The term "cuts the red tape" refers to the process of simplifying procedures or cutting through bureaucratic hurdles to expedite progress. Some antonyms for this phrase could include "adds bureaucracy," "complicates matters," or "slows down progress." When someone "adds bureaucracy," they are actively making matters more complicated and time-consuming. Similarly, when someone "complicates matters," they are making a simple process more difficult than it needs to be. Lastly, if someone "slows down progress," they are actively hindering the advancement or completion of a project, task, or goal. These antonyms could be useful in situations where progress needs to be slowed down or the bureaucracy needs to be increased.