Alexander Lukashenko signs decree on development of trade and services in rural areas

Alexander Lukashenko has signed a decree 'On the Development of Trade, Public Catering and Household Services in Rural Areas and Small Urban Settlements'.

The document aims to improve trade services, enhance their quality, and create additional conditions for the development of trade, catering, and household services in rural areas.

To this end, a local-level system — a set of regulations — is being established for trade, catering, and household services. It takes into account, on one hand, the preferences of rural residents, and on the other, the economic interests of trade entities.

The decree stipulates that trade, household services, and catering operations in rural areas must consider specific local characteristics, including taxation, organization of mobile shops (with mandatory definition of routes, frequency of movement, and arrival times and locations), and the transfer of real estate on a paid basis.

Personal responsibility is assigned to the chairmen of regional and district executive committees, as well as to leaders of trade entities, for ensuring proper trade service for rural residents.

The decree was prepared in accordance with the requirements and instructions of the Head of State made during an on-site meeting on ensuring the rural population's access to a wide range of goods in full demand, held in Vileyka on August 7, 2026.

Previously effective legal acts in this area are declared null and void.