Putin said that many owners of small businesses did not have specialized training, without which they were unable to fully understand the complex system of accounting for tax: "The government could draft a simpler system of paying taxes," he said.

He also said the idea of tax exemptions was interesting, although such a system would not be easy to introduce. He said the government would continue examining the issue.

Putin also said he believed improvement of the economic environment for small business start-ups is a key target area for government action. In particular he was keen for business people to have access to inexpensive long-term loans, and for government to ensure easier access to market information.

The President stressed that, by developing small business, the government is building up the welfare of its citizens. He urged members of the State Council "to take a really responsible stance on it".