This report has been developed by theinternational Finance Corporation (IFC) and summarizesfindings from a recent study of the business environment forsmall and medium-sized enterprises and individualentrepreneurs in Belarus. The survey and report have beenconducted as part of the second phase of the 'businessenabling environment in Belarus' activity supported bythe Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency(SIDA). The format of this report does not cover all factorsthat shape and influence existing business environment.Thus, the report is limited in scope, with special attentionto the consequences of the economic crisis for small andmedium-sized businesses; and the main focus devoted toselected groups of business-related administrativeprocedures. The report covers three groups of administrativeprocedures that the majority of small have to undergo: 1)licensing; 2) permits; and 3) inspections.