The CNMI government formally opened its new One Stop Business Permitting Center last week, marking what officials described as a major step toward streamlining the Commonwealth’s business licensing and regulatory process.
Gov. David M. Apatang led the ribbon‑cutting ceremony at the facility, located in the former Medicaid Agency building on Capitol Hill.
He was joined by Saipan Mayor Ramon “RB” Camacho, Department of Public Works Secretary Ray Yumul, Department of Public Lands Secretary Sixto Igisomar, Department of Commerce Remy Mafnas, and Commonwealth Healthcare Corporation executive director Esther Lizama, and other agency officials whose divisions will operate within the new center.
The event was hosted by the Department of Commerce, and included remarks from interagency partners.
Apatang said the center reflects his administration’s commitment to improving government efficiency and supporting economic activity. “This is about making it easier for our people to do business in the Commonwealth,” he said.
The One Stop Business Permitting Center is designed to consolidate the various permits, licenses, and clearances required to open or operate a business in the CNMI.
In its initial phase, the center will house representatives from the Department of Commerce, Department of Fire and Emergency Medical Services, Department of Public Works, Department of Finance, the Zoning Board, and the Commonwealth Healthcare Corporation’s Division of Environmental Health.
Officials said the centralized model will reduce processing delays, improve coordination among agencies, and provide a single point of contact for entrepreneurs navigating regulatory requirements.
The center is located at Government Building No. 1252 on Capitol Hill.
