The United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) Legislative Guide on Key Principles of a Business Registry, is now published both as an e-booklet (http://uncitral.un.org/en/library/publications) and in hard copy in all six languages of the United Nations: Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian and Spanish. The Guide, reflects on the idea that simplified, low cost and accessible business registration can play a key role in promoting formalization of micro, small and medium-sized businesses, a high percentage of which still operate in the informal economy.
Drawing on international best practices, the Guide recommends that business registration should be accessible through a single-entry point; simultaneous registration with the business registry and other relevant public authorities (for example, taxation and social security) should be allowed and services should be delivered in the shortest time possible with user procedures easy to follow.
In keeping with this approach, the Guide supports the use of electronic registries (where electronic means any current and emerging technology) and of unique business identifiers, which ensure the unique identity of a business in its interaction with State authorities and private entities, and the establishment of one-stop shops, which are physical or virtual offices that permit simultaneous registration with all authorities involved in business start-up.
If CRF members require any further information on the Guide please contact uncitral@un.org and uncitral.rcap@un.org.