Invitation to ASEAN Conference & ASEANext Forum on 2-3 July 2025 in Singapore

CACCI is pleased to share with its members, on behalf of the Young Business Leaders Network (YBLN), the invitation to attend the ASEAN Conference and ASEANext Forum, taking place on July 2-3, 2025 in Singapore.

This high-level regional gathering will bring together government representatives, business leaders, and entrepreneurs from across ASEAN for a series of dialogues, networking sessions, and market-focused discussions.

Key highlights include:

July 1 – Welcome Drinks and Dinner at Singapore Flyer Lounge
July 2 – ASEANext Forum
July 3 – ASEAN Conference: Featuring Ministerial Dialogue, Plenary Panels, Market Breakout Tracks, and Business Matching
July 4 – City Tour

For logistics or accommodation queries, please contact the YBLN Secretariat at:

Theodore Khng – Theodore.khng@gmail.com
Koh Xizo Le – xiaole.koh@sbf.org.sg
Edward Tan – Edward.Tan@sbf.org.sg

For more details please download the brochure HERE.

CACCI President Peter McMullin AM leads successful Presidential Visit to Osaka

CACCI President Mr. Peter McMullin AM and representatives from various CACCI Primary Members visited Osaka, Japan on 1-3 June 2025 to meet with officers and members of the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI), the Osaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI), and the Japan Young Entrepreneurs Group (Japan YEG), primarily to network with each other and share their views on current global and regional economic situation and explore possible areas of business cooperation.

The visit also allowed the CACCI delegation to visit the Expo 2025 Osaka Kansai, one of world’s most anticipated global events, providing them the opportunity to experience the cutting-edge innovation that were on display in the various country pavilions.

It was the third Presidential visit led by Mr. McMullin since he first assumed the CACCI Presidency in November 2022 in Melbourne, Australia. The first two visits were to Taiwan on 17-18 May 2023, followed immediately thereafter by a visit to Vietnam held on 22-23 May 2023.

The Presidential visits are intended to give the CACCI President and CACCI members 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 key government officials; and meet business leaders in the country, particularly those from industries or sectors that the host country wishes to promote.

The delegation to Osaka was composed mostly of 25 chamber executives and businessmen from 11 CACCI member countries looking at possible business and investment opportunities in Japan or considering expansion of their existing businesses in the country, as well as to explore the possibility of attracting Japanese businesses to consider the market of their respective countries. A complete list of delegation members is attached as Annex 1.

The program of the visit was arranged by JCCI and Japan YEG through CACCI Vice President Mr. Daijiro Oshima and YEGAP Chairman Mr. Hiromi Aoki.

A chronology of the meetings and activities during the Presidential Visit to Osaka follows hereunder:

1 June 2025

Members of the CACCI Presidential visit delegation and of Japan YEG attended the dinner co-hosted by CACCI President Mr. McMullin and YEGAP Chairman Mr. Aoki. Held at the Blue Birds Rooftop Terrace at The Landmark Osaka Square situated right beside the historical Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most famous landmarks, the welcome dinner provided the attendees the opportunity to introduce themselves to each other and to know more of their businesses and their other interests, thereby setting the stage for more camaraderie over the next two days.

The welcome dinner also marked the launching of the Good Business Network (GBN) founded by Mr. McMullin that aims to bring together businesspersons and encourage them not only to make money but also to undertake initiatives and activities focused on different aspects of social good. The GBN is affiliated with the Good Business Foundation, which was founded by Mr. McMullin “to show that there is another way. Another way to do business and to go forward. A way for us to be citizens not just consumers.” The Foundation supports purpose-driven SME businesses across the globe.

2 June 2025

Visit with the Osaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry

As the first activity for Day One Program of the visit, Mr. McMullin and his delegation went to the headquarters of Osaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI), where they were met by the officers and members of the Chamber led by Vice Chairman Mr. Gyo Sagara and President Mr. Setsuo Iuchi.

In his Welcome Remarks, Vice Chairman Sagara noted that given the currently difficult economic and geo-political situation globally, it is important for business organizations such as CACCI and OCCI to explore possible areas of collaboration to help enterprises and their respective constituencies

overcome various challenges over time. Mr. Sagara mentioned some of the projects and initiatives undertaken by OCCI aimed at expanding businesses of its members in the Asian region, particularly the emerging economies. These include the following:

1. Holding meetings attended by high-ranking foreign government officials and Japanese business executives;
2. Sending economic delegations to emerging markets and assisting in the establishment of bilateral and multilateral economic relations and the development of emerging markets;
3. Receiving economic missions, and organizing business meetings that develop sales channels and matching with start-up companies in order to connect Osaka – Japan with the world;
4. Holding seminars and events, facilitating trade and investment through multinational and bilateral schemes; and seminars focusing on the latest business-related information about sales, personnel, purchasing and tax practice in the foreign countries;
5. Establishing the Osaka Business and Investment Center (O-BIC) to promote foreign direct investment in Osaka and other areas of the Japanese market by offering in-depth assistance and expert advice specifically tailored to the individual requirements of foreign investors;
6. Launching of the Global Innovation Forum in 2019 to promote global open innovation, and supporting the overseas expansion of domestic companies and startups, and collaboration between overseas startups and domestic companies;
7. Working together with government to create an environment suitable for conducting innovative demonstration projects and create a virtuous cycle for generating new businesses in Osaka, and inviting business operators from inside and outside of Osaka who wish to conduct demonstration projects in Osaka.

In response, Mr. McMullin thanked Osaka CCI and its officers Vice-Chair Gyo Sagara and President Setsuo Iuchi for receiving the CACCI delegation at the Chamber’s headquarters in Osaka. He also expressed appreciation to Osaka CCI for helping organize the CACCI Presidential visit to Osaka which coincides with the 2025 Osaka Expo. In addition, Mr. McMullin mentioned that CACCI was organized in 1966 as a forum for promoting the vital role of the businesspersons in the region, increasing regional business interaction, and enhancing regional economic growth, with current membership that includes 29 national chambers of commerce from 27 countries and economies, including the JCCI.

Mr. McMullin provided some background on JCCI’s membership in CACCI, such as:

1. JCCI is a Founding Member of CACCI (1966), and – along with its members such as the Osaka CCI – has been one of the most active Primary Members;
2. Since CACCI’s establishment in 1966, JCC has hosted 11 of its annual Council Meetings and Conferences held in Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Kobe, Fukuoka and Yokohama);
3. A total of 8 leaders of JCCI have served as Vice President of CACCI, with Mr. Daijiro Oshima as the incumbent VP;
4. JCCI has also hosted two CACCI Presidential visits previously – in 2013 and in 2019;
5. JCCI has recently conducted (on May 23) an Investment Forum on the current state of the Japanese economy and investment opportunities that the country offers, especially to foreign investors;

Mr. McMullin took the opportunity to Invite the Osaka CCI officers and members to the following upcoming CACCI events:

1. Presidential visit to Melbourne on September 1-4, to coincide with the 14^th ICC WCF World Chambers Congress focusing on the theme “Business, chambers, government: Partners for prosperity”
2. 39th CACCI Conference to be held on November 10-11 in Colombo, Sri Lanka. To be hosted by the Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Sri Lanka as host chamber, the two-day Conference will focus on the theme: “Entrepreneurship in the Asian Century”

He also expressed his hopes that OCCI will remain actively involved in the Confederation as CACCI certainly needs Japan’s representation in the group, given the important role that the country’s economy and business sector play in the development of the Asia-Pacific region.

Each member of the CACCI delegation was then requested to introduce himself and state his interest in joining the Presidential visit to Osaka.

At the end of the visit, Mr. McMullin exchanged tokens of appreciation with Mr. Sagara and Mr. Iuchi for making the visit possible and allowing the two sides to meet and share important information on each other’s activities and explore possible areas of cooperation.

Memorandum of Agreement Signing Ceremony

Following the meeting with OCCI, the CACCI delegation proceeded to the ATC Hall to attend the formal signing ceremony for the Memorandum of Agreements between YEGAP and the following Young Entrepreneurs Group from other Asian countries:

• Young Entrepreneurs Association Brunei (YEAB)
• Young Entrepreneurs Association of Cambodia (YEAC)
• Myanmar Young Entrepreneurs Association (MYEA)

The signatories of the MOUs were Mr. Hiromi Aoki, YEGAP Chairman; Mr. Louis Loo, YEAB Executive Committee Member; Mr. Kimsour Lay, YEAC Vice President; and Ms.Thin Thin Khew, MYEA President.

Each of the signatories cited the signing of the MOUs as an important beginning of a productive and meaningful cooperation with the other young entrepreneurs groups of the Asia-Pacific region that are under the umbrella of YEGAP CACCI, and that they all looked forward to working closely with each other in bringing the spirit and objectives of the MOUs into fruition.

Asian Youth Economic Organizations Exchange Program

The delegation then proceeded to the Asian Youth Economic Organizations Exchange Program organized by Japan YEG to provide a platform for members of YEGAP, the various young entrepreneurs groups from other Asian countries represented in the meeting, and members of the CACCI Presidential visit delegation to exchange views on the main theme of “What Role is Japan Expected to Pay in Asia and the World Today”. Prior to the start of the Program, Welcome Remarks were delivered by Mr. Daijiro Oshima, CACCI Vice President and JCCI Special Advisor; Mr. Peter McMullin AM, CACCI President; and Mr. Norihiko Ishiguro, JETRO Secretary General. The Welcome Remarks were followed by the Keynote Speech of Mr. Hiromi Aoki YEGAP Chairman, who spoke on “The Value of the International Youth Network.”

A Panel Discussion ensued, which was moderated by Mr. Aoki, and featured the following as panelists:

• Ms. Thin Thin Kew, MYEA President
• Ms. Deborah Bottreau, MAYA President
• Mr. Theodore Khng, YBLN Executive Member
• Ms. Philaiphonr Vongpraseuth, YEAL Vice President
• Mr. Michael Lim, YEGAP Vice Chairman
• Mr. Tomoichiro One, Japan YEG Chairman

The panelists addressed and shared their thoughts – from their country’s or their business’s perspective – on the following important issues:

1. Working Together Across Cultures – Given that Japan and ASEAN countries have many different cultures and traditions, the panelists discussed views on how these differences can be protected and respected while creating new ideas and businesses together.
2. Common Problems in Asia – Many Asian countries face the same problems, like climate change, differences in education, and lack of infrastructure. To solve these problems, young people from different countries need to work together more. The panelists shared their perspectives on what Japan and Japan YEG can do to help, and on what they think are the special strengths of Japan that can be useful in this regard.
3. One Asia, One Family – The panelists were also requested to give their thoughts on what must be done to make a reality the YEGAP Chairperson’s idea on “One Asia, One Family”.

After the Panel Discussion, breakout sessions were conducted, with each session featuring individual presentations on their respective organizations and om the economic situation in their respective countries, by representatives of the following youth organizations: (a) Young Entrepreneurs Association of Cambodia (YEAC); (b) Philippine Young Entrepreneurs Association (PYEA); (c) The Third Wednesday Club Young Entrepreneurs Group (TWC-YEG); (d) Vietnam Young Entrepreneurs Association (VYEA); and (e) Japan YEG.

Day Two ended with a Networking Dinner among the participants and other invited guests, during which they were treated to traditional Japanese cuisine and drinks, while enjoying and joining on-the-spot performances by Japanese cultural groups.

3 June 2025

Opening Reception and Tour of Expo Osaka 2025 Expo26

The delegation attended the Opening Reception held at the Japan Pavilion. As part of the Program, representatives of the various young entrepreneurs groups under the CACCI YEGAP umbrella were requested to go up the stage and formally presented to the audience. Mr. McMullin as head of the CACCI delegation was asked to deliver brief Remarks as well. In his remarks, the CACCI President thanked JCCI and the other organizers of the Expo Osaka for inviting CACCI members to participate in the important event, and gave a brief introduction on the Confederation and its activities. He also expressed his hopes that the Osaka visit of the CACCI delegation will open doors for more economic cooperation between CACCI member countries and Japan, particularly Osaka.

During the ceremony, the CACCI delegation also had the opportunity to watch some cultural performance reflecting Japanese culture and old traditions, including a special show on the Japanese kimono history and the evolution of this important and valued heritage of the Japanese people.

After the Opening Reception, the delegation proceeded to have a tour of the Expo. Unfortunately, due to the inclement weather and the long queues to enter the country pavilions on that day, the delegation managed to visit only a few, including the pavilion of the United Arab Emirates where they were given a special tour by the pavilion host.

Dinner Hosted by Suntory and CACCI Vice President Daijiro Oshima

As the last activity of Day Three, the delegation gathered at the dinner hosted by CACCI Vice President Daijiro Oshima, Special Advisor to JCCI, and Suntory. The occasion provided the delegates another good opportunity for further networking and strengthening of friendship and business relations.

Before the end of the dinner, President McMullin presented tokens of appreciation to Mr. Oshima and Mr. Hiromi Aoki for hosting and organizing the Presidential visit to Osaka. The delegates were then treated to a special Fountain Show that took place just outside the dinner venue, before saying goodbye to each other and officially concluding the visit.

Call for Papers – Share Your Insights in the Products & Service Council Newsletter

CACCI is introducing a fresh approach to our Products & Service Council Newsletter! This combined newsletter will spotlight thought leadership pieces from our members and industry experts, offering timely insights and perspectives to keep the business community informed and engaged.

CACCI welcomes a variety of submissions, including:

• Summaries of recent news events
• Analysis of emerging or ongoing trends
• Op-eds and short reports
• Interviews with industry leaders

While CACCI encourages submissions aligned with our core themes — digital transformation & innovation, economic development & trade, sustainability, and inclusivity—we also welcome articles that are theme-adjacent and would be relevant for businesses.

The Product and Service Councils under CACCI include:

• SME Development
• Textiles and Garments
• Information and Communication Technology
• Water, Energy and Environment
• Young Entrepreneurs
• Women Entrepreneurs
• Tourism
• Construction and Contracting
• Health and Education
• Chemical Industry
• Trade Facilitation

The newsletter will be published online on the CACCI website and shared to our members and broader network.

If you have a thought leadership article that would be valuable to our members, please send it to our communications team at cacci@cacci.biz for consideration. Kindly refer to the Content Submission Guidelines for more information.

Content Submission Guidelines

Thank you for your interest in contributing to the CACCI Products & Service Council Newsletter. To ensure consistency and quality, please follow the guidelines outlined below:
(1) Formatting and Photographs

• Submission Deadline: July 1, 2025.
• Word Count: Maximum of 4,000 words (including references). Submissions must be sent in Microsoft Word format.
• Images: High-resolution photographs are encouraged. All images must be either owned by the author or their company, or properly attributed.

(2) Required Submission Components

Each submission must include:

• A clear and concise headline (with subheadings, if applicable.)
• Author name(s), title(s), and company/organization.
• Author’s email address (for internal use only.)
• A short biography (2–3 sentences) of the author.

(3) Submission Policies and Publication Permission

• By submitting your article, you grant the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI) permission to publish your content and name as part of the newsletter series. Your email address will not be shared publicly.
• Submission does not guarantee publication. All articles are subject to review and may be edited for clarity, length, and quality. CACCI reserves the right to accept or reject any content at its discretion.
• Authors will receive full credit for their contributions. By submitting, authors agree to allow CACCI to republish the article in any official communication medium, including the website, social media, and newsletters.

(4) Time to Publication:

• The final publication date will depend on the number of submissions received and the editorial review process. The newsletter is expected to be published online by the end of October 2025.
• Please consider the timeliness and relevance of your content, particularly in light of potential delays.
• Note: Once an article is published online, no further changes can be made.

Informative webinar on Current Japanese Economy Status and Business Opportunities held on 23 May 2025

The Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI) and Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) held a webinar on “Current Japanese Economy Status and Business Opportunities” on 23 May 2025.

Moderated by Dr. Darson Chiu, CACCI Director General, the 60-minute webinar featured Mr. Kengo Nakayama, Senior Economist, Corporate Planning Division, Economic Research Office at MUFG Bank, Ltd., and Mr. Takeo Nakajima, Director-General, Innovation Department at Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO).

Mr. Peter McMullin AM, CACCI President delivered the Opening Remarks of the session, followed by Mr. Tetsuya Matsuoka, Deputy General Manager, International Division at Japan/ Tokyo Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI/ TCCI) who delivered the Welcome Remarks.

Summary

Mr. McMullin warmly welcomed participants from across the region during his Opening Remarks. He highlighted CACCI’s representation of 27 countries in the Asia-Pacific and emphasized Japan’s significant role within this network.

Mr. McMullin underscored CACCI’s current strategic priorities—sustainability, entrepreneurship, and trade—collectively termed the “SET Agenda.” He noted that these themes are central to CACCI’s efforts to foster regional cooperation and economic development.

He closed his remarks with enthusiasm for the webinar’s content and the potential for it to deepen connections and collaboration among regional stakeholders.

In his Welcome Remarks, Mr. Matsuoka addressed the complex global economic environment, citing key challenges such as geopolitical risks, inflation, protectionist trade policies, and supply chain shifts.

He emphasized that although Japan’s economy is gradually improving, uncertainty remains—particularly due to unpredictable international trade dynamics. Nevertheless, he noted a strong uptick in foreign direct investment (FDI), which reached a record ¥50.5 trillion (approx. US$350.6 billion) by the end of 2023, with strong interest in manufacturing, green technology, and startups.

Mr. Matsuoka highlighted Japan’s transformation from a passive investment destination into a proactive partner for economic growth. He mentioned the Japanese government’s goal to double FDI to ¥100 trillion by 2030 and emphasized Japan’s tourism boom, with record-breaking visitor numbers in 2024.

In his presentation, Mr. Nakayama provided a detailed overview of Japan’s economic recovery and outlook.

As of early 2025, Japan’s real GDP grew by 1.6% year-on-year—an encouraging figure compared to its potential growth rate of below 1%. However, concerns loom over the rest of the year, particularly due to external risks like rising U.S. tariffs, which are expected to negatively affect exports, especially in key sectors such as automotive manufacturing.

MUFG forecasts a slowdown in GDP growth to 0.8% for the full year 2025, largely due to weakening external demand and declining capital investment.

Mr. Nakayama also analyzed internal structural challenges. On the demand side, Japan’s recovery has been driven mainly by exports, with personal consumption and private investment remaining subdued. Consumer sentiment is constrained by inflation—driven by food, energy, and a weak yen—despite wage growth.

On the supply side, labor shortages persist, caused by demographic shifts and a decline in labor force participation, especially among older workers. In addition, working hours have declined due to labor reforms and mandatory leave, which, while improving work-life balance, have limited labor supply growth.

Looking ahead, Mr. Nakayama emphasized that Japan faces two major headwinds: prolonged inflation and disruptive U.S. trade policies. Inflation remains above the Bank of Japan’s 2% target but is driven by volatile items like food and energy, with structural challenges limiting broad-based price increases. Moreover, global volatility caused by aggressive U.S. tariff policies—especially under a potential second Trump administration—could suppress Japanese exports and capital investment further. Nonetheless, positive signs include rising wages and nominal GDP growth. If these trends solidify, they could help shift Japan into a more sustainable growth phase.

 Key Takeaways:

• GDP Outlook Weakened: Despite a 1.6% growth in early 2025, MUFG forecasts Japan’s real GDP growth will slow to 0.8% due to declining exports and external policy uncertainties.
• Labor & Consumption Challenges: Persistent labor shortages and subdued personal consumption hinder recovery, with inflation and demographic shifts straining supply and demand.
• External Risks Intensifying: U.S. tariff policy and global economic uncertainty pose significant downside risks to Japan’s export-led economy and investment outlook.

For his part, Mr. Nakajima provided a Comprehensive overview of Japan’s growing attractiveness as a destination for FDIs, particularly in the context of innovation.

Emphasizing JETRO’s role in connecting Japanese and global economies, Mr. Nakajima detailed how Japan has evolved into a proactive and open partner for foreign investors. The agency’s four strategic pillars—innovation, overseas expansion of Japanese companies, promotion of agricultural exports, and economic research—support an integrated approach to global economic engagement.

Mr. Nakajima pointed out that Japan’s FDI stock has more than doubled in the past decade, with a notable increase in investment from Asia, driven by sectors like semiconductors, life sciences, and green tech. He explained that Japan’s large and wealthy consumer base, reliable infrastructure, and geopolitical stability make it an attractive alternative in a turbulent global landscape.

