CACCI President Inaishvili Meets with RP Finance Secretary Dominguez at the AIIB Board of Governors Meeting in Jeju, Korea

Jeju Island – Mr. Jemal Inaishvili, President of the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI), met with Mr. Carlos Dominguez, Secretary of Finance of the Republic of the Philippines, during the second annual meeting of Board of Governors of the Asia Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) held on June 16-18, 2017 in South Korea’s Jeju Island.

This year’s annual meeting brought together about 2,000 participants, including over 20 finance ministers of the 77 approved AIIB members such as Australia, China, Georgia, India, Indonesia Laos, and the Philippines. The second meeting was held under the theme of “Sustainable Infrastructure,” seeking strategic directions of the international infrastructure bank and making major decisions on the bank’s management.

Along with the official sessions, a variety of side events were scheduled such as seminars on infrastructure and the one-on-one business meetings. Several bilateral meetings between chief delegates were held on the sidelines of the official sessions.

CACCI President Inaishvili Attends AIIB Board of Governors Meeting in Jeju, Korea

Jeju Island – Mr. Jemal Inaishvili, President of the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI), attended the second annual meeting of theAsia Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) held on July 16-18, 2017 in South Korea’s Jeju Island.

This year’s annual meeting brought together about 2,000 participants, including delegations of both 57 founding members and 20 new members, international organizations and academia as well as businessmen, financiers and journalists. The attendees included over 20 finance ministers of the 77 approved AIIB members such as Australia, China, Georgia, India, Indonesia and Laos, according to South Korea’s finance ministry.

South Korean Finance Minister Kim Dong-yeon, who doubles as the country’s deputy prime minister for economic affairs, chaired the official sessions as his country jointly hosted the second annual meeting with the AIIB. The second meeting was held under the theme of “Sustainable Infrastructure,” seeking strategic directions of the international infrastructure bank and making major decisions on the bank’s management.

“This annual meeting is particularly important for our maturing institution, as it is a chance for our shareholders and partners to engage with us and provide diverse perspectives on how the bank should transform its strategy into meaningful outcomes for people in Asia,” AIIB President Jin Liqun said in his welcoming message. Along with the official sessions, a variety of side events were scheduled such as seminars on infrastructure and the one-on-one business meetings. Several bilateral meetings between chief delegates were held on the sidelines of the official sessions.

Officially launched in January 2016, the Beijing-based AIIB is a multilateral development bank initiated by China and supported by a wide range of countries and regions, which will provide financing for infrastructure improvement in Asia.

Crans Montana invites Inaishvili to 2017 Homeland & Global Security Forum

Brussels – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili has been invited to attend the 19th Annual Session of the Homeland & Global Security Forum being organized by the Crans Montana Forum in Brussels, Belgium on October 25-28, 2017.

With security threat now global, the people’s life framework unpredictable and changing, political uncertainties growing, this event will focus on enhancing police and judicial cooperation, sharing experiences and good practices but also renewing or reinventing social and economic models.

The Homeland & Global Security Forum has served as a platform for discussion among top government officials, international organizations, parliaments, seocialized administrations, intelligence agencies and businesses from around the world.

The Crans Montana Forum is a Swiss Non- Governmental International Organization that is formally recognized by and work with all major International Organizations, respected Governments, Business and Non-Governmental Organizations. It works to build a more Humane and Impartial World and encourages international cooperation and overall growth. It also works to promote best practices and to ensure a permanent dialogue between all those who handle high-level responsibilities.

Thai ITD Investment & Trade Forum invites CACCI President to speak

Bangkok – The International Institute for Trade and Development (ITD) has invited CACCI President to be a Panelist in the Regional Trade and Development Forum 2017 to be held on July 19-20, 2017 in Bangkok.

The 2017 forum titled “Linking Trade and Development for Inclusive and Sustainable Growth,” will be addressing emerging issues around sustainable trade and development within the context of South-South region and how Asia-Pacific needs to redefine its development strategy to meet both the challenges of the time while being transformative enough, to leapfrog itself by leveraging new technologies and modern policies.

Mr. Inaishvili has been invited as one of the panelists in Session IV on “One Belt, One Road Initiative: Outlooks and Future Trade and Investment in the Region South”. This session will discuss the current developments of the Initiative and future plans to integrate this to the rest of the region. How can this initiative link with the UN SDG 2030 goals and facilitate peace and prosperity in the APAC region? And lastly, how can other countries benefit from this initiative (who are not linked via terresterial or by maritime route)?

The ITD is a regional trade and development policy based institution (non-partisan, politically neutral) established in May 2002, as part of the 10t h Session of the UNCTAD Meeting in Bangkok on 17 February, 2001. Its primary mission is to provide technical capacity building support and assistance in areas relating to promoting sustainable trade and development policies to countries within the Asia-Pacific region.

CACCI President & SME Chairman proud to be judging 2017 World Chambers Competition

Taipei – The ICC World Chambers Federation has invited key members of CACCI to serve as judges in the 2017 World Chambers Competition. CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili and CACCI SME Development Council Chairman Mr. George Abraham have accepted the invitation to take part in the judging process.

In accepting the invitation, Mr. Inaishvili said: “It is certainly a great honor for CACCI to be once again offered the opportunity to take part in this important awards programme of the ICC World Chambers Federation.”

Under the umbrella of the World Chambers Congress, the Competition gives an opportunity for chambers to improve and enhance their services as well as to strengthen their SME constituencies. After a thorough assessment by a prominent and experienced jury, four finalists will be chosen from each of the four categories to join their peers in Sydney during the 10th World Chambers Congress in September 2017 and present their initiatives live. The four categories featured this year are: Best CSR project, Best job creation and business development project, Best unconventional project, and best education and training project.

Mr. Inaishvili has been assigned to judge the Best job creation and business development project, and Mr. Abraham will evaluate entries for the Best unconventional project.

Some chambers from the CACCI network have submitted projects for this year’s Competition. In the past, CACCI member chambers have been extremely successful in making it to the Competition finals.

CACCI President to Lead Delegation to Nepal on June 28-30

Taipei – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili has been invited by The Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) to make a Presidential visit on June 28-30, 2017, and is inviting CACCI members to join the delegation.

The CACCI Presidential visits are intended to give the CACCI President and members of his delegation the opportunity to gather first-hand information on the business situation in the host country; further build up the image of CACCI by making courtesy calls on heads of state, economic ministers, and other high-ranking government officials to seek support for CACCI; and meet the top businessmen in the host country, particularly those from industries or sectors that the host country wishes to promote.

The itinerary for the visit will be sent to members, along with other relevant information (e.g., hotel accommodation), as soon as FNCCI has made the necessary arrangements. In the meantime, should members wish to meet with specific businessmen in Nepal, visit specific local companies or organizations, or conduct specific activities during the trip, please let the CACCI Secretariat know so they can convey the request to FNCCI for their consideration.

Members are encouraged to join President Inaishvili on his visit to Nepal, and avail yourselves of the opportunity not only to establish contacts with key representatives from the private and government sectors of Nepal, but also to learn first-hand the business conditions and opportunities available in the country.

CACCI President Inaishvili attends One-Belt, One-Road Summit in Beijing

Beijing – At the Summit in May 14-15, 2017, Chinese President Xi Jinping urged multilateral institutions to join the One-Belt, One-Road Initiative, stressing the importance of rejecting protectionism in seeking global economic growth. President Xi pledged US $124 billion for the new Silk Road which aims to bolster China’s global leadership ambitions by expanding links between Asia, Africa, Europe and beyond.

Leaders from 29 countries attended the Belt and Road forum, as well as the heads of the United Nations, International Monetary Fund, and World Bank.

CACCI President Invited as Judge for the 2017 World Chambers Competition

CACCI President Jemal Inaishvili

Taipei – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili has been invited to be a Judge in selecting the finalists of this year’s World Chambers Competition, which is a global awards programme that recognizes the most innovative projects undertaken by chambers of commerce from around the world.

The four categories for which Mr. Inaishvili will be a Judge include Best CSR Project; Best job creation and business development project; Best SME financial project; and Best unconventional project.

