CACCI visits Gobi Cashmere Factory

Ulaanbaatar – As part of its mandate to promote trade and business growth, a CACCI delegation led by President Jemal Inaishvili, Vice President Samir Modi, and other international delegates visited Gobi Corp., which is one of the five largest vertically integrated producers of cashmere in the world.

Established in 1981, the company holds 60% of the domestic market of cashmere, and exports to over 30 countries globally. Its current production capacity processes 20% of Mongolia’s annual cashmere output, a country that supplies more than 30% of the global raw cashmere output. The company’s factory store is the largest cashmere store in Mongolia occupying an area of 1,150 sqm.

MNCCI hosts Gala dinner for CACCI Officers

Ulaanbaatar – On September 7, 2018, MNCCI organized and hosted a Gala Dinner for the CACCI delegates and Mongolian women entrepreneurs who participated in the Ulaanbaatar Partnership 2018 and the Women’s Entrepreneurship Day.

The Dinner also served as an occasion for MNCCI to cite the previous years’ recipients of the CACCI Golden Award presented annually to the Best Company of the Year Mongolia.

The evening affair also saw CACCI President Mr. Inaishsvili formally presenting the Certificate of Membership and the CACCI pin to the newly admitted Lifetime Special Members from Mongolia, namely: Mongol Basalt JSC and Bishrel Group.

CIECA Chairman Henry Kao hosts CACCI leaders

Lunch hosted by CIECA at the Sheraton Grand Hotel

Taipei – On September 3, 2018, Henry Kao, Chairman of CIECA (Chinese International Economic Cooperation Association) arranged a lunch at the Sheraton Grand Hotel for the CACCI leaders visiting Taipei. Among the participants, there were two representatives from a Taiwanese logistics company who discussed possible business collaboration with CACCI President Jemal Inaishvili, as well as a representative from a leading cosmetics and beauty product company in Taiwan, who explored possible areas of business cooperation with CACCI Vice President Samir Modi.

Tour of the National Concert Hall and the National  Theater Hall

After lunch, Mr. Inaishvili and Mr. Modi visited the National Concert Hall and the National Theater Hall located within the Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall Complex. They were accompanied by CIECA Chairman Henry Kao, who is also a member of the Board of the group managing the two Halls, on a guided tour around the two theaters.

Dinner Hosted by CIECA Chairman Henry Kao

The day ended with a dinner hosted by CIECA Chairman Mr. Henry Kao at the World Trade Center Club. The invited guests included officers of the Bureau of Foreign Trade, Ministry of Economic Affairs led by Director General Ms. Jen-Ni Yang, who underscored the current efforts of Taiwan to further strengthen the country’s trade relations with other Asian countries, especially India; the representative of Anko Food Processing Machines to whom Mr. Modi expressed his interest to buy some of his machines for the commissary he is setting up for this convenience store operations; and other officers of CIECA and CACCI.

Taiwan will do everything possible to participate in 2nd round of CPTPP negotiation: President Tsai

President Tsai also said Taiwan will continue to uphold regional economic integration

Taipei (Taiwan News) – President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) said Tuesday that Taiwan will continue efforts to promote regional economic integration and to participate in the trans-pacific agreement that was inked earlier this year by 11 countries.

The president met with the delegation of the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI), the largest trade and industry association in the Asia-Pacific region, including its president Jemal Inaishvili and vice president Samir Modi, on Tuesday at the Presidential Office.

Speaking of recent trade disputes and protectionist measures implemented in certain countries, which have brought about much uncertainty to the global market, including Asia, the president said Taiwan will continue to uphold a liberal trade policy and promote regional economic integration through taking part in bilateral or multilateral trade agreements.

“We will continue our efforts to participate in regional economic integration and initiatives, like the CPTPP (Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership), and doing everything possible to participate in the second round of negotiation,” added President Tsai.

Tabbing the CACCI as a very important non-governmental partner, the president said the government looks forward to strengthening cooperation with the organization and hopes it can also help with the implementation of her administration’s New Southbound Policy in partner countries across South and Southeast Asia.

The president also encouraged the CACCI to continue fostering the growth and development of enterprises in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly those that operate in smaller scales or are run by women and young people.

The CACCI, founded in 1966, describes itself as a regional organization of business enterprises which covers 27 economies in Asia and the Western Pacific. The CACCI delegation is in Taiwan until Sept. 5, before heading to Mongolia for a business conference.  On Monday, the delegation visited I-Mei’s factory in Taoyuan and was received by the company’s chairman Henry Kao (高志尚).

News report and photos courtesy of Taiwan News. View the original report at https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/3522096

Photo courtesy of the Office of the President of the Republic of China

Chamber of Commerce Northern Territory Deputy CEO visits CACCI Secretariat

Taipei – Mr. Brian O’Gallagher, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Chamber of Commerce Northern Territory, met with CACCI Director-General Mr. Ernest Lin and Deputy Director-General Mr. Amador Honrado on August 30, 2018 at the CACCI Secretariat office in Taipei.

Mr. O’Gallagher briefed Mr. Lin and Mr. Honrado on the upcoming Regional Australia Asia Chambers Forum scheduled to be held on May 2-3, 2019 in Darwin, Australia. The two sides also exchanged ideas on how CACCI can help promote the Forum to its members, and how the Chamber of Commerce Northern Territory can use the CACCI platform – such as the upcoming 32nd CACCI Conference to be held on November 23-24, 2018 n Istanbul – to disseminate information on its activities and drum up participation of CACCI members.

Mr. O’Gallagher was in Taipei to attend the 32nd Joint Conference of the ROC-Australia and Australia-Taiwan Business Councils held on August 31, 2018 at the Formosa Regent Hotel in Taipei and hosted by the Chinese International Economic Cooperation Association (CIECA), CACCI Primary Member from Taiwan.

Key CACCI Officers call on ROC President

Taipei – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili and CACCI Senior Vice President Mr. Samir Modi made courtesy calls on Her Excellency President Tsai Ing-Wen of the Republic of China (ROC) September 4, 2018.

CACCI President Jemal Inaishvili shakes hand with ROC President Tsai.

During their meeting, Mr. Inaishvili and Mr. Modi, re-introduced CACCI and its activities to President Tsai, highlighting the important role played by Taiwan in the establishment and activities of the Confederation, including the hosting of its Permanent Secretariat in Taipei since 1981, the holding of several of its annual Conferences and Summit Meetings in the island, and the strong support it has received from the Taiwanese government and leading Taiwanese businessmen over the years. They also reiterated their appreciation to President Tsai for gracing the Opening Ceremony of the 30th CACCI Conference and 50th Anniversary celebration held in Taipei in 2016.

CACCI Senior VP Samir Modi and CACCI President Jemal Inaishvili listen to ROC President Tsai as she talks about the role of CACCI in promoting economic cooperation in the region.

The two CACCI officers also informed President Tsai of their scheduled visit to Mongolia on September 6-8 where they were to meet with the President and Prime Minister of the country, as well as to attend Ulaanbaatar Partnership, the largest trade exhibition of Mongolia.

They likewise informed the ROC leader about the upcoming 32nd CACCI Conference on November 23-24, 2018 in Istanbul, Turkey in which several businessmen and experts from Taiwan have been invited as speakers in the various Conference sessions.

For her part, President Tsai underscored the important role played by CACCI in promoting economic cooperation among countries in the region and between Taiwan and other CACCI member countries. She also recognized the critical role of CACCI, given the geographical scope of its membership, in the implementation of her administration’s Southbound Policy.

https://youtu.be/HSjrGaZOtyo

All photos courtesy of the ROC President’s office. View more photos and video here: https://www.president.gov.tw/News/23645

Members’ Suggestions Requested for CACCI 2018-2020 Work Program

Istanbul – CACCI members are requested to submit their suggestions on activities that CACCI should undertake in the next two years (2018-2020). These activities should benefit all members, further promote the growth and development of the Confederation, and help CACCI attain its primary objectives.

All suggestions received from members will be integrated into the draft Work Program to be considered and finalized during the 90th CACCI Council Meeting to be held on the afternoon of November 24, 2018 in Istanbul, Turkey.

Members’ suggestions can be emailed to cacci@cacci.biz.

Study on Metro Rail System in Kathmandu Valley

Kathmandu – The Investment Board of Nepal (BNI) is calling for Expressions of Interest (EoIs) for a “Detailed Feasibility Study of Metro Rail System in Kathmandu Valley (Dhulikhel-Nagdhunga)”.The details can be found in following link: https://ibn.gov.np/kathmandu-valley-metro-project-bank

The IBN is a high-level government body chaired by the Rt. Hon’ble Prime Minister of Nepal and functions as a central fast-track government agency to facilitate economic development in Nepal by creating an investment-friendly environment, mobilizing and managing domestic as well as foreign investments.

It also serves as a one window facility for domestic and foreign investors pursuing large scale projects with fixed capital of more than USD 100 million. It selects proposals for investment, facilitates investment, coordinate between various ministries, and monitors the progress of approved projects.

ICC Invites CACCI Members to IP Week @ SG

Singapore – Members of the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI) are being invited by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) to the 7th edition of IP Week @ SG that will take place on 4-5 September in Singapore in partnership with the ICC.

Themed “Ideas to Assets – Connecting markets through IP”, IP Week @ SG 2018 features theworld’s foremost IP thought leaders, legal experts and innovative companies, to share insights on IP commercialisation and winning strategies for business growth. The event expects over 3,000 attendees from more than 40 countries and will bring together the innovation community to celebrate, network and collaborate. The whole program is available online.

Several events will also be organised around IP Week @ SG, including the IP Market Place, a free platform to connect with exhibitors, IP experts and fellow participants over coffee and consult IP experts on IP commercialisation, protection, valuation and government support.

Among the activities of the IP Market place, Connections @ IP Market Place, a business-meets-service provider platform at IP Week at SG 2018, will offer complimentary consultation sessions with IP experts. If you want to attend this event and secure slots with experts of your choice, you may contact Ms. Daphne Yong-d’herve at dye@iccwbo.org.

Singapore at night

Investment Board Nepal calls for EoI for Feasibility Studies on three projects

Kathmandu – The Invesment Board Nepal (IBN) is Calling for Expression of Interest for Feasibility Studies of the following three projects: (a) Glass Industry; (b) Shey-Phoksundo Luxury Resort; and (c) Ski Resort in Manang.

More details of these projects and other opportunities visit: http://ibn.gov.np.

The IBN is a high-level government body chaired by the Rt. Hon’ble Prime Minister of Nepal and functions as a central fast-track government agency to facilitate economic development in Nepal by creating an investment-friendly environment, mobilizing and managing domestic as well as foreign investments.

It also serves as a one window facility for domestic and foreign investors pursuing large scale projects with fixed capital of more than USD 100 million. It selects proposals for investment, facilitates investment, coordinate between various ministries, and monitors the progress of approved projects.

CACCI soliciting project proposals for CACCI Foundation support

Taipei – The Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI) is inviting its Primary Members and Affiliate Members to submit formal proposals on projects that they wish to be financed by the CACCI Foundation.

The CACCI Foundation was established in 2006 to help Primary and Affiliate Members implement projects aimed at promoting entrepreneurship and the development of small and medium enterprises. The ultimate objective is to assist chambers in Asian developing countries region to become sustained contributors to the economic development of the private sector.

CACCI therefore calls on its Primary and Affiliate Members to submit formal proposals on projects – either ongoing or still to be implemented – that encourage entrepreneurship and promote the growth and development of SMEs, thereby helping achieve the objective of the CACCI Foundation.

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

TOBB issues 32nd CACCI Conference Brochure

Istanbul – The Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey (TOBB) has issued the brochure of the 32nd CACCI Conference scheduled to take place on November 23-24, 2018 at the Ciragan Palace Kempinski in Istanbul, Turkey. It contains relevant information about this year’s gathering aimed at further raising CACCI members’ interest to join the Conference.

Hosted by the Union of Chambers of Commerce and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey (TOBB), the umbrella organization of the business community of Turkey representing 1.5 million member companies, our Istanbul Conference will be organized under the patronage of H.E. Recep Tayyip Erdogan, President of Turkey.

The Conference theme is “Asia: Expanding Boundaries” and is designed to provide another valuable platform for CACCI members and invited experts to exchange views on measures that the business sector and governments in the region can undertake to address the challenges faced by businesses in the current market environment, as well as to take full advantage of the opportunities offered not just by markets in the Asia-Pacific region but by countries in other parts of the world.

Speakers from government, the private sector, and the academe will share their valuable perspectives on the following Session topics: (a) The Changing Role of Chambers in Promoting Business; (b) Innovation and Digitization: Implications for Business; (c) Regional Integration and Connectivity for Sustainable Development; and (d) A New World Economic Order: What It Means for Asia.