He also addressed challenges such as labor shortages but underscored the country’s consistent corporate profitability and its rise in global FDI confidence rankings, now fourth globally and first in Asia according to the 2025 Kearney Index.

JETRO supports foreign companies not only in establishing operations in Japan but also in forging business partnerships and entering collaborative innovation ecosystems. Mr. Nakajima highlighted recent success stories across Japan’s regional industry clusters, from Hokkaido to Kyushu, and emphasized JETRO’s ability to provide tailored support through its domestic and international offices.

He concluded by inviting interested parties to connect with JETRO for customized assistance in entering the Japanese market.

 Key Highlights:

• Japan’s FDI stock has grown from ¥23.8 trillion in 2014 to ¥53.8 trillion in 2023, with Asian investors accounting for a growing share.
• Foreign investors cite Japan’s market size, stability, and advanced infrastructure as key advantages.
• JETRO offers hands-on support for foreign firms, including matchmaking, local introductions, and regional investment facilitation across Japan.

The Panel Discussion, explored Japan’s evolving role in global investment and its economic resilience amid geopolitical challenges. Mr.  Nakajima emphasized that Japan’s rise in inward foreign direct investment (FDI) is not due to any single policy shift but the result of global companies seeking a stable and reliable economic base.

He attributed Japan’s appeal to its political and financial stability, affordable operating costs due in part to a weaker yen, and its strong existing ties with Asian economies. These factors have made Japan an increasingly attractive destination for investors from Asia and beyond.

In discussing the challenges to further boosting FDI, Mr. Nakajima identified Japan’s ongoing labor shortage as a major obstacle. He noted that foreign investors often find it difficult to scale operations due to insufficient local workforce availability. While Japan presents opportunities for skilled foreign professionals—especially in high-demand areas like AI, quantum computing, and autonomous vehicle technology—it does not currently offer generous incentive schemes compared to regional competitors like Vietnam.

This lack of incentives, combined with labor constraints, limits Japan’s competitiveness in attracting large-scale foreign projects.

The conversation also highlighted Japan’s need for greater international collaboration to address talent shortages and accelerate technological transformation. Mr. Nakajima encouraged skilled professionals from Asia, particularly those with engineering and advanced tech expertise, to consider Japan as a viable destination for work and innovation.

The panel underscored Japan’s dual approach: leveraging its strong global connections and economic stability to draw FDI, while gradually opening to foreign talent to address demographic and technological challenges.

Taking this opportunity, I would like to once again extend mysincere appreciation to Mr. Nakayama, and Mr. Nakajima for their very comprehensive and excellent presentations regarding Japan’s business and encouraged CACCI members and friends to maintain their engagement in CACCI activities.

The presentation files can be downloaded HERE.

Due to privacy considerations, the video recording of this webinar is not available for public viewing at the CACCI Youtube channel.

Become a sponsors of the 39th CACCI Conference in Colombo

CACCI is inviting members and friends to the 39th CACCI Conference, taking place on November 10-11, 2025, in the vibrant city of Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Hosted by the Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Sri Lanka (FCCISL), this annual event will bring together top business leaders, policymakers, and entrepreneurs from across the Asia-Pacific region for two days of high-level dialogue, valuable networking, and powerful collaboration.

This year’s Conference promises a dynamic program of thought-provoking sessions, an engaging exhibition, and special networking events designed to foster connections and inspire innovation.

In addition to participating, we are pleased to offer you the opportunity to showcase your leadership and strengthen your visibility by joining us as a sponsor.

As a sponsor, you’ll enjoy exclusive benefits such as:

• Speaking opportunities during conference sessions;
• Complimentary registrations and hotel accommodations;
• Premium branding in event materials, online platforms, and on-site displays;
• Booth space at the conference expo; and
• VIP access and special recognition during the event.

CACCI has designed a range of sponsorship packages to suit your goals, from Platinum to Bronze tiers, each offering meaningful value and visibility. Full details are outlined in the attached sponsorship brochure. Download package HERE.

This is more than a conference—it’s your opportunity to connect with regional leaders, spotlight your organization, and contribute to shaping the future of business in Asia-Pacific.

We encourage you to confirm your interest as early as possible to maximize your exposure and secure the full range of sponsorship benefits as presented below.

For questions or to express your intent to sponsor or attend, please contact us at cacci@cacci.biz.

CACCI Deputy Director-General joins United Nations’ CoNGO Conference in Bangkok

On 25 April 2025, CACCI Deputy Director General Amador Honrado traveled to Bangkok to join the 2-day Conference of Non-Gonverment Organizations’ (NGOs) in Consultative Relationship with the United Nations (CoNGO). The 2-day conference comprised several meetings, presentations, and panel discussion of issues of great importance to CACCI and its members, some of which are explained as follows.

Background

The Conference of NGOs in Consultative Relationship with the United Nations (CoNGO) is an international organization of non-government organizations granted consultative status under the United Nations. Founded in 1948, CoNGO endorses the goals and values enshrined in the United Nations Charter, and is a strong advocate for multilateralism to resolve global political, environmental, health and other threats. It encourages NGOs around the world to cooperate with the United Nations to promote and support its work and to draw civil society into partnership with the world body. CACCI has been a member of CoNGO since 1981.

Launched in 2017, the CoNGO Regional Committee in Asia-Pacific (RCAP) aims to facilitate Asia-Pacific NGOs’ participation in all UN and CoNGO activities globally and regionally. It cooperates with UN ESCAP and other UN bodies and agencies in Asia and the Pacific, and promotes better cooperation among CoNGO members as well as other civil society organizations in Asia-Pacific.

CoNGO has organized an RCAP Session in the past seven years generously hosted by Siam University. These sessions provide members an opportunity to strengthen regional solidarity and understanding, to exchange experience in crucial Sustainable Development and related areas, and to build new and invigorating partnerships. RCAP meeting is always held during the week of the Plenary Session of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) to encourage accredited NGO attendance at both events. RCAP meets on the last days of ESCAP, when the main debates are over, and the plenary is adopting concluding resolutions.

The 2025 RCAP Meeting

This year the ESCAP Plenary took place on April 21-25, so RCAP met at Siam University on April 25 and April 26. The 2025 RCAP meeting had two main features: The first was an analysis of regional, national or local implementation by Asia-Pacific NGOs/CSOs of the Sustainable Development Goals that are up for review this year at the UN High Level Political Forum (HLPF) to be held in New York on. This year the HLPF theme is “Advancing sustainable, inclusive, science- and evidence-based solutions for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals for leaving no one behind”.

For RCAP 2025, the theme focused on part of this title, namely “ADVANCING SUSTAINABLE, INCLUSIVE, SCIENCE- AND EVIDENCE-BASED SOLUTIONS FOR THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS”. The five SDGs highlighted this year are SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being); SDG 5 (Gender Equality); SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth); SDG 14 (Life below Water); and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

Asia-Pacific NGOs/CSOs were invited to submit a report summarizing their implementation activities on all or any of the five SDGs mentioned above. The reports focused on illustrating, by on-the-ground examples, your organization’s experience, challenges and successes in “Advancing sustainable, inclusive, science- and evidence-based solutions for the Sustainable Development Goals”. The purpose of this exercise was to illustrate for other NGOs and for governments how national and local NGOs implement the SDGs.

The second feature of RCAP 2025 was an Open International Panel on the same subject, namely ADVANCING SUSTAINABLE, INCLUSIVE, SCIENCE- AND EVIDENCE-BASED SOLUTIONS FOR THE SDGs. The Panel was complementary to the written reports from grassroots perspectives, in that it covered academic, scientific and private sector research, and looked towards the future of the SDGs and the issues still to be resolved internationally and nationally to reach implementation by 2030.

The RCAP 2025 was attended by 24 representatives from 7 NGOs, including CACCI,

Taiwan Creative Economy Association, International Federation of Business and Professional Women, STUF United Fund, Taiwan Sport Forward Association, Soka Gakkai International, Environment and Development Organization, and Servas International.

Day One (April 25)

Day One of the 2025 RCAP meeting started with a pre-recorded video of the Welcome Statement by Pornchai Mongkhonvanit, President of Siam University. In his Statement, President Pornchai warmly welcomed the participants to Bangkok and to Siam University. He underscored the importance of RCAP for its role in facilitating Asia-Pacific NGOs’ participation in all UN and CoNGO activities globally and regionally, and in promoting stronger collaboration among CoNGO members as well as other civil society organizations in Asia-Pacific. He reiterated the continued strong support of Siam University in helping RCAP and CoNGO achieve these objectives, and offered the resources of the University in providing assistance to CoNGO members in their information exchange activities.

CoNGO First Vice President Cyril Ritchie thereafter delivered His Opening Statement. Mr. Ritchie first gave an overview of the history and general functions of RCAP in relation to CoNGO. He then outlined some of the sombre features that currently serve as a backdrop to Asia-Pacific civil society’s unending advocacy and activism towards achieving a more just world. These include the pervasive nature of sexism, harassment and violence against women in parliaments across the Asia-Pacific region, including an alarming increase in online gender-based violence. He also mentioned that the Asia-Pacific Region is not free of the authoritarianism that underpins governmental measures to limit civil society space, including to restrict freedoms of expression and of association. These factors affect in one way or another the implementation of – indeed the understanding of – the Sustainable Development Goals, Mr. Ritchie said.

However, he expressed his hopes that RCAP 2025 will help members move forward along paths of cooperation and implementation, and pledged CoNGO’s full engagement in members’ collective efforts to “achieve a more just world where no-one will be left behind.

The Opening Statement by Mr. Ritchie was followed by individual presentations of representatives who earlier submitted reports that illustrated their organization’s experience, challenges and successes in “Advancing sustainable, inclusive, science- and evidence-based solutions for the Sustainable Development Goals”. The presenting organizations included the following:

(a) CACCI – Deputy Director-General Amador Honrado reported on the Asia-Pacific Green Alliance (APAC-GA) Initiative of CACCI and the Singapore Manufacturing Federation which falls under SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). Mr. Honrado reported that the APAC-GA is a response to the fragmented sustainability landscape that countries worldwide currently navigate, with many countries encountering diverse standards, regulations, and approaches towards sustainability. He said that this diversity, while reflective of local priorities and contexts, creates a significant challenge, especially for SMEs. APAC-GA’s vision and mission, therefore, is to unify sustainability reporting across the Asa-Pacific economies and to empower companies, particularly SMEs, with simplified actionable sustainability tools.

As part of efforts to promote the APAC-GA, CACCI President Peter McMullin AM commissioned a study aimed at getting a better understanding of the needs and challenges faced by SMEs in transitioning their businesses or organizations toward netzero goals. CACCI and SMF also jointly organized a webinar to introduce APAC-GA to CACCI member chambers – highlighting the benefits that they and their respective businesses can derive from their involvement in it – and to encourage them to take an active participation in the initiative.

(b) Soka Gakkai International – Representative to the UN Mr. Hiro Sakurai reported that the focus areas of work of Soka Gakkai International (SGI) include peace, disarmament, environment and sustainability, human rights education, gender equality and women’s empowerment and humanitarian relief.highlighted the engagement of in the implementation of SDGs 3 (Good Health and Well-being); SDG 5 (Gender Equality); and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). These include activities such as Combating Plastic Pollution in India, Online Cinema Series on Persons with Disabilities and their Families; Supporting Vulnerable Community Members in Singapore, Women-led initiatives in Japan, India, Singapore; Partnership for faith based organizations in Asia-Pacific region; and Partnerships for Risk Reduction in Asia-Pacific region, among others.

(c) The Pan-Pacific South East Asian Women’s Association – First Vice President Neelima Basnet explained that BPW International is one of the most influential international networks of business and professional women with affiliates in over 100 countries in five continents. Its members include influential women leaders, entrepreneurs, business owners, executives, professionals and young business and professional women. She reported on her organization’s various activities in various countries (Japan, Canada, Malaysia, Taiwan, Thailand, New Zealand, Fiji, USA, and Maui) in implementing SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being); SGD 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth); SDG 14 (Life Below Water); and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

(d) Taiwan Sport Forward Association –Intern Ms. Maria Julian said that the Taiwan Sport Forward Association was established to support and empower disadvantaged children, young, and female athletes, and to promote gender equality in sports and sports diplomacy. Her presentation focused on the topic “What Sports Can Do for International Relationships”, highlighting how it impacts youth by bridging cultural gaps, language learning, cultivating empathy, building relationships, and creating change.

She also elaborated on how Taiwan Sport Forward Association (TSFA) is making global impact, for example through such activities aimed at empowering female athletes and implementing safe sports by keeping sports a safe environment for all. She also outlined what TSFS teaches to young athletes and how Taiwan can help in achieving the goals of safe sports in the broader Asa-Pacific region.

(e) STUF United Fund Asia Pacific Center – President Peter Lin gave explained that STUF United Fund is a non-profit organization registered in the U.S. that supports international charity work. With the core values of STUF (Share, Trust, Unity, and Family), the organization focuses on the areas of Disaster Relief, Culture and Education,

Public Health, and Environmental Protection. It supports projects around the world and aims to become an organization that helps consolidate and distribute resources to ensure a more powerful social impact. It encourages the corporate sector to participate in charity causes to jointly create more effective changes in the global society and encourage youth to join the global community’s efforts and activities for the betterment of society. Dr. Lin reported that in the past year, his organization has conducted various philanthropic projects and participated in United Nations-related activities, achieving remarkable results on a global scale.

Day Two (April 26)

Day Two opened with a Statement delivered via Zoom from New York from CoNGO President Mr. Liberato Bautista. Mr. Bautista outlined the history of RCAP, and its Terms of Reference, which is mainly to facilitate Asia-Pacific NGOs’ participation in all UN and CoNGO activities regionally and globally. He thanked the important role played by First Vice President Mr. Cyril Richie and Senior Associate Ms. Sheila Bordier in the functioning and activities of CoNGO and the RCAP, as well as the officers and staff of Siam University led by its President Mr. Pornchai Mongkhonvamit for regularly hosting the annual meeting of RCAP in Bangkok.

He further informed the meeting that his term as CoNGO President will end in October but he will remain committed to the objectives of CoNGO and RCAP and will extend his support to both whenever needed. He pointed out that the role of CoNGO is currently facing challenges in the face of evolving geo-political landscape and with multilateralism on a flax, undermining human rights and other areas of concern to CoNGO. He therefore called on CoNGO members, especially those in Asia-Pacific, to be more vigilant and to make their voices heard in UN bodies and agencies in the region.

Mr. Bautista’s Statement was followed by the Open International Panel that featured various presentations by RCAP representatives on the theme “Advancing Sustainable, Inclusive, Science- and Evidence-Based Solutions for the Sustainable Development Goal”. Their presentations covered the general themes of (a) academic, scientific, and private sector research and innovation, and (b) The future of SDG implementation towards the Agenda 2030 target.

The panel discussants included the following:

1. Ms. Clara Kwan, Chief Sustainability Officer, Singapore Manufacturing Federation, and in-charge of the Asia Pacific Green Alliance Initiative.
2. Ms. Chanita Rukspoolmuang, Vice President, Siam University.
3. Mr. Fred Chen, President Taiwan Creative Economy Association.
4. Ms. Lisa Fong, Representative to UNESCAP, International Federation of Business & Professional Women.
5. Mr. Peter Lin, Chairperson, STUF United Fund – Asia Pacific Center.
6. Mr. Hiro Sakurai – Representative to the UN, Director, Office for UN Affairs, New York, Soka Gakkai International.

After the Panel discussion, a closed meeting of the RCAP Steering Committee was held with Mr. Cyril Rithie presiding. The meeting mainly assessed the proceedings of the two-day event, and exchanged opinion on how to further improve on the meeting agenda as well as how to secure a more active and participative response from the attendees in future gatherings. Mr. Honrado was invited by Mr. Ritchie to participate in the meeting as an observer.

YEGAP Chairman Hiromi Aoki Appointed Vice Chairman for International Affairs of Japan YEG

CACCI is proud to announce that Hiromi Aoki, Chairman of Young Entrepreneurs Group of Asia-Pacific (YEGAP)—the young entrepreneurs arm of CACCI—has been appointed Vice Chairman for International Affairs of Japan YEG for the 2025–2026 term.

Japan YEG is the largest network of young entrepreneurs in Japan, with more than 32,000 members across the country. Each year, four Vice Chairmen are appointed to oversee major divisions: East District, Central District, West District, and International Affairs. Hiromi’s appointment recognizes his exceptional dedication to strengthening international cooperation and advancing opportunities for young entrepreneurs worldwide.

In his new role, Hiromi will lead Japan YEG’s international outreach, enhance collaboration with global organizations, and play a key role in fostering regional and global partnerships among the next generation of business leaders.

CACCI congratulates Hiromi on this significant achievement and looks forward to supporting him as he continues to build stronger connections for young entrepreneurs in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.

Successful webinar on Pakistan’s Business Opportunities held 18 April 2025

The webinar on “Pakistan’s Business Opportunities,” co-organized by CACCI and the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) was successfully held on 18 April 2025. The webinar showcased the country’s investment potential and ongoing economic reforms. Dr. Darson Chiu delivered the opening remarks in his capacity as Director General of CACCI, highlighting Pakistan’s strategic location, youthful population, and the importance of fostering regional cooperation through initiatives such as this webinar.

Here we present the summary of the presentations.

SUMMARY

(1) Atif Ikram Sheikh, FPCCI President

The main presentation was delivered by FPCCI President Atif Ikram Sheikh, who provided a comprehensive overview of Pakistan’s macroeconomic landscape and investment environment. He noted that Pakistan is on a positive growth trajectory, with the IMF forecasting a 2.5% GDP growth in 2024, driven by agriculture (+6.4%) and manufacturing (+3.3%), while services now contribute 58% to GDP. Exports are also on the rise, growing 11% year-on-year, with FDI inflows primarily from China, the UK, USA, UAE, and Switzerland.

Mr. Atik reported that Pakistan offers compelling investment advantages, including its geostrategic position linking Central Asia, the Middle East, and East Asia through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). He added that the country also boasts a young, digitally literate workforce—64% of its population is under 30. With liberal investment policies allowing 100% foreign ownership and legal protections under the Investment Promotion and Protection Acts, Pakistan has created a favorable climate for international investors.

Key sectors identified by Mr. Atif for foreign investment include agriculture and food processing, logistics, textiles, automobiles, information technology, housing and construction, tourism, and renewable energy. Special Economic Zones (SEZs), particularly those under CPEC, offer incentives like customs exemptions and tax holidays. Additionally, initiatives like the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) and the FPCCI provide streamlined support and one-window services to ease market entry and business operations, he added.

Key Takeaways:

• Pakistan offers 100% foreign ownership, tax incentives, and a young workforce in a strategic regional hub.
• Eight key sectors—ranging from agriculture to IT—are prioritized for investment with dedicated SEZ support.
• The SIFC and FPCCI act as facilitators, providing one-window support for foreign investors.

(2) Malik Sohail Hussein, FPCCI’s Coordination Chairman

Mr. Sohail Hussein presented a detailed and optimistic overview of Pakistan’s economic and investment landscape. Emphasizing the country’s large and youthful population of over 220 million, he highlighted Pakistan’s strategic location as a trade gateway between South Asia, Central Asia, the Middle East, and China. Pakistan’s economy is growing at a projected rate of 2.5% in 2024, with the services sector comprising 58% of GDP, followed by agriculture and industry.

He noted an 11% rise in exports, with key sectors including textiles, IT services, food, and sports goods. Inflation is under control and foreign investment is increasing from countries such as China, the UK, and the USA. Hussein underscored the significance of the recent Mines and Minerals Conference, which attracted participants from 98 countries and led to significant agreements, including the landmark Reko Diq project.

He stressed Pakistan’s welcoming investment climate, including 100% foreign ownership in most sectors, legal protections for investors, and the ability to repatriate profits freely. Special Economic Zones offer tax breaks and duty-free imports, with opportunities in sectors such as agriculture, IT, logistics, tourism, renewable energy, and healthcare.