The Competition is once again a key component of the 10th World Chambers Congress. During the Congress, the finalists will present their projects live. Mr. Inaishvili will also judge serve as judge for the final round and help select the winners.

B20 Germany Invites CACCI President Inaishvili to B20 Health Conference in Berlin

Berlin – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili, who is a member of the B20 Task Force on Trade and Investment, has been invited to attend the B20 Health Conference to be held on May 18 at the Gasometer EUREF-Campus in Berlin.

The German G20 has placed health high on its agenda. It considers global business as indispensable in ensuring that health systems contribute to sustainable, inclusive and future-oriented economic growth and development. During the past five months, more than 100 global enterprises and organizations have become part of the B20 Health Initiative to define the recommendations of the Health Business Community towards the G20.

On May 18th 2017, the B20 Health Conference will be the highlight of the B20 Health Initiative. During this high-level event, the B20 recommendations will be officially presented to German Health Minister Hermann Gröhe as a representative of the G20 Health Ministers Conference.

Panelists and over 300 B20 affiliated business representatives as well as representatives from international organizations and politics will meet in Berlin to discuss the policy recommendations.

CACCI President Invited to 28th Annual Session of the Crans Montana Forum in Barcelona

President Inaishvili attends WCF General Council Meeting in Paris

Paris – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili attended the 1st Meeting for 2017 of the General Council of the World Chambers Federation (WCF) held on March 1, 2017 in Paris, France. As a transnational chamber, CACCI is a Permanent Member of the WCF General Council and is currently represented by President Inaishvili.

During the Paris meeting, President Inaishvili reported on the 50th Anniversary Celebration and the 30th CACCI Conference held in Taipei in November 2016; the election of new CACCI officers for 2017-2018, including the first woman Vice President of CACCI in the person of Mrs. Magvan Oyunchimeg, CEO of the Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry; the holding of the CACCI Summit Meeting to chart CACCI’s roadmap for the next five years; the issuance of the CACCI Policy Statement on “Promoting Ecomomic Empowerment of Women”; the presentation of the 1st Asia- Pacific Woman Entrepreneurship Award; and the ongoing survey seeking the views of CACCI members on the impact of Brexit and the Trump presidency (particularly his America-first policy) on their respective national economies and the economy of the Asian region as a whole.

President Inaishvili was accompanied at the meeting by CACCI Director-General Amb. Victor C. Y. Tseng and Deputy Director-General Mr. Amador R. Honrado, Jr.

The WCF is a global network of 12,000 chambers that aims to help individual chambers to become more productive and strengthens links among them. The General Council is the governing body of WCF that sets the strategic direction and development of WCF’s services.

To see more photos of this event:

https://archive.cacci.biz/gallery/paris2/

CACCI President hopeful of productive and meaningful Sydney Conference in September 2017

During the CACCI Planning Committee Meeting in Paris March 2nd 2017, CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili spoke about this year 31st CACCI Conference to be held jointly with ICC World Chambers Federation in Sydney. Here is his complete speech.

Ladies and Gentlemen:

Thank you very much, Chairman Peter Mihok and Mr. Stephen Cartwright, for your kind and warm words of welcome.

On behalf of the other delegates, I wish to express my deep appreciation to both of you – and other key officers of the ICC-World Chambers Federation and the New South Wales Business Chamber – for their very strong support of CACCI and its activities, and for co-organizing today’s meeting. We are certainly heartened by your warm hospitality and the excellent arrangements made for this morning’s gathering to ensure that everything is in order and that the delegates are well taken cared of.

And to the rest of the meeting participants, good morning to all of you. It is indeed my great pleasure and honor to welcome you to today’s meeting of the CACCI Planning Committee. To our friends from overseas, welcome and thank you for traveling long distances to be able to participate in today’s discussions. And to the representatives from ICC World Chambers Federation, let me express my sincere appreciation for taking time off from your work and busy schedule today to prepare for and join this important meeting.

As you are aware, the CACCI Planning Committee plays a vital role in the functioning of the Confederation – as it is given the mandate to help implement the decisions of the CACCI Council and to undertake activities that would effectively carry out the programs of the Confederation.

As in past meetings of the Committee, our primary task today is to review and plan our activities for the coming year and discuss how to implement them in a way that would best serve the interest of our members, particularly those pertaining to the 31^st CACCI Conference which – for the first time – will be held within the framework of the ICC WCF’s 10^th World Chambers Congress scheduled in September this year

We value your views on this regard and would like to encourage you to participate in the deliberations – particularly on how we can make the upcoming Sydney event this year productive and meaningful to our members and guests.

Let me, therefore, reiterate my appreciation to all of you for coming to this meeting. With your active participation, I am confident we will have a fruitful discussion today.

To read the full report about the CACCI Planning Committee Meeting in Paris 3/2/2017:

CACCI Planning Meeting in Paris “Preparing for Sydney 18-21 2017”

To see the photos of the event:

https://archive.cacci.biz/gallery/paris/

CACCI President invited to Global Chamber Platform (GCP)

Paris – The Chairman of the Global Chamber Platform (GCP) Mr. Christoph Leitl and EUROCHAMBRES President Mr. Richard Weber cordially invited CACCI President Jemal Inaishvili to the annual gathering of the Global Chamber Platform this 2^nd of May in Berlin, Germany on the occasion of the B20 Summit.

Dominic Boucsein, Senior Policy Advisor of Eurchambres issued the invitation letter to the CACCI Secretariat which gladly received the invitation to this important event relevant to all international chambers.

This year’s GCP will discuss the many challenges the global economic environment is currently facing as well as the position of the GCP regarding the outcome of the B-20 Summit.

The GCP was launched in 2002 by the Eurochambres (Association of European Chambers of Commerce and Industry) to develop a coherent framework for Eurochambres and its relations with partner organizations around the world.

CACCI joined the GCP in October 2003 during the 11th Annual Congress of Eurochambres, where Mr. K. K. Modi, then CACCI President, was invited as one of the panelists. The GCP usually holds its annual meeting in conjunction with the Annual Congress of Eurochambres. As GCP member, CACCI has always been invited to attend these annual meetings.

For the first time, the GCP will be represented at the B-20 Summit from May 2-3 in Berlin as an official networking partner.

CACCI President speaks at the Economic Chamber of Macedonia

Skopje – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili participated as Speaker at the Roundtable organized by the Economic Chamber of Macedonia in Skopje on February 17, 2017 marking 95 years of Macedonia’s successful system of commercial chambers.

Entitled “Position of Small Countries in the International Economy: Advantages and Disadvantages,” the Roundtable was attended by renowned representatives of the business, science and business associations, former prime ministers and presidents from the region and beyond who work or come from small countries.

The event was initiated by the two-year work of the economic chambers and their members for development and revitalization of a very significant initiative – the initiative for connecting the entrepreneurs from small countries facing the challenges related to business management during particularly difficult times.

The Chamber has traditionally been organizing events to mark its anniversaries which are closely connected to the Chamber’s priority initiatives.

CACCI President Invited to the B20 Joint Taskforce Meeting in Paris

Paris – The B20 Germany has invited CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili to attend the B20 Joint Taskforce Meeting scheduled to take place on March 22, 2017 in Paris. President Inaishvili is member of the B20 Task Force on Trade and Investment.

To be held in cooperation with Business at OECD (BIAC) and the OECD, the final meeting of all B20 Task Forces and Cross-thematic Groups before the B20 Summit in May will focus on the advocacy of B20 recommendations prior to the G20 Sherpa meeting.

The agenda for the Special B20 Germany-OECD-BIAC Session aims to further strengthen the ongoing G20-B20 dialogue with input from the OECD and BIAC. Speakers and attendees will include leaders from the B20 and BIAB business community, selected Sherpas from G20 economies, senior OECD and G20 government officials, and the OECD leadership. This session should allow participants to engage in dialogue on the Germany G20 Preidency priorities, share the B20 Germany recommendations, and benefot from OECD knowledge and experise on global economic governance and challenges to build momentum for Germany G20 Hamburg Summit in July 2017.

The B20 – currently chaired by Germany – is a platform that serves as in intermediary group between G20 governments and the international business community. Its primary mission is to deal with the urgent and significant global issues by developing actionable recommendations from global business leaders to the G20 Leaders.