CACCI Lifetime Special Member Visits Singapore Business Federation

Singapore – Mr. Salauddin Yousuf, Director of Lub-rref Bangladesh Limited and Lifetime Special Member of CACCI (right), visited the Singapore Business Federation (SBF) on June 13, 2018 and met with SBF officers Mr. Alan Tan, Director, South Asia and Americas, Europe, Middle East and Africa, Global Business Division, and Mr. Mark Yeo, Assistant Manager, Middle East, Africa & South Asia, Global Business Division (left). During his visit, Mr. Yousuf informed Mr. Tan and Mr. Teo about the recent and upcoming activities of CACCI.

Latest FICCI Financial Insights Focuses on MSME Lending

New Dehli – The Financial Sector team of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) has issued the latest edition of its quarterly ounlication – Financial Insights. The issue focuses on “The Evolving Contours of MSME Lending in India”, which presents insightful write-ups contributed by industry leaders and experts in this domain.

Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are a major engine of growth and employment generation in the country. However, with over 50 million MSMEs in the country we have only 4.5 million unique borrowers from the formal industry. Traditionally public sector banks have been the lenders for formal credit to MSMEs. Private sector banks and NBFCs have been steadily increasing the share in MSMEs financing. However, lately non-traditional (or alternate) lenders have also entered the MSME lending space. These non-traditional lenders are using data and digital processes to transform the lending space. They work with new-economy partners, use non-traditional data sources and have developed new credit rating algorithms enabling smoother straight-through digital processes for loan approvals.

The policy interventions such as demonetization and introduction of GST have led to massive formalization of the businesses of MSMEs. This is generating enormous financial information database of MSMEs’ businesses and finances. It is expected that this big data base will be
useful for improving financing of MSMEs’ capital requirement, including working capital. Further, the proposed on boarding of public sector banks and corporates on Trade Electronic Receivable Discounting System (TReDS) platform and linkage with GSTN would also be beneficial for MSME financing.

This issue of Financial Foresights has attempted to outline reforms for strengthening the MSME lending structure leading to growth of the MSME credit.

Interested parties may download the publication from the following link: http://ficci.in/SPdocument/22981/Financial_Foresight_May1.pdf

CACCI Vice President Rifat Hisarciklioglu Re-Elected TOBB President

Ankara – Mr. Rifat Hisarciklioglu was recently re-elected President of The Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey (TOBB).

Mr. Hisarciklioglu, who is concurrently Vice President of the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI), became TOBB President for the next four years, after having been re-elected unanimously during the 74th General Assembly held at TOBB Economics and Technology University. Elected TOBB President for the first time on June 16th, 2001, Mr. Hisarciklioglu will perform this task for the fifth time.

In his congratulatory letter to the newly re-elected TOBB President, CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili said: “Given your long and extensive business experience, your exemplary achievements in various fields, your wide network of friends and associates in the business communities not only in the Asia-Pacific region but globally as well, and your strong and unwavering commitment to the chamber movement, you are certainly in the best position to once again lead TOBB towards its goal of promoting the interest of its members and fostering the growth and development of your country’s economy. I am sure you will continue to build on your past accomplishments at the helm of TOBB and bring the organization to an even higher level of influence.”

Russian Chamber invites CACCI member to “International Business Days” in Khabrovsk, Russia

Khabrovsk – The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Russian Federation (CCIRF) is inviting CACCI members to attend the “International Business Days” to be held on June 10 – 12, 2018 in Khabarovsk City, Russia.

Launched for the first time, the three-day event will feature the International Expo and the Trade Fair “Choose Region 27” where participants will get a unique chance to get information about trade, economic and investment potential of Khabarovsk region, conduct B2B meetings and have a culinary tour through the specialties of international cuisines.

In addition, companies and producers from Khabarovsk region, as well as government authorities and business representatives from all over Russia and foreign countries, will participate in the event.

For further information and queries, interested parties may wish to contact the Ministry of International and Interregional Cooperation of Khabarovsk region:

Tel: +7 (4212) 40-24-32, 40-24-34
Fax: +7 (4212) 30-57-27
E-mail: mic@adm.khv.ru

CIS-BCCI signs E-Commerce Trade Agreement with 50 Countries

Dhaka – The Commonwealth of Independent States-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce & Industry (CIS-BCCI) has signed e-commerce trade agreement with 50 countries, a press release of the business body said.

The release said CIS-BCCI and the global business platform ‘Qoovee’ had a meeting on the prospect of establishing business relations of Bangladeshi businessmen in CIS countries at CIS-BCCI Chamber in Dhaka on May 9, 2018. An agreement was signed after the meeting.

Qoovee.com is a global online business platform where the wholesale products or service suppliers and buyers meet to trade. It is one of the top 10 B2B platforms in the CIS region that has more than 15,00,000 visitors per month.

It was decided at the meeting that CIS-BCCI will be co-organiser of global online expo organised by Qoovee which will be held from 2 April to 9 July 2019.

The meeting also decided that Qoovee online platform will be used by CIS-BCCI members involving buyers and suppliers and Qoovee will act as a guarantee regarding assurance of buyer’s-seller’s payment. It also decided that CIS-BCCI will be Qoovee’s valid representative in Bangladesh.

The cooperation agreement was signed by CIS-BCCI president Habib Ullah Dawn and Qoovee founding president Turat Bulembayev.

Canada Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce holds Canada Showcase 2018

Dhaka – The Canada Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce recently organized the Canada Showcase 2018 at the International Conference Center in Dhaka. It was attended by many Canadian companies which are operating in Bangladesh and also by some Bangladesh companies doing business with Canada.

The chief guest of the event was the Commerce Minister of Bangladesh Mr Tofael Ahmed and main guest was high commissioner of Bangladesh Mr Benoit.

The Canada Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce acts as a catalyst to make Bangladesh as Asia’s leading destination for sourcing and investment for Canada.

CACCI Lifetime Special Member joins Bangladesh Delegation to the Commonwealth Summit 2018

London – Mr. Salauddin Yousuf (leftmost), Director of Lub-rref (Bangladesh) Limited – a Lifetime Special Member of CACCI – was part of the delegation from Bangladesh that attended  this year’s Commonwealth Heads of Government Meetings and Commonwealth Summit held on April 16-20, 2018 in London and Windsor, United Kingdom.

Mr. Yousuf joined his country’s delegation headed by Honorable Prime Minister of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina (3rd from right), along with over 5,000 other participants from parliament, government, business and civil society. The theme of the Summit was “Towards our Common Future”, which is linked to the theme for Commonwealth Day 2018.

CACCI delegation visits Vientiane Saysettha Development Zone

Vientiane – A CACCI delegation led by CACCI Senior Vice President Mr. Samir Modi and CACCI Vice President Mr. Pradeep Kumar Shrestha on April 25 visited the Vientiane Saysettha Development Zone, located in a suburban district 17 kilometers northeast of Vientiane.

During the visit, the delegation learned that the Zone covers an area of 11 square kilometers and is designed to be a model of industrial zones in the country. They were further informed that the Zone was jointly developed by China’s Yunnan Provincial Overseas Investment Co., Ltd. and the Vientiane Municipal Government, that it had attracted nearly 40 companies in 2017 from around Asia, and that is expected to have more than 200 companies in operation upon its completion in 2030.

CACCI members visit Phnom Penh Special Economic Zone

Phnom Penh – Members of the CACCI delegation that joined the Presidential visit to Cambodia visited the Phnom Penh Special Economic Zone on April 20, 2018, which is located within the proximity of the country’s capital city. Led by CACCI Vice President Mr. Peter McMullin and CACCI Vice President Mr. Pradeep Kumar Shrestha, the visitors were met by Mr. James Chang, Marketing Manager.

Mr. Chang briefed the delegation on the activities and operations of the PPSEZ. The visitors learned that the PPSEZ: (a) is one out of eleven operating SEZs (from a total of thirty-four approved SEZs) in Cambodia; (b) retains the highest number of zone investors among all approved SEZs in Cambodia; (c) is one of the largest in Cambodia with a land size of approximately 357.32 hectares; (d) has more than 80 international companies from 15 different nations invested in the zone.

Following his presentation, Mr. Chang accompanied the delegation on a tour and ocular inspection of the PPEZ, and pointed out the various companies established in the zone and the nature of their operations.

VCCI hosts International Contract of Sale & Short Term Trade Finance Workshop in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh – The Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) hosted a workshop on International Contract of Sale and Short Term Trade Finance in Ho Chi Minh City on April 19-20, 2018.

Organized in cooperation with the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI), the two-day workshop was conducted by Mr. Pavel Andrl, an international trade finance specialist and senior tutor with the electronic Business School Intermational. The seminar was on ICC Rules and Practices with special focus on current developments in international trade and finance world.

CACCI and VCCI held International Trade Workshop in April 2018

The CACCI Secretariat coordinated with Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) CACCI and VCCI in co-organizing two-day workshops on International Trade and Short-Term Trade Finance in Vietnam. The first workshop was held in Hanoi on April 17-18 and the second one in Ho Chi Minh City on April 19-20, 2018

Day One of the workshop focused, among others, on the current revision of Incoterms. The facilitator explained the logic behind the proposals and the discussion around them. The participants were expected to learn about the main current issues with Incoterms 2010, the ideas for improvements, and the likely outcome: what the main changes in the Incoterms 2020 would be like.

Day Two focused on short-term trade finance – documentary credits, financing, factoring, supply chain finance best practices. Participants were expected to gain a solid knowledge of how to use documentary credits in a day-to-day operational practice.

The seminar was delivered by Mr. Pavel Andrl, an active and well established international trade finance specialist and senior tutor with the electronic Business School International.

CACCI holds International Contract of Sale & Short Term Trade Finance Workshop in Hanoi

Hanoi – The Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI) organized, in cooperation with the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI), a two-day workshop on International Contract of Sale and Short Term Trade Finance in Hanoi on April 17-18, 2018.

The workshop was conducted by Mr. Pavel Andrl, an international trade finance specialist and senior tutor with the electronic Business School Intermational. The seminar was on ICC Rules and Practices with special focus on current developments in international trade and finance world.

CIECA Organizes the 2018 ICC-CIECA Business Forum in Taipei

Taipei – The Chinese International Economic Association (CIECA), CACCI Primary Member in Taiwan, organized the ICC-CIECA Business Forum on April 16, 2018 in Taipei, that featured Mr. Philip Kucharski, Chief Operating Officer of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), as Keynote Speaker.

Mr. Kucharski made a presentation on the ICC – its mission and its activities aimed at expanding international trade, representing business, and promoting peace and prosperity. He informed the 30 participants who joined the Forum that the ICC was founded in 1919 by a handful of entrepreneurs who wanted to form an organization “that would represent business everywhere and bring economic prosperity around the world” . Today, the 13 ICC commissions comprising experts from the private sector cover specialized fields of immediate concern to international business. Subjects range from banking techniques to taxation, from competition law to intellectual property rights, telecommunications and information technology, from transport, environment and energy to international investment and trade policy.

Mr. Kucharski identified areas where ICC would like to work more closely with the ICC national committees and other chambers of commerce in the Asian region – particularly those in Taiwan – to help achieve its objectives.

Mr. Walter H. C. Chang, Vice Chairman of CIECA and ICC Taipei, gave the Welcome Remarks, while Ms. Mei-Hua Wang, Vice Minister of Economic Affairs, delivered the Special Remarks.

CACCI Vice President Amb. Feng Chi-Tai Meets with ICC Chief Operating Officer Philip Kucharski

Taipei – Amb. Feng Chi-Tai, Vice President of the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI), received Mr. Philip Kucharski, Chief Operating Officer of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), during the latter’s visit to Taipei on April 16-17.

Amb. Feng and Mr.Kucharski exchanged views on the current conditions in the global economy, the growing protectionism among some of the major economies, the challenges and opportunities they offer, how these would impact on the Asian business community.

They also explored possible areas of cooperation between CACCI and ICC that would be beneficial to their respective members, and bring the two organizations closer together in pursuing their common objective of promoting the interests of the business community.

Mr. Kucharski was accompanied by Mrs. Ju-Song Lee, Executive Director of ICC Asia, while Amb. Feng was joined by CACCI Director-General Mr. Ernest Lin, Deputy Directors-General Mr. Amador Honrado Jr, and Mr. Mig Moreno.

CACCI Vice President Mrs. Magvan Oyunchimeg serves as panelist at the Belt and Road Trade and Investment Forum in Beijing

Beijing – CACCI President Mrs. Magvan Oyunchimeg, CEO of Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MNCCI), was invited as a Panelist at the “Belt and Road Trade and Investment Forum” held on April 12, 2018 in Beijing.

The two-day Forum was Organized by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT), China Chamber of International Commerce (CCOIC), and the ICC World Chambers Federation (ICC WCF), and supported by the Silk Road Business Council.

Mrs. Oyunchimeg was a Panelist in the session on “Prospects for B&R Industrial Investment.” The session discussed a number of issues including plans for B&R industrial investment, financing for B&R projects, construction of connectivity, and innovation of investment models, among others.

Focusing on the theme “Unleashing Potential for Shared Future,” the Forum aimed to introduce and disseminate the Belt and Road concept, strengthen the dialogue between government and business, enhance connectivity between China and foreign countries, and build consensus of cooperation.