Mr. Malik pointed out that the country’s trade advantages are further supported by its GSP+ status with the EU and participation in the Belt and Road Initiative. He also highlighted FPCCI’s active role in facilitating investments through the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), provincial investment boards, and one-window operations led by the Prime Minister. He emphasized FPCCI’s ongoing support for foreign investors, its collaboration with international chambers like CACCI and ICCIA, and its active global outreach through roadshows and delegations, including an upcoming visit to the USA.

Mr. Malik also elaborated on FPCCI’s best practices in chamber management, digital transformation, policy advocacy, business support, and global networking efforts that help integrate Pakistani businesses into the international trade ecosystem.

Key takeaways:

• Pakistan offers 100% foreign ownership, tax breaks, and special investment zones with no capital restrictions, making it highly investor-friendly.
• Key sectors for investment include agriculture, IT, logistics, minerals, tourism, and healthcare, backed by a growing economy and trade incentives.
• FPCCI actively supports foreign investors through the Special Investment Facilitation Council, global networking, and investment facilitation services.

(3) Q&A session

Moderated by Mr. Mig Moreno, CACCI Deputy Director General, the Q&A session provided deeper insights into Pakistan’s investment landscape and sectoral strengths. Mr. Malik shared that the UK and Switzerland are primarily investing in Pakistan’s energy sector, infrastructure, construction, education, tourism, healthcare, and food and agriculture.

On the question of repatriation of profits, Mr. Atif emphasized that foreign investors are protected by a sovereign guarantee from the government and supported by the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), with additional facilitation from FPCCI. In response to interest in renewable energy and electric vehicles (EVs), Mr. Malik highlighted Pakistan’s commitment to green energy, noting active participation from Chinese, Korean, and U.S. companies. Sheikh added that Pakistan has a current generation capacity of 45,000 MW—well above the domestic requirement of 30,000 MW—creating a surplus they plan to export in the future.

Addressing law and order concerns, Mr. Atif assured participants that the country’s industrial and business environment is peaceful and increasingly welcoming to international visitors and investors. On the matter of recent U.S. tariff hikes, he clarified that due to Pakistan’s limited imports and strong export orientation, especially in textiles, the impact would be minimal.

Lastly, Mr. Malik identified five key sectors poised for growth over the next three years: mines and minerals, tourism (including health and religious tourism), agriculture, IT, and construction and housing, citing Pakistan’s untapped natural wealth, scenic geography, and food production potential.

Key Takeaways:

• UK and Switzerland invest heavily in energy, infrastructure, and hospitality sectors in Pakistan.
• Pakistan offers sovereign guarantees and facilitation for repatriation and investment security.
• Mines & minerals, tourism, agriculture, IT, and construction are the top growth sectors for the next three years.

Copies of the presentations were sent to the participants.

The video recording of the webinar can be viewed at the CACCI YouTube HERE.

Join the CACCI Presidential Visit for Exclusive VIP Access to Expo 2025 Osaka

The Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI) is pleased to invite all officers and members to the 2025 CACCI Presidential Visit to Osaka, Japan, scheduled to take place from June 1 to June 4, 2025. Hosted by the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI), this exclusive trip offers unparalleled opportunities to engage with influential Japanese business leaders, build valuable connections, and experience the cutting-edge innovations at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, one of the world’s most anticipated global events.

Highlights of the Visit

Sunday, June 1

• (Optional) Pre-Welcome Gathering, organized by Mr. Hiromi Aoki, Chairman YEGAP (Venue: TBA)

Monday, June 2

• Morning: Meeting with Osaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry Executives (TBC)
• 12:00 PM: Asian Youth Economic Organizations Exchange Program Organized by the JCCI YEG (Venue: ATC Hall)
• Evening: Networking and Dinner Reception (Venue: ATC Hall)

Tuesday, June 3

• Full-day visit to Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, featuring a Kansai YEG Special VIP Tour (Venue: Expo Site, Yumeshima)
• Evening: Dinner hosted by Mr. Hiroshi Oshima, Special Advisor, JCCI and Vice-President of CACCI (Venue: TBA)

Wednesday, June 4

• Delegates’ departure from Osaka

Participation Fees and Details

• June 1 pre-welcome gathering (optional): TBA
• June 2 Asian Youth Economic Organizations Exchange Program (including networking and dinner reception): JPY 15,000
• June 3 Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai VIP tour: Complimentary, covered by JCCI

Accommodation Recommendations

There are two recommended hotels for this visit, both of which offer easy access to the ATC Hall and the Expo site:

• Grand Prince Hotel Osaka Bay: Website
• Quintessa Hotel Osaka Bay: Website

Convenient transportation is available from Kansai Airport/Osaka Station to the Grand Prince Hotel, which is just a short walk from the Quintessa Hotel.

Registration

Register here by April 30, 2025: https://forms.gle/42zr8k7buYWXM1HY9

Capacity: 40–50 participants

For questions or further assistance, contact:

Abby Moreno – abby.moreno@cacci.biz | +886 975 601 873 (WhatsApp)

Teresa Liu – teresaliu@cacci.biz | +886 972 182 772 (WhatsApp)

Need visa assistance?

Please contact us if you require an invitation letter or any other visa-related support.

We look forward to seeing many of you in Osaka. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with fellow CACCI leaders and take part in one of 2025’s most exciting international events!

CACCI Presidential Visit to Melbourne in 1-4 September 2025

CACCI is inviting members to join CACCI President Mr. Peter McMullin AM on his Presidential Visit to Melbourne, Australia scheduled to take place on September 1-4, 2025.

As you may know, the CACCI Presidential visit aims to provide the CACCI President and members of his delegation the opportunity to gather first-hand information on the business situation in the host country; to further build up the image of CACCI by making courtesy calls on officials of relevant government agencies of the host country, and to meet with local businesspersons and explore opportunities for possible business cooperation.

The Melbourne visit will happen simultaneously with the 14^th World Chambers Congress (14WCC) being organized by the ICC World Chambers Federation (ICC WCF) on September 2-4. The 14WCC brings together economic actors, business leaders and policymakers from around the world to spur change through dialogue and cooperation. Co-organized by ICC WCF and the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI), the 14WCC will focus on the theme “Business, chambers, government: Partners for prosperity” and will address shared global challenges such as international trade, geopolitical disruptions, investment-readiness, sustainable energy transition, innovation and digital transformation.

Tentative Program 1 September 2025:
The first day of the Presidential Visit to Melbourne can be viewed below.

Tentative Program 2-4 September 20205:
CACCI delegates will take part in the 14th World Chambers Congress at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. Co-organized by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), its World Chambers Federation (WCF), and VCCI, the Congress will focus on the theme “Business, Chambers, Government: Partners for Prosperity.” Key topics include international trade, digital transformation, sustainable development, and global cooperation.

The program of the 14WCC on September 2-4 can be accessed through the following link: (Programme | 14WCC), now live on the official 14WCC website. Registration procedure, hotel accommodation, and other relevant information may be obtained through this link.

Participation in both the CACCI Presidential Visit and the 14WCC is strongly encouraged. This joint program offers an exceptional platform for networking, knowledge exchange, and strategic collaboration. Capacity is limited to 40 participants for the Presidential Visit segment, so members are encouraged to confirm their interest early. We look forward to welcoming you to Melbourne for this important gathering!

Updates will be sent to all members once these are available. In the meantime, if you have further questions, please write to cacci@cacci.biz.

Proposed Program – Monday, 1 September 2025
CACCI Presidential Visit to Melbourne, Australia

9.30am Courtesy call with Victorian Chamber Chief Executive Paul Guerra and senior staff at Victorian Chamber Headquarters on Collins Street in Melbourne.
10.15am: Travel

10.30am: Meeting with senior Victorian Government representatives at Global Victoria’s Investment Centre on Collins Street in Melbourne, including relevant Minister (TBA).
11.15am: Travel

11.30pm: Tour of a Victorian Chamber member site, such as Bendigo Kangan’s Automotive Centre of Excellence or the Cremorne Digital Hub.
12.30pm: Travel

12.45pm: Boardroom lunch hosted at a Victorian Chamber corporate member (such as a law firm or bank).
2.15pm: Travel

2.45pm: Tour of the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
3.45pm: Travel

4.15pm: Networking event/happy hour with entrepreneur group from Australia, CACCI, India and other areas/countries at a Melbourne venue.

Optional extra (early morning): Visit to renewable energy investment-ready site.

Webinar on Pakistan’s Business Opportunities on 18 April 2025

The Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI) is inviting members and friends to participate in the webinar on “Pakistan’s Business Opportunities” to be held on 18 April 2025 at 2PM Taipei time / 11AM Pakistan time.

Jointly organized by the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) and CACCI, the 60-minute webinar features Mr. Atif Ikram Sheikh, current President of FPCCI and Chief Executive of the Mujahid Group of Industries.

Mr. Atif Ikram Sheik will explain the current economic environment in Pakistan and the business and investment opportunities the country offers.

We encourage business people, investors and bankers to join the webinar to gain insights into the business opportunities and investment prospects in the Pakistan market.

Agenda

2:00PM Opening Remarks by Moderator (To be advised)

2:03PM Welcome Address by Mr. Atif Ikram Sheikh, FPCCI President

2:05PM Presentation by Mr. Atif Ikram Sheikh, FPCCI President:

• Economic and Business Environment of Pakistan including trade and investment potentials
• Introduction of Investment Facilitation Organizations of Pakistan.
• FPCCI activities and best practices in chamber management and its international affiliations and networking

2:35PM Video showing on Investment climate in Pakistan.

2:40PM Q&A.

3:00PM Closing Remarks.

 To join the webinar, please register HERE.

YEGAP Executive Committee Holds First Meeting

Following the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) between YEGAP and YEAB, the YEGAP Executive Committee held its first meeting on January 22, 2025. Chaired by Hiromi Aoki, the meeting welcomed CACCI President and YEGAP Advisory Council Chair Peter McMullin AM, Immediate Past YEGAP Chair Rommel Gerodias, and the newly appointed Executive Committee members.

Hiromi introduced the theme for his term, “One Asia, One Family,” emphasizing unity and collaboration to drive entrepreneurial growth. The Executive Committee includes:

• Executive Vice Chair: John Tran (Vietnam)
• Vice Chairs: Khulan Davaadorj (Mongolia), Michael Lim (Australia), Aries Balanay (Philippines), Goh Chai Li (Brunei), Jay Thian (Taiwan), and Ekaterina Ueda (Japan)
• Members: Jacob Park (Korea), Lorenz Dela (Philippines), Yasuaki Nanba (Japan)

Key discussions focused on setting 2025 priorities, appointing committee heads, and planning initiatives like networking events, training programs, and advocacy efforts. The committee is committed to realizing the vision of “One Asia, One Family” and fostering opportunities for young entrepreneurs across the region.

YEGAP & YEAB Join Forces to Empower Young Entrepreneurs

The Young Entrepreneurs Group of Asia Pacific (YEGAP) and the Young Entrepreneurs Association of Brunei (YEAB) have signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) to strengthen collaboration and support young entrepreneurs across the Asia-Pacific region.

Signed during a virtual ceremony on January 22, 2025, by YEGAP Chairman Hiromi Aoki and YEAB President Goh Chai Li, the partnership aims to promote innovation, foster collaboration, and provide valuable opportunities for entrepreneurial growth.

This collaboration marks a new chapter in empowering young entrepreneurs with resources, networks, and leadership opportunities. Stay tuned for upcoming initiatives!

YEGAP and YEAC Sign Memorandum of Agreement to Strengthen Support for Young Entrepreneurs

On March 11, 2025, the Young Entrepreneurs Group of Asia-Pacific (YEGAP) and the Young Entrepreneurs Association of Cambodia (YEAC) officially signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) in a virtual ceremony. This partnership aims to foster greater collaboration among young entrepreneurs across the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.

The signing ceremony was attended by key representatives, including YEGAP Chair Mr. Hiromi Aoki and YEAC Vice President Mr. Lay Kimsuor. The MoA outlines the shared commitment to building a supportive, interconnected business community through capacity-building, networking, and joint initiatives.

This partnership reflects YEGAP’s vision of “One Asia, One Family,” creating a network where young entrepreneurs can connect, collaborate, and thrive. Both organizations are excited to work together and look forward to the opportunities this partnership will bring to young entrepreneurs in the region.

After the ceremony, the signed MoAs were consolidated and shared with both parties for further action.

We look forward to sharing more about the upcoming opportunities and initiatives that this partnership will bring to young entrepreneurs across the region.

CACCI Director General delivers Opening Remarks at 2025 Asia Connect Forum

The Asia Connect Forum brought together industry leaders, innovators, and professionals to foster collaboration, share insights, and explore new opportunities across the region. CACCI Director General Darson Chiu delivered the opening remarks, setting the tone for a day of thought-provoking discussions. A welcome video by CACCI President Peter McMullin AM was also featured, offering a warm introduction to the forum’s goals and objectives.

The keynote address was delivered by Ambassador Adel Althaidi, representative of the Saudi Arabian Trade Office in Taipei, providing valuable perspectives on fostering international trade and cross-border partnerships.

The event was organized by the Foundation for Commerce and Culture Interchange (FCCI), and moderated by FCCI President and CACCI Asian ICT Council Chairman Dr. Dennis Hu. CACCI served as a co-organizer of the event.

The forum provided a valuable platform for networking and exchange on emerging trends, sustainable practices, and cross-border collaboration, offering participants the opportunity to engage with key players in the industry.

Excellent webinar of the Asia Pacific Green Alliance on Sustainability for SMEs

The Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI) and the Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF) held a webinar on “The Green Alliance: Latest Developments”, on 26 February 2025.

Moderated by Michael Lim, Founder, Launch Hero Digital Marketing Agency and Member, Executive Committee of the Young Entrepreneurs Group of Asia-Pacific (YEGAP), the 60-minute webinar featured Clara Kwan, SMF Sustainability Officer, in a panel conversation with two other distinguished guests, Lennon Tan, SMF President and CACCI Vice President for Sustainability, and Stuart Thomson, Co-Founder and Executive Director, Good Business Foundation ad CACCI Vice President for Entrepreneurship.

SUMMARY

Mr. Tan opened the session by sharing a personal anecdote from 2021, when he learned about Singapore’s high per capita waste generation during a panel discussion. This experience highlighted the urgent need for businesses, particularly SMEs, to adopt sustainability practices, he said.

He noted that multinational corporations (MNCs) in Singapore have begun enforcing ESG requirements within their supply chains, warning SMEs that do not comply could result in exclusion from global supply chains.

Recognizing the challenges SMEs face in meeting stringent Western ESG standards, Mr. Tan said he decided to create the Asia Pacific Green Alliance (APGA). Established to drive sustainable business practices, foster green innovation, and set a common benchmark for corporate sustainability, APGA was officially launched on November 12, 2024, by Singapore’s Senior Minister of State, Desmond Tan during th 38^th CACCI Conference held in the city-state.

Ms. Kwan provided an in-depth overview of the APGA, detailing its mission, structure, and the value it brings to businesses. She outlined APGA’s founding members, which include the SMF, the Singapore Business Federation, ISCA (The Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants), GS1 Singapore, and the Singapore International Chamber of Commerce, among others. She emphasized the alliance’s commitment to providing actionable sustainability tools and advocating for Asia Pacific priorities on the global stage.

During the discussion, the following points were highlighted:

(1) Key Objectives and Framework of APGA

APGA operates in four main areas:

1. Standards and Certification: Establishing a unified sustainability reporting standard for the region and a tiered certification system (Bronze, Silver, and Gold) to recognize corporate sustainability efforts.
2. Support and Guidance: Offering sustainability guidance, analysis, and consulting services to help companies develop ESG strategies tailored to their business models.
3. Education and Training: Providing international, regional, and localized training on ESG standards, certifications, and best practices.
4. Advocacy and Networking: Partnering with industry bodies, governments, and NGOs to amplify Asia Pacific’s voice in global sustainability discussions.

Ms. Kwan highlighted the increasing regulatory pressures and consumer demand for sustainable products. She presented a timeline illustrating how various Asia Pacific economies are progressively introducing ESG regulations. She stressed the importance of early adoption to avoid a last-minute scramble when sustainability compliance becomes mandatory.

(2) The APGA Certification System

The APGA certification system categorizes companies into three tiers based on their sustainability performance:

• Bronze: Recognizing companies that have initiated basic sustainability efforts.
• Silver: Awarded to companies integrating sustainability into their business operations with measurable goals.
• Gold: Reserved for companies demonstrating sustained leadership in ESG over several years.

The evaluation process considers factors across three key ESG pillars:

• Environment: Policies on environmental protection, sustainable design, and energy savings.
• Social: Diversity, employee education, and healthcare benefits.
• Governance: Accountability and transparency in management.

APGA also acknowledges existing ESG certifications (e.g., Green Mark, ISO standards) in its assessment, ensuring companies’ prior sustainability efforts are recognized.

(3) Case Study: Schneider Electric

To illustrate sustainability leadership, Ms. Kwan presented Schneider Electric’s achievements, including its ambitious carbon reduction targets and its “Zero Carbon Project,” which aims to cut emissions from its top 1,000 suppliers by 50%. These efforts earned Schneider Electric the title of “Most Sustainable Company in the World” in 2024, demonstrating the long-term value of sustainability in business.

(4) APGA Marketplace and Business Opportunities

Beyond certification, APGA provides a marketplace for sustainable products and services, facilitating cross-border trade among certified companies. By joining APGA, businesses gain visibility, credibility, and access to international markets seeking verified sustainable partners.

(5) Collaboration with Chambers of Commerce

APGA offers chambers of commerce a structured approach to support their members’ sustainability journeys. Through a three-step process, chambers can:

1. Access APGA’s sustainability tools, training workshops, and resources.
2. Implement local sustainability standards using APGA’s methodology.
3. Support member companies in obtaining APGA certification, enhancing their global competitiveness.

(6) Exclusive Membership Offer for Chambers

To encourage participation, APGA introduced a limited-time membership offer for chambers of commerce: a three-year membership at $10,000 (a 33% discount), including premium branding, early access to sustainability tools, and opportunities for policy engagement.

(7) Presentation’s conclusion

Ms. Kwan closed the session by emphasizing the importance of collective action in driving sustainable business transformation. She invited chambers and SMEs to join APGA, take advantage of its tools, and contribute to shaping the future of sustainability in the Asia Pacific region.

Ms. Kwan’s presentation was followed by a panel discussion that elaborated on some of the points explained during the main presentation. The workshop concluded with an interactive Q&A, where participants raised practical questions.

(8) Moderated by Lim, the panel discussion section, featured three speakers, Mr. Thompson, Mr. Tan, and Ms. Kwan. The key issues discussed during their discussion are summarized as as follows:

(a) Mr. Thompson highlighted the following points:

• Entrepreneurial Perspective on Sustainability: Entrepreneurs recognize the importance of sustainability, despite global uncertainties. Younger entrepreneurs, in particular, see sustainability as a long-term business opportunity.
• Challenges for SMEs: Identified a “missing middle” of SMEs that lack adequate support, incentives, and resources to transition towards sustainable business practices.
• Key Findings from CACCI’s Study:
  (a) SMEs need better policy support, funding, and tax incentives, (b) Some industries (e.g., high-energy and manufacturing) face greater sustainability challenges, and (c) businesses prefer peer networks over external consultants for sustainability guidance.
• Blended Finance Solutions: Businesses require structured financial support, such as tax incentives, certification benefits, and subsidized loans to transition to sustainable practices.

(b) Mr. Tan discussed the following points:

• Sustainability as ROI, Not Just Cost
  Lennon emphasized a shift in perspective – sustainability is no longer just an expense but an investment with measurable returns. Companies that integrate sustainability can reduce costs and improve profitability.
• Case Studies Demonstrating Business Benefits
  He highlighted real-world examples, such as Apple reducing packaging waste, Unilever saving $1.2 billion through sustainability efforts, Tesla’s brand loyalty due to its green initiatives, and TSMC leading in sustainable semiconductor manufacturing.
• Sustainability as a Competitive Advantage
  Companies that prioritize sustainability position themselves better in the market. Firms like TSMC gain partnerships with top tech brands because of their strong ESG credentials.
• The Need for Clear Carbon Credit Frameworks
  In response to a question on carbon tokenization, Lennon pointed out that global carbon credit systems are still evolving, with different countries recognizing different standards. Businesses must align with accredited frameworks.
• Collaboration is Essential for Progress
  He stressed that organizations like APGA (Asia Pacific Green Alliance) are available to support businesses and chambers in taking meaningful sustainability steps. Partnering with associations can accelerate sustainability efforts.
• Call to Action for Chambers of Commerce
  Lennon concluded the discussion by urging chambers to take an active role in sustainability. He encouraged continued dialogue, collaboration, and leveraging APGA’s resources to make sustainability actionable and impactful.