The seven task forces and cross-thematic groups of the German B20 Presidency focus on: (a) Energy,Climate and Resource Efficiency; (b) Digitalization; (c) Financing Growth and Infrastructure; (d) Trade and Investment; (e) Employment and Education; (f) Small and Medium Enterprises; and (g) Responsile Business Conduct and Anti-Corruption.

CACCI President invited to Macedonia

Skopje – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili is being invited by the Economic Chamber of Macedonia to participate as speaker in a roundtable on February 17, 2017 marking 95 years of Macedonia’s successful system of commercial chambers. The Chamber has traditionally been organizing events to mark its anniversaries which are closely connected to the Chamber’s priority initiatives.

For 2017, under the auspices of H.E. Prof. Dr. George Ivanov, President of the Republic of Macedonia, the Chamber is organizing a roundtable entitled “Position of Small Countries in the International Economy: Advantages and Disadvantages.”

World renowned representatives of scientific and business communities, both domestic and international are expected to attend the roundtable, which will be held in Skopje.

CACCI President joins B20 Germany Task Force

Berlin – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili was accepted as member of the B20 Germany Task on Trade and Investment, and attended the first meeting of the Task Force held on December 2 in Berlin. Mr. Inaishvili also participated in the B20 Conference on “Resilience, Responsibility, Responsiveness – Towards a Future-Oriented, Sustainable World Economy” on December 1. The B20 Conference brought together all Task Forces and Cross- Thematic Groups for joint conference in Berlin.

The B20 – currently chaired by Germany – is a platform that serves as an intermediary group between G20 governments and the international business community. Its primary mission is to deal with the urgent and significant global issues by developing actionable recommendations from global business leaders to the G20 Leaders.

The seven task forces and crossthematic groups of the German B20 Presidency focus on: (a) Energy, Climate and Resource Efficiency; (b) Digitalization; (c) Financing Growth and Infrastructure; (d) Trade and Investment; (e) Employment and Education; (f) Small and Medium Enterprises; and (g) Responsible Business Conduct and Anti-Corruption.

CACCI President attends 2016 Global Diaspora Business Summit in Singapore

Singapore – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili was invited as one of the speakers at the 2016 Global Diaspora Business Summit (GDBS) held on November 28-29, 2016 in Singapore. The GDBS is designed to provide a platform for successful diaspora global entrepreneurs to meet and discuss mutually beneficial business opportunities available in the region. The theme of GDBS 2016 is “One Belt One Road”.

Invited speakers shared insights on opportunities brought about by the One Belt and One Road Initiative and the impact on the economies of China, ASEAN and India. The Global Diaspora Business Summits are organized by The GA Group Pte Ltd., of which Mr. George Abraham is the Chairman and Managing Director. The GA Group Pte Ltd. is a Lifetime Special Member of CACCI and Mr. Abraham is Chairman of the CACCI SME Development Council. CACCI was one of the Supporting Organizations of this year’s Summit.

CACCI is about personal relationships and networking, said CACCI President in radio interview

Taipei – This is the transcript of CACCI President Jemal Inaishvili’s live interview with ICRT FM Radio Taipei on November 24th 2016 during the 30th CACCI Conference in Taipei. During the interview, President Inaishvili emphasized the particular importance that CACCI plays in international business. Despite advances in technology and communications, the personal contact and cordiality typical of CACCI activities makes the Confederation an ideal platform for business development. Here the complete interview.

DJ Paul Meador:

We want to go back to the Marriot Hotel where the big 3-days conference for the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry is on-going. We are very fortunate to have with us on the phone this morning Mr. Jemal Inaishvili from Georgia.

Mr. Inaishvili, congratulations on your 50^th anniversary!

CACCI President Jemal Inaishvili:

Thank you.

DJ Paul Meador:

Tell us something about the organization itself for those who may not be familiar with it.

CACCI President Jemal Inaishvili:

It will be a great pleasure, thank you.

The organization was established in May 1996. At that time, it included Taiwan, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea and The Philippines. Since then, our organization has grown in the region and now we have 27 members, including 2 from Taiwan. The organization goes from New Zealand to Russia, and so on. It also includes Mongolia, Turkey, and Georgia, the country that I am from and which is also a member of CACCI today.

DJ Paul Meador:

It is an interesting theme that you have for the anniversary conference this year, “The rise of Asia: Taking a Bigger Role in the Global Economy.” Can that happen?

CACCI President Jemal Inaishvili:

Yes, definitely because the Asian economy is already the locomotive of the global economy. It is the industrial hub of the world, and this trend will definitely continue. We believe so very much.

DJ Paul Meador:

Some difficult things are happening around the world. There is a new president of the United States. There is also Brexit in Britain. There is a lot of difficulty around the world.

CACCI President Jemal Inaishvili:

Yes, but the world will growth anyway, even when considering a slow-down in the world economy, with commodity prices at the lowest levels compared to previous years. But the world has to grow, the economy has to grow anyway. The role of Asia will be very important and significant.

DJ Paul Meador:

I believe that to be true as well. Now, what other policies are you seeking or projects in the 50^th anniversary conference.

Jemal Inaishvili, CACCI President

CACCI President Jemal Inaishvili:

We are a non-government organization so we have 27 national chambers and organizations from different countries and with different economies. None of them are at the same level of cost. We have strong economies and as well as weak economies present in the CACCI organization. For us is important to continue these relationships between members, to exchange ideas, and to be the platform for business and networking.

This is very important because even in today’s world with a lot of alternative sources for trade and networking, we believe that the personal relationship remains very important.

We continue doing so and are always organizing this conference every year with gatherings and meetings for business leaders.

DJ Paul Meador:

You have so many countries involved in your organization and it covers a vast area with different cultures. How you keep it all together?

CACCI President Jemal Inaishvili:

Actually you are right.

If you consider the region, we are the biggest regional organization by the population represented and the size of the economies.

It is not easy task but we have a small and very effective office here in Taipei since the establishment of CACCI. The CACCI Secretariat is based in Taipei.

It is a big task of course. But as I said we have a good, small and very effective staff.

DJ Paul Meador:

Mr. Inaishvili. We really appreciate taking time out of your busy schedule. I know how busy it is today and tomorrow as well when the conference wraps up.

We wish you all the best. Thank you.

CACCI President Jemal Inaishvili:

Thank you very much. Thank you. I wish you the best too.

DJ Paul Meador:

Jemal Inaishvili, the President of the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry, currently holding their 3-days conference, their 50^th anniversary conference at the Marriot Hotel in Taipei. We really do appreciate him visiting with us.

CACCI President recollects 50 years of success

Taipei – CACCI President Jemal Inaishvili lead the 30th CACCI conference in Taipei where over 400 delegates from 22 Asia Pacific countries convened to celebrate CACCI’s 50 anniversary as well as to prepare CACCI’s agenda for the future.

Here are CACCI President Jemal Inaishvili’s comments…

CACCI President recollects
50 years of success

As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Confederation of Asia Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI), it is important to remember its progress and achievements.

Conceived in Taipei on May 1966, at the time when Asia Pacific was divided by the politics of the Cold War, epitomized by the Vietnam War; and cornered by widespread poverty, CACCI was created by a group of visionary business leaders as a partnership between Asian businessmen to develop businesses and coordinate policies promoting economic growth.

Despite seemingly insurmountable socioeconomic differences, 6 chambers of commerce, some regional and some national, enunciated a very idealistic goal of business cooperation and economic growth.

From that humble beginning in 1966, CACCI gradually started building relationships among businessman of dissimilar industries, from banking to chemicals across the Asian geography and contacting national chambers of commerce to coordinate policies, offer services, exchange information and build trust among business leaders and governments.

A car magnate from the Philippines, Demetrio Munoz, took CACCI leadership in 1966. Then a cement industrialist from Taiwan, Koo Chen-Fu, later a railroad magnate from Japan, a chemical industrialist from Korea, bankers from Taiwan and the Philippines, Indian tycoons and many other Asian magnates took personal responsibility to promote CACCI’s ideals to help Asia become wealthy and more united.