CACCI members join visit to Alibaba Group Headquarters in Beijing

Beijing – Members of the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI), including CACCI Deputy Director-General Mr. Amador Honrado Jr., joined officers and members of the ICC World Chambers Federation (ICC-WCF) during the visit to the headquarters of the Alibaba Group in Beijing, China on April 12, 2018.The visit was made following the April 11 meeting of the ICC-WCF General Council, of which CACCI is a permanent member.

Key representatives of the Alibaba Group received the  visiting delegation during the dinner hosted by the Group at its Beijing office. The visitors listened to a presentation on the ongoing and future activities of the Alibaba Group in China as well as in other major countries around the world.

CACCI invited to support Singapore International Energy Week (SIEW)

Singapore – The Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI) has been invited to be a supporting organization of the Singapore International Energy Week (SIEW) to be held on October 29 – November 2, 2018 at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore.

SIEW is an annual platform for energy professionals, policymakers and commentators to discuss and share best practices and solutions within the global energy space. SIEW aims to facilitate the exchange of ideas and discussions on pertinent energy-related issues, while simultaneously meeting the strategic objectives of Singapore’s commitment to becoming a global leader among energy companies converging on the event, as well as to provide a platform to showcase innovative products and solutions in the energy marketplace.

Singapore skyline at night

CACCI Conference in Istanbul themed “Asia: Expanding Boundaries”

Istanbul – The 32nd CACCI Conference scheduled to take place on November 23-24, 2018 at the Ciragan Palace Kempinski in Istanbul, Turkey will carry the theme “Asia: Expanding Boundaries”.

To be hosted by Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey (TOBB), the two-day event aims to provide another valuable platform for CACCI members and invited experts to exchange views on measures that the business sector and governments in the region can undertake to take full advantage of the opportunities offered not just by markets in the Asia-Pacific region but by countries in other parts of the world as well.

With this year’s gathering expected to bring together over 400 business leaders from at least 25 countries in the Asia-Pacific region, CACCI and TOBB hope that discussions will not only be of commercial interest to the participants, but will also be useful to the Confederation in its efforts to help shape policies that affect the Asia-Pacific region’s development. As follows we present the tentative program as of August 3, 2018.

REGISTER HERE

The 32nd CACCI Conference

November 23-24, 2018, Ciragan Palace Kempinski, Istanbul, Turkey

23 November 2018 – Friday

08:00am – 17:00am  Registration

09:00am – 12:00pm  Final Selection of Winners
(1) The 7rd Asia – Pacific Young Entrepreneur Award (Venue: Yikdiz C)
(2) The 8th Local Chamber Awards (Venue: Kaftan room)

09:00am – 12:15pm  Parallel Breakout Sessions
These parallel breakout sessions focusing on three sectors each will feature sectoral roundtable discussions and concurrent sessions that will gather government and private sector leaders for dialogue and panel discussion and information sharing on important sectoral issues, as well as to explore possible areas of cooperation among CACCI members within the same sector.

09:00am – 10:00am  Group One

a. CACCI Women Entrepreneurs Council (Venue: Mabeyn Room)
Session Chairman: Mrs. Mukta Nandini Jain, Former President, FICCI Ladies Organization; Chairperson, CWEC

Speakers/Panelists:
(1) Mrs. Selima Ahmad, President, Bangladesh Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry
(2) Ms. Pacita Juan, Immediate Past Chairperson, ASEAN Women  Entrepreneurs Network and Immediate Past Chairperson, Women’s Business Council Philippines
(3) Ms. Blesila Lantayona, Assistant Secretary, Department of Trade and Industry, Philippines
(4) Mine Ayhan, CEO, Generali Insurance (tbc)

b. Asian ICT Council (Venue: Yildiz AB)
Session Chairman: Dr. G. J. Huang, Fellow, Information Industry Institute;    Chairman, Asian ICT Council

Speakers/Panelists:
(1) Mr. Martin Frick, Managing Director, Asia Pacific Temenos
(2) Mr. James Chiao, Chairman and CEO, Smart City Consulting Co.
(3) Fevzi Güngör, Vice Chairman, The Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey (TOBB E-Commerce Council (tbc)

c. Asian Council on Health and Education (Venue: Enderun Ballroom)
Session Chairmen: Dr. Arash Anissian, Chairman, Asian Council on Health and Education; Researcher, Opthalmic Research Center, Shaheed Beheshti Medical University

Speakers/Panelists:
(1) Mrs. Priti Chakraborty, Chairman, Universal Medical College & Hospital Ltd., Director, FBCCI
(2) Banu Küçükel, Deputy Chairwoman of the Board, Güven Hospital Inc. (tbc)

10:00am – 11:00am  Group Two

a. Young Entrepreneurs Group Asia-Pacific (Venue: Mabeyn Room)
Session Chairman: Mr. Mangesh Lal Shrestha, Member of the Advisory and Leadership Group and Former President, Nepalese Young Entrepreneurs Forum

Speakers/Panelists:
(1) Mr. Rommel Sim Gerodias, President & CEO, Sauber Professionals
(2) Mr. Roman Nikolaevic Bobylev, Founder and Head, Lozaholding  (To be confirmed)
(3) Mr. Md. Muntakim Ashraf, Vice President, Federation of Bangladesh CCIs
(4) Civan Sözkesen, President, Denizli Young Entrepreneurs Council (tbc)

b. Asian Council on Tourism (Venue: Yildiz AB)
Session Chairman: Mr. Anura Lokuhetty, Chairman, Asian Council on Tourism and Chairman, Red Apple Travels and Holidays Lanka Pvt. Ltd.

Speakers/Panelists:
(1) Mr Thanongsinh Kanlagan, Executive Vice President, Lao  National Chamber of Commerce and Industry
(2) Mr. Chandi Raj Dhakal, Vice President (Nepal Chapter),  SAARC CCI
(3) Mr. Stuart Kenny, Senior Vice President, Chamber of Commerce Northern Territory
(4) Mr. Surenbaatar Nergui, Director, Business Development Division, New Juulchin World Tours Corp.
(5) Ms. Marloes Knippenberg, CEO Kerten Hospitality
(6) Osman Ayık, President of Tourism Sector Council of the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey(TOBB) (tbc)

c. Asian Council on Trade Facilitation (Venue: Enderun Ballroom)
Session Chairman: Mr. R. B. Rauniar, Chairman, Asian Council on Trade Facilitation and Managing Director, Interstate Multi-Modal Transport Pvt. Ltd.

Speakers/Panelists:
(1) Mr. Bryan Clark, Director, Trade and International Affairs, Australian CCI
(2) Mr. Kok Keong Chong, Assistant CEO, Crimson Logic; and  CEO, Global eTrade Services)
(3) Aslı Gözütok, Manager of  TIR and ATA Carnets Department of the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey (TOBB) (tbc)
(4) Dr. Esfandyar Omidbakshs, Director General for Multilateral Trade Relations Dept., Iran Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture
(5) Mr. A. K. M. Shaheed Reza, Director, Federation of Bangladesh CCIs
(6) Mr. Manesh Singhal, Deputy Secretary General, International Affairs Division, Federation of Indian CCIs

11:00am – 11:15am  Coffee Break (Conference Center Foyer Area)

11:15am – 12:15pm  Group Three

a. SME Development Council (Venue: Mabeyn Room)
Session Chairman: Mr. George Abraham, Chairman SME Development Council and Chairman/Managing Director of GA Group

Speakers/Panelists:
(1) Mr. Chandula Abeywickrema, Chairman, Lanka Impact Investing Network, and Chairman, CSR Lanka
(2) Mrs. Dhara Wijayatilake, CEO, Ceylon Chamber of Commerce
(3) Cahit Ceren, Manager of SME Research and Consultancy Center of  the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey (TOBB) (tbc)
(4) Mr. Amzad Hussain, Director, Federation of Bangladesh CCIs
(5) Mr. Boldkhet Sereeter, Founder and Chairman, Naran Group

b. Asian Council on Food and Agriculture (Venue: Yildiz AB)
Session Chairman: Mr. Henry Kao, Chairman, I-Mei Foods Co. Ltd.; Member of APEC Business Advisory Council; Chairman of CIECA

Speakers/Panelists:
(1) Dr. Kuo-Ching Lin , Director, Food & Fertilizer Technology Center for the Asian and Pacific Region
(2) Dr. Ali Shariati, Board Member, Confederation of Iranian Food Industry Associations
(4) Mr. Abdus Salam, President, Bangladesh Organic Products Manufacturers Association
(5) Necdet Buzbaş, Chairman of the Board, Turkısh Food&Beverage Industry Employers Assocıatıon (TÜGİŞ)(tbc)

c. Asian Council on Water, Energy and Environment (Venue: Enderun Ballroom)
Session Chairman: Mr. Gyanendra Lal Pradhan, Executive Chairman, Hydro Solutions Pvt. Ltd., and Chairman, Asian Council on Water, Energy and Environment

Speakers/Panelists:
(1) Mr. Syed Mazhar Ali Nasir, Senior Vice President, Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry
(2) Mr. Taif Bin Yousuf, Executive Director, Meghna Group of Industries (Tbc)
(3) Bengisu Özenç, Program Director, The Economic Policy Research Policy Foundation of Turkey (TEPAV) (tbc)

12:15pm – 01:15pm  Lunch (Venue: Conference Center Foyer Area)

01:30pm – 04:00pm  Final Selection of Winner for the 2nd Asia-Pacific Women Entrepreneur Award (Venue: Yildiz C)

02:00pm – 03:00pm  Policy Advocacy Working Group Meeting (Venue: Enderun Ballroom)
This session will review and finalize a paper focusing on a policy or policies of current interest to CACCI members and to the region’s business community as a whole, and for submission – along with their recommendations – to regional or multilateral organizations and to relevant government authorities for consideration and possible input into their policy-making endeavours.

Meeting Chairman: Mr. Bryan Clark, Director, Trade and International Affairs, Australian CCI

03:00pm – 05:00pm  Discover Business Opportunities Through CACCI (Mabeyn Ballroom)
This session will feature the following: (a) country presentations by selected member chambers on current economic conditions in their    respective countries and opportunities for trade and investments, or  on special programs, projects, products or services that have benefited their members or the community they serve and may be adapted by chambers from other countries; and (b) invited CEOs of companies or successful entrepreneurs from various CACCI member countries who will share their success  stories; the challenges they faced and how they overcame them; and/or their innovative business models.

Session Chairman: Mrs. Magvan Oyunchimeg, CEO, Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Vice President, CACCI.

(1) Wellington Chamber of Commerce – Presenter: Mr. John Milford, Chief Executive
(2) Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry – Presenter: Mr Thanongsinh Kanlagna, Executive Vice President
(3) Chamber of Commerce Northern Territory – Presenter: Mr. Brian O’Gallagher, Deputy Chief Executive Officer
(4) Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Primorsky Region – Presenter: To be advised
(5) Representative of the Presidential Investment Office (tbc)

02:30pm – 04:00pm  Advisory Board Meeting  (Open  only to Advisory Board members) (Venue: Kaftan Room)

04:00pm – 05:00pm  Budget Commission Meeting (Open  only to Budget Commission members) (Venue: Kaftan Room)

05:00pm – 05:15pm  Coffee Break (Conference Center Foyer Area)

05:15pm – 06:45pm  89th CACCI Council Meeting (Venue: Enderun Ballroom)

07:15pm – 09:30pm  Welcome Reception/Dinner (Venue: Sait Halim Pasha Mansion)

REGISTER HERE

The 32nd CACCI Conference (Ciragan Ballroom)
“Asia: Expanding boundaries”

24 November 2018 – Saturday

The Conference will identify measures that the business sector and governments in the region can undertake to address the challenges being faced by the global economy and take full advantage of the current opportunities offered not just by markets in the Asia-Pacific region but by countries in other parts of the world as well,  thereby enabling them to grow and expand beyond the domestic borders and into the global market.

Invited speakers will discuss how chambers and businessmen in the region can work closely together in defining a new role for the Asian business community in achieving a sustainable economic development, grasping common opportunities outside the usual geographical and technological boundaries, and managing shared risks and problems amid a rapidly changing world market, while playing a substantial, constructive and catalytic role in global economic growth.

10:00am – 11:00am  Opening Ceremony

(1) Welcome Statement: Mr. Rifat Hisarciklioglu, President, The Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey (TOBB)
(2) Welcome Remarks: Mr. Jemal Inaishvili, President of the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI)
(3) Special Address: High-Level Government Official of Turkey
(4) Keynote Speaker: Mr. Yi Xiaozhun, Deputy Director-General, World Trade  Organization
(5) Presentation of Plaques of Appreciation to the High-Level  Government Official and to the Keynote Speaker/s

11:00am – 11:15am   Coffee Break (Venue: Conference Center Foyer Area)

11:15am – 12:15pm  Plenary Session 1: The Changing Role of Chambers in Promoting Business (Ciragan Ballroom)
This session will feature speakers who will share their views on how SMEs can be assisted by chambers in their internationalization efforts and in becoming a part of Global Value Chains (GVCs). Within the scope of authentication issue and providing data, chambers have a critical role to expedite the process. They can cooperate on cross border regulatory policy needs and; therefore, facilitate cross border trade.