(c) Ms. Kwan stressed the following:

• Chambers of Commerce as Enablers: Chambers can play a crucial role in supporting businesses with sustainability initiatives but often lack resources and expertise.
• Collaboration with APGA: APGA is partnering with chambers in Singapore to provide sustainability solutions, including workshops on carbon tracking and regulatory compliance.
• Tailored Support: Encouraged chambers to poll members on their sustainability needs and offer targeted workshops and guidance based on their readiness and business size.
• Marketing Potential: Even large businesses can leverage chambers for sustainability credentials to enhance their market positioning and international expansion.

The webinar session ended with Mr. Tan’s Closing Remarks inviting CACCI members and individual companies, especially SMEs, to contact the Asia Pacific Green Alliance and join the sustainability movement.

The presentation file can be downloaded HERE.

“ICC One Click webinar with CACCI members” on 27 March 2025 at 3PM Taipei time

The Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI) would like to invite you to join the upcoming webinar hosted by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) on ICC One Click scheduled for 27 March 2025 at 3:00 pm Taipei time.

Presented by Stephanie Vieilledent, Head of Chamber Relations at ICC, and Charly Gordon, Lead Innovation Lab • Transformation at ICC, the 60-minute webinar will introduce ICC One Click, the gateway to trade tools, solutions and guides to export and grow globally. The webinar will explain how to use ICC One Click on members’ websites and introduce its benefits to members.

We cordially invite all CACCI members to join the webinar and explore this new resource to improve your business operations.

To join the webinar in Teams, please click below:

ICC One Click webinar

Meeting ID : 357 328 017 474

Password: qF3dz9qF

39th CACCI Conference in Sri Lanka on 10-11 November 2025

CACCI is pleased to announce that the 39th CACCI Conference will take place on November 10-11, 2025, at Cinnamon Life Hotel in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Bringing together business leaders, policymakers, and industry experts from across the region, the conference will serve as a platform for dialogue on key economic trends, trade opportunities, and business collaboration. Participants can look forward to insightful discussions, networking sessions, and strategic partnerships aimed at driving regional growth.

Further details on the program and registration will be shared in the coming months. Stay tuned for updates!

CACCI and SMF Leaders Meet in Singapore

CACCI Vice President for Entrepreneurship Stuart Thomson (second from right) visited Singapore on February 26, where he met with Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF) President and CACCI Vice President for Sustainability Lennon Tan (third from right), along with SMF Council Members and staff.

CACCI Engages in Key Discussions at 44th Japan YEG National Convention

At the 44th Japan YEG National Convention in Kurume, Fukuoka, CACCI Senior Officers Teresa Liu and Abby Moreno participated in the Joint Chairperson Meeting, where Liu shared CACCI’s insights on the role of youth economic organizations. She highlighted the need to amplify young entrepreneurs’ voices, enhance skills through mentorship and training, and strengthen cross-border business networks, sparking discussions on deeper international collaboration.

CACCI was also formally introduced at the Convention Ceremony and took part in networking events, including a Welcome Party hosted by YEGAP Chairman Hiromi Aoki. Aoki later engaged in a Q&A session with economic journalist Shinichiro Suda, discussing Japan’s economic landscape and the role of young business leaders.

The convention reinforced CACCI’s ties with Japan YEG and other business groups, paving the way for future collaboration. The 45th Japan YEG National Convention will take place in Gunma Prefecture on February 24-28, 2026.

Asia Pacific Green Alliance webinar on 26 February 2025 at 2PM Singapore time

The Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI) and the Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF) are inviting members, and friends to join the upcoming webinar on “The Green Alliance: Latest Developments”, scheduled for 26 February 2025 at 2 PM Singapore time.

The 60-minute webinar, presented in a panel discussion format, will elaborate on the latest developments in the Asia Pacific Green Alliance (APGA) – a regional initiative led by SMF aimed at helping small and medium enterprises (SMEs) embark on their sustainability transformation through best practice sharing, standards development, advisory support and industry recognition while collectively striving towards a net-zero future and preparing for Industry 5.0.

ISSUES TO BE DISCUSSED

• Latest APGA Developments: Updates on sustainability certification, industry collaborations, and business support initiatives.
• How SMEs Can Benefit: Practical steps for SMEs to integrate sustainability into their business strategies.
• Challenges & Opportunities in Sustainability: Addressing key barriers such as cost, knowledge gaps, and supply chain requirements.
• The Role of National Chambers: How business chambers can support SMEs in their sustainability journey.

AGENDA

14:00 Opening Remarks by Peter McMullin AM.
14:02 Panel Discussion moderated by Michael Lim (Entrepreneur).
Panelists: (1) Peter McMullin AM, CACCI President; (2) Lennon Tan, SMF President, (3) Stuart Thomson, CACCI VP & Good Business Foundation President; and (4) Clara Kwan, SMF Chief Sustainability Officer.
14:40 Q&A session.
14:59 Closing Remarks by Peter McMullin AM.
15:00 End of webinar.

Register in Zoom HERE.

For more details about The Green Alliance Initiative, please click HERE.

14th World Chambers Congress in Melbourne on 2-4 September 2025

The 14th World Chambers Congress will be held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre in Melbourne, Australia on 2-4 September 2025. The event is the largest and only international forum that enables chamber leaders and professionals to share best practices, exchange insights, develop networks, address the latest business issues affecting their communities, and learn about new areas of innovation from chambers around the world.

The theme of its 14th edition, “Business, chambers, government: Partners for prosperity”, will explore how fostering collaboration among businesses, chambers of commerce, and governments can drive economic growth and prosperity.

Uniting more than 1,000+ business, chamber and political leaders from 100+ countries, the Congress is an ideal platform to connect public and private sector voices. Participants will also discuss the potential that mega trends in our economic landscape present and how we can leverage them for societal gain.

For more information visit https://wcc.iccwbo.org/ and contact info@14wcc.au

Mr. Stuart Thomson appointed CACCI Vice President

CACCI has the pleasure to announce the appointment of Mr. Stuart Thomson, Co-Founder and Executive Director, Good Business Foundation and Chief of Staff, CACCI President’s Office, as Vice President of CACCI. Mr. Thomson’s appointment to the position has the endorsement of the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry to represent the Oceania region of CACCI’s geographical membership.

CACCI President Peter McMullin AM said that “given Mr. Thomson’s leadership experience in many organizations, I am confident that he will be in the best position to assist me in implementing activities under my platform as CACCI President for the next two years of “Helping Business get SET for the Future”.”

Besides supporting Mr. Thompson’s appointment, President McMullin AM expressed his intention to  continue relying on Stuart Thompson in his effort to promote the critical role of entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial thinking among CACCI members – especially the Young Entrepreneurs Group of Asia Pacific (YEGAP) and the CACCI Women Entrepreneurs Council (CWEC) – over the next two years of his incumbency.

President McMullin also hopes that CACCI members will provide Mr. Thomson – and other CACCI Vice Presidents – continued support and cooperation in his effort to make CACCI an effective forum for advancing the cause of the Asian business community and for promoting regional economic cooperation among members.

Three Training Seminars on International Trade Terms for Spring 2025

The Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI) is proposing to organize Spring 2025 Training Sessions – in cooperation with interested Primary and Affiliate Members – consisting of three different one-day training seminars on International Trade Terms 2020 (Incoterms 2020) and related themes.

The three proposed one-day seminars are on:

(1) New Revision of the International Trade Terms (one day)
What you need to know to make your international trade deal successful based on Contract of Sale and ICC Rules Incoterms 2020

(2) Advanced Seminar on payment and security instruments in foreign trade, receivable finance, ESG and Compliance (one day)
Getting familiar with international payment and security conditions, risk, costs and their documentary requirements, including a session on compliance with focus on dual use goods, sanctions, and ESG aspects.

(3) Advanced seminar on INCOTERMS 2020 and their linkage to documentary credits (one day)
New information about use of Incoterms 2020 in relation to standard documentation and payments conditions above all documentary credits.

As the Incoterms 2020 practices continue to be updated continually since its inception in January 1, 2020, being familiar with all developments and their impact is a must in the international trade and finance world.

Interested chambers can choose from the suggested topics and preferably organize at least  two one-day courses. The programs can be adjusted according to the Chamber’s needs. For instance, there could be more comprehensive one-day course just on documentary credits and their financing, with news on some practical issues. New topics can be added or some can be deleted, more time can be allocated to practical case studies and discussions.

By attending the seminars, participants will be able to:

(1) Get a further understanding on the main aspects of contract of sale, related risks, main problematic issues;

(2) Familiarize themselves with trade terms as per Incoterms and above all with new revision Incoterms 2020 – their practical impact on international trade and finance; and

(3) Learn about the relationship of payment terms to trade terms – Incoterms 2020 and more.

CACCI recommends these training courses to bankers in trade finance, corporate specialists dealing with import/exports, bank lawyers, auditors, middle level management and related positions.

THE TRAINER

The seminars will be conducted by Mr. Pavel Andrle, long time members of the Banking Commission and Commission of Commercial Law and Practice of ICC, Trade Finance Trainer and Consultant.

In this regard, we would like to know whether your Chamber is interested in hosting the proposed seminars under a cost-sharing arrangement as outlined Shared Responsibilities Agreement which can be accessed per below.

If so, kindly fill out the Response Form and return it to us through our Fax No.: (886 2) 2760-7569 or e-mail cacci@cacci.biz by 30 April 2025.

To make Mr. Andrle’s training itinerary in Asia more efficient, CACCI is recommending that interested Chambers select holding the programs on either of the following two periods: (1) The week of May 5-9,  and (2) the week of May 19-23. Some Chambers have already booked certain dates.

The three seminars’ syllabus, Mr. Pavel’s resume, Shared Responsibilities Agreement and Response Form can be downloaded HERE.

Dr. Asli Elif Tanugur Samanci wins CACCI’s 4th Asia-Pacific Woman Entrepreneur Award

During the Gala Dinner of the 38th CACCI Conference held in Singapore on November 11-12, 2024, Dr. Asli Elif Tanugur Samanci, Co-Founder & General Manager, SBS Bilimsel Bio Cozumler San. Tuc. A.S. (Turkiye) accepted the 4th Asia-Pacific Entrepreneur Award from Mr. Chang and members of the Board of Judges Mr. Rommel Gerodias, President of A101 Innovations and Outgoing YEGAP Chairman, and Ms. Khulan Dhavaadorj, Founder and Director of Lhamour and Member, YEGAP Executive Committee.

Morang Chamber of Nepal wins CACCI’s 10th Big Chamber Award

During the Gala Dinner of the 38th CACCI Conference held in Singapore on November 11-12, 2024, the Chamber of Industries Morang of Nepal was awarded CACCI’s 10th Local Chamber Award.

Representatives from the Chamber of Industries-Morang accepted the Award from CACCI Advisory Board Chairman Mr. Harvey Chang and the members of the Board of Judges; Mr. Ernest Yuen, CACCI Vice President and Chairman of the Kowloon Chamber of Commerce , and Mr. Kazuo Nishitani, Executive Director of the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

CACCI Planning Meeting To Kick Off 39th Conference Preparations

CACCI will hold its Planning Committee Meeting on February 12, 2025, at 2:00 PM Taipei time (11:30 AM Sri Lanka time). This meeting marks the launch of preparations for the 39th CACCI Conference, set to take place in Colombo, Sri Lanka, and to be hosted by the Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Sri Lanka (FCCISL).

The Committee will finalize key details such as the conference theme, agenda, speakers, and program format to ensure the success of this milestone event. The conference will bring together business leaders and stakeholders from across the Asia-Pacific to address pressing regional issues and opportunities.

Further updates will follow as plans progress. For more information, please feel free to contact the CACCI Secretariat at cacci@cacci.biz.

2024 CACCI Annual Report available

CACCI is pleased to share with all our members and friends our Annual Report for 2024, which has been a year of significant achievements as we continued working toward our vision.

The CACCI Annual Report 2024 provides an overview of our activities, achievements, and initiatives over the past year, highlighting the hard work and dedication invested in supporting our regional community, advancing businesses, and creating new opportunities for growth and collaboration. We invite you to read the report, celebrate our collective accomplishments, and review the goals we have set for the year ahead.

Looking ahead, numerous exciting opportunities await our Confederation. I look forward to working together with you to chart a course for the future. To download the PDF file, please click HERE.

CACCI VP Atif Ikram Sheikh Hosts Tajikistan Delegation

A high-profile Tajikistan delegation, led by H.E. Mr. Daler Juma, Minister for Energy, met with Mr. Atif Ikram Sheikh, President FPCCI & ECO-CCI and Vice President CACCI, in Islamabad to discuss strengthening bilateral and regional economic ties.

Mr. Sheikh emphasized CACCI’s role in fostering collaboration across Asia-Pacific, highlighting its member countries’ significant economic impact, including 40% of the world’s population and $11 trillion in trade. He briefed the delegation on the outcomes of the 38th CACCI Conference in Singapore and invited Tajik businessmen to actively participate in upcoming CACCI initiatives.

Both sides discussed expanding cooperation in energy, infrastructure, and private sector development, aligned with Pakistan’s “Vision Central Asia” policy. Mr. Juma praised Pakistan’s support and highlighted the importance of enhancing business ties. The meeting concluded with agreements to explore new ventures and establish road, rail, and air connectivity, demonstrating the growing partnership.

CAMCA Regional Forum in Ulaanbaatar on 29 June 2025

The CAMCA (Central Asia-Mongolia-Caucasus-Afghanistan) Regional Forum is a non-political and non-partisan Forum established to promote region-wide discussions on means of advancing economic growth and development in the 10 countries of the region: Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Mongolia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. It promotes this goal by fostering dialogue and interaction among rising leaders from all sectors in the 10 countries of the region, as well as with international leaders and stakeholders.

The 2025 Forum, to be held in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia on 29 June 2025, is a premier opportunity to engage with prominent influencers and leaders in the CAMCA region and to gain firsthand insights on the region’s pulse and latest developments. Due to the diverse and impressive pool of participants, the Forum essentially serves as a ‘one-stop shop’ for professionals of all sectors who are interested in regional cooperation and partnerships, as well as for outside nations, businesses and organizations that have an interest in engaging with the region.

For more information please visit https://camcaforum.org/

Themes & Topics sought for 39th CACCI Conference in Colombo, Sri Lanka in 2025

The 39th Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI) annual conference will be hosted by the Federation of Sri Lanka Chambers of Commerce of Sri Lanka (FCCISL) in 2025.

In preparation for the 2025 Conference, members of the CACCI Planning Committee will meet virtually on February 12, 2025 primarily to discuss the Conference Program, including the themes and topics for the Conference.

In this connection, CACCI is seeking suggestions on economic, business or policy issues which CACCI members think are currently of great concern to members and the business sector of the region as a whole, and should be discussed by members during the 2025 Conference. Please let us know your thoughts by accomplishing the Suggestion Form and returning it to  through our Fax No. (886 2) 2760 1139 or via e-mail at cacci@cacci.biz.

CACCI would appreciate hearing from you before January 15, 2025 to give enough time to circulate all suggestions to the Planning Committee for consideration prior to its meeting.

The list of the themes and topics of past years’ Conferences can be downloaded HERE.

Thank you, and we look forward to receiving your response.

Sincerely yours,

Darson Chiu, Ph.D.
Director-General
Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI)

CACCI President co-hosts Australia-Taiwan Business Council in Melbourne

On December 3, Australia-Taiwan Business Council Ltd (ATBC) hosted its second major event of the year in Melbourne, focusing on strengthening ties between Australia and Taiwan. Senior federal politicians Dr Daniel Mulino MP (Labor, Chair of the Parliamentary Committee on Economics) and Senator James Paterson (Liberal, Shadow Minister for Home Affairs and Cyber Security, and Shadow Cabinet Secretary) both highlighted their admiration for Taiwan’s democratic values and expressed strong support for deeper bilateral relations.

The event gathered around 60 attendees, including notable figures such as State Labor MPs Kate Theophanous and Iwan Walters, representatives from the US Embassy, and officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Ray Lu, Director General of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office Melbourne, delivered remarks underscoring Taiwan’s commitment to international collaboration.

Co-hosted by the Australia-Taiwan Club (ATC) and Confederation of Asia Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI) the event was held at the elegant Collins Street offices of Cornwalls law firm. CACCI President Peter McMullin AM who is also Special Counsel at Cornwalls, played a key role in the proceedings. The Chair of ATC, Luke Donnellan also delivered the welcome remarks.

The evening was expertly coordinated by ATBC CEO Ching-Mei Maddock, with Vice Chairs Rowan Callick and Eliza Chui serving as the event’s master of ceremonies and closing speaker, respectively. The session provided valuable networking opportunities and reinforced the growing momentum for collaboration between Australia and Taiwan across various sectors.

https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7269909430693961728/

Webinar on Enhancing MSME Development in Timor-Leste

CACCI would like to invite members and friends to join the 87th Asian Impact webinar on 5 December 2024, Thursday, 2:00-3:00 PM, Manila time, Asian Impact Webinar: Enhancing MSME Development in Timor-Leste. Asia Small and Medium Enterprise Monitor 2024 conducted a business mapping survey in Timor-Leste. How can strengthening MSMEs diversify the economy and sustain development beyond its resource-oriented growth model?

As a webinar under the Zoom platform, registration is required to attend. Please register at https://asianimpact.adb.org in advance of the webinar date. A confirmation email containing the webinar link and password will be sent once you have successfully registered.

To view the past webinars, please visit the Asian Impact Webinar page and Youtube playlist

Singapore Senior Minister of State Mr. Desmond Tan speaks at 38th CACCI Conference

The 38th CACCI Conference & the inaugural Asia-Pacific Economic Forum, jointly organised by CACCI and Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF) were honored by the presence of Mr. Desmond Tan, Senior Minister of State of Singapore. His presence demonstrated the government’s commitment to working with associations like CACCI and SMF to support business growth across international boundaries.

The two-day conference was packed with back-to-back thought-provoking discussions led by business leaders and industry experts within the APAC region, covering crucial topics such as 𝘀𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆, 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗲, and 𝗔𝗜.

A key highlight was the official launch of the 𝗔𝘀𝗶𝗮 𝗣𝗮𝗰𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗰 𝗚𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗔𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 (𝗔𝗣𝗚𝗔), an initiative dedicated to fostering cross-border partnerships focused on sustainability. This initiative will allow businesses across APAC to share resources, knowledge, and innovations, fostering a strong ecosystem for a greener, resilient future.

SMF and CACCI would like to thanks all speakers, partners, delegates (local and overseas), participants, and sponsors for their active contribution towards the success of this Asia-Pacific event.

New CACCI Officers elected for 2024-2026

At the 38th CACCI Conference held on November 11-12, 2024, in Singapore, the CACCI Council endorsed the Advisory Board’s recommendations for the election of the officers to lead CACCI for the 2024-2026 term.

CACCI would like to congratulate the newly elected leaders as they take on the responsibility of guiding CACCI toward greater collaboration and success across the region!

PRESIDENT

Peter McMullin AM, Australia, Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI), Chairman of McMullin Group.

VICE PRESIDENTS

(1) Pradeep Kumar Shrestha, Nepal, Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), Managing Director of Panchakanya Group.

(2) Ernest Yuen, Hong Kong, Kowloon Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI). Chairman of Kowloon Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI).

(3) Dr. Alireza Yavari, Iran, Iran Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture (ICCIMA), Chief Advisor and Representative for Regional Organizations at the Iran Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture (ICCIMA).

(4) Hiroshi Oshima, Japan, Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI), President of Sembikiya Fruit Co. Ltd.

(5) Atif Ikram Sheikh, Pakistan, Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), Chief Executive of Mujahid Group of Industries.

(6) Henry Kao, Taiwan, Chinese International Economic Cooperation Association (CIECA), Chairman of the Chinese International Economic Cooperation Association (CIECA).

