RAMALLAH, March 9 (JMCC) - Israeli visa restrictions are the main obstacle to foreign investment in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, the Palestine Trade Centre (PALTRADE) said in a report on Monday.

The trade group said that potential investors in the Palestinian economy, including many European Union and United States citizens, are consistently refused visas to the Palestinian Territory.

Many investors face multiple hurdles when entering WBG (the West Bank and Gaza.) These include difficulties with obtaining multiple-entry business visas, extending their stay or pursuing a residency based on their investment, the report said.

Others are issued restricted permits valid only for the Palestinian territory or only for Israel, significantly limiting their ability to effectively operate, the trade promotion organisation said.

In addition, it is unclear what the exact requirements for entry are.

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