CACCI President Modi visits Kavalan Distillery

Yilan – CACCI President Mr. Samir Modi was accompanied by CACCI Secretariat executives to visit the Kavalan Distillery, a Taiwanese whiskey distillery owned by the King Car Group. The distillery is located at Yuanshan Township, Yilan County, some one-and-a-half hour by car from Taipei. During the visit, Mr. Modi watched a video presentation on the history and activities of the King Car Group, followed by a tour of the Kavalan distillery.  Mr. Modi as informed that the distillery was named by Whisky Magazine as the World Icons of Whisky “Whisky Visitor Attraction of the Year” for 2011, and its products have won several other award.

CACCI President Modi meets with CNAIC Officers

Taipei –  CACCI President Mr. Samir Modi on January 15 met with key officers of the Chinese National Association of Industry and Commerce (CNAIC) led by Chairman Lin Por Fong. During the meeting, Mr. Modi was given an introduction on the history and activities of CNAIC and the important role it plays in promoting the Taiwanese business community not only in the local market but internationally as well. The CNAIC members attending the meeting also informed Mr. Modi of businesses they are engaged in and of their interest to enter into the Indian market. Mr. Modi assured them of the support of CACCI and his company to facilitate their efforts in this regard. He also expressed his intention to explore business cooperation with Taiwanese companies, particularly those engaged in products needed by Indian consumers. Following the meeting, CNAIC Chairman Mr. Lin hosted lunch for Mr. Modi and the other CNAIC officers.

President Modi calls on Foreign Affairs Vice Minister of the ROC

Taipei – CACCI President Calls on Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of the ROC – CACCI President Mr. Samir Modi (4th from left, left photo) on January 14 made a courtesy call on key officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Republic of China (Taiwan) led by Vice Minister Miguel Li-Jey Tsao (center) and Director-General of the Department of International Cooperation and Economic Affairs Ms. Phoebe Yeh ((4th from right). The two sides shared their perspectives on how CACCI, the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), and the Modi Group can work with the Ministry and other relevant government agencies of Taiwan in the latter’s efforts to  improve the economic relations of Taiwan and India and create a policy environment that will further raise the level of two-way trade and investments between the two countries.

President Modi visits TIEA Officers

Taipei – President Modi Meets with Officers of New Affiliate Member – (top photo) CACCI President Mr. Samir Modi (2nd from left) exchanges views with the officers of Importers and Exporters Association of Taipei (IEAT) Vice Chairman Mr. James W. P. Lin (center) and Secretary-General Mr. Peter Huang (2nd from right) on areas where CACCI and TIEA can enhance their relationships, including participation in the CACCI Conferences in the activities of the various CACCI Product and Service Councils such as the Young Entrepreneurs Group of Asia-Pacific (YEGAP) and the CACCI Women Entrepreneurs Council (CWEC). Held during the January 14-16 visit of Mr. Modi to Taipei, the meeting was later followed by lunch hosted by IEAT. IEAT was formally admitted as the newest CACCI Affiliate Member during the 32nd CACCI Conference held in Istanbul in November 2018.

CACCI President Samir Modi visits Secretariat

Taipei –  Mr. Samir Modi, the new CACCI President, took time to meet with the staff of the CACCI Secretariat during his recent visit to Taipei on January 14-16, 2019. He was briefed by the Secretariat on his tentative schedule of activities for 2019, including the proposed Presidential visits to member chambers as well as his participation in regional and international meetings. Mr. Modi also discussed his plans to implement new programs aimed at further raising the profile of CACCI not only among member countries but internationally as well, and enhancing the value of the Confederation to members.

Message from CACCI President Samir Modi

My dear CACCI friends,

I wish to convey my sincerest gratitude to you and your Chamber for your support of my nomination as CACCI President for 2018-2020. I am indeed honored with the trust you have bestowed upon me and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI). It is a privilege to be heading the Confederation for the next two years and I look forward to working closely with you and your Chamber in promoting the interest of CACCI and the business community of the region as a whole.

I am confident that, with your continued support and cooperation, we will be able to accomplish a lot during the next two years. Please share with me your views on how CACCI as a regional organization can best serve its members. It is my hope that during my term, CACCI will continue to play a pivotal role in the further growth and development of bankers and the banking sector in the region.

During my Presidency, I hope to rely on you in our efforts to make CACCI an effective forum for advancing the cause of the business community and for promoting regional cooperation among our members. I believe we are in a position to do just that, given the vast and rich resources and expertise our membership can provide.

With your unwavering support and those of other members, we can look forward to more years of fostering greater cooperation and understanding among businessmen in the region.