(7) Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu, Turkey, The Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey (TOBB), President of The Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey (TOBB).

(8) Lennon Tan, Singapore, Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF), President of Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF).

(9) Ma. Alegria Sibal-Limjoco, Philippines, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), Director for SDG at the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI).

HONORARY TREASURER

Dr. Leslie Wong, Hong Kong, Kowloon Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), Permanent Vice President of Kowloon Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI).

BUDGET COMMISSION MEMBERS

(1) Amb. John Feng, Taiwan, Chinese International Economic Cooperation Association (CIECA), Adviser to Chinese International Economic Cooperation Association (CIECA).

(2) Raymund Jude G. Aguilar, Philippines, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), Vice President – International Affairs Committee, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI).

(3) Peter McMullin AM, Australia, Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI), Chairman of The McMullin Group.

YEGAP Khulan Davaadorj on Sustainability in Singapore

Khulan Davaadorj speaks on Sustainability at the 38th CACCI Conference in Singapore

So happy to have been invited as a speaker for the panel discussion “Sustainable and Resilient Business in Asia Pacific” at the 38th CACCI conference & Asia-Pacific Forum on November 11-12, 2024 in Singapore, together with representatives from Asian Development Bank (ADB), EY, Huawei, Asia Limited and Rothman & Roman Group!

I am happy that my little start-up that I created 10 years in my kitchen has become the recognition internationally. Even though we are a small company from Mongolia with the aim to provide people with natural skincare products, our vision is big and we have always from day one prioritized sustainability. It is not just something fancy or a must-do thing for us – but something we value intrinsically and feel is needed for today’s world.

We launched 7 years ago Mongolia’s first zero waste corner where people can come with their own containers and get their favorite body oil, facial oils refilled; prioritized the use of recycled paper, have a zero waste production and also use fresh yak and goat’s milk directly from the herders, allowing them to have constant additional family income. We take back packaging and give discounts to all those who did it and use recycled paper for our gift baskets. Also, all our products are hand made by women and increased sales means increased employment by adding more people. We fundamentally believe that if all companies, small and big as well as private people lead with sustainability at their core, we can all make a huge impact.

Thank you again CACCI for having me speak about Lhamour’s experience. Having a small company also at the table and hearing their voice and their insight is important.

Love,

Khulan Davaadorj
Lhamour
YEGAP

https://www.lhamour.com/blogs/news/guest-speaking-about-sustainability-at-the-cacci-conference-in-singapore?srsltid=AfmBOoqgBX66EvDo5itDfrQ5fhjpULALvTqDopd9N_Qq__c-fS6MGwlK

Invitation to participate in the The Joint Regional Sustainability Survey

The Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI) has agreed to be a major partner of the Green Alliance Initiative of the Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF).  The Green Alliance Initiative aims to help SMEs in the Asia-Pacific region to embark on their sustainability transformation, sharing of best practices, standards development, advisory support, recognition, and collectively striving towards a net-zero goal and be future-ready for Industry 5.0. Underscoring its importance, CACCI President Mr. Peter McMullin AM said that the Green Alliance Initiative is designed to empower SMEs on their sustainability journey.

In this connection, CACCI would like to invite its members to participate in the The Joint Regional Sustainability Survey which aims to understand the sustainability challenges and needs of enterprises across the Asia-Pacific region. The survey focuses on assessing the current awareness, capabilities and obstacles companies face in the different Asia Pacific economies when integrating economic, environmental and social criteria into their operations.

The key objectives of the survey include:

• By engaging companies from different countries, the survey aims to uncover regional variations and commonalities in sustainability challenges and needs, providing a holistic understanding of the business landscape.
• The insights will help us form tailored programs and resources that enable companies to implement sustainable practices effectively, enhancing their competitiveness and resilience in a rapidly evolving global market.
• This effort seeks to foster a unified APAC voice on sustainability, encouraging shared learning and collaboration among businesses and stakeholders to drive impactful, region-wide sustainability outcomes.
• The aggregated data will provide valuable input for industry leaders, shaping standards that are supportive of companies and aligned with global sustainability goals.

CACCI members are encouraged to accesss the survey at: https://forms.gle/HUJyoxMaJojQGPdb9

Onboarding for ADAMftd

CACCI has signed an MOU with the International Council for Trade Transparency and Monitoring (ICTTM) aimed at providing access to CACCI and its members to the ADAMftd software system, a revolutionary tool aimed at enhancing transparency and compliance in international trade.

The MOU forms the basis for the provision of priority access to the ADAMftd software system for CACCI and its members, thereby enhancing the economic activity of companies, ensuring their compliance with international trade rules and regulations, and assisting them in identifying new international markets.

To help you make the most of your ADAMftd experience, the ICTTM has provided hereunder the essential resources and tools designed to give hands-on support and simplify your onboarding journey.

(1) On-Demand Onboarding Webinar

This session, available anytime, offers a comprehensive overview of ADAMftd’s features and benefits. Please share this resource widely to ensure your members feel confident and ready to engage with the platform. Please check this link: https://webinarkit.com/webinar/registration/671c708a1b392aee5e837259

(2)Weekly Office Hours Starting November 4th

Beginning November 4th, the ICTTM is hosting office hours every Monday at 1 PM UK time and every Friday at 10 AM UK time. This is a valuable opportunity for your members to receive real-time support and guidance directly from our team. Please check this link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82857917133?pwd=1QNhqiIYbQl1RaNUh8W7T2YRUoE3jo.1

TOBB Mehmet Büyüksimitci attends the CACCI Conference

The 38th Asia-Pacific Confederation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI) Conference was held in Singapore on November 11-12, 2024. The conference was attended by TOBB Board Member Mehmet Büyüksimitci representing the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Türkiye (TOBB).

Within the scope of the conference, the 38^th CACCI Board of Directors Meeting chaired by CACCI President Peter McMullin, M. Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu, President of the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Türkiye (TOBB), was re-elected as Vice President of the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI) for 2025-2026, a position he has held since 2014.

Mehmet Büyüksimitci held a meeting with Turkish Ambassador Mehmet Burçin Gönenli. During the meeting, Türkiye-Singapore trade and economic relations were discussed.

In addition, BEE’O Propolis Co-Founder/CEO Dr. Aslı Elif Tanuğur Samancı won the ‘Best Woman Entrepreneur’ award at the ‘Women Entrepreneur Awards’ organized by CACCI.

The Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI) was founded in Taiwan in 1966 by 10 national chambers of commerce. Australia, Papua New Guinea, New Zealand from the Oceanian Continent; Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, Mongolia, Taiwan, Russian Federation from East Asia; Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore and Vietnam from Southeast Asia; Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka from South Asia; Azerbaijan, Georgia, Iran, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Türkiye from Central Asia are members of CACCI. Its aim is to contribute to the development of the economies of the Asia-Pacific region by bringing together the business worlds of the member countries.

https://www.tobb.org.tr/Sayfalar/Eng/Detay.php?rid=14313&lst=Haberler

CACCI joins 50th Philippine Business Conference & Expo (PBC&E) 2024

Representatives from the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI) attended the 50^th Philippine Business Conference & Expo (PBC&E) 2024 organized by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) on October 22-23, 2024 at the Marriott Hotel in Manila, Philippines.

The CACCI delegation was led by CACCI Vice President Dr. Alireza Yavari, Director-General Dr. Darson Chiu, Deputy Director-General Mr. Amador Honrado Jr., Senior Officer Ms. Abby Moreno, and two representatives from the Middle East Commercial Association, namely GCC Local Market Manager Milad Hajhossseini and Digital Platforms Manager Mohammad Amin Emamian.

Focusing on the theme “Embracing Innovation, Empowering Business, Enriching Lives”, the 50^th PBC&E 2024 explored sustainable growth strategies essential for businesses to thrive in today’s competitive landscape. A line-up of renowned speakers from both government and business sectors – including Philippine Vice President H. E. Sara Duterte – were invited to address significant industry concerns, particularly in such sectors as ICT, agriculture, science and innovation and tourism.

Program Summary

Day One

The first day of the conference took a look back and assessed what is relevant from the past 50 years and the lessons that stand out, examining where the Philippines is now and what are in store for the future in the lens of future-ready business leaders.

Plenary Session: Looking Forward through the Lens of Future-Ready Business Leaders

The invited speakers noted that the business landscape has been shifting dramatically over the last 20 years, accelerating even faster in 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic put economies at a standstill. They observed that dynamic changes have given birth to agile, responsible and decisive business leaders who must face an array of challenges – from climate change to technological disruption, to social inequality to geopolitical tensions. The shared their views o how the new generation of business leaders are navigating these challenges – how they are able to see what is coming, capturing opportunities and creating value out of these.

 Plenary Session: The Emerging Influence of Asia as a Global Force  

The speaker and panelists agreed that the economic center of gravity continues to move toward Asia, noting that the region’s outward-looking economy and innovation-driven markets have resulted in the rapid rise of the countries in the region led by China and India. They examined the factors that have enabled Asia to influence and shape a new era for its economies and the world, and the key priorities in the domestic agenda for Asia’s emerging countries as they forge ahead in the “Asian Century”.

Day Two

Discussions on the second day focused on the key elements needed for the country to leapfrog to higher economic growth, primarily on technologies and innovation, capitalizing on the demographic dividend, and transforming the agriculture system to sustain and further propel the country’s growth.

Plenary Session: Human Capital Development, An Investment in the Future

The speakers and panelists observed that with the labor force projected to have double digit growth from 2020 and beyond, the Philippines is seen to benefit from a “demographic window of opportunity” to energize its economy and backstop its growth. They agreed that tor the country to capitalize on this opportunity, critical investments must be made in health, education and social welfare. They looked into the challenges and policies and resources needed to strengthen the country’s human capital and secure a future-proof and accelerated economic growth.

Plenary Session: Reshaping the Philippine Agriculture Landscape

The invited speaker emphasized that strengthening the agri-food system is key to ensuring food security for the country, the productivity of farmers, and inclusive and resilient countryside development. He noted that the agriculture (and fishery) sector faces long-standing challenges such as low farm and labor productivity, lack of access to credit and insurances, unsustainable farming practices, weak export performance and lack of diversity, inadequate infrastructure, land fragmentation, climate change and environmental risks, and the different agricultural diseases such as the African Swine Flu. According to him, addressing these hurdles requires a holistic approach. Discussion focused on government’s programs, projects and policies to address the challenges of the sector and realize the vision of a food secure Philippines, and enable farmers and fisherfolks to live productively off their lands and resources.

Breakout Sessions

Breakout Session 1: Shaping the Future of Entrepreneurship through Dialogue with Entrepreneurs, Support Networks, and Policymakers

Organized by the Philippine Young Entrepreneurs Association, the session consisted of two panel discussions:

Panel Discussion 1 addressed the topic “Refining Entrepreneurial Support: Revisiting Key Insights”. The panelists revisited the key takeaways from the inaugural “Build to Last” mini-conference, where early-stage founders and growth-stage enterprises explored challenges and opportunities in securing funding and team building. They provided updates on their experiences since then, shared progress on addressing identified challenges, and discussed how insights from Investor Networks, Funding Platforms, and University Incubators have been implemented. The discussion aimed to set the stage for identifying remaining gaps and opportunities for further improvement

Panel Discussion 2 delved on “Policy Action for Entrepreneurial Excellence: Crafting Solutions with Policymakers”. Building on the insights from the first panel discussion, the session engaged policymakers and key advisors in a critical dialogue aimed at translating recommendations into concrete actions. They focused on developing actionable policy steps to address the issues highlighted by PYEA and the entrepreneurial community. The panelists collaborated to draft and refine policy proposals that enhance the business environment, foster innovation, and support sustainable entrepreneurship in the Philippines. This session primarily aimed to create a clear roadmap for policy improvements and strategic support to position the Philippines as a leading hub for entrepreneurship.

Breakout Session 2: Business Dispute Resolution: The Advantages and Benefits of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) under the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Dispute Resolution Services (DRS)

The main objectives of the session were: (a) to inform the business community of the advantages of ADR over court litigation in resolving business dispute; (b) to explain the spectrum of ICC ADR modes and highlight the unique features and advantages of each mode to suit various business exigencies; and (c) to show how ICC DRS has been the worldwide leader in ADR.

Breakout Session 3: Technology for Good – Scaling Sustainability and benefits for SMEs

Organized by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), the session discussed how SMEs, without vast resources, can leverage digital technologies and innovations to achieve Sustainability, and gain competitive advantages. Its primary objectives are to:

• Generate insightful discussion on the ESG landscape in Philippines and Asia, highlighting companies benefiting from sustainable practices – potential positive impact on reputation/brand image, cost savings, market positioning, access to preferential financing rates, just transition and greater social responsibility.

• Learn more about various ESG-enabling programs and guidelines available from international organizations the free United Nations ESCAP Sustainable Business Network (ESBN) APAC Green Deal.

• Learn about ESG trends and be part of a hands-on workshop to learn how SMEs can utilize digital technologies like the free Green Deal Digital platform, with a quick practical hands-on activity to preview how one can calculate and create a GHG and ESG report easily, without need to have vast resources.

Side Activities of the CACCI Delegation

The CACCI delegation on October 22 called on Ms. Evariste M. Cagatan, Executive Director, Investments Promotion Services at the Board of Investments under the Department of Trade and Industry of the Philippines. The meeting was arranged by PCCI. The delegation was accompanied by Mr. Edwin Glindro, Deputy Secretary General of PCCI, and Ms. Lyn Gabionza, International Relations Department.

During the meeting, the CACCI visitors had the opportunity to introduce CACCI and its activities to Ms. Cagatan, and highlighted the important role played by PCCI in the founding of CACCI and its continued strong support of the Confederation and its activities. They also extended an invitation for Ms. Cagatan to participate in the upcoming 38^th CACCI Conference scheduled to be held on November 11-12, 2024 in Singapore, with the Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF) as host.

Ms. Cagatan made a presentation on the current economic situation in the Philippines, discussed the sectors in which foreign investments are encouraged by the government, and the pointed out the incentives offered to foreign investors. These include investments in activities that promote the following:

• Green ecosystems
• Health-related activities
• Defense-related activities
• Industrial Value-chain gaps
• Food Security related activities
• Research & development and activities adopting advances digital production technologies
• Highly technical manufacturing and production of innovative products and services
• Establishment of innovation support facilities

Dr. Yavari offered to disseminate to CACCI members the information contained in Ms. Cagatan’s presentation to help attract investments in the Philippines from CACCI member countries. Ms. Cagatan expressed her appreciation to Dr. Yavari his kind offer.

CACCI Partnership on the Europe-Asia Economic Summit 2025

CACCI is pleased to announce our partnership with the Europe-Asia Economic Society (EAES) for its upcoming Europe-Asia Economic Summit to be held next year in Davos, Switzerland. We believe this partnership offers CACCI members an exceptional platform to network, gain valuable insights, and explore new business ventures on a global scale.

This flagship event scheduled for May 26-28, 2025, at the Congress Center opens up unparalleled opportunities for you to:

• Network with leaders: Connect with industry leaders across various sectors, explore opportunities, and build partnerships.
• Explore AI solutions: Learn about the latest advancements in AI and how they can be implemented to drive business growth.
• Tackle sustainability challenges: Discover strategies for achieving sustainable economic development while addressing climate change concerns.

The Summit will delve into two pivotal topics on AI and Sustainability, specifically focusing on:

• Opportunities, Challenges, and Threats in the New AI Era
• Sustainable Developments to Balance Economic Growth with Climate Degradation

Registration is now open!

Secure your spot and find more information about the venue, recommended hotels, and programme via this Link.

Tentative Agenda is HERE.

EAES is a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering economic collaboration and innovation between Europe and Asia, driving sustainable development and leveraging advanced technologies to address global opportunities and challenges.

For more details about the Summit, please visit the EAES website: https://www.eaesummit.com/index.php/registration.html

Don’t miss this opportunity to network with key players, gain insights from industry experts, and explore global business ventures.

If you have further questions at this stage, please do let us know at cacci@cacci.biz.

International Trade Council offers Online Courses

CACCI is pleased to inform members and friends about the invitation from the International Trade Council (ITC) to participate in its upcoming three online courses on the following topics described below:

• Securing Global Trade: The USA Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT)
• Navigating the EU Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive
• Mastering U.S. Customs Clearance and Documentation for Food Imports

We encourage its members to disseminate this information among your constituents who may find these topics useful for their trade activities.

We also attach a downloadable PDF file with more detailed information about these activities.

ADB webinar on Asian Development Outlook on 25 September 2024

CACCI is inviting members and friends to join the 81st Asian Impact webinar on 25 Sept 2024, Wednesday, 2:00-3:00 PM, Manila time, Asian Impact Webinar: Asian Development Outlook September 2024 Launch. Developing Asia’s outlook remains upbeat, with falling inflation and solid growth driven by strong domestic demand and exports. But risks remain, including geopolitical tensions and rising protectionism. How can the region remain resilient?

As a webinar under the Zoom platform, registration is required to attend. Please register at https://ado.adb.org in advance of the webinar date. A confirmation email containing the webinar link and password will be sent once you have successfully registered.

To view the past webinars, please visit the Asian Impact Webinar page and our Youtube playlist.

50th Philippine Business Conference and Expo (PBC&E) on 22-23 October 2025

Focusing on the theme “Embracing Innovation, Empowering Business, Enriching Lives”, the  50^th Philippine Business Conference and Expo (PBC&E) being organized by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) on October 22-23, 2024 in Pasay City, Metro Manila, Philippines will explore sustainable growth strategies essential for businesses to thrive in today’s competitive landscape. A line-up of renowned speakers from both government and business sectors have been invited to address significant industry concerns, particularly in such sectors as ICT, agriculture, science and innovation and tourism.

CACCI is pleased to provide HERE the latest Program, together with a list of recommended hotels where delegates may stay as provided by the PCCI.

We therefore encourage you to join CACCI Secretariat and delegates at this year’s PBC&E. Mr. McMullin has also requested PCCI to help arrange meetings for the CACCI delegation with relevant government offices and a number of company visits to allow CACCI members to gain first-hand information on the trade and investment opportunities in the Philippines and to explore possible areas of business cooperation.

Register now at:  https://bit.ly/50th-philippine-business-conference-and-expo-registration

For further inquiries, you may contact the PCCI International Affairs directly at lyn.gabionza@philippinechamber.com, or the CACCI Secretariat at cacci@cacci.biz.

SME Development Council’s Newsletter available

We are excited to share with you the latest edition of the SME Development Council’s Newsletter – Volume XIV! (Click HERE to download.)

This compilation of news, reports, and analyses highlights the challenges and opportunities facing Micro-, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs), with a particular focus on innovation and technology, sustainability, and inclusivity in the Asia-Pacific region. This issue explores how digital tools and technologies can help MSMEs, particularly those led by women, to enhance productivity, innovation, and market reach. It also delves into how fintech can assist MSMEs in adopting sustainable practices and how they can contribute to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

We hope this issue equips you with valuable insights to empower MSMEs to navigate the evolving business landscape throughout the Asia-Pacific region, especially as we build towards a stronger and more inclusive business community that benefits all.

We also take this opportunity to encourage you to share your thought leadership by submitting relevant articles for consideration in future issues. Please send your materials, along with any accompanying photos (if applicable), to cacci@cacci.biz.

FICCI & CACCI webinar on Food Processing & World Food India 2024 held on 1 August 2024

The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) and the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI) jointly organized a webinar on “Investment Opportunities in Indian Food Processing Sector & World Food India 2024” on 1 August 2024.

The 60-minute becinar was moderated by Kunal Chaudhary, FICCI Director, and featured 4 distinguised speakers: Darson Chiu, Ph.D., CACCI Director General; Shri Minhaj Alam, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), Government of India; Tanshi Sahu, Invest India Presenter and Shri Ranjit Singh, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), Government of India.

Here is the summary of their presentation:

SUMMARY

Darson Chiu, Ph.D., CACCI Director General

Darson Chiu welcomed participants to the webinar on investment opportunities in India’s food processing sector and the upcoming World Food India 2024 event. He highlighted India’s rapid economic growth and the food processing sector’s significant expansion in recent years, supported by government initiatives such as infrastructure modernization. With a large population, rising disposable incomes, and a booming food retail market, India has emerged as a global hub for food processing.