They traveled all over Asia meeting business and political leaders at the highest level, national chambers of commerce, conglomerates, associations of small entrepreneurs and indeed any stakeholder interested in promoting business and economic growth.

During the 60’s up to the 80’s, Asia’s economic conditions were fragile, except for few successful economies such as those of the “4 Asian Dragons” (Hong Kong, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan), Japan, Australia and New Zealand.

Yet, CACCI overcame challenges of coordination and communication with members all over Asia, established a permanent Secretariat in Taipei in 1981, allied with international organizations such as International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), Asian Development Bank (ADB), ASEAN-BAC (Business Advisory Council) among others, gained recognition by the United Nations and became stellar supranational organization leading at the highest levels of government, policymaking and business.

Indeed, CACCI has managed to establish fruitful relationships with Presidents, Ministers, international organizations and national chambers across Asia and the world.

Asia as a whole, has overcome poverty, wars (from Middle East to Afghanistan, Vietnam and others) oil crisis (1973, 1979), currency shocks (Plaza accord 1985), financial crisis of 1997 and 2007, lurking protectionism, and so many other challenges.

CACCI’s commitment to promote and defend the business interest of its Asia Pacific constituencies remain unwavering.

Today, as we conclude our first 50 years, it is time to pledge, one more time, our commitment to continue promoting economic growth to improve the living conditions of the Asian people as the Philippine business visionary, and former CACCI President Dr. Aurelio Periquet, once said in 1965.

CACCI President attends Madrid Meeting of the ICC World Chambers Federation

Madrid – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili attended the 2nd Meeting for 2016 of the General Council of the ICC World Chambers Federation (ICC-WCF) held on October 12-13, 2016 in Madrid, Spain.

As a transnational chamber, CACCI is a Permanent Member of the WCF General Council and is currently represented by President Inaishvili. The WCF is a global network of 12,000 chambers that aims to help individual chambers to become more productive and strengthens links among them. The General Council is the governing body of WCF that sets the strategic direction and development of WCF’s services.

CACCI President Visits Taipei to discuss Conference preparations

Taipei – Mr. Jemal Inaishvili, President of the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI), recently visited Taipei to meet with key officers of the Chinese International Economic Cooperation Association (CIECA), the Chinese National Association of Industry and Commerce (CNAIC), the CTBC Bank, and the CACCI Secretariat to discuss preparations of the upcoming 30th CACCI Conference to be held on November 23-25, 2016 in Taipei,Taiwan.

Discussions focused on the latest Conference program, speaker line-up, promotional activities, and preparations for the various meetings and social functions, among others.

CACCI President Joins Other Business Leaders at the SRCIC Silk Road Business Summit in Xi’an, China

Xi’an – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili attended the SRCIC Silk Road Business Summit and Development Cooperation Conference held on September 6-8, 2016 in Xi’an, China. The three-day event was co-sponsored by China Chamber of International Commerce (CCOIC), Silk Road Chamber of International Commerce (SRCIC) and the Chinese Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT).

Mr. Inaishvili joined the over 500 delegates who participated in the conference, such as business leaders, government representatives, envoys from foreign embassies and chairmen of trade associations from 52 countries including Georgia, Azerbaijan, Bulgaria and Greece, heads of international organizations including UNESCO and foreign curators, among others.

CCPIT Vice Chairman Wang Jinzhen (shown in photo) said the One-Belt One- Road initiative is a long-term systematic project that requires both cooperation between countries and participation of business associations and non-government institutions.

CACCI President Mr. Inaishvili Attends B20 Summit in Hangzhou

Hangzhou – Mr. Jemal Inaishvili, President of the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI), was invited to participate the in the B20 Summit held on September 3-4, 2016 in Hangzhou, China.

Coinciding with the G20 Summit in Hangzhou, the B20 Summit 2016 gathered G20 leaders, CEOs and leading thinkers to deliberate on key issues facing the global economic development by sharing views on “Innovation-Driven Growth’, “More Efficient Global Economic and Financial Governance,” “Robust Trade and Investment” and “Inclusive and Connective Development”.

B20 provides a significant platform for the international business community to participate in global economic governance, international economic and trade regulation.

CACCI President Inaishvili Meets with Bulgaria’s Minister of Transport, Information Technology and Communications

Sofia – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili called on Mr. Ivaylo Moskovski, Minister of Transport, Information Technology and Communications of the Republic of Bulgaria, during his visit to Sofia on July 21.

CACCI President Meets with Bulgaria’s Minister of Regional Development and Public Works

Sofia – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili met with Mrs. Lilyana Pavlova, Minister of Regional Development and Public Works of the Republic of Bulgaria during his recent visit to Sofia, Bulgaria on July 21.

CACCI President Meets with Bulgarian CCI Vice President

Sofia – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili called on the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Vice President Mr. Georgi Stoev during his recent visit to Sofia, Bulgaria. The meeting took place on July 21 at the Chamber’s premises.

Mr. Inaishvili and Mr. Stoev discussed and exchanged views on several issues, including CACCI-related matters, activities of the Silk Road Chamber for International Commerce (SRCIC), activities of the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and possible areas of cooperation between CACCI and the Chamber. Mr. Inaishvili likewise took the opportunity to invite Mr. Stoev and his Chamber colleagues to attend the upcoming 30th CACCI Conference on November 23-25, 2016 in Taipei. Also attending the meeting was Mr. Litien Chen, Director of Taiwan Trade Center, Sofia.

CACCI President Attends Crans Montana Forum in Vienna

Vienna – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili participated in the Crans Montana Forum on Central to Far Eastern Europe that took place on June 29 – July 2, 2016 at the Niederösterreich Palace, in Vienna. The Forum aimed to put together all countries and key actors from Atlantic Ocean to Pacific Ocean to resume and strengthen their links. It also presented opportunities for Businesses and Government Officials to implement their strategies, strengthen relationships with partners and create new ones, and build cooperation opportunities.

The Crans Montana Forum is a Swiss Non-Governmental International Organization.Working with all major International Organizations, respected Governments, Business and Non-Governmental Organizations, its objective is to encourage international cooperation and overall growth. It works to promote best practices and to ensure a permanent dialogue between all those who handle high-level responsibilities.

CACCI President meets with CCIRF President

Moscow – Mr. Inaishvili was invited by the CCIRF to attend its VII Congress that took place on March 1, 2016 at the World Trade Center. During their Moscow meeting, Mr. Inaishvili updated Mr. Katyrin on the ongoing and upcoming activities of CACCI, and encouraged CCIRF’s participation in these activities. The meeting also saw the re-election of Mr. Katyrin as CCIRF President.

CACCI President welcomes members to Georgia

Tbilisi – An eight member CACCI delegation visited Tbilisi, Georgia on May 23-24, 2016 to gather first-hand information on the current economic and business conditions in Georgia and explore possible areas for foreign trade and investments in the country. The delegation was welcomed by CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili, who is from Georgia, as well as the other officers and members of the Georgian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) led by GCCI President Mrs. Nino Chikovani.

The two-day program allowed the CACCI delegation to meet with various government officials and exchange views on trade and investment issues as well as identify areas where Georgia and CACCI member countries may strengthen their economic relations. The delegation also had the opportunity to network with GCCI officers, members and other local businessmen; visit three local companies representing various industry sectors; and experience some of the tourist attractions and places of interest in Georgia.

Highlights of the delegation’s visit include the following: Business Forum The delegates attended a Business Forum organized by GCCI to discuss investment opportunities in Georgia and possible areas of business cooperation. Held at the premises of the recently opened Tech Park Georgia. The Forum was opened by GCCI President Mrs. Nino Chikovani. In her Welcome Remarks, Mrs. Chikovani expressed her hopes that the CACCI visit would generate long-term business relationships between Georgia and CACCI member countries and that GCCI and CACCI would continue to work together for mutual development.

She invited CACCI members to invest in Georgia in diverse areas. In his Remarks, CACCI President Mr. Inaishvili said that Georgia is a country that offers plenty of opportunities for foreign investors and businessmen, given its growing market-based economy. He encouraged CACCI members to take advantage of the country’s economic strengths and potentials. The other speakers at the Forum included: Ms. Ketevan Gogitidze, Chief Specialist, Service Department at the Georgian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), who gave a brief introduction on the GCCI and its various activities.