Session Chairman: Pradeep Kumar Shrestha, Managing Director, Panchakanya Group and Vice President, CACCI

Speakers/Panelists:
(1) Dr. Martin Wansleben – Chief Executive of DIHK
(2) George Abraham –  Managing Director, The GA Group Pte. Ltd.
(3) Arnaldo Abruzzini – Chief Executive Officer, Eurochambres
(4) Philip Kucharski, Former Chief Operating Officer of the International Chamber of Commerce
(5) Li Zhonghang, Vice President and Secretary General, Silk Road Chamber of International Commerce

12:15pm – 01:15pm  Plenary Session 2: Innovation and Digitalization: Implications for Business (Ciragan Ballroom)
This session will examine how new technological revolution has directly transformed our lives and trade mechanisms. It should be realized that distributed ledger technologies have forced Asian developing countries to move from cross border trade to fin-tech solutions. According to GVCs formation, service sector value added in manufacture industries should also be considered with Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Session Chairman: Samir Modi, Senior Vice President, CACCI and Executive Director, K. K. Modi Group

Speakers/Panelists:
(1) Ozan Acar – Head of Sectors and Entrepreneurship Department of the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey
(2) James Chiao – Chairman and CEO, Smart City Consulting Co.
(3) Mitsutoshi Oriyama – Director for Trade in Service, Multilateral Trade System Department, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry
(Topic: The new possibility of digital economy for economic development and looming digital protectionism)
(4) Ma. Alegria Sibal-Limjoco – President, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry

01:15pm – 02:30pm  Lunch (Exhibition Hall or Ciragan Ballroom)

03:00pm – 04:00pm  Plenary Session 3: Regional Integration and Connectivity for Sustainable Development (Ciragan Ballroom)
Invited speakers will elaborate on their perspectives as to why traditional shipping connectivity is not enough for Asian integration/transformation. Among others, they will explain how the One Belt, One Road Initiative is expected to bring in new transportation corridors and regulatory harmonization needs, why the latter is important for diversification of the Asian economies, and how at that point chambers could have a role to play to increase connectivity between Asian countries and the world.

Session Chairman: Mr. Peter McMullin, Vice President, CACCI and Board Member, ICC Australia

Speakers/Panelists:
(1) Suraj Vaidya – Former President, FNCCI and President, Vaidya Organization of Industries and Trading Houses (VOITH)
(2) Manjeet Kripalani – Executive Director, Gateway House, Indian Council on Global Relations
(3) Ruwan Edirisinghe – SAARC CCI President and Chairman/Managing Director of RN Group of Companies

04:00pm – 05:00pm  Plenary Session 4: A New World Economic Order: What It Means for Asia  (Ciragan Ballroom)
This session will feature panelists who, in light of the rising protectionism among major economies which is seen to threaten the developing world, will examine and share their views on how to define new aspects of the new world economic order, and how opportunities and threats of this new era of populist backlash should be identified and addressed.

Session Chairman: Güven Sak – Managing and Area Studies Program Director of the Economic Policy Research Foundation of Turkey (TEPAV).

Speakers/Panelists:
(1) Claude Smadja – Founder and President of Smadja & Smadja Strategic Advisory Inc.
(2) Bozkurt Aran – Director, Economic Policy Research Foundation of Turkey (TEPAV), Former Turkish Ambassador to the WTO
(3) Bryan Clark – Director, Trade and International Affairs, Australian CCI
(4) Tetsuhide Mikamo – Advisor, Marubeni Research Institute
(5) Dr. Pedram Soltani, First Vice President of Iran Chamber of Commerce,    Industries, Mines & Agriculture

05:00pm – 05:15pm  Coffee Break (Conference Center Foyer Area)

05:15pm – 06:30pm  90th CACCI Council Meeting  (Venue: Enderun Ballroom)

06:30pm Cocktail

08:00pm  Gala Dinner (Venue: Ciragan Ballroom)

(1) Formal Turnover Ceremony for Incoming CACCI President
(2) Announcement of CACCI Awards Winners
(3) Video Presentation by 2019 CACCI Conference Host

November 25, 2018, Sunday Optional Post-Conference Tour

Optional Post-Conference Tour/Departure of delegates

REGISTER HERE

CACCI calls for members’ inputs to the 2018-2020 CACCI Work Program

Istanbul – One of the main agendas of the upcoming 32nd CACCI Conference scheduled to take place on November 23-24, 2018 in Istanbul, Turkey is the formulation of a draft Framework for the 2018-2020 CACCI Work Program to be implemented by the new CACCI officers to be elected during the Istanbul Conference.

In this connection, CACCI is requesting all current CACCI officers and members for their suggestions on activities CACCI should undertake in the next two years. As much as possible, these activities should benefit all members, further promote the growth and development of the Confederation, and help CACCI attain its primary objectives.

Suggestions may be sent to the Secretairat throughcacci@cacci.biz, preferably before September 15, 2018. All responses will be integrated into the draft Work Program to be considered and finalized during the 90th CACCI Council Meeting to be held on the afternoon of November 24, 2018.

CACCI invites nominations for Hydropower & Clean Energy Excellence Award

Taipei – CACCI invitation Chambers to submit nominations for the 3rd CACCI Asia-Pacific Hydropower and Clean Energy Excellence Award. We are attaching reference documents for the Award nomination and selection mechanics.

Initiated by the CACCI Asian Council on Water, Energy and Environment (ACWEE) which is under the chairmanship of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), the Asia-Pacific Hydropower and Clean Energy Excellence Award is presented by CACCI in recognition of 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.

The nominees could be individuals (entrepreneurs, subject specialists/experts, researchers, academicians, advocates/activists, independent power producers, inventors, media personnel, bankers, authors) or institutions (private organization, public corporation/agency, financial institution, research institution, civil society organization or media agency) in the energy industry. This award is an encouragement to recognize their efforts and to honor them for encouraging further endeavors.

The winner of the 3rd Asia-Pacific Hydropower and Clean Energy Excellence Award will be announced during the Gala Dinner of the 32nd CACCI Conference to be held on November 24, 2018 in Istanbul.

CACCI members invited to Ulaanbaatar Trade Fair

Ulaanbaatar – Ulaanbaatar Partnertship, Annual International Trade Fair is the largest trade fair in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia with the great variety of exhibits and the most onsite deals. An annual 5-day session from Sep 7 to 10 Ulaanbaatar, Trade Fair of UBP is co-organized in collaboration with the Mayor Administration of Ulaanbaatar city and MNCCI.

The purpose of the trade fair is to present commodity products and services of domestic and foreign enterprise promoting its business between interested parties.

The Ulaanbaatar Partnership – 2017, International Trade Fair was held at Misheel Expo Center, from September 7 to 10, 2017, with over 110 standard booths at the exhibition area of 2750 square metre exhibited 100 enterprises’ products of Food, Textile, Light Industry, Arts and other industries. Overseas exhibitors from many countries such as Republic of Poland, Russian Federation, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Taiwan 12,000 visitors and customers. The exhibition was focusing on international standards of import brands and demonstrated innovative solutions of technology.

During the Ulaanbaatar Partnership Trade Fair we organize various business meetings like B2B, consultation etc. Meanwhile, UBP facilitates their business talks concerning transactions, investment and various kinds of cooperation. We are kindly inviting visitors and exhibitors from all over the world.

Exhibit profile

Light Industry: Leather, Cashmere, Camel and Yak wool, Felt, Gift, Jewelry& Accessories, Pharmaceutical& Medical equipment, Health care product, Beauty product, Household goods& Appliance, Book, Building materials, Printing, Publishing and all commodity product

Food& Beverage: Bakery, Milk& Dairy product, Meat product, Fresh vegetable& fruit, Natural honey, all types of beverage, Confectionary, Imported food

Services: Banking, Insurance, Funds, TPO, NGO’s, Publishers, Broadcasting, Press, Advertising, Software, E-commerce, Online sale etc…

Date: September 07-10, 2018 /Friday-Monday/

Venue: Misheel Expo center, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

Organizer: Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce & Industry

Co-Organizer: Office of the Capital city Governor

Standard Booth: 1620 USD per 9 sq.m spaces (included VAT 10%) (TBC)

Corner Booth: 1800 USD per 9 sq.m spaces (included VAT 10%) (TBC)

CACCI Secretariat attends seminar on Indonesian Economy, Tourism and Labor

Taipei – At the invitation of Indonesian Economic and Trade Office to Taipei (IETO), CACCI Secretariat executives joined the “Indonesian Economic, Tourism And Labor Seminar” held on March 23, 2018 at the Taipei World Trade Center.

Consisting of the Seminar in the morning session and Business Matching in the afternoon, the one-day event aimed to give participants an opportunity to maintain contact directly with potential partner from Indonesia and provide more comprehensive information regarding business opportunities and related policies in Indonesia.

Following the Opening Remarks by Mr. Robert J Bintaryo, Representative of IETO, Mr. Y. C. Tsai, Negotiator from Taiwan’s Office of Trade Negotiations, delivered a Keynote Speech on Taiwan’s “New Southbound Policy” where he highlighted the rapid increase in the trade and investment ties between the two sides. The Seminar also featured two Panel Discussions which focused on Indonesia’s foreign trade and labor policies, as well as investment experience sharing, respectively.

The Seminar was part of the “Indonesia Week 2018” held in Taipei starting on March 22, 2018. The four-day event was the largest held in Taipei in recent years with the participation of more than 80 Indonesian companies visiting Taipei to seek business opportunities.

CACCI and VCCI to co-organize workshops on International Trade and Short-Term Trade Finance

UNCTAD issues latest Investment Policy Monitor

Geneva – Tne United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) has released the latest issue of its Investment Policy Monitor. In the Report, UNCTAD notes that twenty two countries took 32 investment policy measures in the review period (November 2017 – February 2018). The share of investment restrictions and regulations increased to 29 percent.

Compared to the annual figures in recent years, this records the highest ratio since 2010. Newly adopted restrictive investment policies include a tightening of investment screening procedures, measures to protect national security and the disapproval of some foreign takeovers. Other restrictions relate to local content requirements and preferences for local suppliers in public procurement procedures.

At the same time, some countries improved entry conditions for foreign investment. Among the most noteworthy measures are liberalization steps in a couple of industries, the simplification of administrative procedures and new privatization. The reporting period also saw a significant corporate tax reform in one country.

Regarding international investment treaties, the Monitor finds that two bilateral investment treaties and six treaties with investment provisions were signed, bringing the total number of international investment agreements (IIAs) to over 3320.

In line with UNCTAD’s Roadmap for IIA Reform, all new IIAs contain several reform features, giving particular attention to the preservation of the right to regulate by clarifying key protection standards and refining investor-State dispute provisions. Countries are also starting to move towards the second phase of IIA reform, modernizing the existing stock of old-generation treaties.

Several negotiations for mega-regional agreements continue. Depending on how future mega-regional treaties will interact with overlapping pre-existing ones, this can help modernize today’s stock of old-generation treaties. Multilateral discussions tackled the reform of investment dispute settlement and number of countries are working towards structural discussions in the WTO, aimed at developing a multilateral framework on investment facilitation.

FICCI issues latest edition of Financial Foresights

New Delhi – The Financial Sector team of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry has released the latest edition of FICCI’s quarterly publication – Financial Foresights. The issue focuses on ‘The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code’ and presents insightful write-ups contributed by industry leaders and experts in this domain.

The passage of the Code is a landmark step forward from the earlier regime when there was no organised resolution process and different stakeholders approached different forums to resolve the issue. Now there is a unified law with the help of which this problem can be addressed in a systemic and in a time bound manner. Although the law is still in its nascent stage, one can say that the Code is a game changer and a paradigm shift in the laws relating to Insolvency. The pro-activity in implementation of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code sends a clear message that resolving NPA issue is a priority for the Government.

While the Code will have several positive impacts in the years to come, it is also essential that shortcomings are corrected so that there are no impediments to its implementation. This kind of a facilitative regime will not only improve business sentiment, but will improve the ease of doing business in the country.

This issue of Financial Foresights has attempted to outline reforms for strengthening the bankruptcy framework leading to a successful implementation of the Code.

Interested parties may download the publication from the following link: http://ficci.in/SPdocument/22962/Financial_Foresight_Final_Feb2018.pdf

6th SAARC Business Leaders Conclave in Kathmandu, March 16-18

Kathmandu – The SAARC Business Leaders’ Conclave 2018 was held in Kathmandu on March 16-18, 2018 with an objective to promote investment, innovation and entrepreneurship in the region by unleashing shared prosperity through economic integration.

The event drew business leaders of the SAARC member nations, high-level leaders and government officials, among other stakeholders, to identify the challenges facing the businesses in the region and the mitigating measures.