Kunal Chaudhary, FICCI Director

Kunal Chaudhary, representing FICCI, introduced the event by acknowledging FICCI’s role as one of India’s largest apex chambers and its close collaboration with the government for World Food India. He welcomed the esteemed speakers from the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) and Invest India, emphasizing their key roles in the event.

Shri Minhaj Alam, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI)

Shri Minhaj Alam commended CACCI, FICCI, and Invest India for organizing the webinar, recognizing it as an essential platform to showcase India’s food processing opportunities. He highlighted India’s position as one of the world’s fastest-growing major economies, with a GDP of $3.7 trillion and ambitious growth targets for 2047. India, being one of the largest producers of agricultural and horticultural products, presents immense potential for value addition, reducing food wastage, and increasing farmer incomes.

He outlined the MoFPI’s commitment to supporting the industrial ecosystem through infrastructure development and various incentive schemes, such as PM Kisan Sampada Yojana and PMFME. World Food India 2024, scheduled for September, aims to bring together key stakeholders to discuss investment opportunities, innovations, and sustainable growth in the sector. The event will also feature international delegations, B2B meetings, and industry partnerships, reinforcing India’s growing role in the global food ecosystem.

Tanshi Sahu, Invest India Presenter

Ms. Sahu provided a detailed overview of India’s economic growth and its thriving food processing industry. She highlighted that India is one of the fastest-growing large economies, with GDP growth expected to reach 7.6% in 2024. The country boasts strong exports, reaching $776 billion in 2023, with significant contributions from agricultural and food products. Key points from her presentation include:

• India is a world leader in milk, livestock, millet, and pulses, while also ranking second in food grains, fruits, vegetables, and tea production.
• The Indian food processing market is projected to reach $535 billion by 2026.
• Low levels of food processing present significant opportunities: only 21% of milk, 3.3% of food and beverages, and 34% of meat production is processed.
• Government initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojna and production-linked incentives provide capital subsidies and tax benefits to boost food processing investments.
• 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is permitted through the automatic route for food processing, enhancing investment prospects.
• World Food India 2024, scheduled for September 19-22, aims to transform the food processing ecosystem by showcasing innovations, promoting sustainability, and facilitating market access for domestic and global stakeholders.
• The 2023 edition of the event witnessed participation from 24 states, 16 international delegations, and ministerial representatives from multiple countries. Over 16,000 B2B meetings were conducted, and MoUs worth $3.98 billion were signed.
• The 2024 edition will feature expanded thematic sessions, new focus sectors like plant-based proteins and sustainable packaging, and a larger-scale Food Street experience.

Shri Ranjit Singh, Joint Secretary, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI)

Shri Ranjit Singh, in his closing remarks, commended the event’s organizers and emphasized India’s commitment to strengthening trade relations in the Asia-Pacific region. He invited international partners to actively participate in World Food India 2024, underscoring the event’s role as a platform for strategic collaborations, investment opportunities, and technological advancements in the food sector.

Latest issue of the Asian Textile & Garments Newsletter is available

We are excited to share with you the latest edition of the Asian Textiles & Garments Council’s Newsletter – Volume Nine! (Click HERE to download.)

This issue explores recent developments in the Asia Pacific textile and garment industry through a collection of relevant news, reports, and analysis. It features a message from the ATGC Chair calling for stronger collaboration within the Asian textile industry to strengthen trade relations, boost economic growth, and promote sustainability efforts.

In addition to the Chair’s message, the newsletter offers insightful articles on various topics, including the current state of the industry in 2024, the booming Asian fashion e-commerce market, and how innovation can lead the fashion industry towards a circular economy model.

We hope this issue equips you with valuable insights into the trends and conditions of the textile market throughout the Asia-Pacific region.

We also take this opportunity to encourage members to contribute relevant articles for future issues. Kindly forward your materials, along with accompanying photos if possible, to wenju.liao@cacci.biz.

CACCI Journal of Commerce & Industry is available

We are excited to share with you the latest edition of the CACCI Journal of Commerce & Industry – Volume 1 2024! (Click HERE to download.)

This edition includes reports examining APAC’s economic growth trajectory and AI’s pivotal role and provides insights into the future of global business and innovation, commentaries on trade policy developments, articles on the capacity of ESG investment to support environmentally and socially responsible business practices in Asia, and more.

We trust this Journal will equip businesses with the knowledge needed to navigate the dynamic business environment in the Asia-Pacific region, and help them stay informed about current trends and future developments through in-depth analysis and expert perspectives.

We also take this opportunity to encourage you to share your thought leadership by submitting relevant articles for consideration in future issues. Please send your materials, along with any accompanying photos (if applicable), to cacci@cacci.biz.

CACCI Director-General Calls on KCCI Officers

CACCI Director-General Dr. Darson Chiu (2^nd from right) on July 19, 2024 made a courtesy call on officers of The Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) led by Mr. Archer Lee, Vice President for International Trade Division (2^nd from left). Joining the meeting were CACCI Deputy Director-General Mr. Amador Honrado Jr. (rightmost) and Mr. Beom Sik Jung, Director, International Trade Division, Asia-Pacific Team, KCCI.

Dr. Chiu and Mr. Honrado briefed the KCCI officers on CACCI activities and provided them relevant information on KCCI’s involvement in CACCI since the Chamber joined the Confederation as a Founding Member in 1966. They encouraged Mr. Lee and his colleagues to have KCCI continue its active involvement in CACCI and its activities and provide CACCI members from other countries the opportunity to learn more about the Chamber and meet its officers and members.

The CACCI executives were in Seoul to participate in the 48^th Joint Conference of ROC-Korea and Korea-Taiwan Business Councils organized by the Chinese International Economic Cooperation Association (CIECA) and the Federation of Korean Industries (FKI) on July 19, 2024 in Seoul, Korea. CIECA is a Primary Member of CACCI from Taiwan.

CACCI joins 48th ROC-Korea Conference & Korea-Taiwan Business Councils

Director-General Dr. Darson Chiu and Deputy Director-General Mr. Amador Honrado Jr. represented the Confederation at the 48^th Joint Conference of ROC-Korea and Korea-Taiwan Business Councils organized by the Chinese International Economic Cooperation Association (CIECA) and the Federation of Korean Industries (FKI) on July 19, 2024 in Seoul, Korea.

Held at the FKI Tower Conference Center, the event was attended by some 100 businesspersons from both Taiwan and Korea who exchanged views on possible areas of cooperation that are expected to further strengthen the foundation of economic relations between the two countries. The Taiwanese delegation was headed by Mr. Jimmy Chu, Chairman, ROC-Korea Business Council under CIECA (Taiwan), while the Korean side was led by Mr. Joon Kim, Chairman, Korea-Taiwan Business Council and Mr. Kim Chang Beom, Vice Charman and CEO of FKI.

Speakers from both sides presented business opportunities in various fields including e-commerce, logistics, distribution, food and beverage, tourism, start-ups, new energy, smart manufacturing, machinery industry, and exchange programs for young Taiwanese and Koreans.

Before the closing of the Conference, Dr. Chiu met and conveyed his appreciation to Mr. Joon Kim, Chairman, Korea-Taiwan Business Council, and to Mr. Kim Chang Beom, Vice Charman and CEO of FKI, for the opportunity not only to participate in the important dialogue between members of CIECA and FKI which enabled him and Mr. Honrado to learn from the sharing of ideas on areas of possible cooperation between the two sides, but also to be able to introduce to them and to a number of FKI members about CACCI and its activities.

Dr. Chiu also extended invitation to both Mr. Kim and to other FKI officers and members to join the 38^th CACCI Conference scheduled to be co-hosted by the Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF) on November 11-12, 2024 in Singapore, adding that their presence will allow them to know more about the Confederation and to personally meet its officers and members from other Asia-Pacific countries.

Dr. Chiu and Mr. Honrado also joined the industrial visits organized by FKI for the visiting Taiwanese delegation on July 18 to the following:

LG Science Park

This technology park is considered Korea’s biggest R&D complex, the LG Science Park gathers LG’s major R&D capabilities including electronics, chemicals, and communications services to lay the foundation for innovation. Its Innovation Gallery showcases the future technologies and core products of LG.

Hyndai Motor Studio Goyang

This is the largest automobiles and mobility experience space in Korea where one can experience Hyundai Motor’s technology and future vision in a friendly and enjoyable way.

India’s booming with Investment Opportunities in Food Industry

India is one of the fastest growing economies, with numerous investment opportunities. The Indian food processing sector has achieved impressive growth, growing at Average Annual Growth Rate (AAGR) of 7.26% in the last 7 years. This indicates its strong potential and contribution to the Indian economy. The recent initiatives of the Government of India for driving the holistic growth of the Indian food processing sector such as simplification of processes, regulatory reforms, 100% FDI in food processing, Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana, Production Linked Incentive Schemes, creation of adequate infrastructure such as Mega Food Parks, cold chains, agro-processing clusters etc., have created a conducive environment for doing business in food sector in India.

With a population base of over 1.3 billion with rising disposable income, increased spending on food & consumer goods and fast-growing food retail market, India has become a Global Hub for food processing as well as food supply.

India’s booming with Investment Opportunities India offers ripe investment opportunities in the food processing sector, supported by a favourable environment for foreign investors and increasing demand. Recent initiatives include exempting processed food items from licensing under the Industries (Development and Regulation) Act, 1951.

The sector allows 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) via automatic route, with additional provisions for trading food products through e-commerce. A lower GST applies to raw and processed food products, with over 73% covered in lower tax slabs. India also introduced a Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme worth USD 1.3 billion to foster global food manufacturing champions. Processed food exports have significantly increased to 23.65% of total exports in 2023-24 from 13.7% in 2014-15, driven by rising shipments of rice, fruits, vegetables, livestock, and dairy products.

With the objective of introducing the world to rich Indian food culture, as well as, promoting investments in the diverse food processing ecosystem of India, the Ministry of Food Processing Industries organized the 2nd edition of World Food India in 2023 between 3rd to 5th November 2023. The mega event provided a platform to explore the Indian market across the value chain in food processing and food retail.

The event saw the participation of 1208 exhibitors and over 200 domestic buyers. In addition to this, in terms of the international participation, the event saw 715 international buyers from 90 countries, 15 country pavilions as well as 16 international delegations that visited the mega event. There was also participation from 24 domestic states and 14 central government ministries/departments/commodity boards that were present in the event. Additionally, one of the key highlights was the high-level industry interaction which was co-chaired by Hon’ble Minister, Commerce & Industry and Hon’ble Minister, Food Processing Industries.

Given the resounding success of the previous edition of World Food India, the Ministry is organizing the 3rd edition from 19th to 22nd September 2024 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. In the upcoming edition of World Food India, we have identified five focus areas namely, Sustainable packaging, minimizing waste, plant-based proteins, food irradiation and ensuring food safety for all from farm to fork. These sectors are imperative for domestic consumption, trade and innovation. All the activities in the mega event are aimed at increasing mutual cooperation and FDI in the food processing & allied sectors. The event will also have sectoral seminars, state seminars, country sessions, B2B/B2G/G2G sessions, besides an exhibition where state pavilions, sectoral pavilions and company stalls would be put up.

See related news: Invitation to a webinar on “Investment Opportunities in Indian Food Processing Sector & World Food India 2024”

FICCI & CACCI webinar on “Investment Opportunities in Indian Food Processing Sector & World Food India 2024” on 1 August 2024

CACCI is pleased to invite members and friends to join the webinar on “Investment Opportunities in Indian Food Processing Sector & World Food India 2024” to be held on August 1, 2024, 2PM, Taipei time.

Jointly organized by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) and the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI), the one-hour online session aims to showcase the  numerous investment opportunities in the Indian food processing sector which, with its impressive growth averaging 7.26% annually in the last seven years, is supported by a favorable environment for foreign investors and increasing demand.

The upcoming World Food India to be held on September 19-22, 2024 aims not only to promote investments in the diverse food processing ecosystem of India, but also to introduce to the world the rich Indian food culture. The event has identified five focus areas, namely, sustainable packaging, minimizing waste, plant-based proteins, food irradiation, and ensuring food safety.

AGENDA

14:00 Opening Remark by Darson Chi u, Ph.D., Director-General, CACCI

14:05 Introduction by FICCI Representative

14:10 Address by Shri Minhaj Alam, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), Government of India

14:20 Presentation on India opportunities & World Food India 2024 by Invest India and FICCI
Showcase: Promotional Video of World Food India 2024

14:30 Open House Discussion to seek company insights, suggestions and any other query

14:55 Closing Remarks & Vote of Thanks by MoFPI

15:00 End of Webinar

You may register for the webinar HERE.

Related news: India’s booming with Investment Opportunities in Food Industry

Webinar on “Chamber Model Innovation (CMI) Framework” on 31 July 2024 at 2PM Taipei time

CACCI is inviting Chamber colleagues to join the webinar on “Chamber Model Innovation (CMI) Framework: How to Deliver More Value to Your Members in 2024” to be held on 31 July 2024  at 2PM, Taipei time.

The one-hour session is being organized by CACCI, in partnership with the ICC World Chambers Federation (ICC/WCF) and Integra Seven, an advisory firm that helps organizations stay adaptable and competitive by fostering a culture of ongoing change and improvement to remain successful in a rapidly changing business environment.

The online session aims to provide actionable strategies and resources to enhance your Chamber’s performance in 2024. To be conducted by Ms. Natalia Sycheva, Partner of Integra Seven, the session will provide you the opportunity to explore:

• How to reduce cost and time for new service development
• How to enhance Chamber’s proposition for members
• How to become an attractive employer for the top talent
• How to think of AI disruptions to your business model

As an attendee, you will gain early access to information about CMI’s trainings and resources developed by ICC. This session also offers a Live Q&A, providing an opportunity to interact directly with experts.

Tentative Agenda:

02:00PM  – Welcome Remarks by Mr. Peter McMullin AM, President, CACCI

02:05PM  – Presentation by Ms. Natalia Sycheva, Partner, Integra Seven

02:35PM – Q&A Session

02:55PM – Concluding Remarks

You may register for the webinar through the following link: REGISTER

An Introduction about CMI can be downloaded HERE for further information.

38th CACCI Conference

ASIA ECONOMIC FORUM
“Making Asian Business Future-Ready”
11-12 November 2024, Singapore

One Farrer Hotel at 1, Farrer Park Station Road, Singapore 217562

Tentative Program
(As of 20 September 2024)

10 November 2024

Arrival of Delegates / Registration

15:00-16:00 CACCI Advisory Board (Spottiswoode Room, Level 6, One Farrer Hotel

16:00-17:00 CACCI Budget Commission Meeting, Level 6, One Farrer Hotel

11 November 2024

08:00 Registration (Grand Ballroom, Level 6, One Farrer Hotel)

09:30-10:00 First Day Opening Ceremony
Welcome Address by Mr. Peter McMullin AM, President of CACCI

10:00-10:15 Coffee Break

10:15-11:15 Plenary Session One: SME Development
“Global Perspectives on SME Development and Effective Public and Private Sector Cooperation in SME Development”
Moderator: Mr. George Abraham, Chair, SME Development Council

11:15-12:15 Plenary Session Two: Food and Agriculture
“Smart Agriculture for a Sustainable Future”
This session focuses on the transformative potential of modern agricultural practices and technologies to create a more resilient and sustainable food system in the Asia-Pacific region. It will explore the integration of innovative technologies such as precision farming, artificial intelligence, and data analytics to enhance productivity, reduce environmental impact, and improve resource efficiency.
Moderator: Mr. Pradeep Kumar Shrestha, Chairman of the Asian Council on Food and Agriculture

12:15- 13:15 Lunch

13:15-14:15 Plenary Session Three: ICT and Tourism
“Smart Tourism: Enhancing the Visitor Experience”
This session will feature speakers who will share their perspectives on the benefits of smart tourism: how investing in and developing smart tourism resources can enhance visitor engagement as well as strengthen the community’s “intelligence”; its implications on businesses and individuals alike who benefit from a more efficient infrastructure and service provision; how it can improve performance and competitiveness for companies engaged in tourism; and how smart tourism can manage climate change effects, increase revenues, and enhance tourist security through the use of digital technology.
Moderators: Dr. Dennis Hu, Chairman of the Asian ICT Council and Mr. Anura Lokuhetty, Chairman of the Asian Council on Tourism

14:15-15:15 Plenary Session Four: Water, Energy and Environment / Textiles and Garments
“Policy Perspectives: Driving Green Growth in Asia’s Energy and Textile Sectors”
This session will examine strategic policies aimed at accelerating green growth within Asia’s energy and textile industries. With the rapid expansion of these sectors presenting both significant opportunities and challenges for sustainable development, discussion in this session will focus on key policies that support the integration of renewable energy, enhance energy efficiency, and encourage sustainable textile practices.
Moderators: Mr. Gyanendra Lal Pradhan, Chairman of the Asian Council on Water, Energy and Environment and Ms. Shareena Safdar Janjua, Chairwomen of the Asian Council on Textiles and Garments

15:15-16:15 Plenary Session Five: Entrepreneurship
“Empowering Entrepreneurs: Skills, Innovation, and Sustainability”
This session will focus on themes relevant to both youth and women, addressing key areas such as resilience, import/export, and the importance of skills, especially in the context of the digital age and the rise of AI. Panelists will discuss the importance of digital skills for entrepreneurs, particularly in AI and cybersecurity; explore how to cultivate innovation in business by leveraging emerging technologies; and highlight building resilience through sustainable practices, emphasizing the integration of sustainability into business strategies.
Moderators: Mr. Rommel Gerodias, Chairman of the Young Entrepreneurs Group of Asia Pacific (YEGAP) and Ms. Mukta Nandini Jain, Chairwomen of CACCI Women Entrepreneurs Council.

16:15-16:30 Coffee Break

16:30-17:30 Plenary Session Six: New Initiative for Sustainability – APAC Green Alliance
Moderator: Mr. Clement Teo, Chief Sustainability Officer of the Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF)
Panelists:
(1) Peter McMullin AM, President of  CACCI
(2) Michael Lim, Founder of Launch Hero Digital Marketing Agency
(3) Stuart Thomson, Chief of Staff of CACCI President’s Office
(4) Clara Kuan, Secretary General (Designate) of APAC Green Alliance
(5) Ms Zsofia Balatoni, Chief Strategy Officer of Rothman & Roman

17:45-18:45 98th CACCI Council Meeting (CACCI Members Only) (Napier Room, Level 6, One Farrer Hotel)

19:00-21:15 Welcome Networking Reception (Standing) (Grand Ballroom, Level 6, One Farrer Hotel)
19:00 Registration
19:15-19:25 Welcome Address by Mr. Peter McMullin AM, President of CACCI and Mr. Lennon Tan, President of SMF
19:30-21:15 Networking.

12 November 2024

08:00 Registration

09:00 Grand Opening Ceremony

09:00-09:10 Welcome Address by Mr. Lennon Tan, President of Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF)

09:10-09:20 Address by Mr. Peter McMullin AM, President of Confederation of Asia Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI)

09:20-09:35 Keynote Address by Guest of Honor

09:35-09:40 Opening Mechanism

09:40 Presentation of Token of Appreciation to GOH

09:45-10:15 Coffee Break

10:15-1145 Plenary Session One: Sustainable and Resilient Business in Asia Pacific
Focusing on building sustainable business, this session would showcase how entrepreneurs across the APAC region are incorporating eco-friendly practices into their business models. Topics include green financing, sustainable supply chains, circular economy initiatives, and the role of startups in solving environmental challenges. Panel discussions would cover strategies for balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship, highlighting successful examples from various sectors.
Moderator: Mr. Lennon Tan, VP of CACCI for Sustainability and President of the Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF)

11:45-13:15 Plenary Session Two: The New Business Frontier: the Age of AI
This session explores the transformative impact of artificial intelligence and Cyber security across the Asia Pacific. Session speakers could delve into case studies of AI-driven business models, the role of AI in streamlining supply chains, enhancing customer experiences, and driving efficiencies. Discussions may also touch on policy frameworks and partnerships necessary to foster AI innovation while ensuring ethical and equitable deployment.
Moderator: Mr. Dennis Hu, Chairman of the Asian ICT Council

13:15-14:30 Lunch

14:30-16:00 Plenary Session Three: Future of Trade: Digitalization, E-commerce, and Cross-Border Collaboration
This session will examine the rapidly evolving landscape of international trade, emphasizing the digitalization of trade processes, the explosion of e-commerce, and the importance of cross-border collaborations. Discussions could include the impact of digital currencies, blockchain in trade finance, and strategies for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to tap into global markets. The session could also address policy adaptations and infrastructural support needed to facilitate seamless digital trade.
Moderator: Mr. Sheikh Fazle Fahim, VP of CACCI

16:00-17:00 Special Session on “Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone”

17:00-17:15 Special Address on the 14th World Chambers Congfress 2025 Melbourne by Mr. Paul Guerra, Chief Executive of the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

17:15-18:15 99th CACCI Council Meeting (Council Members Only) (Napier Room, Level 6, One Farrer Hotel)

19:00-22:00 Gala Dinner (Seated) ( Grand Ballroom, Level 6, One Farrer Hotel)

18:45 Registration and Cocktails
19:25 Guests to be seated
19:30 Start of Dinner
(1) Introductions by Emcee
(2) Welcome by SMF President Lennon Tan
(3) Welcome by CACCI President Mr Peter McMullin AM
(4) Speech by Guest of Honor (TBC)
(5) Installation of New Chairman of the Young Entrepreneurs Group of Asia-Pacific (YEGAP)
(6) Installation Ceremony for Newly Elected CACCI President
(7) Presentation of CACCI Awards
(8) Presentation of Token of Appreciation
22:00 End of Dinner

13 November 2024

09:30-12:00 Morning Business: Sitge Visit to Hyundai EV Factory in Singapore.