Sincerely yours,

Samir Modi
CACCI President

New Year’s Message from the President

Samir Modi

My dear CACCI friends,

It is a great pleasure for me, as the newly-elected President of CACCI, to convey my New Year’s greetings to all members of CACCI. I sincerely hope that the coming year continues to bring prosperity to you personally, your businesses, and your families.

As we enter the year 2019, I hope that every member remains committed to the objectives of CACCI and to contribute to the further growth of the Confederation. We learned from our Istanbul Conference in November last year that we are now in a highly dynamic and volatile environment where we face fast-changing developments that require swift and sometimes bold action. I am confident, however, that CACCI, given its talents and resources, is up to the challenge.

As I embark on the first year of my Presidency, I would like to count on your continued strong support towards the fulfillment of the CACCI objectives. In particular, I look forward to your participation in the 33rd CACCI Conference to be held in Colombo, Sri Lanka in September 2019, as well in the Presidential visits to a number of CACCI Primary Members that I plan to undertake during the year.  Let us continue our dialogue among each other, with governments in the region, and with other regional and international organizations on how best we can help our region achieve an even more rapid and sustainable growth.

May you all have a Happy and Prosperous New Year!

Samir Modi
President, CACCI

Message from Immediate Past President Jemal Inaishvili

My dear CACCI friends,

I wish to express my sincerest appreciation to all CACCI officers and members for having helped me in performing my duties and responsibilities as CACCI President for 2014-2018.

Thank you very much for your kind support of the projects and programs that our Confederation has undertaken during my four-year tenure as President. Without your collaboration, the various activities that we set out to do at the start of my term would not have been achieved.

Your participation in the Presidential visits in several of our member countries has helped in our efforts not only to gain first-hand information on the trade and investment opportunities in the region but also to strengthen links with the business sectors and governments in the host countries. Your valuable inputs into our policy advocacy work have also enabled us to make significant contribution to the policy-making efforts of relevant regulatory bodies in the region. Through your support of our Professional Development Program, we have also been able to meet the training needs of our members and equip them with the necessary skills to remain competitive in a fast-changing market environment. Many of you have also played a role in the expansion of CACCI’s membership in terms of both the number of members and the geographical scope of membership.

Moving forward, I hope to continue counting on your cooperation to further raise the value of CACCI to our members. Thank you once again for all your assistance and cooperation, and I hope you will extend the same support to our new President Mr. Samir Modi and the other newly-elected CACCI officers.

I look forward to seeing all of you again in our 2019 Conference in Sri Lanka, as well as in other future CACCI activities.

Sincerely yours,

Jemal Inaishvili
Immediate Past President

Amb. Benedicto V. Yujuico, Rifat Hisarciklioglu, Jemal Inaishvili and K. K. Modi

Turkish economy is of great importance and its market is vast – CACCI’s Jemal Inaishvili

Istanbul – The Turkish economy is of great importance and its market is vast, were few of the key economic points expressed by the the immediate past CACCI President Jemal Inaishvili during the Opening Ceremony of the 32nd CACCI Conference on November 24, 2018 in Istanbul, Turkey.

In the presence of the Republic of Turkey’s Vice President, his Excellency Fuat Oktay, Honorable Minister of Trade Ruhsar Pekcan, TOBB President Rifat Hisarciklioglu, Deputy Director General of the World Trade Organization (WTO) Yi Xiaozhun, ambassadors of Asian nations, and numerous dignitaries and leading businessmen and industrialists convening from all over Asia Pacific in Istanbul, Mr. Inaishvili welcomed the hundreds of participants to the 32nd  CACCI Conference.

Mr. Inaishvili then expressed his sincerest gratitude and appreciation to the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey (TOBB), under the able leadership of President Rifat Hisarciklioglu, for hosting this year’s gathering of CACCI. This was the second time CACCI was holding its Conference in Istanbul, the first one being in 2011 – seven years ago.

Mr. Inaishvili considered that this year CACCI Conference hosted by TOBB was one of the most successful events ever held by CACCI in its over 50 years history, in terms of both the number of participants as well as the Conference’s agenda and discussions.

Moreover, the immediate Past CACCI President thanked the dozens of Conference speakers and session chairmen/moderators who came from many Asian countries and beyond to share their knowledge and expertise on issues of current concern to the Asian business community. In fact, the long and meticulous preparations throughout 2018 raised expectations that President Inaishvili expected the Conference would meet.