Inaugurating the three-day event, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli said that South Asian countries have been facing common challenges in terms of development and that it is, thus, a high time for all the governments of the region to work together and mitigate developmental, business and economic challenges.

“South Asia is blessed with resources. However, many of resources in the region have remained untapped,” PM Oli said, adding that Nepal is keen to work together with all the governments of South Asia to make optimum use of available resources and make the region the most prosperous one.

Suraj Vaidya, president of SAARC Chamber of Commerce (SAARC-CCI) – the organiser of the event – said the business conclave primarily intends to unleash the untapped potential that South Asia has.

Informing that though almost 21% of the world’s population reside in South Asia and more than half of the population in the region are active working population, Vaidya stressed on the need for collaborative efforts between the governments and private sector in the region to work for economic integration and prosperity.

ICC Invites CACCI Members to the 3rd SDG Business Forum

New York – CACCI members are invited to attend the 3rd SDG Business Forum Led by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) that will take place at the UN Headquarters in New York on July 17, 2018.The Forum is being held during the Ministerial segment of the UN’s High-Level Political Forum, the annual review of implementation of the Sustainable development Goals (SDG).

Considered one of the key private sector events in the UN calendar, the Business Forum provides a unique multi-stakeholder platform to support business action and partnerships to achieve UN SDGs – fostering public-private dialogues, catalyzing new partnerships and alliances, and exploring innovative business solutions to accelerate sustainable development.

CACCI Members Invited to the International Business and Human Rights Conference in Paris

Paris – The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) is encouraging members to participate in the next International Business and Human Rights Conference, organised by the IOE, MEDEF and Sodexo, taking place on 18th April 2018 in Paris.

This business-only conference is aimed at representatives of companies, business and employers’ federations, corporate law firms and industry associations. It will provide participants with a safe space to share experiences, learn about new trends and developments, network, and help shape the business and human rights agenda.

This conference will discuss pressing and practical issues, including:(a) How to carry out effective human rights due diligence; (b) How companies can best identify and address problems in supply chains; (c) Successful approaches to stakeholder engagement; (d) Access to remedy: examples of an NCP case and a company operational-level grievance mechanism; (e) Companies’ contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals; and (f) Government policy-making on business and human rights.

Interested parties may register before Friday 6 April by writing to humanrights@ioe-emp.com.

There is no fee to attend the conference. However, participants are expected to cover their own travel and accommodation expenses.

32nd CACCI Conference to be held on November 23-24 in Ciragan Palace Kempinski Hotel in Istanbul

Istanbul – As decided by the CACCI Planning Committee during its meeting on February 5 in Istanbul, the 32nd CACCI Conference will be held on November 23-24, 2018 at the Ciragan Palace Kempinski.

To be hosted by the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey (TOBB), the two-day event aims to provide another valuable platform for CACCI members and invited experts to exchange views on measures that the business sector and governments in the region can undertake to take full advantage of the opportunities offered not just by markets in the Asia-Pacific region but by countries in other parts of the world as well.

With this year’s gathering expected to bring together over 400 business leaders from at least 25 countries in the Asia-Pacific region, CACCI and TOBB hope that discussions will not only be of commercial interest to the participants, but will also be useful to the Confederation in its efforts to help shape policies that affect the Asia-Pacific region’s development.

CACCI and TOBB Jointly Hold a Successful CACCI Planning Committee Meeting

Istanbul – A highly productive and successful Planning Committee Meeting was recently held jointly by the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI) and the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey (TOBB) on February 5, 2018 at the TOBB Headquarters in Istanbul.

Chaired by CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili and co-chaired by TOBB President Mr. Rifat Hisarciklioglu, the meeting was attended by 31 representatives of 9 CACCI Primary Members from 9 countries, as well as representatives from TEPAV, the think-tank of TOBB.

Discussions focused mainly on preparations for the 32^nd CACCI Conference to be held in November 2018 in Istanbul, as well as on the recent and upcoming activities of CACCI in the year ahead.

Some 15 representatives from the Turkish media were also present at the Opening of the meeting. They asked questions addressed to the CACCI and TOBB Presidents, as well as to other CACCI officers including CACCI Senior Vice president Mr. Samir Modi from India.

This is the Ciragan Palace Kempinski Hotel where the November 23-24, 2018 CACCI Conference will be held.

IFFA to hold International forum of grains, oilseeds and related products

Tehran – The Iranian Federation of Food Associations (IFFA), with the support of Iran Agricultural Ministry and Iran/Tehran Chamber of Commerce, will hold “International forum of grains, oilseeds and related products” on May 7-8, 2018 in Tehran IRIB International Conference Center.

The two-day forum focuses on the market developments. It offers an excellent environment for discussions of trends in agricultural market, supports development of business strategies in a rapidly changing world, and provides great opportunities to contact producers and buyers of grains and oilseeds.

The target participants include agricultural holdings, suppliers of raw materials, heads of private sector, traders of grains and oilseeds, representatives of governing bodies and authorities, financial institutions, potential creditors of projects, heads of domestic and foreign enterprises and suppliers of equipment and technologies, international and national experts and others. More than 700 representatives are expected to participate in the event.

For more information, refer to the following link: http://en.ifif.ir/Post/687

CACCI Invited to ASEAN-BAC’s 11th Joint Consulting Meeting with ASEAN+1 Business Councils and Associations

Singapore – The Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI) attended, as an Observer, the 11th Joint Consulting Meeting of the ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC) with ASEAN +1 Business Councils and Associations held on January 17, 2018.

Held at the Supply Chain City, a 6.5-hectare logistics facility located in Jurong West, Singapore, the meeting was attended by ASEAN-BAC members, Joint Business Council Members, and representatives of the ASEAN + 1 Business Councils and Associations. It was the second time CACCI was invited as an Observer to a Joint Consulting Meeting regularly organized by the ASEAN BAC with ASEAN Business Councils and Associations from various Dialogue Partners of ASEAN. CACCI attended the 9th Joint Consultation Meeting held in January 2017 in Manila.

Representing CACCI at both meetings was Deputy Director-General Mr. Amador Honrado Jr. The ASEAN BAC was formed following decision of the ASEAN Leaders at the 7th ASEAN Summit and launched in April 2003, with the mandate to provide private sector feedback and guidance to boost ASEAN’s efforts towards economic integration.

CEO-Preneurship Summit Scheduled On 20 February 2018 in Istanbul

Istanbul – On February 20, 2018, the CEO-Preneurship Summit of the WBAF World Congress 2018 will host the CEOs of more than 100 corporates from 80 countries.

For the first time ever, the World Business Angels Investment Forum (WBAF) will be hosting more than 1,000 delegates from all over the world at its annual gathering. WBAF World Congress 2018, the biggest annual gathering of the world’s early-stage equity and investment markets, will have five important summits running concurrently on 18 – 20 February 2018 at the Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul.

This year’s forum will focus on the theme ‘Unlocking the Potential for Innovation: Angel Investors Partnering with Family Offices and Wealth Management Institutions from Start-up to Scale-up to Exit to Boost More Innovation’’.

The discussions will explore how family offices and wealth management institutions can foster open innovation and deliver more business value through partnerships with angel investors, start-ups, scale-ups, high-growth businesses and SMEs.

• The WBAF Annual Conference 2018 (for angel investors.)
• The Take Invest Summit 2018 (for start-ups and scale-ups.)
• The FinTech Summit 2018 (for finance executives.)
• The Impact Investment Summit 2018 (for impact investors.)
• The CEO-Preneurship Summit 2018 (for CEOs of global companies valued at $100+ million.)

For more information on WBAF 2018, please visit www.wbaf2018.istanbul.

The WBAF is committed to collaborate globally to empower the economic development of the world by fostering innovative financial instruments for SMEs, innovators and startups.

Alegria Sibal-Limjoco Takes the Reins of PCCI

Manila – Mrs. Alegria Sibal-Limjoco has been elected President of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) effective January 1, 2018. Mrs. Sibal-Limjoco is only the second woman to hold the position.

Coming from a life of helping small retail stores branch into franchises, Mrs. Sibal-Limjoco said she would focus her two-year term as PCCI president on helping out the small players in the business community.She also said she wanted to continue the work done by her predecessors, the most recent being Mr. George Barcelon.

But on top of the chamber’s past projects, the new PCCI President wants to focus on MSME development, and even help K-12 students find better internship opportunities with PCCI member-companies.

Mrs. Sibal-Limjoco, who was a member of the PCCI board of directors for years, is taking the helm of the organization at a time when the business landscape in the Philippines is expected to change dramatically. All of these changes — from new taxes to more foreign companies jostling with small Filipino firms — await her in the year ahead and she is expected to be more than ready to meet the challenges.

Sri Lanka – Russia Business Council holds 14th Annual General Meeting

Colombo – The 14th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Sri Lanka – Russia Business Council (SLRBC) of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce was held recently, electing Priyantha Hapuarachchi as President for 2017/2018 who is the Chief Financial Officer at South Asia Textile Industries Lanka (Pvt) Ltd. Buddhapriya Ramanayake, Director, Mos Lanka Investments (Pvt) Ltd and Buddhika Liyanage, Director, Avian Technology (Pvt) Ltd were elected as Vice Presidents.

His Excellency Yuri Materiy, the Ambassador of Russia to Sri Lanka, graced the meeting as a Chief Guest while the Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Russian Federation H. E. Dr. Saman Weerasinghe was the Guest of Honor at the AGM.

Nine other Companies were selected to serve in the Executive Committee of the Council. Access International Projects (Pvt) Ltd, Freight Links International Pvt Ltd, Galle Face Hotel Management Company, HVA Lanka Exports Pvt Ltd, Imperial Teas (Pvt) Ltd, Maharaja Organisation projects (pvt) Ltd, Nature’s Beauty Creations Limited, Regency Teas (Pvt) Ltd and Rhino Roofing Products Limited are the companies selected.

ASEAN Investment Report 2017 Launched

Manila – ASEAN Investment Report 2017 was launched at the ASEAN Business and Investment Summit held in Manila on November 13, 2017.

The Report was prepared under a technical cooperation agreement between the ASEAN Secretariat and the UNCTAD Division on Investment and Enterprise. Copies of the Report have been forwarded to all CACCI members.

The 2017 Report can be downloaded HERE. Other past editions covering different topics, may be accessed at UNCTAD’s or ASEAN Secretariat’s websites (www.unctad.org or www.asean.org)

CACCI Delegation Meets with Nepal’s Commerce Secretary

Kathmandu – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili, along with 30 members of his delegation from six CACCI member-countries, met with Commerce Secretary Chandra Kumar Ghimire of Republic of Nepal on November 21, 2017 during the CACCI Presidential visit.

The visitors shared information and exchanged views with Secretary Ghimire on trade and investment opportunities in Nepal, industry sectors that would be of interest to foreign investors particularly those from Asian countries, and other matters of common interest.

CACCI Delegation Visits Bhaktapur CCI

Bhaktapur – A 20-member delegation consisting of businessmen from six CACCI member countries visited the Bhaktapur Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) on November 23 as part of the program of the three-day CACCI Presidential visit to Nepal.

The CACCI visitors led by President Jemal Inaishvili met with the officers and members of BCCI and exchanged views on possible areas of cooperation between the two organizations. The meeting was followed by a tour of the ancient temples in Bhaktapur and lunch hosted by BCCI within the complex.

FNCCI Officers and Members Receive CACCI Delegation in Kathmandu

Kathmandu – Officers and members of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) led by FNCCI President Mrs. Bhawani Rana welcomed the 30-member CACCI delegation from six countries led by CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili. The meeting took place at the FNCCI headquarters in Kathmandu.

The two sides discussed matters of interest to the two organizations, including membership in CACCI, areas of possible cooperation such as training programs, trade exhibitions, participation in each other’s Conferences and workshops, and publication exchange, among others.

FNCCI & Kowloon Chamber Sign MOU in Kathmandu

Kathmandu – The Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) and the Kowloon Chamber of Commerce (KCC) recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) outlining possible areas of cooperation between the two organizations.

Aimed at promoting greater trade and investments between Nepal and Hong Kong, the MOU was signed at the FNCCI headquarters in Kathmandu by the heads of the two organizations during the recent CACCI Presidential Visit to Nepal held on November 20-23, 2017.FNCCI President Mrs. Bhawani Rana and KCC Chairman Mr. John Li signed the MOU on behalf of their respective chambers.

Ceylon Chamber & ITC holds joint workshop on WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement

Colombo – The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce (CCC) in collaboration with International Trade Center (ITC) recently conducted a workshop through a train-the-trainer methodology to create awareness among the private sector on the latest WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement.

The two-day work shop conducted in Colombo early October was aimed at helping businesses, especially the local SME sector, to understand the terms, potential benefits and practical use of each of the technical measures of the new Agreement and to equip them to contribute to the design, implementation and monitoring of the Trade Facilitation potential implementation choices.

