Title: UNRAVELLING THE CHALLENGES: STUDY ON SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISE (SME)' EXPERIENCES IN ACQUIRING BUSINESS PERMITS
Authors: A Research Paper Presented to
Volume: 9
Issue: 10
Pages: 1-10
Publication Date: 2025/10/28
Abstract:
ABSTRACT: Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) play a critical role in the economic development of local communities, particularly in Tangub City, Misamis Occidental. This research paper, titled “Unraveling the Challenges: Study on Small and Medium Enterprise (SME)’ Experiences in Acquiring Business Permits,” was conducted to identify the challenges faced by SMEs in acquiring business permits in Tangub City, Misamis Occidental, and explore how these challenges affect their operations. It also seeks to propose interventions to improve the permit processing system. The study employed a qualitative research design, gathering data from 30 SME owners selected through a stratified random sampling technique. A semi-structured interview guide questionnaire was used for this study. The findings revealed three primary challenges in acquiring permits: financial burden of business permits, inconsistent permit fees, and lengthy document processing, which significantly hinder SMEs’ ability to operate legally and efficiently. These challenges result in risk of business closure due to permit requirements, financial strain on daily operations, and adjustments in pricing. Additionally, the study identifies potential interventions, including subsidy or sliding-scale permit programs, one-stop-shop , faster transactions, and permit fee installment plans to address these issues. The study concludes that addressing these challenges is crucial for fostering SME growth and driving economic development in Tangub City. It recommends that SMEs collectively voice their concerns to local authorities, future researchers explore the broader impacts of the permit acquisition process, and the local government prioritize reforms, including making permit fees more affordable, ensuring consistent and transparent pricing, and simplifying document processing requirements.