The SNP has been urged to take steps to reform business rates in the wake of the UK’s vote to leave the European Union.
Scottish Chambers of Commerce chief executive Liz Cameron said swift action was needed because of the uncertainty caused by Brexit.
She made the comments as Economy Secretary Keith Brown said investment in infrastructure was the most effective course to take.
Earlier this week, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon unveiled an initial £100million of capital spending to stimulate growth.
Ms Cameron said the group currently reviewing rates would not report until after a revaluation in April.
And she warned businesses were facing a “rates time bomb”.
She said: “The values that will apply are based on the economy as it was on April 1, 2015 – over a year before the EU referendum and before the worst effects of persistent low oil prices became apparent.
“The Scottish Government has the power to remedy this situation now, before the impact is felt.
“If it fails to do so, then it is failing Scottish business at a time when we need a supportive government.
“Inaction is no longer an option for the Scottish Government on business rates. This is a rates time bomb that must be defused now.”
The Scottish Conservatives have called for a five-year freeze.
Mr Brown said yesterday: “We think the most effective way to make an economic impact and provide certainty in terms of jobs and to businesses is to invest in infrastructure, not just because it employs people right away but because it improves our productive capacity in the country.”