Created in 1960, the GCCI unites six regional chambers, up to a thousand of associations, companies, and banks, among others. GCCI takes part in the development of economic drafts, legislative and other acts. It leads systematic negotiations with its members, elaborates common opinion of business society, and submits it to the management of the country, its ministries and organizations. Implementing its infrastructural function the Chamber renders active service to business.

GCCI is also a member of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and it follows as well as participates in the economic processes taking place in the country. Mr. Alexander Papaishvili from the Georgian National Investment Agency (GNIA). The GNIA is a sole public agency responsible for promoting and facilitating foreign direct investment in Georgia. It plays a moderator’s role between investors, government and local companies. GNIA serves as “one-stopshop” for investors. This includes providing general data, statistics, sector researches; organization of site visits & accompanying investors; access to Government at all levels/local partners; legal advising & supporting services. Mr. Elizbar Lominadze, Project Manager of the Georgia Industrial Development Group (GIDG). GIDG is the agency under the Ministry of Economy that is responsible for facilitating the development of the private sector in industrial manufacturing and agri processing.

Georgia is encouraging new businesses to help grow the economy through implementing industrial projects and diversifying economic activities. In one year, the GIDG created 16 investment projects worth about $80 million USD (190 million GEL) to present to interested investors. Mr. David Shiolashvili, Head of Research, Analysis and Monitoring Department at Enterprise Georgia. The Entrepreneurship Development Agency (Enterprise Georgia) was established in March 2014 under the Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia.

Enterprise Georgia is the first government institution in Georgia mandated to facilitate private sector (and in particular SME) development through a variety of financial and technical support mechanisms, as well as export support. At the same time the Agency is an integral part of the new State Program “Produce in Georgia”, initiated by the Prime Minister Irakli Gharibashvili to encourage domestic production and increase productivity and competitiveness of SMEs. Mr. Homer Yu, Secretary of Business Department at Kowloon Chamber of Commerce and concurrently Vice Chairman, China Council for the Promotion of International Trade Guangzhou Huangpu District Branch. Mr. Yu made a presentation on the proposal for the One-Belt, One-Road Eurasian Business Center to be established in Huangpu District, Guangzhou, China.

The Center will be part of the Euro Asia Trade, Culture and Exhibition Center (EATC) that the Government of Guangzhou HuangPu will establish for international organizations to work together in a functional environment, providing exhibition spaces for trade delegates to show their products for China and overseas visitors. Mr. Amador Honrado, Deputy Director General of CACCI, who gave a brief introduction on CACCI and its activities, particularly those that are aimed at providing a platform for networking among businessmen in the region and promoting regional cooperation.

Mr. Honrado also invited the meeting participants to the upcoming 30th CACCI Conference to be held in Taipei, Taiwan on November 23 – 25, 2016, which also marks the 50th Anniversary of CACCI. Tour of Georgia Tech Park Following the Business Forum, the CACCI delegation was given a tour of the Georgia Tech Park. The visitors learned that Georgia’s first tech park was built by the Innovations and Technologies agency, LEPL. It creates a united ecosystem for innovations and technology, and promotes development of innovative ideas. It is aimed at developing small and average-sized enterprises.

Meeting with the Partnership Fund

The delegation proceeded to Partnership Fund where they were received by its key officers led by Chairman Mr. David Saganelidze. Partnership Fund (PF) is a state owned investment fund, established in 2011. PF’s main objective is to promote investment in Georgia by providing co-financing in projects at their initial stage of development. PF has a mandate to invest only in Georgia. PF’s strategy is aimed at attracting and supporting private investors.

Visit to Zedazeni

The CACCI delegates visited Zedazeni, a leading beer and beverage company in Georgia located some 20 kilometers west of the capital city of Tbilisi. The company started construction of the production facilities in May 2011. It is equipped with most up-to-date equipment from the best European producers. The team has more than 20 years of experience working in the production and marketing of beer and beverages in Georgia.

Visit to Tegeta Motors

The visiting group proceeded to Tegeta Motors, which is a Holding Company offering a full range of auto products and services to corporate and retail customers. Tegeta Motors have five daughter companies: Tegeta Truck and Bus LLC, Tegeta Construction Equipment LLC, Tegeta Premium Vehicles, Transcaucasia Distribution Company and Toyota Center Tegeta.

City Tour

The delegation was accompanied by CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili to visit some of the country’s tourist attractions located just outside of Tbilisi. The group visited Kakheti, which is Georgia’s premier wine producing area. It is known to be a land of hospitable, openhearted and straightforward people who live surrounded by rugged mountains, ancient castles, magnificent churches. Sighnaghi is a town in Georgia’s easternmost region of Kakheti. It is one of the country’s smallest towns with a population of about 3,000. Its economy is dominated by production of wine and traditional carpets and is considered an important center of Georgia’s tourist industry.

Dinner Hosted by GCCI

The visit ended with a dinner hosted by GCCI, with cultural performance. It served as another occasion for further networking as well as for thanking the host chamber (led by Mrs. Nino Chikovani) and CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili for the excellent arrangements made for the visit and for their very warm hospitality.

CACCI President Meets Michael Barnett, Auckland Chamber’s Chief Executive

Jemal Inaishvili, CACCI President & Michael Barnett, Auckland Regional CCI Chief Executive

Auckland – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili met with Mr. Michael Barnett, Chief Executive of the Auckland Regional Chamber of Commerce & Industry during the former’s visit to Auckland on March 23, 2016.

Mr. Inaishvili thanked Mr. Barnett for the continued strong support that the Chamber has extended to CACCI over the past years. He expressed his hopes that the Chamber will remain actively involved in CACCI, adding that the Confederation certainly needs New Zealand’s participation in the regional grouping, given the important role that the country’s economy and business sector play in the development of the Asia-Pacific region.

Mr. Inaishvili invited Mr. Barnett and his colleagues from the Chamber to participate in the 30th CACCI to be held in Taipei on November 23-25, 2016.

Mr. Barnett, who is Chairman of the Equal Employment Opportunities Trust,  is concurrently a Director of both the Auckland Chamber and New Zealand Chambers of Commerce & Industry. The NZCCI is one of the founding members of CACCI, which is celebrating its 50th Anniversary this year.

CACCI President visits Sri Lankan CCC Ratanunga

Colombo – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili successfully led a six member delegation on a Presidential visit to Colombo, Sri Lanka from March 8-10, 2016. The CACCI visitors were received by the officers and members of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce (CCC) and participated in meetings and activities arranged and organized by the Chamber.

Meeting with the Chairman and the CEO of Ceylon Chamber of Commerce

The CACCI visitors were received at the headquarters of the CCC by key officers led by Chairman Mr. Samantha Ranatunga, newly-elected CEO Mrs. Dhara Wijayatilake, and Senior Assistant Secretary General Ms. Lilakshini de Mel.

Both sides had an exchange of information and ideas on the current activities of CACCI and the CCC, and on how the two organizations can further strengthen their relationship for the mutual benefit of their respective members.

Colombo Tea Auction

The delegation proceeded to the Colombo Tea Auction located on Ground Floor auditorium of the CCC headquarters. The Colombo Tea Auction is known as the oldest and largest tea auction in the world. It is organized and conducted by the Colombo Tea Traders Association (CTTA) on behalf of the CCC.

The Colombo Tea Auction is held at the ground floor auditorium of the Ceylon Chamber office

Briefing on the Young Members Forum of the CCC

The delegation met with Ms. Gillian Nugaara, Assistant Secretary General and Chairperson, Young Members Forum (YMF) of the CCC. According to Ms. Nugaara, the YMF was formed in 2014 with an objective to identify, engage and develop the next generation of Sri Lankan leaders and entrepreneurs by providing growth opportunities through various programs, workshops and seminars.

CACCI Deputy Director-General Mr. Amador Honrado also gave some background information about the Young Entrepreneurs Group of Asia- Pacific (YEGAP) and encouraged YMF to take an active role in CACCI by participating in the activities organized by YEGAP, including the submission of nominees for the 6th Asia-Pacific Young Entrepreneur Award to be presented at the upcoming 30th CACCI Conference.

