The Ministry of Commerce is providing more clarity for commercial entities operating on Sundays with The Sunday Trading Order (2015), which was gazetted by Cabinet this month.
The Order amends existing legislation by adding more types of businesses to the list of exempted activities in the Schedule to the Sunday Trading Law (2014 Revisions). The revised roster names 14 exceptions to the law, including tourist-related establishments, beauty salons, restaurants and movie theatres.
The new legislation was approved by Cabinet on 12 May and was gazetted on 15 May. In creating the order, Cabinet took into account the results of a public consultation report issued in late February. Local residents were asked for their input on liberalising the previous Sunday Trading Law last August and the conclusion was most people wanted to see changes to the law.
Commerce Minister Wayne Panton said the legislation seeks to stimulate the local economy by offering more opportunities for business.
'This order is in line with other Government measures to encourage, support and positively impact economic activity,' he said. 'A number of considerations were taken into account including the competitiveness of local retailers; consumer flexibility and choice; religious beliefs; and family life in the Cayman Islands.
'We listened to the views of the general public and all key stakeholders and developed appropriate legislation for Sunday Trading. Ultimately, the law is about boosting commerce and maintaining our place as a top global choice for all types of businesses'.
Report on the Public Consultation on the Liberalisation of Sunday Trading
The Sunday Trading Order, 2015
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