14:30-16:30 Afternoon Business: Site Visit to Innovation Centre under Agency for Science, Technology and Research (ASTAR) of Singapore.

Morning and Afternoon Social: Sightseeing tours by Travel agent (Payable)

Departure of Delegates

Registration Fees

Group Booking Perks

(1) For online registration and latest program, please click HERE.

(3) Conference fee does not include hotel accomodations. Early room rates are available until 10 October 2024. Please book HERE.

CACCI invited to Commonwealth Business Forum in Samoa on October 23-24 2024

A beach surrounded by palm trees and the sea under the sunlight in the Savai’i Island, Samoa

CACCI would like to share with its members an invitation letter from The Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council (CWEIC) inviting CACCI members to the 13th Commonwealth Business Forum (CBF) to be held on 23-24 October in Apia, Samoa.

“The Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council (CWEIC), in partnership with the Government of Samoa, is delighted to invite you to the 13th Commonwealth Business Forum (CBF) from 23rd – 24th October 2024 in Apia, Samoa.

“Please find attached a formal letter from our Chairman, Lord Marland of Odstock, inviting CACCI to send a senior private sector delegation to the Forum. This year, we are honoured to support the participation of distinguished leaders, including H.E. Fiame Naomi Mataʻafa, Prime Minister of Samoa.

“The CBF is designed to provide a space for high-level dialogue between businesses and government leaders from the Commonwealth and beyond. An important aim is to develop stronger partnerships to promote sustainable growth and resilience across the world. The Forum is attended by Heads of Government, Ministers, and senior business leaders from across the Commonwealth. Invitations will be extended to all 56 Commonwealth Heads of Government, along with a targeted list of leading businesses, institutions, and investment funds that can make a significant impact on the discussions.

“CWEIC has identified a select number of Commonwealth Country Chambers of Commerce, Investment Promotion Agencies, and Business Delegations from around the world to lead delegations and showcase their positions as the apex business organisations in their respective countries.

You can click on the following three documents for further details:

• A formal letter of invitation from CWEIC Chairman Lord Marland of Odstock
• CBF 2024 Programme
• Delegation Form”

For more information, please contact the CACCI Secretariat at cacci@cacci.biz

ADB Invitation to Attend “Asian Economic Development Conference 2024” in Seoul, South Korea

CACCI would like to share with its member an invitation from Joseph E. Zveglich, Jr., Deputy Chief Economist, Economic Research and Development Impact Department, Asian Development Bank, to attend the 3rd Asian Economic Development Conference to be held on 13–14 July 2024, in Seoul, South Korea:

“Dear Colleagues,

We are pleased to invite you to the 3rd Asian Economic Development Conference to be held on 13–14 July 2024. The conference is organized jointly by the Asian Development Bank, Asian Development Bank Institute, and Seoul National University.  It features knowledge and research that provide critical insights on key development challenges in Asia and the Pacific, including climate change, inequality and poverty, health and education issues, cross-border trade impediments, and macroeconomic and financial instability, among others.

Please see agenda.

Registration can be accessed at the conference webpage: Asian Economic Development Conference 2024 (eventsair.com)

CACCI VP Tariq Sayeed discusses Iran-Pak Wind Power Project with Minister of Energy

Khurram Tariq Sayeed, CEO Iran-Pak Wind Power and CACCI VP joined Mr. Hassan Nourian, Consul General of Iran in Karachi on a visit to Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, Provincial Minister of Energy, Planning & Development of the Sindh Government.

Also present on the occassion were First Counsel Mr. Amir Jafari, Secretary of Energy GOS Musadiq Ahmed Khan, CEO Sindh Transmission & Dispatch Company (STDC) Saleem Shaikh and the Director of Alternative Energy Department GOS Mehfooz Qazi.

The delegation briefed the Minister on the progress advanced by the Iran-Pak Wind Power project and other on-going initiatives by the Iranian investors in the energy sector of Pakistan, especially those in the Sindh Province.

The delegation appreciated the efforts being undertaken by Mr. Nasir Hussain Shah since taking charge of the Ministry of Energy after the recent elections. During the discussions, Mr. Shah assured the delegation that all investment’s impediments will be removed in order to fast track the wind power projects in Sindh.

CACCI Profile – June edition available

23CACCI is pleased to announce that the June 2024 issue of CACCI Profile is now available. Please click HERE to read or download.

This month’s President’s Update includes the announcement of CACCI President Mr. Peter McMullin AM’s appointment as Vice Chair of ICC WCF. The issue also features CACCI’s latest webinar on Bangladesh’s Business Environment. Additionally, the newsletter features the latest news from Member Chambers, along with a wide range of articles relevant to business and trade.

It is our ardent hope that this monthly publication is useful to you and your work, and enables you to know more about the CACCI, our members, and their activities.

If you wish other members of your organization to receive a copy of the CACCI Profile, please send us their names, titles/positions, and email addresses through cacci@cacci.biz

We would also appreciate receiving your comments on how we can further improve the CACCI Profile in terms of its format and contents.

If you have any articles you wish to share with our members, you are welcome to send these to us, with accompanying photos if possible, through cacci@cacci.biz.

Nominations for CACCI Office-Bearers for 2024-2026

CACCI is holding elections this year 2024 for new office bearers for the term 2024-2026. As such, we seek your help in identifying qualified candidates to assume leadership positions in CACCI. The nominee should have the following qualifications:

1. Must be a key member and is fully endorsed by your Chamber, to ensure he/she has the full support of your local constituencies;
2. Must have a strong interest and commitment to the chamber movement and to actively participate in the activities of CACCI,
3. Must be willing and financially capable to travel to attend CACCI meetings and other CACCI-related activities
4. Must be in a position to serve as liaison between CACCI and the local business community in his/her country
5. Must be proficient in English, and
6. Must be eager and willing to render volunteer work for CACCI

The specific responsibilities of the CACCI President, the Vice Presidents, Honorary Treasurer, and Budget Commission Members can be downloaded HERE. This document can serve as guide in identifying and nominating appropriate candidates for these positions. A list of the incumbent CACCI officers is also enclosed.

We would also like to draw your attention to the following Guidelines for the Nomination process:

1. Only those Primary Members who are up-to-date with their membership fee payment are qualified to nominate candidates

2. The following documents should be submitted along with each nomination:
   • Curriculum Vitae of the candidate
   • Acceptance of Nomination (to ensure that the candidate, if elected, will serve the position for which he/she is nominated.)

3. Nominations will be accepted for the following positions:

Maximum number of nominees

Please inform CACCI about your nominees for the above positions by accomplishing the attached Nomination Form – along with the Acceptance of Nomination and Curriculum Vitae of each nominee – and sending them back to us by July 31, 2024, if possible. We will submit all nominations to the CACCI Advisory Board for consideration.

Invitation from ICC WCF to Attend the 9th ICC Asia Pacific Conference on International Arbitration

CACCI is pleased to convey to its members the invitation from the ICC World Chambers Federation to attend the 9^th ICC Asia Pacific Conference on International Arbitration to be held on 27-28 June 2024 in Singapore:

“Join us on 27-28 June 2024 for the 9th ICC Asia Pacific Conference on International Arbitration in Singapore. Under the theme “Looking ahead: shaping the international arbitration ecosystem“, this event will bring together leading arbitration practitioners, in house counsel and academics. Second Minister of Law, Mr Edwin Tong SC, will deliver the keynote address.

Highlights will include the unveiling of the ICC-Jus Connect-McCann Report on Cross-Cultural Business, interactive sessions on expedited arbitration processes, and a behind-the-scenes look at the challenge of arbitrators with members of the ICC Court. Don’t miss out on this unparalleled opportunity to network with industry leaders and learn from top professionals.

The ICC Institute of World Business Law’s advanced training, which traditionally kicks off the event, will focus on Amicable Settlement of Disputes in International Arbitration: Party Expectations and Arbitrator Techniques.

Seats are filling up quickly, so register today to secure your spot! The promotional code: LEB-6936 will enable you to benefit from a late early-bird rate (USD 496 instead of USD 699).”

Successful webinar on Envision the Future of AI held 7 June 2024

A successful webinar on “Envision the Future of AI” was held on June 7, 2024. Organized by CACCI and moderated by Dr. Dennis Hu, Chairman of CACCI’s Asian ICT Council, the 90-minute webinar featured 5 experts who presented different perspectives on AI, and showcased their respective nation’s AI programs, strategic plans, focal areas, and developmental endeavors.

Herewith we present to you a summary of their presentations.

SUMMARY

(1) Dr. Yung-Hui Li, Director of AI Research Center, Hon-Hai Research Institute, Taiwan

Dr. Li stated that the general public have seen a glimpse of the AI power by experiencing Chat Gpt. However, it is important to see AI as an industry where a lot of things need to be prepared in the background and manufactured in order to make AI succeed.

From basic label like components such as chips, memory, sensors to devices such as cloud servers, user devices like PCs and smartphones will be needed to structure the new AI industry. Dr. Li said that hardware is fundamental because of the astronomical number of computations needed to reach AI efficiencies.

His company works closely with Nvidia to help package their GPU into modules. On the software side there are other partners such as Meta, Microsoft, Google, and other players who will be the last link to the consumer side.

Dr. Li argued that in order to have a successful AI usage in society, an emerging AI ecosystem is also needed to create smart manufacturing. AI requires the transformation from just making manufacturing electronics to the whole system like EV, so AI’s capabilities need to be embedded into the platform such as in the case of Smart EV.

These AI applications will evolve into complex systems such as smart city platform with overarching applications dealing with issues such as smart transportation, from home to destination using different means at variable times.

(2) Ms. Madeline Newman, Executive Director, AI Forum New Zealand

Madeline Newman talked about Aotearoa New Zealand’s collaborative approach to AI regulation, the importance of inclusion, and the common problems we all have in building trust in AI. She argued for actively creating safe and interesting places for people to play with the toolsets as key to building knowledge, familiarity and trust.

Madeline mentioned that the goal in her market is to use AI to promote economic opportunities using its supporting applications. It is necessary to ensure that society can adapt to rapid and far reaching changes that artificial intelligence technology is bringing.

While New Zealand appears to lack a fixed or stated AI strategy, Madeline said that a lot of work is being done in the background by the Forum and by other entities like the Artificial Intelligence Association, many times in cooperation with some government entities.

The last government wasn’t excited by AI, Madeline said, but the situation has changed in part because New Zealanders are using AI.

Madeliine mentioned that she talked with a number of people from around the Asia Pacific region and found a common problem: AI’s sketchy reputation and the lack of trust from the public. She said that this problem needs to be addressed to accelerate adoption.

Her group, AI Forum, is creating context for future government policy and helping organize data to build up the AI database.

(3) Mr. Oliver Tian, Vice President, Global Robot Clusters, Singapore

Oliver emphasized the importance of leveraging AI to augment human capabilities and extending human potential. He shared the formula “ 0 ==> 1; One + ”.

He discussed the wonders of AI and how it will help humankind as well as the woes and pains of AI. He cautioned against bias, misuse and over-dependence on AI.

He encouraged the audience to know about AI so that “we can be Master of Technology and not be slave to it.” He advised the public to get educated on AI (to a minimum level), to experiment with AI (so as to know how it works), and to continuously engage with practitioners/experts in AI so that one keeps updated on the progress of AI. “Clearly, AI is here to stay with us” Oliver concluded.

(4) Mr. Premjith Krishnan, CEO of Namastrend Business Services Pvt Ltd, India

Premjith Krishnan, in his brief presentation, delved into India’s burgeoning AI market landscape, which is set to soar to USD 6.26 billion during the current year and projected to reach a staggering USD 17 billion by 2027, as per various research sources.

Krishnan highlighted the pivotal role of both governmental initiatives and industry endeavors in propelling AI development within India.

He emphasized well thought-out and multi-directional policies initiatives by NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India) and MeitY (Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology), elucidating on flagship programs such as the India AI Mission and the establishment of various Expert Groups on AI, Open Government Data Platform, and, Centres of Excellence and PPP model initiatives such as the National AI Portal.

Notably, India’s active involvement as a founding member and current Chair of the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) and others such as US-India Artificial Intelligence (USIAI) initiative showcases its commitment to collaborative efforts on a global scale. Krishnan underscored India’s leadership position in AI implementation and usage, with a remarkable 91% of Indian companies intending to utilize their data for training AI models, surpassing the global average of 62%. This trend is particularly pronounced in sectors like retail and ecommerce, BFSI, healthcare, education, and agriculture.

Moreover, India’s vibrant startup ecosystem, ranked as the third-largest globally, has witnessed exponential growth in the deep-tech area, with over 31,000 tech startups emerging over the past decade with a 15X growth, as per the NASSCOM-ZINNOV Report. Krishnan also highlighted the milestone achievement of “Krutrim,” India’s first AI Unicorn, marking a significant milestone in the country’s AI journey.

He concluded his presentation by pinpointing areas for improvement, including the absence of specific AI regulation laws, limited availability of high-performance computing devices, scarcity of market-ready models, and concerns surrounding security, misinformation, deepfakes, and transparency. Krishnan’s insights underscored India’s strides in AI development while acknowledging the challenges that lie ahead in harnessing its full potential.

(5) Ms. Vicky Enkhsaikhan, Co-Founder of Empasoft Institute of Technology /Country Director, Women in Tech Global Movement, Mongolia

Vicky is the co-founder of the University of Technology in Mongolia that aims to build domestic skills not only for AI development but for many technology areas.

With only 3.4 million people sandwiched between two giants, Russia and China, the country needs technology to advance and also to provide good quality jobs to his youth comprising 35% of the entire population.

She presented the novel idea of AI for nomadic life in Mongolia, since a considerable number of Mongolian citizens still practice nomadic life in such vast country.

Currently, 25% of the population still lives the nomadic life. Yet they enjoy electricity and Internet 24 hours, including renewable energy generated by wind and solar panels, proving that nomadic life can be sustained with modern technology.

Thus, AI can also be implemented in the nomadic life to strenghten the culture and other traditions of Mongolia.

Vicky also said that language is another cultural area where AI can help Mongolia because only 0.1% of the world population speaks Mongolian language.

Some US$10 millions has been invested in AI area. She recognized that it is a small amount and that much more is needed to make AI usable in the Mongolian market. She also suggested that literature, poems, folk stories and fairy tales can also be incorporated into AI applications that can further solidify nomadic life and education. To that purpose Vicky mentioned Egune, an organization composed of talented engineers interested in the nomadic life.

Some of the presentation files can be downloaded HERE.

The video recording of the presentation can be viewed at the CACCI YouTube channel HERE.

CACCI Secretariat meets with the FCCISL President Mr. Keerthi Gunawardane in Colombo

Mr. Amador Honrado and Ms. Teresa Liu, in representation of the CACCI Secretariat visited the office of the Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FCCISL), a Primary Member of the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI), which is the parent organization of ABA during their visit to Colombo in May 29, 2024.

The Secretariat officers were received by FCCISL President Mr. Keerthi Gunawardane and Secretary-General Dr. Tilan Wijayasooriya. During the meeting, the FCCISL officers were briefed on the upcoming activities of CACCI, and expressed interest in participating in the Investment Forum webinar series, submitting nominees for the CACCI Awards, suggesting activities for inclusion in the CACCI Work Program for 2025-2026, and submitting a project proposal for possible funding by the CACCI Foundation. They also said they are prepared to host the ACCI Conference in 2025, and requested the Secretariat to send a formal request letter to FCCISL which President Mr. Gunawardane would submit to the Chamber Board for consideration.

CACCI Officers meet CIECA

CACCI officers led by Director-General Dr. Darson Chiu (2^nd to the left) on June 28, 2024 visited the headquarters of the Chinese International Economic Cooperation Association (CIECA), CACCI Primary Member in Taiwan, where they were received by CIECA officers led by Secretary-General Mr. Frank Wu (2^nd to the right). The two sides discussed CACCI’s participation in the 48^th Joint Conference of ROC-Korea and Korea-Taiwan Business Councils jointly organized by CIECA and the Federation of Korean Industries on July 18-19, 2024 in Seoul, Korea.

CACCI Officers meet with CACCI Asian Council on Tourism Chairman Anura Lokuhetty

During their visit to Colombo in late May 2024, Mr. Honrado and Ms Liu, representative of the CACCI Secretariat met with Mr. Anura Lokuhetty, Chairman of the CACCI Asian Council on Tourism. They discussed with Mr. Anura the proposed agenda and format of the Secotral Plenary Session on  ICT and Tourism to be held as part of the 38^th CACCI Conference to be held on November 11-12, 2024 in Singapore.

They agreed that the theme of the session will be on the use of technology and AI in the tourism sector. Mr. Anura said he will formulate the exact wording of the session theme and will submit this to the Seretariat along, with his  speaker suggestions.

Dr. Darson Chiu, Ph.D. appointed new CACCI Director-General

We are pleased to inform you of the appointment by CACCI President Mr. Peter McMullin AM of Dr. Darson Chiu as the new Director-General of the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI) effective May 1, 2024, replacing Mr. David Hsu who has retired from the position.

Prior to joining the CACCI Secretariat, Dr. Chiu accumulated an extensive career experience. He was a Researcher at Department of International Affairs in the Taiwan Institute of Economic Research (TIER), a position he held from1999, and was later appointed Deputy Director of the Macroeconomic Forecasting Center at TIER until 2020. He was mainly responsible for the research activities of international organizations such as PECC, APEC, ABAC, PAFTAD, and PBEC. It was in that capacity that he worked closely with the late Dr. Jeffrey L.S. Koo, former CACCI President and one of the pillars of the Confederation, in the latter’s role as Chairman of the PECC Standing Committee and Finance Sub-Committee.

Dr. Chiu also served as Secretary-General of the Chinese Taipei Pacific Economic Cooperation Committee (CTPECC) (2010 – 2021). Since 2014, he has been a Contract Researcher at the Taiwan Security Center, National Chengchi University. He has also served as a Professor in the Department of Economics at Tunghai University since 2017 while concurrently serving as Member of the Editorial Board of the Modern Management Science & Engineering at the British International Journal. From 2018, he has been a Member of the International Economic and Trade Affairs Committee at the Chinese National Federation of Industries until present time. Since 2021, he has also been Honorary Advisor of the Taiwan Southeast Asia and South Asia Association.

In terms of his academic background, Darson obtained his BA in Economics from Tunghai University in 1988 and went on to earn an MA in Economics from the University of Missouri-Columbia in 1994. Continuing his academic journey, he pursued a Ph.D. candidacy in Agriculture and Applied Economics at the same university. In 2007, Darson furthered his qualifications by obtaining a doctoral degree in Leadership in Organizational Management from the University of Phoenix, enriching his expertise in both theoretical and practical realms, especially in economics and organizational management.