Meeting with the Board of Investment of Sri Lanka

The delegation was welcomed to the Board of Investment (BOI) of Sri Lanka by key BOI officers led by Mr. Nilupul De Silva, Director (Promotion) and Director-General Ms. Duminda Ariyasinghe. Mr. De Silva introduced the BOI as the Investment Promotion Agency of the Government of Sri Lanka, serving as the central facilitation point for investors. His office provides assistance and advice throughout the investment process, from the application stage to the commercial operation.

The delegation visits the Board of Investment (BOI) of Sri Lanka led by Nilupul De Silva, Director of Promotions

Visit to the Colombo Stock Exchange (World Trade Centre)

A fter the BO I meetin g, the CACCI delegation proceeded to the Colombo Stock Exchange located on the same building (World Trade Center) as the BOI. An officer from the Stock Exchange informed the CACCI visitors that the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) is a company limited by guarantee, established under the Companies Act No. 17 of 1982 and is licensed by the Securities & Exchange Commission of Sri Lanka (SEC).

Inauguration Sri Lanka Investment and Business Conclave 2016

On the evening of March 8, the delegation attended the Inauguration and Strategic Networking Reception of the Sri Lanka Investment and Business Conclave 2016 held at the Cinnamon Grand Hotel. Organized by the CCC, the Conclave aimed to provide an opportunity for Sri Lanka to showcase its economic potential to over 120 prospective investors, who attended the three-day event, which started on March 8. Foreign Investors from 27 countries took part in this event, with the largest numbers coming from Kuwait (25), South Korea (21) and China (17). The areas where investors were keen to find opportunities included Export Manufacturing Agriculture, Infrastructure Development, Export Services, local Knowledge Services, Power and Energy, Tourism and Leisure sectors.

The three-day conclave enabled over 125 overseas investors to network with nearly 130 Sri Lankan business executives, attending this event, representing top local firms. The Conclave also allowed the investors to meet up with top government officials and local business community during the B2B meetings.

CACCI President Inaishvili calls on Ceylon Chamber of Commerce officers

Colombo – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili took off some time from his recent family vacation in January 2016 in Sri Lanka to meet with the key officers of Ceylon Chamber of Commerce (CCC) to discuss how CACCI can support the Chamber’s activities. Above photo shows Mr. Inaishvili (2nd from left) with CCC Chairman Mr. Samantha Ranatunga (middle), Mr. CACCI Tourism Council Chairman Mr. Anura Lokuhetty (left), CCC Senior Asistant Secretary General Ms. Lilakshi de Mel (2nd from right), and CCC Secretary-General/CEO Mr. Mangala P. B. Yapa (right).

CACCI President Meets Sri Lankan Finance & Ports Ministers

Colombo – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili called on two Ministers of Sri Lanka during his recent visit to Colombo in early January this year. The first photo shows Mr. Inaishvili with Minister of Finance . Hon. Ravi Karunanayake, who is a Member of Parliament for the Colombo District and was the former Cabinet Minister of Commerce Consumer Affairs from 2001 to 2004.

The second photo shows Mr. Inaishvili with Minister of Ports and Shipping Hon. Arjuna Ranatunga, who has been a Member of Parliament for Gampaha since August 2015 and was former international cricketer and cricket administrator.

President Inaishvili appointed Vice-President of SRCIC

Hong Kong – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili adds another hat to his growing list of officership positions in international organizations, this time as Vice Chairman of the newly launched Silk Road Chamber of International Commerce (SRCIC).

Mr. Inaishvili’s appointment was formally made during the launching of the SRCIC on December 20, 2015 in Hong Kong,. The SRCIC organizers cited Mr. Inaishvili for his “great contribution to the promotion of the Silk Road revival and international culture, trade and exchanges.”

Mr. Inaishvili congratulated the organizers for the successful launching of SRCIC, and thanked them for appointing him as Vice Chairman of the Chamber. “I believe that the SRCIC will greatly facilitate the participation and investment of the business sector – particularly those from the Asia-Pacific region –  in the 21st Century Silk Road. I am therefore thankful to you for giving me the opportunity to play a role in this regard by appointing me as Vice Chairman of the SRCIC,” Mr. Inaishvili said.

Expressing his support for the newly-launched initiative, Mr. Inaishvili told the organizers: “I and the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI) certainly look forward to working closely with you and the other SRCIC officers and members in helping the newly-launched organization achieve its objectives. With mutual support and cooperation, I am confident that our two organizations will be able to accomplish a lot in promoting economic growth of countries not only those covered by the SRCIC initiative, but in the Asia-Pacific region as a whole”.

The SRCIC is a newly-established international, non-governmental organization that aims to promote the renaissance of the Silk Road and to enable business participation in the investment and trade opportunities it offers.

CACCI President signs MOU with Investelligence Group’s CEO

Tbilisi – The Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Investelligence Group Pte Ltd.) in which the two organizations agree to set up an exclusive strategic partnership to promote and facilitate cross-border direct investments, partnerships, and business cooperation between CACCI members and other business enterprises.

The formal signing took place on December 14, 2015 in Tbilisi, with CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili and Investelligence Group Ltd. President Mr. Peter Panov as signatories.

Investelligence Group Ltd. Is the electronic investment platform for the Center for Investment Technology and Trade (CITT).  Founded through the participation of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Russian Federation (CCIRF)  – a CACCI Primary Member – the. CITT is a worldwide platform designed to aid the selection of, and to invite investments into, specific innovative projects. Geographically, CITT focuses upon ensuring the interaction of the Russian business community with the countries of the Asia Pacific Region. CITT seeks to enable innovative methods in sourcing and attracting investments into the prospective projects. These solutions, together with extensive contacts within the global business community, guarantee the complete fulfillment of project support, all the way from partner search, to project implementation.

Under the MOU, CACCI agrees to: (a) Promote investelligence solution to its members; (b) Invite investelligence representatives to participate in their forums, conferences, seminars, business missions, etc.; (c) Assist investelligence representatives with setting up meetings with chambers of commerce and industries, business associations, government representatives, and individual members in CACCI member countries; and (d) Insert a link to investelligence website on CACCI website as its strategic partner organization.

For its part, Investelligence commits to:  (a) Provide the online solution for CACCI members to post, seek, review, qualify, and select partners and investment projects; (b) Regularly enrich/upgrade content and functionalities of the online solution; (c) Communicate and distribute its online solution to CACCI members; (d) Provide training to CACCI members and local distribution partners in implementing the online solution; (e) Provide technical and client support to CACCI members in implementing the online solution; and (f) Offer CACCI members special terms and conditions upon signing up on investelligence solution.

Both organisations have agreed to set up a Steering Committee to: (a) Build an implementation roadmap including timeline and milestones; (b) Regularly review progress; and (c) Share and propose ways to improve investelligence online solution.

CACCI President Visits Australian CCI & New South Wales Business Chamber

Sydney – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili made a highly successful visit on November 25-27, 2015 to Australia where he and his 14-member delegation were warmly received by the officers and members of the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) and the New South Wales Business Chamber (NSWBC), called on key government officials, and visited a number of companies representing important industry sectors of the country. The three-day itinerary of the CACCI delegation from six countries brought them to Canberra, where they were hosted by the ACCI on November 25 and 26, and to Sydney where a full-day program was arranged for them by the NSWBC on November 27, 2015.

CACCI President Attends WCF General Council Meeting in Slovakia

Brastislava – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili meets with other participants of the meeting of the General Council of the World Chambers Federation (WCF) held on October 1, 2015 in Bratislava, Slovakia.

The General Council is the governing body of WCF, of which CACCI as a transnational chamber organization, represented by Mr. Inaishvili, is a Permanent Member.

Visit to the High-Tech Park Administration

Minsk – On the afternoon of September 23, the delegation visited the High-Tech Park Administration (HTPA), where they were received by Mr. Yury Derevyanko, Head of Marketing and Development Department. Mr. Derevyanko explained that the Hi-Tech Park Administration was created to manage the High-Tech Park and is in charge of defining the trends and policies of the national software industry development.

