Users who rely on other sources such as private small-scale operators mostly pay more for water.

In this case, small-scale operators pay a higher tariff than the residential one and pass the higher cost on to the end-user.

In the age of global markets, where giant corporations struggle to compete in far-flung markets, such small-scale operators might seem to be relics of a romantic age.

The report has warned the government to prepare for the "wholesale contamination" which is likely to ensue as legions of small-scale operators shut down and abandon their plants.

Especially in the cities, up to 70% of the food was supplied through the black market, including small-scale operators to large scale, well-financed and well-organized operations.

That's because for most small-scale, young operators like Mr. Seiden, 35, buying their own leases was too expensive.

Moreover, maintaining stability, I fear, could be severely jeopardised in the industry if unregulated transferable quotas were embraced, with particular threat to single and small-scale operators.

This is preventing the fishing fleet - especially small-scale operators - not only from plying its trade but even from offsetting its high management costs.

In general, individual taxis are owned by small-scale operators who pay membership fees to regional or citywide radio communication networks.

Tourism products and services have been made available through intermediaries, although tourism providers (hotels, airlines, etc.), including small-scale operators, can sell their services directly.