Trade and consumer services system being improved 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 regulatory system is being established for trade, public catering, and household services, taking into account both residents' preferences and the economic interests of trade entities.

The decree stipulates that trade, household services, and catering in rural areas must consider specific local characteristics, including taxation, operation of mobile shops (with mandatory route planning, frequency, timing, and arrival locations), and paid transfer of real estate.

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

The decree was prepared in line with the Head of State’s instructions given at an on-site meeting on ensuring rural populations have full access to a wide range of goods, held in Vileyka on August 7, 2026.

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