Argentine municipalities implement simplified commercial licensing

Municipalities in Argentina are introducing streamlined processes to facilitate the opening of small businesses.

In Viedma, the local government has established the Express Commercial Licensing Regime (HCE) under Ordinance 9310. This system allows low-risk commercial and service activities to begin operating immediately through a provisional certificate. To qualify, businesses must occupy premises of 100 square meters or less that have hosted a licensed activity within the last two years, require no structural modifications, and meet existing safety and sanitary standards. Business owners must submit a sworn declaration to obtain the provisional permit, with 30 days to complete the requirements for definitive licensing.

Similarly, the Municipality of General Alvarado has launched a Simplified Commercial Licensing program via digital sworn declarations. This initiative is designed to expedite procedures for small businesses engaged in low-risk activities, aiming to reduce administrative hurdles while maintaining essential safety controls.