Gov. David M. Apatang on Tuesday issued Executive Order 2025-004, establishing the Business Permitting Center under the Department of Commerce to streamline the Commonwealth’s business permitting process.
The order cites the CNMI Constitution, which authorizes the governor to “make changes in the allocation of offices, agencies and instrumentalities and in their functions and duties that are necessary for efficient administration.”
It states that businesses currently face fragmented procedures and agency requirements for obtaining permits, licenses and clearances—resulting in administrative burdens, delays and added costs.
“It is in the best interest of the Commonwealth to streamline and coordinate these processes to foster an enabling environment for investment and entrepreneurship,” the order states.
It also designates the Department of Commerce as the lead agency for economic and business regulation, noting it is best positioned to coordinate central government interagency permitting reform efforts in collaboration with other departments and agencies.
“The center shall serve as the Commonwealth’s hub for coordinating and facilitating all business-related permits, licenses, and clearances required by law,” Apatang said.
According to the order, the center will:
• Streamline and simplify the process for obtaining business permits, licenses and clearances.
• Reduce paperwork burdens, duplicative requirements and processing times.
• Improve interagency coordination and transparency for applicants.
• Provide centralized information, forms and assistance to businesses.
• Promote investment and compliance through efficient service delivery.