The training session was delivered by ITC trained national consultants sourced by the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce.

WTO members concluded negotiations at the 2013 Bali Ministerial Conference on the landmark Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA), which entered into force on 22 February 2017 following its ratification by two-thirds of the WTO membership, operationalizing the Agreement on Trade Facilitation is a path to internationalization, which will allow them to access international value chains at lower cost and at greater speeds. Sri Lanka is a signatory and has agreed to undertake many trade facilitation reforms.

Sri Lanka- Singapore Business Council of Ceylon Chamber successfully concludes a business mission to Singapore

Singapore – The Sri Lanka-Singapore Business Council of Ceylon Chamber of Commerce successfully concluded a 26-member business mission to Singapore held on November 8-10, 2017.

The three-day mission was organized in collaboration with the International Enterprise Singapore; the Government Agency driving Singapore’s external economy and promoting the overseas growth of Singapore-based enterprises and international trade, supported by Singapore Business Federation; the Apex Business Chamber in Singapore with over 18,000 members and in association with the Sri Lankan High Commission in Singapore.

The activities included a Seminar attended by some 100 participants from various industry sectors, one-on-one business meetings between the representatives of the Singapore companies and the Sri Lankan delegates, as well as with the opportunity for the Singaporeans to interact with the officials of the Board of Investment of Sri Lanka and clarify matters relating to potential investments.

The Delegation also participated in a series of meetings at the Singapore Indian Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SICCI) which provided them an opportunity to network with the senior officials and members.

ICC Asia Conducts Seminar on ATA Carnet System Implementation in Vietnam

Hanoi – Mrs Lee Ju Song, Executive Director, ICC Asia, successfully conducted meetings and seminar on Steps to be taken for the Implementation of the ATA Carnet System in Vietnam. Held on October 31 – November 4, 2017 on Hanoi, the five-day sessions were attended by about 40 Senior Vietnam Customs and VCCI Certification Staff designated to implement the ATA Carnet System in Vietnam.

The interactive Seminar and meetings focused on the steps to be taken by the Vietnamese Government, the Vietnamese Customs, and the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) for the early implementation of the ATA Carnet System.

Mrs. Lee urged the early implementation of the ATA Carnet System by Vietnam since the System is the International “Passport to World Trade” as it allows the effective and speedy clearance of goods by Customs. It is an indispensable marketing tool to have in helping businesses to successfully develop their export capabilities and enabling them to have successful business trips as well as smooth participation in trade fairs and missions, Mrs. Lee told the participants.

FICCI Invites CACCI Members to its Annual Banking Conference in Mumbai

Bombay – The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) and the Indian Banks Association (IBA) are jointly organising FIBAC – an annual banking conference – on 6th and 7th November, 2017 at Hotel Trident, Nariman Point, Mumbai, India with the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) as its Knowledge Partner. The theme of the conference is ‘Finance in Digital Era: Navigating the knowns and unknowns.”

Mr. N S Vishwanathan, Deputy Governor, Reserve Bank of India has kindly agreed to inaugurate the conference.

Building on the discussions that have taken place over the last few years and in light of the significant changes being seen in India particularly in the realm of the digital economy, this year’s conference would be focusing on the new frontiers for digital banking and other pertinent topics like consolidation, turnaround management, pricing etc.

CACCI Members invited to Match4Industry Event in Kocaeli

Kocaeli – The Kocaeli Chamber of Industry is inviting CACCI members to participate in its Match4Industry event that will take place on 2-3 November 2017 in Kocaeli, Turkey.

Match4Industry is part of “Doing Business Onsite”, a unique concept in matchmaking events that offer meetings held in company premises as well as the main event site. Visits to leading automotive companies will be available as optional programmes, offering the participants a chance to observe Kocaeli’s business environment at first hand. There will be a dedicated area to accommodate face to face meetings between prospective partners. This year’s event is expected to attract 350 exhibitors and some 40,000 visitors.

Interested parties may visit the event website at www.match4industry.com

“Tbilisi Belt and Road Forum” on November 28-29, 2017 in Tbilisi, Georgia

Tbilisi – CACCI would like to convey an invitation from the Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia for CACCI members to attend the “Tbilisi Belt and Road Forum” to be held on November 28-29, 2017 in Tbilisi, Georgia.

Organized under the patronage of H. E. Prime Minister of Georgia, Giorgi Kvirikashvili, the two-day event serves as a continuing platform for high-government and business-to-business dialogue and is aimed at promoting regional cooperation.  With focus on the full spectrum of factors which define the regional and global trade, the Forum is expected to host over 1,000 political leaders, diplomats, representatives of international organizations and business.  Attached herewith, for your perusal, is the official invitation.

For more information on the Forum, interested parties are encouraged to visit the official website at: http://www.tbilisibrf.gov.ge/.

Ceylon Chamber Receives Lahore CCI Delegation to Discuss How to Strengthen Sri Lanka-Pakistan Trade and Investment

Colombo – The Sri Lanka-Pakistan Business Council of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce hosted recently a delegation from the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI).

LCCI is the oldest and largest trade body in Pakistan with strong credentials having a large membership base standing around 20 thousand members. Led by Senior Vice President Mr Amjad Ali Jawa, the LCCI delegation consisted of representatives from the pharmaceuticals, IT and beauty Sectors.

The Sri Lanka-Pakistan Business Council organized a Business Forum during which both sides discussed the relationship the two countries enjoy and the possible opportunities that exist. The Business Forum ended with B2B meetings between members of the two sides.

New Lifetime Special Member from Bangladesh Visits CACCI Secretariat

Taipei – Mr. Md. Gias Uddin Bhuiyan, Managing Director of Shan Sabil (BD) Ltd. from Bangladesh, met with executives of the CACCI Secretariat during his recent visit to Taipei on September 26.

Mr. Bhuiyan, who frequently travels to Taipei because of his various businesses, discussed with the CACCI executives his desire to take a more active part in CACCI activities following his recent admission as new Lifetime Special Member of CACCI.

A member of the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI), Mr. Bhuiyan also attended the 31st CACCI Conference and 10th World Chambers Congress held on September 18-21, 2017 in Sydney, Australia.

CACCI, KPMG, Vietnam VCCI, India FICCI & Iran ICCIMA jointly presented business opportunities during Sydney Conference

Sydney – On Tuesday September 19 2017, the Confederation of Asia Pacific Chambers of Commerce (CACCI) successfully featured the workshop session “Discover Asia Pacific’s business opportunities through CACCI” during the 10th ICC World Chambers Federation Congress in Sydney.

The session chaired by CACCI President Jemail Inaishvili, first presented Vincent Chang, President of the KPMG Deal Advisory in Chinese Taipei, followed by Vu Tien Loc, President of the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The third presenter was Gajendra Badgujar, Senior Director East Asia from the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry; and finally Pedram Soltani, First Vice President of the Iran Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture.

Given the fact that CACCI membership covers some 27 countries, which according to the Asian Development Bank, will reach a GDP growth of 5.7% in 2017 and 2018, CACCI presenters had a great opportunity to expose their economies to the international audience.

The CACCI workshop shared information about the economic and business conditions in their respective countries, as well as trade and investment opportunities. During the session, CACCI President Jemal Inaisvili also gave a brief history on CACCI, the services and products provided to members and its transnational alliances pursuing business policies to promote economic growth and business opportunities. Members of the audience issued questions related to business opportunities and economic conditions in the different economies presented.

The content of the presentations can be downloaded here:

Vincent Chang, President of the KPMG Deal Advisory, Taipei DOWNLOAD
Vu Tien Loc, President of the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry DOWNLOAD
Gajendra Badgujar, Senior Director East Asia, Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry DOWNLOAD
Pedram Soltani, First Vice President of the Iran Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture. DOWNLOAD

Tajikistan pavilion won first place in Astana Expo 2017

Astana – The Pavilion of the Republic of Tajikistan won first place in the International Specialized exhibition “Astana EXPO-2017” in category “The best disclosure of the theme and content” among joint pavilions on September 9, 2017 in the ENERGY lobby of the EXPO-2017.

The international jury from 9 experts in the field of exhibitions, architecture and the international exhibitions, selected winners among the pavilions of participating countries at EXPO 2017. Awards were awarded in two nominations: exhibition design and disclosure of the theme of the Exhibition. 115 national pavilions and 22 pavilions of the international organizations which have presented modern technological developments in the field of alternative energy sources applied for honorary international rewards. Among the joint pavilions in the category of DESIGN OF EXHIBITION, bronze was awarded to the Plaza of Latin America, silver to the Pacific Plaza and Gold to the Plaza of the Caribbean Community. In the category of REVELATION OF THE EXHIBITION THEME, bronze is awarded to Ukraine, silver to the Republic of Ghana and gold to the Republic of Tajikistan.

Sharif Said, General Commissioner of the Exposition of the Republic of Tajikistan at the International specialized exhibition EXPO-2017 and Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Republic of Tajikistan said “It is a worthy gift on the day of celebration of the 26th anniversary of the state independence of the Republic of Tajikistan and confirmation of the world recognition of globally significant water initiatives of the The Founder of Peace and National Unity, Leader of the Nation, President of the Republic of Tajikistan, His Excellency Emomali Rahmon.”

The Tajikistan delegation thanked the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan, the Organizing Committee for preparation and participation of the Republic of Tajikistan at the International Specialized Exhibition EXPO-2017 in the city of Astana of the Republic of Kazakhstan under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan, the Working Group on preparation of the Exposition of the Republic of Tajikistan under the General Commissioner, Directorate of the Exposition of the Republic of Tajikistan, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry organizations, media workers, the diplomatic corps of the Republic of Tajikistan and the Republic of Kazakhstan for the help and assistance in the preparation of our Exposition and the work of the Pavilion of the Republic of Tajikistan during the exhibition.

The Pavilion of the Republic of Tajikistan at the international specialized exhibition EXPO-2017 was visited more than 400 thousand people, including official delegates from Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Switzerland, Japan, Russia, China, Argentina, France, Italy, Czech Republic, United Kingdom, USA, Germany, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Belarus, Kyrgyzstan, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Ukraine, Armenia, Malaysia, Bangladesh, Uzbekistan, Mexico, the Netherlands, Finland, Lithuania, Poland, Spain, etc., as well as representatives of international organizations of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, Asian Development Bank, United Nations, United Nations Development Programme, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, Silk Road Association, World Club of Commissioners, International Association of Garden Manufacturers, representatives of foreign and domestic media, etc.

Taiwan-Philippines Economic Forum Held in Taipei

Taipei – Representatives of the government and private sector from the Philippines and Taiwan spoke during the Philippine Investment Forum on August 25, 2017 at the Taiwan Academy of Banking and Finance headquarters in Taipei, Taiwan.

The Philippine speakers talked about the country’s trade and investment policies and identified some areas of opportunities for business partnership and collaboration between Taiwan and the Philippines. The presenters from Taiwan elaborated on the promotion strategies and activities in the ASEAN market of Taiwan External Trade and Development Council (TAITRA) as well as the experience of some Taiwanese companies in investing in the Philippines.

Pakistan International Trade Fair (PITF) in Karachi from 26-29 October 2017

Karachi – The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI) is organizing the Pakistan International Trade Fair (PITF) from 26 to 29 October 2017. To be held at the Expo Centre in Karachi, it will be the first ever trade exhibition of its kind in Pakistan.

Organized by the FPCCI, the four-day event is expected to provide great opportunities to the world’s potential companies to showcase their products andconduct B2B and B2C. The exhibition will be inaugurated by very important persons of Pakistan.  Besides, it is also a general trade fair where regional pavilions will also be established besides the international pavilion.

The FPCCI will set up a separate CACCI pavilion in which brands of CACCI member chambers will be accommodated. Attached herewith, for your perusal, are the official invitation, event brochure and exhibit space reservation form. For more information on the Trade Fair, interested parties are  encouraged to visit the event website at: http://www.pitfexpo.com/

Ceylon Chamber supports Public Private Partnership for the Hambantota Port

Colombo – The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce appreciates the steps taken to develop the Hambantota Port as a Public Private Partnership (PPP) as it marks an important step towards the goal of positioning Sri Lanka as a full-service maritime hub nation. In addition to the much-needed boost to the country’s foreign reserves, the reported scale and size of the investment is expected to generate meaningful FDI in port-related activities, as well as businesses around the port.

At a meeting held with members of the Ceylon Chamber’s National Agenda Committee on Logistics and Transport and other private sector stakeholders, Hon. Mahinda Samarasinghe, Minister of Ports and Shipping, Dr. Parakrama Dissanayake, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) and Mr. H. A. Wimalasoorya, Executive Director of the SLPA, briefed attendees on the concession agreement signed for the development of the Hambantota Port. The Minister elaborated on several areas that had been of concern to various stakeholders, including on how the selection of the concessionaire was done, how national interest, prevailing law and security considerations have been addressed, and how the two new companies (Hambantota International Port Group and Hambantota International Port Services) have been structured.

