In 2007 the European Union presented the Action Programme for Reducing Administrative Burdens. The goal is to cut the administrative burdens imposed on businesses by implementing EU law by as much as 25 per cent by 2012. Reducing administrative burdens is linked to the general strategy to improve the business environment and achieve better regulation. In addition to the EU-level action plan, also the Member States have committed to reduce the administrative burdens on businesses. Measures to reduce administrative burdens are simplifying the information obligations imposed by legislation and development of the procedures of the authorities.

In March 2009, the Government approved a decision-in-principle on an Action Plan aimed at reducing the administrative burden on businesses. The objective is to reduce the administrative burden by 25% by the end of 2012. In 2008, the Ministry of Employment and the Economy appointed a broad-based steering group to reduce the administrative burden, tasked with supporting and coordinating the implementation and monitoring of a programme drawn up for this purpose. The steering group is supported by a project group. The mandates of both working groups extend to the end of 2012.

In accordance with the Government Programme the administrative burden on and businesses will be reduced.

Further information
The Ministry of Employment and the Economy
Director of Legislation, Pasi Järvinen, tel. 010 604 8067
Ministerial Adviser, Liisa Lundelin-Nuortio, tel. 010 606 2137
Senior Specialist, Piia Rekilä, tel. 010 606 4115 

Reduction of the administrative burden on businesses. Ministry of Employment and the Economy website


Updated 11.10.2011