Its main goals are to promote export-oriented software developing companies, to promote the competitiveness of the national hi-tech industry and to provide favorable economic, legal and other conditions for the development of R&D in information technologies and hi-tech exports as well as to attract foreign investments into this area. He pointed out that Belarus is among the top 30 countries for offshore programming, with its computer services exports per capita in 2014 exceeding that of India and the United States.

The delegation also learned from Mr. Derevyanko that High-Tech Park (HTP) Belarus provides special business environment for IT business with incentives unprecedented for European countries. Due to the legislative initiative of the Belarus government, IT companies are exempt from all corporate taxes, including VAT, profit, real estate and land taxes. Individual income tax has a fixed rate of 9% for the employees of HTP companies.

HTP attractiveness is based not on tax benefits and costs alone, but on knowledge, innovation and highly qualified human resources. Belarusian programmers get trained at the training centers of IBM, SAP, Oracle, Microsoft, and other world IT leaders. Another distinctive feature of Belarus developers is that on top of professional skill set, they also have deep knowledge in mathematics, engineering, physics, and other sciences. Currently 144 companies are registered as Park residents, half of which are foreign companies and joint ventures.

Visit to the Belarusian Potash Company

Mr. Alexandr Polyakov, Deputy Director General for Sales and Marketing and Mr. Ivan Kozlov, Manager for Sales Department receive the CACCI delegation

Minsk – The CACCI delegation visited the headquarters of the Belarusian Potash Company (BPC) where they were received by Mr. Alexandr Polyakov, Deputy Director General for Sales and Marketing, and Mr. Ivan Kozlov, Manager, Sales Department.

During the meeting, the delegation learned that the BPC was first established in April 2005, reorganized in September 2013, and currently sells potash for agricultural use as well as a feedstock for the production of NPK fertilizers, potassium sulfate, potassium hydroxide and the petroleum industry, among others. The main objective of the company is to fully satisfy the demand for mineral fertilizers, optimize the export delivery structure and maintain stability in the global market of mineral fertilizers.

The company has a market share of 19% and currently supplies its products to more than 60 countries all over the world, transporting potash in shiploads, containers and rail cars. It supplies potash fertilizers to Brazil and all Latin American countries, to China, India, and Southeast Asian countries.

Delegates pose at the lobby of the BPC headquarters

CACCI President Calls on Belarus Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs

Deputy Foreign Minister Mr. Valentin Rybakov shares the country’s current economic and business situation to the delegates

Minsk – On September 22 2015, the CACCI delegation made a courtesy call on Mr. Valentin Rybakov, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Belarus. In his remarks welcoming the visitors, Deputy Minister Rybakov thanked the delegation for taking time out to visit the country and to know more about its current economic and business situation, and to explore the trade and investment opportunities that the country offers. He cited the many attractions of Belarus as an investment destination, such as:

1. Political and social stability, pointing out that it is the only one among the 15 former CIS countries that has no ethnic and political problems, thereby making it a very safe and secure country.
2. The economic development program of the country, which he said was developed without being influenced by other parties and takes into account the traditions, culture and values of the country. He added that Belarus has preserved the best of what it had during the Soviet Union era.
3. Several economic strengths, including its big production of tractors, self-sufficiency in most agricultural products (e.g., milk, butter, livestock) which are competitive with those from New Zealand, Australia and Argentina, and strong IT companies. The country only imports what it cannot grow.
4. Quality education and a highly developed research potential, with various universities and research institutes having been successfully conducting applied and fundamental studies in quantum electronics, solid-state physics, genetics, chemistry, powder metallurgy, and other advanced fields.
5. The geographical location of the country, which is located along the “One-Road, One-Belt” initiative of China (which he termed as “The Economic Belt of the Silk Road). He said that Belarus is a founding member of the Eurasian Economic Union, which represents a market of 175 million people.

Kowloon Chamber of Commerce Chairman Mr. Conrad Lee (center) takes the opportunity of inviting Mr. Rybakov to the CACCI Conference in Hong Kong and presents him tokens of appreciation for receiving the delegation in Minsk

In response, Mr. Inaishvili conveyed his gratitude to Deputy Minister Rybakov for receiving the delegation and giving them the opportunity to introduce CACCI and its activities. He said that the visit was made upon the invitation of the Belarusian CCI, which he said has prepared a very good program for the two-day visit. He noted that Belarus is indeed one of the most successful countries in the region, with its strong industry and agriculture sectors, high-level of education, and intelligent and hard-working people. He therefore expressed his hopes that the visit to Belarus will help open up an important window for CACCI and its members to explore business opportunities in Belarus.

For his part, CACCI Director-General Amb. Victor C.Y. Tseng stressed the importance of making it easy for foreign visitors, particularly businessmen, to secure Belarusian visa – either from the Belarus Embassy in their respective countries or upon arrival at the Belarus airport. He explained that it took him almost three hours to get his landing visa since there was only one person in the counter to attend to a long queue of arriving visitors.

He added that, considering that the landing visa processing fee ranges from Euro 90 to Euro 180 (depending on the nationality of the applicant), visa issuance is a potentially good source of income for the country. In response, Mr. Rybakov said that the government recognizes the existence of this problem and is now doing its best to address this issue and to find a solution to make it easier for incoming businessmen to enter Belarus and conduct their business in the country.

The delegation led by CACCI President Jemal Inaishvili pose for a group photo at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Belarus

Mr. Conrad Lee said that the visit brings an opportunity for him to know more about the country, adding that he believes the experience should generate interest among Hong Kong businessmen on the country’s investment opportunities. For his part, Mr. Hardeep Singh said that Belarus has so much potential, but the people must take an active part in promoting the country.

CACCI President Holds Successful Two-Day Visit to Belarus

Bel CCI Chairman Mr. Mikhail Miatlikov welcomes CACCI delegates in the Bel CCI headquarters

Minsk – Following his visit to Bangladesh early this year, CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili made another successful visit to another country, this time to Belarus where he and his eight-member delegation met with key officers and members of the Belarusian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, called on high-ranking government officials, and visited a number of companies representing important industry sectors of the country.

Held on September 22-23, the Belarus trip was a milestone as it was the first time that an official CACCI delegation visited the country. The visit was made possible upon the invitation of the Chairman of the Belarusian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BelCCI), Mr. Mikhail Miatlikov. In his invitation letter to Mr. Inaishvili, Mr. Miatlikov said: “Taking into consideration the development of commercial and economic cooperation between Belarus and Asia-Pacific countries and to promote economic growth of our regions, the BelCCI would like to take the initiative of establishing mutually beneficial cooperation between our two organizations, and hereby invite you to visit the Republic of Belarus together with a business delegation.”

The delegation led by CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili meets with the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Belarus Mr. Valentin Rybakov (fourth from left)

During the two-day visit, the CACCI delegation met with: (a) key officers and members of the BelCCI; (b) the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Belarus Mr. Valentin Rybakov; (c) representatives of the National Agency of Investment and Privatization; (d) marketing and sales representatives of the Belarusian Potash Company; (e) key officers of the Great Stone Industrial Park in Belarus; and (f) the head of marketing and development department of the country’s High-Tech Park Administration.

These meetings provided the CACCI delegation the opportunity to introduce the Confederation, what its objectives are, and the activities it undertakes to achieve these objectives, as well as to invite the local businessmen to attend the upcoming 29th CACCI Conference in Hong Kong. On the other hand, the hosts informed the visitors of the trade and investment opportunities that Belarus has to offer, as well as elaborate on the investment policies and incentives provided by the country.

Here you can download a short summary of the Belarus economy in 2015:

https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B0H687o_b4QTRFRJTG5mMnB2TjA

CACCI President attends B20 Conference in Ankara

Ankara – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili joins other delegates at the opening ceremony of the B20 Turkey Conference in Ankara on September 3, 2015. The Business 20 or B20 is an outreach group of G20 which represents the international business community. B20 presents a series of events with the purpose of developing recommendations and issuing relevant commitments from the global business leaders and business organizations to deal with the urgent and significant global issues. The B20 Turkey is chaired by Mr. Rifat HisarcıklıoğluB20, Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey (TOBB) President and concurrently serves as CACCI Vice President.