Observing that international rating agencies had been quick to highlight the positive effects of the transaction, industry representatives noted further that the consequent economic benefits arising from a growth in industrial activity, would create more employment opportunities in the region and also provide sizable impetus to propel growth in the maritime related services and logistics sectors around the Port of Hambantota.

‘Important milestone on the journey towards a true maritime hub’

The Chamber now expects the implementation of the Agreement to be effected in a manner that would serve the best interests of our country. Later this month, the Chamber is convening a seminar for its members on the subject of the Hambantota Port development, with key officials. The seminar will provide an opportunity to hear more details and seek clarifications on the obligations assumed under the Agreement and the plans for implementation.

While recognizing the circumstances in which this PPP deal was required to be finalized, the Chamber urges the Government to ensure that the principle of collective responsibility is respected, so as to inspire confidence in the final decision taken. Sri Lanka needs to enhance its reputation as a business destination that has a credible and predictable investment regime. This imperative is challenged when seemingly conflicting sentiments are expressed by responsible Government sources.

The National Agenda Committee on Logistics and Transport comprises of leaders in the private sector and public sector with experience in the maritime, shipping, and logistics sectors. Since last year, the NAC has been continuously lobbying to fast-track the development of the East Container Terminal (ECT) and the development of an e-Hub for trade facilitation, all aimed at boosting Sri Lanka’s position and status as a vibrant hub . This Committee is part of five National Agenda Committees functioning as thought-leadership groups at the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, developing insights and advocacy on key strategic economic themes. To know more about the Ceylon Chamber’s National Agenda Committees initiative, visit the ‘Policy and Advocacy’ section of the Chamber website (www.chamber.lk) and to read the Chamber’s recommendations on the ECT, visit the ‘Submissions to Government’ section. To read thought-leadership articles anchored to the NACs, visit ‘The National Agenda’, visit nationalagendacommittees.wordpress.com

23rd Annual General Meeting of Sri Lanka – Malaysia Business Council

Colombo – The Sri Lanka – Malaysia Business Council was inaugurated on February 23, 1994 under the aegis of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce at the request of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Board of Investment of Sri Lanka. The main objective of this Council is to promote joint ventures in trade, tourism and services between Sri Lanka and Malaysia.

The 23rd Annual General Meeting of the Council was held on 19th July 2017 at the Hilton Colombo Residences and the Chief Guest was His Excellency Wan Zaidi Wan Abdullah, High Commissioner of Malaysia in Sri Lanka, who is also the Patron of the Sri Lanka – Malaysia Business Council. His Excellency Dato Seri Utama Dr. S. Samy Vellu, Special Envoy with Ministerial Rank to India and South Asia for Infrastructure graced this occasion as the Guest of Honour.

The Office Bearers for year 2017/2018 was unanimously elected as follows:

Mr. Iqram Cuttilan, Director/ Chief Operating Officer – Aitken Spence Shipping Ltd was elected as the President of the Sri Lanka – Malaysia Business Council and Mr. Keerthi Jayasuriya Chairman/ CEO – International Scholar Educational Service Pvt Ltd  and Mr. Amrit CanagaRetna, Vice President – Amana Bank Ltd as the Vice Presidents.

Mr. Aashiq Lafir, Executive Director – Finance – United Motors Lanka PLC will serve as the Immediate Past President of the Council.

The newly elected committee for year 2017/2018 is Amana Takaful PLC, Chemanex PLC, Dialog Axiata PLC, Hemas Air Services (Pvt) Ltd, Ilham Inspiration Sri Lanka, Just in Time Group, Kenanga Investment Corporation Ltd, Macksons Paints Lanka (Pvt) Ltd, Ranjan Nadesapillai Associates and Sena Gem Trading House (Pvt) Ltd.

The Sri Lanka – Malaysia Business Council of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce intends carrying out promoting trade, tourism, services between Sri Lanka and Malaysia in particular to promote exports, encourage establishment of joint ventures, exchange information on trade and investment with the appropriate bodies, conduct joint meetings with Malaysian Business organizations in Sri Lanka and in Malaysia to promote exports and attract investments, facilitate business matchmaking events as means to promote bilateral business and serve as a recognized representative of business sector interests in Sri Lanka in matters concerning business relationships with Malaysia.

Membership is open to Individuals, partnerships, companies, state owned enterprises or other organisations engaged in trade, tourism or services or engaged in joint ventures with Malaysia or interested in entering into or promoting trade, tourism, services or joint ventures with organizations in the partner country shall be eligible for membership of the Council.

2017 World Chambers Competition finalists announced

Paris – Eighteen chambers of commerce from 13 countries move into the final round of the 2017 World Chambers Competition, to be held in Sydney on Tuesday 19 and Wednesday 20 September. The winners will be announced during the Congress Gala dinner on the 21 September.

The World Chambers Competition, organised by the ICC World Chambers Federation (WCF), is the only global awards programme of its kind to recognise ground-breaking projects developed by chambers of commerce and industry worldwide. After receiving 53 applications from 27 countries, an international jury, comprising ICC WCF leadership and representatives from chambers of commerce and other recognised global organisations, selected the 2017 finalists.

The Competition allows chambers, both large and small, to showcase best practices. Commenting on this year’s selection, head of the Competition jury and WCF Honorary Chair Rona Yircali said: “It was an extremely difficult task to shortlist our Competition finalists, as this year’s applicants were particularly strong. Based on the variety of projects submitted, we are very proud to see the chamber network continuing, year after year, to champion their respective communities with new and more advanced innovations for the betterment of all.”

Competing across four categories, the finalists will move on to present their unique projects before a live audience of chamber and business leaders, during the bi-annual World Chambers Congress. The Congress is set to take place in Sydney, Australia from 19-21 September.

10th World Chamber Congress App now available

ADB: Rise in exports boost developing Asia’s growth outlook

Manila – Stronger-than-expected export demand has improved growth prospects for Asia’s developing economies, including China, the Asian Development Bank said recently.

The Manila-based ADB upgraded its growth forecast for this year to 5.9 percent from an earlier forecast of 5.7 percent. It expects developing Asia to grow at a 5.8 percent pace in 2018, up from its earlier forecast of 5.7 percent. China’s economy, the world’s second biggest, is forecast to grow at a 6.7 percent pace in 2017 and a 6.4 percent pace in 2018, the report said. The outlook is more optimistic than the bank’s last forecast, made in April, for 6.5 percent and 6.2 percent growth in 2017 and 2018.

“Developing Asia is off to a good start this year with improved exports pushing growth prospects for the rest of 2017,” said ADB’s chief economist Yasuyuki Sawada. “Despite lingering uncertainties surrounding the strength of the global recovery, we feel that the region’s economies are well-placed to face potential shocks to the outlook.”

South Asia will remain the fastest growing sub- region, with regional expansions projected at 7 percent in 2017 and 7.2 percent next year, the report said. Southeast Asia’s growth is expected to remain at 4.8 percent in 2017 and 5 percent in 2018, with slower expansion in oil-dependent Brunei slightly offsetting faster growth in Malaysia, the Philippines and Singapore.

B20 Welcomes G20 Leaders’ Declaration as a partial success

Hamburg – The B20 says it welcomes the final G20 Leaders’ Declaration as a partial success, given the difficult negotiating climate. “Naturally, we had hoped for something more substantial with more concrete policy actions”, said Jürgen Heraeus, President of the B20, the official G20 dialogue partner, after the G20 Summit came to a close.

“In view of the difficult negotiating climate, however, the Declaration can be regarded as a success, even if it does little more than secure the status quo in many areas”, Heraeus continued. “It is thanks to the diplomatic skill of the German federal government that the G20 members were able to reach compromises at all”, said the President of the B20.

The B20 welcomes the G20’s commitment to open markets, the willingness of its members to fight protectionism, and their announcement to work together towards a successful WTO ministerial conference in Argentina later this year. However, the language often remains extremely vague, such as ‘all unfair trade practices’, which could open a door to new protectionism. The G20 has also missed the opportunity to agree on a modern trade agenda fit for the 21st century.

In the area of climate and energy, all G20 members, apart from the United States, recommitted to implement the Paris Climate Agreement. The B20 welcomes the fact that the remaining 19 G20 members clearly rejected the desire of the United States to renegotiate the Agreement by calling it ‘irreversible’. The B20 also welcomes the G20 ‘Climate and Energy Action Plan for Growth’.

The G20 recognizes the digital transformation as a driving force for global, innovative, inclusive and sustainable growth that can help reduce inequalities and achieve the objectives of the UN Agenda 2030 for sustainable development. By 2025, all citizens are to be digitally connected.

However, the B20 regrets the fact that the G20 Declaration is falling behind expectations in many key economic issues. “We had hoped for more regarding global standards, IT security, and the potential of artificial intelligence”, Heraeus regrets. An extremely important success of the German G20 Presidency is the new partnership with Africa, the ‘Compact with Africa’. With the reform partnerships, the G20 wants to improve the framework conditions for investments in the African partner countries. The partnerships also aim to promote peace, stability, and security.

ICC Open Markets Index: More effort required to open economies to global trade

Paris – Despite repeated pledges to enable trade as a driver of growth and job creation, G20 economies are failing to demonstrate global leadership on trade openness according to the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Open Markets Index 2017 (OMI) published on July 7, 2017.

Highlights: (a) G20 countries failing to demonstrate global leadership on trade; (b) Canada the only G20 country in top 20 open markets globally; (c) Singapore, Luxembourg and Hong Kong the world‘s most open markets. The report – commissioned by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) – shows that G20 nations rank below the global standard in terms of openness to trade, with only Canada placing among the world‘s top 20 open markets. Singapore, Luxembourg and Hong Kong SAR head the 2017 rankings for the fourth successive edition of the report, far outstripping major economies such as the United States in terms of trade openness.

The Index scores 75 countries on a scale of one to six on four key factors: observed trade openness, trade policy, openness to foreign direct investment and trade-enabling infrastructure. In doing so, the Index also monitors government follow through on longstanding G20 commitments to boost global trade flows.

The latest edition of the Index reveals that 18 of the G20 economies score only average or below average in terms of their overall openness to trade. The two lowest-scoring G20 economies are Brazil and Argentina. ICC Secretary General John Danilovich said: “ICC has steadfastly called on the G20 to maintain a strong stance against protectionism since the global financial crisis. There must be no return to 1930’s style beggar thy neighbor policies – and the private sector must not shy away from driving this point home.”

Other findings: The latest edition of the Index, launched as government leaders gathered in Hamburg in July 7-8 at G20 Summit, reveals that: (a) three economies ranked as “excellent” in terms of overall openness (scoring above 5.0), specifically Hong Kong, Luxembourg and Singapore; (b) the lowest ranking economies were Ethiopia, Venezuela and and Sudan.

ICC is calling on the G20 to commit to a package of reforms to enable trade as a driver of growth jobs and opportunity. The ICC publishes the OMI with the aim of presenting a balanced and reliable measurement of an economy’s openness to trade. ICC hopes that the OMI may serve as a guide for governments in implementing reforms to enable trade as a driver of sustainable growth and job creation

Vietnam CCI Invites CACCI Members to APEC 2017 Start-ups Forum

Hanoi – The Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) is inviting CACCI members to attend the APEC 2017 Start-ups Forum to be held on September 11-12, 2017 in Ho Chi Minh City,Vietnam.

The two-day Forum will focus on discussing the issues of supporting micro, small and medium- sized enterprises (MSMEs), especially the start-up businesses, such as enabling the MSMEs to innovate, integrate and access the global value chain right at their nascent business stage, accelerating the sustainable and environment-friendly socio-economic growth. The Forum also creates an opportunity for APEC member economies to share experience, ideas and tools to support business start-ups, thereby forming a dynamic and networked APEC start-ups community.

Some 300 delegates from 21 APEC member economies are expected to attend the Forum, including the Global Entrepreneurship Network, investment funds, business incubators, businesses, start-up research institutions and promotion organizations, and transnational corporations. Initiatives and the content of the Forum will be discussed to propose a Joint Statement on promoting start-up and MSMEs to the SME Ministerial Meeting.

ACCI urges Australians to ‘think small’ on day to honour SMEs

Sydney – The Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) encouraged Australians to “think small” by supporting their local enterprises in order to celebrate the inaugural international day in honour of small businesses.

June 27 has been declared Micro-, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises Day by the United Nations to raise public awareness of their contribution to sustainable development.  James Pearson, CEO of the Australian Chamber, said: “Small businesses are the lifeblood of many communities by providing local jobs and meeting the needs of local customers. “Every day is a great day to support small business… I encourage people to visit their local retailers and tap into local services so they can experience what small businesses have to offer.

“Australia’s 2.1 million small businesses contributed $379 billion to our economy in 2015, representing nearly 36 per cent of total output. More than 4.8 million people work in small businesses in Australia, accounting for nearly 45 per cent of all jobs. “Often the people who start these small businesses have risked everything they have, including their home, to turn their entrepreneurial dream into reality.  “Typically these business men and women work extraordinary hours and take few holidays, and nearly half earn less than the people they employ.

