State Duma Passes Bill on Licensing Upon First Reading

Deputies of the State Duma have adopted the bill on licensing some kinds of activities on the first reading today. This document envisages the removal of activities concerning selling of oil, gas and products of their processing from the list of activities that are to be licensed.

According to the conclusion of the State Duma committee on property, the activity on selling natural gas is not connected with the technology, processing, storing and transportation; it is based on normal agreements of product sales. Due to the fact that the number of enterprises that sell gas is inconsiderable, there is no necessity in licensing this activity, the conclusion states. Moreover, licensing of retail sales of oil and gas products makes enterprises obtain two licenses for the same kind of activity, which is inexpedient, the committee believes.

The bill was supported by 294 deputies with 13 against and one abstention.