CACCI President at the 9th World Chambers Congress in Torino

Torino – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili makes a presentation at the Networks Session of the  9th World Chamber Congress held on June 11 in Torino, highlighting CACCI’s Product and Service Councils organized to promote greater business interaction among CACCI members who are in the same product or service line. Mr. Inaishvili also met Mr. Jianzhung Lu, Deputy President of China Chamber of International Commerce and Chairman of Tang West Market Group.

CACCI President Jemal Inaishvili Signs Statement of Support for IORA Women Mean Business at Turin

CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili attended the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s (ACCI) roundtable on Women Mean Business: Supporting Women’s Economic Empowerment across the Indian Ocean Rim held on June 11 on the sidelines of the 9th World Chambers Congress in Turin, Italy. During the meeting, Mr. Inaishvili, together with chamber leaders, Mr. John Danilovich, Secretary General, International Chamber of Commerce; Ms. Kate Carnell AO, Chief Executive Officer ACCI; and The Hon. Patricia Forsythe, Executive Director Sydney Business Chamber, signed The Statement of Support for IORA Women Mean Business, a non-legally binding document representing a tangible commitment from chambers towards advancing women’s economic empowerment within their own spheres of influence.

CACCI Presidential Delegation Visited 4th China Import Expo Kunshan (CIE 2015)

Jiang-Long Yu, China Chamber of International Commerce (CCOIC) Secretary General and Jemal Inaishvili, CACCI President

Kunshan – On May 21, members of the CACCI delegation led by President Inaishvili visited the 4th China Import Expo Kunshan (CIE 2015), which was held from May 20 to 23. The CIE is one of the first international fairs in China focused on boosting imports to the country. The exhibition venue covered 80, 000 square meters and was divided into two parts showcasing industrial products and consumer goods.

Kowloon CCI & CACCI officers

The products included six categories : metal processing, automation, environmental protection, household products, food and beverage, and electronic devices. The Expo attracted 681 companies from 43 countries, including those covered by China’s “One Belt, One Road” initiative. Trade promotion institutions and industrial associations from 20 countries also participated in the Expo. Delegations from Italy, Brazil, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam joined the event for the first time.

CACCI President participates in World Business Leaders Conference in Kunshan, China

Kunshan – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili led a twelve-member delegation to Kunshan, Jiangsu Province in China, to participate in the 4th World Business Leaders Conference hosted by the China Chamber of International Commerce (CCOIC) and the International Chamber of Commerce China (ICC China) on May 20, 2015. The 4th World Business Leaders Conference aimed at providing a platform for the global business community to discuss the latest trends and challenges on global trade and investment, promote close cooperation among the international business community, and share information and ideas on opportunities brought by world economic development. More than 300 delegates from over 40 countries and regions registered to attend the Conference.

Formally opened by Mr. Yin Zonghua, Vice Chairman of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) and CCOIC, the Conference brought together high-level representatives from the Chinese government led by Mr. Long Guoqiang, Vice Minister & Research Fellow, Development Research Center of the State Council; multilateral organizations such as the World Trade Organization and the Asian Development Bank; and business leaders from China and other Asian countries and elsewhere. They discussed and shared their perspectives on three important topics, namely:

– Influence of Asia-Pacific Economic Integration on the World – The session featured Chinese and foreign speakers who examined the interaction between the evolving economic integration in the Asia-Pacific region and global economic integration.

– Trade and Investment in the Era of Digital Economy – The session discussed the issue of how businesses, governments, and chambers of commerce and industry tackle challenges and take advantage of opportunities in this era of the digital economy to foster growth in trade and investment. One of the featured panelists in this session was Mr. Samir Modi, who underscored the need for enterprises to adapt to the digital economy; otherwise, their businesses will not be able to survive. He said that the right question for businessmen to ask is not what they can do with the new technologies made available by the digital economy, but what these new technologies can do for them.

– China’s Economic Reform Outlook and Global Business Opportunities – The session focused on the prospects of China’s economic reform and discussed what the new round of reform means for businesses and how they can seize opportunities brought by such reform. Mr. Jemal Inaishvili was one of the invited panelists in this session.

In his discussion, Mr. Inaishvili cited the “One Belt, One Road” development strategy started by the Chinese Government in 2013. This strategy refers as the New Silk Road Economic Belt that will link China with Europe through Central and Western Asia, and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, which will connect China with Southeast Asian countries. Mr. Inaishvili said that the One Belt, One Road policy is expected to boost levels of infrastructure development across Central Asia and the Southeast Asia countries, thereby helping to support economic growth and trade in these regions and providing opportunities for businesses in countries across the two regions.

Mr. Inaishvili added that the proposed Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) is expected to open up opportunities for the construction, telecommunications, and transportation sectors of the region and their respective allied industries. During the Conference, President Inaishvili was introduced by KCC Chairman Mr. Conrad Lee to Mr. Yu Jiang Long, Secretary General of China Chamber of International Commerce (CCOIC). During their meeting, Mr. Inaishvili took the opportunity to invite Mr. Yu and CCOIC members to participate in the upcoming 29th CACCI Conference to be held on October 29-30, 2015 in Hong Kong, and to consider the possibility of CCOIC taking the role of supporter/sponsor of the Conference. He also gave Mr. Yu a copy of the CACCI Coffee Table book.

CACCI President attends B20 IBAC Meeting in Washington D.C.

Washington D.C. – The CACCI President Jemal Inaishvili attended the Joint High-Level B20-World Bank Group Meeting and the First B20 IBAC Meeting in Washington D.C. IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde addressed the joint high-level B20-World Bank Group on April 17 2015 in Washington DC.

Members of the B20 International Business Advisory Council — which include CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili and IBAC co-Chairman Mr. Rifat Hisarciklioglu – met for the first time during the Washington DC event. The meetings feature senior government and G20 officials and global leaders of the B20 business community and highlight the potential for stepped up G20 outcomes from strengthened public/private dialogue.

CACCI President Meets with Chamber Leaders of Ireland

Dublin – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili meets with Mr. Ian Talbot, Chief Executive of Chambers Ireland (first photo) and shakes hands with Mr. Conor Healy, Chief Executive of Cork Chamber (second photo) during his visit to Dublin, Ireland in April 2015 .

Mr. Inaishvili exchanged ideas with Mr. Talbot and Mr. Healy on possible areas of cooperation between CACCI and their respective chambers, and invited both chamber leaders to attend the 29th CACCI Conference to be held on October 29-30, 2015 in Hong Kong. Chambers Ireland is Ireland’s largest business organisation with a network of Chambers of Commerce in every major town and region in the country.

Cork Chamber is the leading business organisation for the promotion and development of economic and commercial activity in Cork, the capital of the South of Ireland and the Republic of Ireland’s second largest City region. 

CACCI Presidential Visit to Bangladesh FBCCI and Government Ministers

Dhaka – On the 2nd and 3rd February, 2015, FBCCI hosted the CACCI Presidential Visit to Bangladesh. The President of CACCI, Mr. Jemal Inaishvilli and the President of FBCCI, Mr. Kazi Akram Uddin Ahmed joint hands in working with Bangladesh’s government and business leaders to promote the trade and job-creating benefits of the CACCI and Bangladesh Presidential Visit.

“The way to meet the goal of increasing Bangladesh’s export over the next five years is through having major trade and investment dialogues”. Mr Inaishvili also thanked FBCCI members who have worked very hard to organize meetings with the Bangladesh Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Industry and Commerce as well as dialogues with the Chairman, Bangladesh Board of Investment and Bangladesh Association of Banks.

In addition, the CACCI Presidential delegation had the opportunity to participate in the Joint CACCI and FBCCI Trade Forum. The Guest of Honour for the Forum is Professor Dr. Gowher Rivi, Advisor to the Honorable Prime Minister (International Affairs). The delegation also had the opportunity to network with prominent Bangladesh business leaders and enjoyed an enlightening factory visit to Beximco Pharmaceuticals.

Mr Inaishvilli emphasized the importance of the Presidential visit between CACCI and FBCCI; with plans to strengthen ties between the two organizations. He extends his sincere thanks to Mr. Kazi Akram Uddin Ahmed and the FBCCI for hosting the Presidential delegation.