Often these businesses operate on incredibly tight margins, where a few percentage points increase in costs is the difference between running at a profit and at a loss. “While many consumers are voting with their feet in backing small business, we need government policies to match. “It is great to see the Federal Government get behind small business with the first tranche of its business tax cuts and the extension of the instant asset write-off in this year’s Budget.

“We urge the Federal Opposition to commit to maintaining the reduced tax rate for small business so that business operators can make investments in growing their enterprise with confidence about the future. Right now small businesses are hurting from the surge in energy prices, which are making it harder for them to keep the lights on and the doors open. We urge federal and state governments to stop the blame game and deliver stable policy settings that encourage investment in new power supply to help push prices down.”

The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce Names Mr. Rajendra Theagarajah as Chairman

Colombo – The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce appointed Mr. Rajendra Theagarajah as its new Chairman during its 178th AGM held at the Cinnamon Grand Hotel, Colombo on the 29th June, 2017.

Mr. Theagarajah, a veteran banker, succeeds the outgoing Chairman Mr. Samantha Ranatunga, who led the Chamber during the past two years. He functioned as the Vice Chairman, Deputy Vice Chairman, Board Member and also served as a member of the Chamber Committee for several years.

In the meantime, Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya was appointed as the Vice Chairman of the Chamber, while Mr. Vish Govindasamy was appointed as the Deputy Vice Chairperson for the year 2017 and 2018 financial year.

The Chamber also appointed several new members to its nine member ‘Board of Directors’, which consists of Chairman, Vice Chairperman, Deputy Vice Chairman, CEO and five ‘Directors’.

B20 Calls for G20 Unity and Leadership in Shaping Globalization

Hamburg – Business 20 (B20), the official G20 business dialogue with the global business community, calls on the G20 to be united and to shape globalization on the basis of clear and reliable rules. In addition, B20 also speaks out against protectionism and for climate protection.

“The business representatives of the G20 members call on the G20 to be united and show leadership in shaping globalization” said Jürgen Heraeus, Chair of the official business dialogue Business 20 (B20), recently before the G20 Summit in Hamburg on July 7 and 8. Under the leading motto “Shaping an Interconnected World”, the G20 heads of state and government, together with international organizations, will meet to adopt the final communique.

“Global challenges need global solutions. National solo-runs are bound to fail. The G20 is now more important than ever and must overcome the challenges of the last few months,” explained Heraeus. Over the past ten months, the B20 has developed recommendations for the G20 to improve the future viability and sustainability of the global economy. “We stand for open and rules-based markets. At the same time, we must ensure that the benefits from globalization are widespread in our societies. For example, we need to invest more in education and lifelong learning.”

The B20 spoke out strongly against protectionism and for strengthening the multilateral trade system with the WTO at its heart. The B20 supports the Paris Climate Agreement and encourages the G20 members to send a clear signal in Hamburg for climate protection. “Climate protection and economic growth are not mutually exclusive. Quite the opposite. In order to push ahead with the necessary innovations, leaving room to ensure competitiveness, a reliable implementation of the Paris Climate Agreement is necessary in order to ensure fair competition,” said Heraeus.

The B20 is the official G20 dialogue with the global business community. The mission of the B20 is to support the G20 through consolidated representation of interests, expertise, and concrete policy proposals. Furthermore, the B20 promotes dialogue among policy-makers, civil society, and business at the international level. B20 Germany has more than 700 members from all sectors and all G20 members, representing the entire G20 business community.

Sri Lanka Economic Summit 2017 to Discuss ‘Walking the Talk’ for Greener Growth

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Colombo – The Importance of Sri Lankan businesses aligning its growth plans with greener practices to help develop a ‘sustainable era,’ will be discussed intensely at the upcoming Sri Lanka Economic Summit 2017. The topic will be discussed at a thematic session titled, ‘Realizing a Greener Growth Path – Walking the Talk’, with the participation of thought leaders and industry practitioners.

The session will kick off with a presentation by Dr. Rae Kwon Chung, Former Principal Advisor on Climate Change, Executive Office of the Secretary General of the United Nations, while, Mr. Ralph Van Doorn, Senior Country Economist for Sri Lanka and the Maldives of The World Bank and Mr. Sunil Sethi, Managing Director Fonterra Brands Lanka, also following him with presentations.

The trio’s delivery would be followed by a panel discussion, which will include Dr. Prasanthi Gunawardana, Senior Lecturer of the Department of Forestry and Environmental Science of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Mr. Avanthi Jayathilaka, Director of Global Management Consultants and Mr. Vidura Ralapanawa, General Manager, Environmental Sustainability of MAS Intimates. The session would be moderated by Uchita De Zoysa, an expert on sustainability.

The session will discuss the cost Sri Lanka will have to pay, if a sustainable development path is not adopted, why does Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) matter for businesses, what are the entry points to engage on SDGs at a country level, what kind of partnerships the private sector can enter into engage in driving the SDG agenda and the type of an institutional mechanism that should be put in place, for the private sector to engage on the SDG agenda at a national level.

The two day Sri Lanka Economic Summit organized by the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce will take place on the 25th and 26th July, 2017 at the Cinnamon Grand Hotel, Colombo under the title of ‘Execute – Transform – Realize’.

Sunshine Holdings PLC comes in as the Platinum Sponsor of the event, Standard Chartered Bank enters the fray as the Gold Sponsor, Fonterra Brands as the Silver Sponsor and Dialog Axiata as the Telecommunications Partner of the event. Whilst Janashakthi Insurance, Prima Group, and Nestle Lanka join in as the strategic partners.

OMD of OmniCom MediaGroup is the communications partner and Echo Wave comes in as the Digital Events Platform Partner. If you wish to take part in the event, please call on 115588877 or email to events@chamber.lk

Sri Lankan & Italian business leaders held 18th Annual General Meeting in Colombo

Colombo – She Sri Lanka – Italy Business Council of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce held its 18th Annual General Meeting at the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce on 22nd June, 2017. His Excellency Paolo Andrea Bartorelli, Italian Ambassador to Sri Lanka was the Chief Guest at this occasion.

Mr. D. R. P Abeyasinghe, Chief Executive Officer, Hydromec International (Pvt) Ltd was re-elected as the President of the Council. Mr. Abeyasinghe has a Mechanical Engineering background.  The latter part of his career however has been devoted to the marketing and commercial aspects of dealing in Earth Moving and Materials Handling Machinery and Equipment.

Mr. Abeyasinghe in his address highlighted the achievements of the Sri Lanka – Italy Business Council during the year 2016-2017 under his leadership. These included the organization of meetings with Italian Business delegations that visited the country during the period under review, including the Business Delegation that had accompanied the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Italy Hon. Benedetto Della Vedova on his official visit to Sri Lanka. A Breakfast Meeting with Mr. Upul Jayasuriya, Chairman, Board of Investment of Sri Lanka; Annual Members’ Night and the Italian Language Course run for Beginners & Advanced Learners were also highlighted.

His Excellency Paolo Andrea Bartorelli in his comments made at the Annual General Meeting reassured the Council of the continued support of the Italian Embassy in Sri Lanka to promote bilateral trade between Sri Lanka and Italy.

Seated Left to right:
Anushka Polonowita, Euro Sports Auto Lanka (Pte) Ltd., Vice President, Sri Lanka – Italy Business Council; Sonali Liyanamana, Interglobe Travels (Pvt) Ltd., Vice President, Sri Lanka – Italy Business Council; His Excellency Paolo Andrea Bartorelli, Italian Ambassador to Sri Lanka; Rajah Abeyasinghe JP, Hydromec International (Pvt) Ltd., President, Sri Lanka – Italy Business Council; Julianne Boulton, Secretariat, The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce

Standing Left to right:
Yohan Peries, Walkers Tours Ltd.; Avindra Weerasinghe, Ally Weerasinghe Ltd.; Sharmini Mendis, Spear International (Pvt) Ltd.; Janaka Gunasekera, A Baur & Co. Ltd.; Tania Polonnowita Wettimuny, Hellman Worldwide Logistics (Pvt) Ltd., Immediate Past President, Sri Lanka – Italy Business Council; Harsha de Alwis, DFCC Bank PLC; Indika Chandrasekera, JAT Holdings (Pvt) Ltd.;

Not in the picture:
Rajeev Aloysius, The Autodrome PLC; B.T. Tyrell Roche, Lanka Tiles PLC;

Mrs. Sonali Liyanamana, Chief Executive Officer, Interglobe – Worldlink Air Services (Pvt) Ltd, and Mr. Anushka Polonowita, General Manager, Euro Sports Auto Lanka (Pte) Ltd., Subsidiary of Micro Holdings (Pvt) Ltd. were elected Vice Presidents of the Council.

A Baur & Co. Ltd., Ally Weerasinghe Ltd, DFCC Bank PLC, JAT Holdings (Pvt) Ltd., Lanka Tiles PLC, Spear International (Pvt) Ltd., The Autodrome PLC, Walkers Tours Ltd. were elected from the membership to serve on the Executive Committee of the Council.

Companies engaged in trade, tourism or services with Italy or engaged in joint ventures with Italian organizations or interested in entering into or promoting trade, tourism, services or joint ventures with Italian organizations are eligible for membership of the Sri Lanka – Italy Business Council. Further details regarding membership of the Council could be obtained from the Secretariat of the Sri Lanka – Italy Business Council of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, No. 50, Navam Mawatha, Colombo 2. E-mail: info@srilankaitaly.com  or Tel.: 011-5588875, 5588800.

Turkey most active country in promoting investments

Ankara – According to the World Investment Report 2017, prepared by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), Turkey has noticeably increased foreign direct investments (FDI) over the last 15 years, attracting USD 12.3 billion in 2016 alone. The FDI inflows reflect the country’s diversified industrial structure, with manufacturing accounting for around half of the total FDI.

The report also highlighted the reforms that have been implemented and the incentives that have been introduced in Turkey in recent years to attract investments, particularly incentives in R&D and those granting citizenship to foreigners under certain eligibility conditions.

According to the report, Turkey cemented its position as the most active country vying for FDI inflows in 2016 as it signed seven international investment agreements in the area of mutual encouragement and protection of investments. Canada, Morocco, and the United Arab Emirates followed Turkey with four international investment agreements each.

The report goes on to mention that a total of 37 new international investment agreements were concluded in 2016, of which 30 were bilateral investment treaties and seven were treaties with investment provisions.

PCCI Joins Hands with DA and DTI to Improve Market Access of Small Farmers

Manila – The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), The Department of Agriculture (DA), and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) have agreed to promote the increase in livelihood income, lower costs, and create more employment opportunities for small farmers and fishermen by further improving the access of their products and services with domestic and export markets.

PCCI president George T. Barcelon said that the DA-DTI-PCCI collaboration under a memorandum of agreement that was formalized on June 14 would harmonize their market-accessing activities under the DA Agribusiness Support for the Promotion and Investment in Regional Expo (Aspire) project.

Under the Aspire project, DA-DTI-PCCI would harmonize activities such as informing small farmers about the demand, standards and delivery preferences that attract buyers, sharing market knowledge, organizing for trade fairs, attending seminars to learn negotiations skills, and preparing them for business matching and investment forums.

Implementation targets call for each the country’s regions to make at least one marketing agreement for three priority commodities, enrolment of 75 per cent of Aspire farmer participants in the RIPPLES PLUS program of DTI per year, and at least two marketing agreements renewed or expanded.

RIPPLES PLUS (Regional Interactive Platform for Philippine Exporters) is DTI’s initiative for MSMEs and large corporations that provides training and capacity-building, investment, marketing and promotion, support innovation and product development.

According to PCCI president Barcelon, collective action with the small-scale farmers would result in lowering production and transaction costs and in true market prices.

Ex-CACCI President Amb. Yujuico inaugurates PCCI’s First Pitching Session

Manila – Amb. Benedicto Yujuico, Chairman of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) and Immediate Past President of CACCI, delivered the Welcome Remarks at the first-ever Pitching Session co-organized by PCCI along with the Philippines-USA Economic and Business Council (PUBC) and Launchgarage Philippines on May 24, 2017 at the PCCI Office.

During the event, 10 tech startup companies namely Bloom Solutions, Magpie, AltitudeX, GoodMealHunting, Taxumo, Tralulu, Veer, Airmighty, Mober and Acudeen made their pitch presentations on their products and services to possible investors and strategic partners. The startups are composed of various sectors engaged in financial technology, tax, online payments, travel, logistics, food, internet access, drones/analytics/land-mapping and virtual reality.

In his welcome remarks, Amb. Yujuico said that the first-ever pitching session is a milestone as it aims to introduce the Philippine startup ecosystem to the larger segment of the local business community and mainstream businesspersons. It will also generate connections to establish lasting partnerships.

He also gave a brief background of the Philippine tech startup community. He shared that the Philippine tech startup community is fast-growing and is considered to be following the footsteps of its neighboring Southeast Asian countries such as Singapore and Malaysia.