Mr. Inaishvili was pleased to return to Istanbul in the company of many CACCI members because Istanbul is a great city and Turkey is a great country, too. TOBB and other Turkish supporting organizations had maintained a resolute support of CACCI, its activities and ideals; and for that reason, Mr. Inaishvili strongly supported TOBB hosting of the Conference in 2018. Indeed, one of the Conference’s strategic objective was to strengthen links with Turkish colleagues and businessman, and to explore CACCI’s future role in the country’s (აქ თურქეთზეა ლაპარაკი) increasingly robust markets.

Returning to the economic themes of his Opening remarks, Mr. Inaishvili added that Turkey’s economy is of great importance in the region and indeed the world economy as a bridge between different regions, logistical point, as well as a cultural hub that connects peoples from all over the world. The CACCI President argued that “by choosing Istanbul as a host of our conference, we wanted to once again draw attention of our member countries and Asian businesses to this great country and its vast market and its enormous potential as a destination for private direct investments.”

The new globalization, Mr. Inaishvili warned, presents steep challenges for Asia. However, he was confident that, with effective leadership, the region is in a strong position to make the needed transition and capitalize on the new opportunities in digitalization of global business and the shift to services and domestic consumption.

Nevertheless, Mr. Inaishvili expressed his concerns about growing threats of imposition of trade barriers, political uncertainties, and domestic economic problems connected to currency fluctuations that have emerged recently.

He proposed that policies promoting growth of international trade and investments and more active public-private dialogue are among the solutions. Moreover, he added that CACCI Conference’s host country, Turkey, was an example of resilient economy because of its leadership and its very talented, hardworking and flexible business community.

This year’s 32nd CACCI Conference was focused on the theme “Asia: Expanding Boundaries” and aimed at providing the participants and invited speakers to share their views on measures that the business sector and governments in the region can undertake to address the challenges – and take full advantage of the current opportunities –  faced 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.

Samir Modi – New CACCI President

Istanbul – During the 90th CACCI Council Meeting at the 32nd CACCI Conference held in the Ciragan Palace Kempinsky on November 23-24, 2018, Samir Modi, was elected as the 23rd President of the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI) for the 2018-2020 period.

Mr. Modi has been engaged for many years in CACCI activities and programs promoting the CACCI ideals of trade, economic development and business opportunities for businessman in the Asia Pacific region. Mr. Modi held for several years the position of Sr. Vice-President of CACCI during which he chaired Break-out sessions of many Product & Service Councils generally convened on the first day of the CACCI annual conferences in Kuala Lumpur (2014), Taipei (2015), Hong Kong (2016), Sydney (2017), and just recently Istanbul (2018.)

Mr. Modi has also joined many CACCI Presidential visits to regional capitals such as Ulaanbaatar, Hanoi, Sydney, Taipei, Kuala Lumpur, Tbilisi, Istanbul and many other where he has met leading businessmen and tycoons, Presidents of National Chambers of Commerce and Industry, as well as Prime Ministers, Presidents, Ministers and other high ranking political leaders to discuss business opportunities and promote economic development.

CACCI believes in Women Entrepreneurship

Jemal Inaishvili: CACCI Believes in Necessity to Develop Women Entrepreneurship for the Achievement of Economic Development

The following interview was published by the Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MNCCI) in their quarterly magazine, InvestPro Mongolia.

First of all, we thank you Mr. Inaishvili for giving an interview to our magazine, on behalf of colleagues of the MNCCI. Let’s talk about the policy and objectives of CACCI, and its current works on supporting entrepreneurs.

JI: Thank you for the opportunity to address your readers. The mission of CACCI is to provide a platform for promoting the vital role of businessmen in the region, increasing regional business interaction, and enhancing regional economic growth.

Our general objectives are: (1) promotion of a business environment that is favorable for creating more business opportunities, promotion of intra-regional trade and investments, and serving the interests of CACCI members; (2) bring CACCI at the forefront of making the voices of Asian businesses heard in the international economic arena, and (3) provide a forum for members to discuss issues, share their views and information and recommend solutions.

To achieve these objectives, CACCI regularly prepares position papers and policy statements articulating these issues and their recommendations which, with the approval of the CACCI Council, will then be submitted to the appropriate regional or international body for consideration.

Please tell us about expected results from the CACCI Conference in Ulaanbaatar and your visit to Mongolia?

JI: Presidential visits to the countries of our primary member chambers of commerce and industry are among the important tools for promoting our agenda. During such visits we convene meetings with Presidents, Prime Ministers, policymakers and leading business people of the region promoting the ideals of free trade and economic growth for the Asian people, as well as advocating policies for the benefits of our members.

During this visit we also expect to receive information about the current economic situation in the country, new opportunities for regional cooperation with regards trade and investments. This information will later be shared with all our member chambers.

What is your view about prospect of CACCI and MNCCI cooperation?