He was chosen as Outstanding Alumni of Department of Economics at Tunghai University in 2018 and Outstanding Alumni at the Yunlin County Tuku Elementary School’s 120th Anniversary in 2020.

CACCI Food & Agriculture Newsletter No. XXI available

We are pleased to share with you the 21st Volume of CACCI Food & Agriculture Newsletter, it is available to view or download here.

We hope that this publication will serve as an effective platform for an exchange of information among the tourism sector in the CACCI region. Members are, therefore, encouraged to contribute articles for our future issues. Kindly forward your materials, preferably with accompanying photos to teresaliu@cacci.biz

Future of AI webinar on June 7, 2024 – Register!

We are excited to extend an invitation to our upcoming webinar titled “Envision the Opportunities of AI,” scheduled for June 7, 2024 at 11:00am Taipei time. This event is organized by the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI) – through its Asian ICT Council under the chairmanship of Dr. Dennis Hu – in cooperation with the Foundation for Commerce and Culture Interchange (FCCI), which aims to promote and facilitate cross-industry cooperation, with an emphasis on being an accelerator for cross-border relations between Taiwan and overseas bodies.

In this webinar, esteemed speakers from various domains will delve into the vast opportunities that Artificial Intelligence (AI) presents in today’s rapidly evolving landscape. Our lineup includes:

• Yung-Hui Li, Director of AI Research Center, Hon-Hai Research Institute, Taiwan
• Madeline Newman, Executive Director, AI Forum New Zealand
• Oliver Tian, Vice President, Global Robot Clusters, Singapore
• Premjith Krishnan, CEO of Namastrend Business Services Pvt Ltd, India
• Vicky Enkhsaikhan, Co-Founder of Empasoft Institute of Technology /Country Director, Women in Tech Global Movement, Mongolia

Join us as these distinguished speakers share their insights, experiences, and visions regarding the transformative power of AI across different industries and regions.

For registration and more information on the webinar, please click HERE.

We encourage all members to attend and participate actively in this insightful session. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable knowledge and perspectives on the future of AI.

CACCI Profile – May edition available

24We are pleased to announce that the May 2024 issue of CACCI Profile is now available. Please click here to read or download.

This month’s President’s Update continues to emphasize Sustainability, as the President and his staff continue efforts to have 1 on 1 discussions with members on how CACCI can better provide services regarding the climate transition. CACCI’s Asian ICT Council is also holding a webinar on the future of AI this June 7, with a lineup of speakers from Taiwan, New Zealand, Singapore, India, and Mongolia. Additionally, the newsletter features the latest news from Member Chambers, along with a wide range of articles relevant to business and trade.

It is our ardent hope that this monthly publication is useful to you and your work, and enables you to know more about the CACCI, our members, and their activities.

If you wish other members of your organization to receive a copy of the CACCI Profile, please send us their names, titles/positions, and email addresses through cacci@cacci.biz.

We would also appreciate receiving your comments on how we can further improve the CACCI Profile in terms of its format and contents.

If you have any articles you wish to share with our members, you are welcome to send these to us, with accompanying photos if possible, through cacci@cacci.biz.

Asia Pacific Green Alliance webinar for SMEs sustainability presented 23 May 2024

CACCI and Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF) presented the webinar on the “Green Alliance Initiative” on May 23, 2024.

Moderated by Peter McMullin AM, CACCI President, with Lennon Tan, SMF President and CACCI Vice President for Sustainability as panelist, the one-hour session featured Clement Teo, SMF Chief Sustainability Officer and Assistant Chief Executive as main presenter, sharing information on the newly launched Asia Pacific Green Alliance Initiative to empower Asia Pacific SMEs on their journey to sustainability.

SUMMARY

Mr. McMullin initiated the webinar by thanking his good friend Mr. Tan for inviting CACCI to be a founding member of the Asia Pacific Green Alliance (APAC GA).

The CACCI President also said that Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) need a project such as APAC GA to address the sustainability requirements being imposed on international trade.

On his part, Mr. Tan said that since the launching of the APAC GA in January 2024, the journey of many CACCI members has been directed towards a net 0 goal. He reiterated that his goal at the helm SMF is to lead Singapore manufacturers towards Industry 5.0 which in simple terms is “putting sustainability at the center” while simultaneously implementing digitalization and automation of industries.

Indeed, both Presidents expressed their goal of helping CACCI members on their sustainability journey to learn through good practices, guidance and collaboration, so that SMEs have resources to be successful in a greener world.

During his presentation, Mr. Teo argued for the necessity of embarking on the sustainability transformation. He said that Singapore’s focus on environmental issues is well known and as such, SMF took the lead in creating APAC GA to help Asian SMEs becoming more green.

He added that some policies on carbon tax are already in place and informed that SMEs will also need to monitor their own cost of energy consumption, thus SMEs need to consider electrical and waste management procedures, too.

He mentioned that the Singapore Exchange has implemented a mandatory rule on climate reporting by 2025 onwards. Such measures imply that companies supplying Multinational Corporations (MNCs) or listed companies will have to embark in some sort of reporting as well.

On the positive side, Clement said that it is possible to gain competitive advantage by embracing sustainability early and smartly. The plan is to find a cost effective solution that is scalable and based on expert advise.

Clement said that one building block on the APAC GA is the position of Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO) leading inside the organization. The CSO’s objective is to continue the corporate business in a sustainable way through training and good policing.

APAC GA wants to guide companies on their sustainability transformation, help them overcome the inertia, and then support them in the allocation of resources and usage of expertise to develop a comprehensive sustainability strategy.

One important aspect of the APAC GA is to help SMEs keep up with regulatory requirements that affect customers’ performance, market access and stakeholders’ demands.

Clement added that there are 3 key objectives. First is to future-proof the businesses of SMEs by helping them meet regulatory and customer requirements.

Second is to help business owners on their triple bottom lines: profitability, people welfare and planet conditions. Third is to help SME’s visualize their future in innovative and green ways through better products and/or services so that they can reach new and better markets and customers.

Clement recommended that the first practical step after the launching of the Asia Pacific Green Alliance in January of 2024 is to build talent and standards.

APAC GA is currently preparing two certification standards: Green Manufacturing (GM) and Green Business (GB) which will provide seal of approval based on trained assessors and auditors from recognized international companies.

The APAC GA plans to create training programs to establish a cadre of green consultants working with national chambers of commerce in the Asia Pacific region.

Building professional capabilities at the national chamber level will facilitate the SME’s path towards sustainability.

The copy of the presentation can be downloaded HERE.

The video recording of the presentation can be viewed at the CACCI YouTube channel below.

YEGAP Executive Committee Holds Update Meeting May 15

Members of the Executive Committee of the Young Entrepreneurs Group of Asia and the Pacific (YEGAP) convened online its regular monthly meeting on May 15 to discuss ongoing and upcoming activities.

Presided by YEGAP Chairman Mr. Rommel Gerodias, the meeting discussed, among others, the following: (a) status of the YEGAP website, planned MOU signing with other young entrepreneur groups from other countries including the Young Entrepreneurs Association of Brunei (YEAB) and the Japan Young Entrepreneurs Group (Japan YEG); planned webinars on how to conduct B2B meetings and how to tap the Middle East market; and the proposed theme, speakers and format for the YEGAP breakout session during the 38th CACCI Conference to be held n November 11-12 in Singapore and hopefully to touch on women entrepreneurship as well.

The meeting were also encouraged to join the scheduled Investment Forum Series lined up for the rest of the year; the webinar on the Green Alliance Initiative in May 23 organized by the Singapore Manufacturing Federation; the webinar organized by the Asian ICT Council on AI Opportunities in June 7; as well as to take part in the survey initiated by CACCI President Mr. Peter McMullin AM aimed at understanding the drivers and needs of SMEs in addressing sustainability.

The EC members were also urged to submit – through their respective Primary Members – their nominations for the 2024 Asia-Pacific Young Entrepreneur Award. Lastly, the meeting reviewed the proposed changes in the draft YEGAP by-laws, particularly those pertaining to the composition and appointment of the Executive Committee members, the succession procedure for the YEGAP Chairmanship and Vice Chairmanship, and the amendment of the by-Laws.

29th Volume of CACCI Tourism Newsletter available

CACCI is pleased to share with you the 29th Volume of CACCI Tourism Newsletter, it is available to view or download here.

We hope that this publication will serve as an effective platform for an exchange of information among the tourism sector in the CACCI region.  Members are, therefore, encouraged to contribute articles for our future issues.  Kindly forward your materials, preferably with accompanying photos to teresaliu@cacci.biz

Meeting with Former CACCI President Jemal Inaishvili

Deputy Director-General Amador Honrado Jr. of the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI), the parent organization of ABA, met with CACCI Advisory Board Member Jemal Inaishvili on May 2 in Tbilisi, Georgia during the 57th Annual Meeting of the Asian Development Bank held on May 2-5 in the Georgian capital.
Mr. Honrado took the occasion to brief Mr. Inaishvili on preparations for the upcoming 38th CACCI Conference that will take place on November 11-12 in Singapore.

Well Attended Virtual Workshop on Effectively Managing the Compliance Function

Fintelekt Advisory Services organised a virtual workshop on Effectively Managing the Compliance Function on May 7, 2024.

The resource person for the workshop was Gail Wessels, Compliance, Risk and Corporate Governance Specialist, Regulatory and Financial Crime Compliance Trainer and a lawyer based in Spain. Gail is an empaneled trainer with Fintelekt. Arpita Bedekar, Director, Strategy and Planning, Fintelekt facilitated the workshop.

The virtual workshop was very well attended, with participants from more than 17 countries and 27 different institutions, including banks, insurance companies, mutual funds, money remittance companies, regulatory bodies, and technology companies and national chambers of commerce and industry.

The workshop focused on the multi-faceted role of the compliance function and what is required for its success. Gail started by defining the scope of the compliance function especially within the internal corporate context and external factors. She highlighted that the overlap with areas such as governance, risk and sustainability and the positioning of compliance within the organisation is fundamental to its success.

She also discussed the positioning of the compliance function within the organisation, its authority and independence which consists of its structure, seniority and stature, autonomy and outsourced compliance functions. She stressed that the Board of Directors play a very important role in overseeing compliance and designing robust mechanisms to ensure that the corporation adheres to regulations.

According to Gail, the purpose and value of compliance is in moving away from a tick-box approach to a a compliance strategy that anticipates future trends across products, services and geographies. She highlighted the key elements of an effective compliance programme and examined the role of each of the elements

To a poll question on the likeliest predictor of compliance success, 36 per cent of the attendees chose Support and Culture, followed by 27 per cent in favour of Periodic evaluation and continuous improvement.

Source: Poll conducted during the workshop

The final section underscored that the responsibility and accountability for compliance lies with everybody within the organisation, noting tha several regulators have provided guidelines on accountability and conduct and impose severe liabilities on compliance failures.

Attendees used the opportunity to seek opinions from Gail about compliance issues within their organisations.

All attendees received a Fintelekt-Asian Bankers Association Certificate of Completion for participating in the workshop.

CACCI invites nominations for CACCI Awards 2024

In conjunction with the 38th CACCI Conference to be held this year in Singapore this November 2024, CACCI is launching four categories of awards: the 10th CACCI Local Chamber Awards, the 9th Asia-Pacific Young Entrepreneur Award, the 4th Asia-Pacific Women Entrepreneur Award, and the 4th CACCI Hydropower and Clean Energy Excellence Award. The mechanics of each award are briefly listed below, with the full details linked as well. CACCI Primary Members are encouraged to review the award mechanics and submit their nominations before August 30, 2024.

The 10th CACCI Local Chamber Awards aims to recognize local chambers for their outstanding achievement in promoting the industrial, commercial, and social welfare of their respective communities. Winners will be selected from two categories – Category One for big local chambers with over 200 members, and Category Two for small local chambers with 200 members or less. The full criteria and mechanics, and Nomination Form can be accessed here.

The 9th Asia-Pacific Young Entrepreneur Award aims to recognize outstanding young entrepreneurs in the region, who are not only successful in their business, but also advocate corporate social responsibility. The full criteria and mechanics, and Nomination Form, are available here.

The 4th Asia-Pacific Women Entrepreneur Award aims to recognize excellent women entrepreneurs in the Asia-Pacific rim who not only are successful in their business but also advocate corporate social responsibility for the good of their country. The nomination form, full criteria, and mechanics are available here.

The 4th CACCI Hydropower and Clean Energy Excellence Award is presented by CACCI as a mark of appreciation and recognition to the person or institution that has contributed significantly to the sustainable promotion, support and development of hydropower and clean energy in the Asia Pacific region. Nomination Form, full criteria, and mechanics are available here.

Presentation of the four CACCI Awards will be made during the 38th CACCI Conference to be in Singapore on November 11 to 12, 2024. We encourage your Chamber to participate in this Awards Program and help us in promoting it to your respective constituencies. Should you have further questions, please do not hesitate to let us know.

CACCI Profile – April edition available

CACCI is pleased to announce that the April 2024 issue of CACCI Profile is now available. Please click HERE to read or download.

This month’s President’s Update focuses on the S (Sustainability) in helping businesses get SET for the future, as well as the upcoming webinar that CACCI is organizing on May 23 at 5pm SGT with the Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF) to introduce the APAC Green Alliance. Additionally, the newsletter features the latest news from Member Chambers, along with a wide range of articles relevant to business and trade.

It is our ardent hope that this monthly publication is useful to you and your work, and enables you to know more about the CACCI, our members, and their activities.

If you wish other members of your organization to receive a copy of the CACCI Profile, please send us their names, titles/positions, and email addresses through cacci@cacci.biz

We would also appreciate receiving your comments on how we can further improve the CACCI Profile in terms of its format and contents.

If you have any articles you wish to share with our members, you are welcome to send these to us, with accompanying photos if possible, through cacci@cacci.biz.

Best regards,

Amador Honrado, Jr.
Deputy Director-General
Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce & Industry

Virtual Workshop on “Effectively Managing the Compliance Function” 7 May 2024

CACCI is inviting its members to join a Virtual Workshop on “Effectively Managing the Compliance Function” to be held on 7 May 2024 from 2PM to 4PM Singapore Time.

The 120-minute Virtual Workshop organized by The Asian Bankers Association (ABA), one of the Product and Service Councils of CACCI, in association with Fintelekt Advisory Services, an official ABA Knowledge Partner, will examine the multi-faceted role of the compliance function and what is required for it to be a success.

The expert trainer, Gail Wessels, will refer to practical examples and case studies to bring the content to life, encourage reflection and discussion amongst participants across the following key issues:

(1) TOPICS

• What is the scope of the compliance function?
• What is the overlap with areas such as governance, risk and sustainability?
• Why is the positioning of compliance within the organisation fundamental to its success?
• What is the purpose and value of compliance?
• What are the key elements of an effective compliance programme?
• Who bears responsibility and accountability for compliance?

(2) WHO SHOULD PARTICIPATE?

The programme is relevant for staff from the AML Compliance, Regulatory Compliance, Audit, Legal, Strategy, and Corporate Governance teams.

(3) TRAINER

Gail Wessels
Governance, Risk & Compliance (GRC) expert and lawyer with more than 20 years´ cross-functional experience in mostly financial services, as well as experience in less regulated sectors, has a deep understanding of regulatory requirements in multiple jurisdictions, a solid track record of leading complex transformation projects, implementing and improving GRC programmes, setting up new teams and working with executive management.

Trainer and course designer for the International Compliance Association (ICA), certificated qualifications in AML, GRC and financial crime prevention, guest lecturer at ASCOM (Asociación Española de Compliance), UNIR University, CEU University and IE University Law School. Some notable projects include: designer of compliance programs, compliance obligations mapping, enterprise risk management, third party risk, financial crime risk, corporate criminal risk, GDPR, code of conduct, whistleblowing, assurance and audit – various sectors (regulated and non-regulated). Customer due diligence/ KYC managed service and industry utility. IT transformation and migration of new digital bank in Spain and Portugal.

(4) PARTICIPATION FEE: US$50

Includes access to video recording and Certificate of Completion. Pay online via credit/debit card and register HERE.

CACCI member chamber can avail of 2 free registrations per chamber for this workshop. To get nominated under the free registration, please contact the CACCI liaison at your Chamber.

(5) CONTACT

For additional information, you may touch base with Oliver Dickson or Tel / Whatsapp / Viber: +91 9823188864 / +91 9370078917

ABOUT FINTELEKT

Fintelekt Advisory Services Pvt Ltd is one of the Knowledge Partners of the ABA. It is a specialist in training and advisory in anti-money laundering (AML) and countering the financing of terrorism (CFT) within banking and financial services sectors. It systematically invests its time and effort in building the skill level of professionals working in the banking and financial sector by assimilating and dispensing industry-reviewed best practices and knowledge.

Young Entrepreneurs YEGAP newsletter available

CACCI is pleased to announce the release of the 24^th edition of Asia-Pacific Entrepreneur, the newsletter of the Young Entrepreneurs Group of Asia-Pacific (YEGAP) under the chairmanship of Mr. Rommel Gerodias from the Philippines.

We hope that this edition– and the future ones– will continue to serve as an effective platform for an exchange of information among young entrepreneurs in the region.

If you wish to contribute articles or other materials that can be published in the next newsletter, you may send them through the CACCI Secretariat’s e-mail address at cacci@cacci.biz .

Tentative Program for the 38th CACCI Conference in Singapore

Following the meeting of the CACCI Planning Committee on March 5, we are pleased to inform you that arrangements for the 38th CACCI Conference on November 11-12, 2024 at One Farrer Hotel in in Singapore are currently underway with our host organization, the Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF).

Below please find the tentative program for the two-day conference, which will also be known as the Asia-Pacific Economic and Sustainability Forum. With the theme “Making Asian Business Future-Ready”, this year’s event will have three Plenary Sessions focusing on the following topics:

Session One: Navigating the Future: Integrating AI in Asia-Pacific’s Trade and Commerce

Session Two: Sustainable Entrepreneurship: Building Resilient and Green Businesses

Session Three: Future of Trade: Digitalization, E-Commerce, and Cross-Border Collaboration

In lieu of the usual concurrent Breakout Sessions of the CACCI Product and Service Councils, there will be five Sectoral Plenary Sessions covering:

(1) SME Development

(2) Food & Agriculture and Textile & Garments

(3) ICT and Tourism

(4) Entrepreneurship

(5) Water, Energy, Environment and Sustainability.

A special session will also be held on the APAC Green Alliance.

CACCI counts on the support and participation of its members to make the 38th CACCI Conferene a success. We welcome members’ comments on the program, and suggestions for possible speakers. Should any member has questions at this stage, please contact us.

Further information on the conference will be sent out once these are available. In the meantime, CACCI asks that its members already block the conference dates, November 11-12, 2024, on their respective calendar.

CACCI Chief of Staff visits YEGAP’s Vani Nades in Port Moresby

CACCI Chief of Staff to the President Mr. Stuart Mkojera-Thomson met recently with Ms. Vani Nades in Port Moresby. Ms. Nades is the Papua New Guinea Chamber of Commerce & Industry representative on the Young Entrepreneurs Group of the Asia Pacific (YEGAP) Executive Committee.

Mr. Mkojera-Thomson was visiting PNG to discuss how CACCI could better support young entrepreneurs in places like PNG. Despite the challenging environment in which PNG currently finds itself, Ms. Nades was upbeat about the potential young people in PNG can contribute to the Asia-Pacific economy.

Photo: Mr. Mkojera-Thomson (right), Ms. Vani Nades (center),

CACCI Deputy Director–General Calls on PCCI Officers

Mr. Amador Honrado Jr., Deputy Director-General of CACCI (2nd from left) meets with the officers of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) led by Mr. Raymond Jude Aguilar, Vice President for International Affairs (2nd from right), PCCI Secretary-General Mr. Edwin Glindro (right) and PCCI Manager Ms. Lyn Gabionza (left), at the PCCI headquarters in Makati, Philippines.

Mr. Honrado, Mr. Aguilar, and Mr. Glindro discussed the participation of PCCI in the upcoming 38th CACCI Conference in Singapore in November, CACCI’s participation in the 50th Philippine Business Conference & Expo (PBC&E 2024), the annual gathering of PCCI officers and members, to be held on October 22-23, and PCCI’s participation in the various webinars and other activities lined up by CACCI during the rest of the year.