Aliaksandr Makaeu: 20% of entrepreneurs in prisons now

The only thing entrepreneurs need: unit and do not be afraid of sounding their rights.

Aliaksandr Makaeu, one of the leaders of business movement, said it in his interview to charter97.org.

- How do entrepreneurs feel about the fact that VAT ratio for goods without documents is subject to a sharp increase since July 1?

- The situation with protest mood in markets became less fraught. It is possibly related with upcoming 'elections' when the government has decided not to disturb entrepreneurs. But purchasing power of population is, objectively, decreasing. Population's arrears in wages affect the market. There is almost no trade as such, but taxes must be paid. Meanwhile, the tax burden will only increase. Moreover, as soon as a new VAT rule comes into force - July 1 - the government is to start inspections. Therefore, the situation will be even worse... Entrepreneurs are in pessimistic mood. Some of them just wind down their business without waiting for a new wave of inspections. Besides, people are worried with the government's intention to cancel tear off stubs and oblige to use tills and non-cash payment terminals in boxes with steel shutters. It will cause additional expenditures. Unless it is done, the situation is under control. But everything can change at any time. From time to time there are some spontaneous rallies in regions, especially during inspections, though not all of them are covered by mass media.

–And what is a general trend in a small and midsize business? How do people 'save' their business in crisis?

- Working conditions are deteriorating. People nearly survive now. Many enterprises abolish or reduce seniority payments. It all affects citizens' income and, as a result, entrepreneurs' income. Tendency for business emigration remains. As soon as the government launches or announce a new law, there waves of emigrations are observed. They leave for Lithuania, Poland, Russia, even Ukraine... Those who stay here believe they won't be disturbed until elections. But it means that the pressure will be increased after elections...

- What can be a possible way out of the situation?

The only thing entrepreneurs need: unit and do not be afraid of sounding their political rights. And continue to defend economic ones. Otherwise, the situation is going to be worse. It relates to all Belarusian business. When individual entrepreneurs protect their rights, they also protect big business, especially against illegal criminal prosecution for alleged economic violations. 20% of businessmen are now subjected to a criminal prosecution and are behind bars.

- Is there some hope for upcoming 'elections'?

- Most entrepreneurs know that there are no "elections" as such. Every election year used to bring a vague hope that something would be changed. But most people understand it is not true. Elections are common for the rest of the world, so Lukashenka has to play them to legitimize his power. Generally speaking, Belarusians' opinion is not taken into account. The main thing is that they should be recognized by Russia and the CIS. It applies not only to elections. There are no normal divisions of power, court system is unfair, and only one person decides everything.

–What can you wish to wish our readers among individual entrepreneurs?

- They should be more interested in their history. Negligence of history and national heritage causes such a disastrous condition both of state and society. And in the near future it can turn into even worse consequences. We will not be able to respond not only to economic challenges, but military ones and many others.