RETAILING shops licence in urban commercial areas at Western Province has been increased, from SBD$1,500 to $1,750.

According to the Minister of Finance and Treasury for Western Province, Hon Lester Saomasi, this is the second time the retailing shop licence fee has been amended under his watch.

He emphasises that the increase is only $250, which he describes as ‘slight’.

“My reason to this increase is because I have seen the volume of transactions from shops in Western Province commercial areas of Gizo, Noro and Munda which are more efficient compared to retailing shops in Honiara,” said the minister.

“So I do not expect that the increase of licence will cause shop owners to complain,” he said.