The acceleration of opening permits is evident, with a 10% increase in 2024 compared to the previous year. The City Council continues to uphold the municipal ordinance that simplifies processes and enables the swift establishment of new establishments. According to reports from Estepona City Council, a total of 383 opening licenses have been approved in the last two years, all processed through the Commerce delegation. The councilor overseeing this sector, Cristina Cintrano, has highlighted the ongoing growth of the productive sector, supported by the data. She emphasized that the city’s development projects have successfully stimulated the local economy, creating a robust economic environment and opportunities. In 2024, there was a 10% rise in the number of licenses, reaching a total of 202, whereas 181 new opening licenses were granted in 2023. The mayor pointed out that in 2024, a new business opened every day and a half in the town, alongside the consolidation of existing establishments. ‘These statistics indicate the increase in economic activity and the city’s growing appeal in recent years,’ stated the mayor. Out of the 383 licenses issued, 274 are for newly established businesses, while 109 involve changes of ownership within the last two years. Apart from processing new licenses, the Commerce and Industry delegation handled over 800 files last year, including more than a hundred authorizations for public road occupation, 50 for market stalls, over thirty for events, and twenty for filming in the city, among others. The council’s focus has been on removing bureaucratic hurdles that could impede project implementation. One significant measure taken was the waiver of opening fee payment for innocuous commercial activities, totaling 157 exemptions in the last two years. Furthermore, there is a 75% discount on the license fee for opening businesses for vulnerable groups. Eligible groups include women victims of gender violence, long-term unemployed individuals, young people under 30, persons with disabilities over 33%, and those over 55 unemployed for six months in the past two years. To streamline processes, interested parties can complete all necessary procedures for opening a new business through the electronic platform, where they can also schedule appointments with various municipal departments. Additionally, the City Council launches annual campaigns to bolster the local commercial network through activities geared towards enhancing businesses and fostering public loyalty.