial approach has been instrumental in the growth of many of Gibraltar's successful businesses. However, as organisations develop, dependence on a single individual can become a strategic risk.

Imports including medicines, fresh produce and other commercial goods faced significant delays as businesses and Customs adjusted to the Treaty’s new frontier procedures, with some freight reportedly held since the arrangements began on 15 July. The disruption is the clearest early warning that documentation errors and unfamiliar processes can quickly affect stock availability, perishable goods and operating costs across Gibraltar’s retail and wholesale sectors.

For many, summer offers something that's in short supply during the rest of the year: space. Space to learn, think differently, meet new people and recharge before the final push towards year-end. If you're looking to make the most of the season, here are three ways to return in September with fresh ideas, renewed energy and a few new connections.

Over the past two years, I must have written more words about the Treaty than almost any other subject. Through the Thrive EDIT, I've tried to cut through the politics and focus on what really matters to Gibraltar's business community. We've unpacked customs guidance, explained residency proposals, questioned support measures, covered Government announcements, highlighted members' concerns and, where necessary, asked awkward questions on your behalf. The aim has always been the same: to make one of the biggest economic changes in Gibraltar's history feel just a little easier to understand.

At the GFSB, we believe membership should deliver real value. That means more than simply representing businesses around the table. It means creating opportunities to learn, connect and grow. Since September 2025, we've delivered 34 events attended by 1,329 members and guests, with the vast majority offered free of charge as part of GFSB membership. Whether you're looking to sharpen your skills, grow your network or stay ahead of the issues shaping Gibraltar's business landscape, our events are designed to make doing business that little bit easier.

This month marks a deadline that a lot of small business owners did not see coming. As of 1st July 2026, 'Small' employers in Gibraltar, businesses with between 15 and 50 staff, are now legally required to be compliant with the Private Sector Pensions Act. Micro employers, those with under 15 staff, follow next year. With that in mind, we thought it would be useful to step back and explain, in plain English, what the Act requires, who it applies to, and what businesses should do if they have not yet taken action.