JI: MNCCI is very active and important member of the CACCI family. We have excellent relations, and prospects for cooperation between MNCCI and CACCI, as well as bilateral cooperation with other member chambers are very good. The fact that Mrs. Oyunchimeg Magvan, CEO of MNCCI, serves as CACCI vice president is a good affirmation of our good relations. And we are very happy that such a distinguished person as Mrs. Oyunchimeg is our colleague.

Mongolian companies and enterprises are just beginning to know about CACCI and its benefits. What are key advantages of joining CACCI? What is CACCI’s specific policy on promotion of businesses?

JI: Primary Members of the Confederation are national chambers of commerce and industry of respective countries. They represent countries’ businesses across all sectors.

In addition we have Affiliate Members that are sectoral associations and local chambers of commerce and industry.

Among the benefits that members can expect to derive from their participation in CACCI are policy advocacy, promotion of SMEs, wide scope of networking, participation in CACCI training programs, interaction in Product and Service Councils, access into a Network of Business Assistance Centers.

As to individual business people and enterprises, we have Lifetime Special Members. These are corporate or individual who lend support to CACCI’s objectives.

MNCCI closely cooperates with the CACCI divisions, especially CACCI Councils. Does CACCI plan to implement events or programs in Mongolia in the near future?

JI: Yes, of course. We will discuss future events with the leadership of MNCCI. I hope we will come up with a concrete plan. I know that many businesses are interested to establish ties with their Mongolian counterparts, there is wide-range of opportunities for cooperation and our role is to help promote such cooperation.

At this time around, I am very glad that in the framework of our visit, the “Discover Business Opportunities Through CACCI” conference will be held on September 5, which certainly contributes to the development of business cooperation in the region.

In your view, what is the most promising and beneficial industry that is potential to greatly contribute to the Mongolian economy? During the forthcoming conference, the Councils on agriculture and tourism are expected to give a report. Does it mean CACCI focuses on these fields?

JI: In general, mining and minerals extraction and exports are still the largest and most important sectors that greatly contribute to GDP. And recent developments indicate that the country is back on track in this regard and enjoys good outlook for the coming years.

On the other hand, as it is the situation in many countries of the transition economy, business diversification and SME development remain major goals for the sound economic development.

Investments in agriculture, food industry, tourism sectors will be very important for relatively quick results in reaching these goals. Such investments will also result in rapid growth in employment that will boost development of the service sector.

Large scale investments in infrastructure, including transportation, are equally important.

Recent times, the number of businesswomen in Mongolia is going up, hence they have been significantly contributing to the country’s society as well as budget. What policy and actions does CACCI keep to support and empower businesswomen?

JI: Given that nearly 50% of total population is female, CACCI believes that it is necessary to develop women entrepreneurship to achieve economic development of a nation. Many countries in the Asian region are in such position where the growth of women entrepreneurship has risen greatly over the past few years. Recognizing this development, CACCI has established the CACCI Women Entrepreneurs Council (CWEC) to provide members a forum to discuss challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in the region and what the private sector and governments, through programs and pro-active policy measures, can do to support women entrepreneurs and help them become important contributors to the country’s sustainable economic growth.

Could you give a brief about other member chambers of CACCI? Which countries are leaders among CACCI members in terms of policies and actions for business? Are there any useful models or cases for the MNCCI?

JI: In our confederation, we have member chambers from the most developed countries like Japan or Australia, from the powerful industrialized countries like Russia, Turkey, South Korea, India, from the developing countries like Bangladesh, Nepal and others. Hence these many chambers have different immediate objectives and different levels of capacities.

On the other hand, here are a lot of common goals like SME development, promotion of trade and investments, business advocacy on national, regional and international levels.

The role of our confederation is to facilitate the cooperation among member chambers through annual gatherings, networking events, exchange of information on the best practices etc.

We heard you had business connections with Mongolia, and you probably visited Mongolia several times before your term.

JI: I have been to Mongolia several times and fell in love with this country, particularly its rich history and magnificent nature.

I always try to make a personal contribution to the development of trade between our countries, and so I have helped with arranging a few contracts on export of Georgian green tea and Georgian wine to Mongolia. I have helped with some other deals as well.

As mentioned earlier, we will hold interesting business forum soon that will hopefully help Mongolian business people establish useful ties with their potential counterparts.

CACCI President receives Silk Road CIC’s Outstanding Leadership Award

Hunan – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili and Vice President Mrs. Oyunchimeg Magvan received Outstanding Leadership Award from the Silk Road Chamber of International Commerce (SRCIC). The award was presented at the 2018 Silk Road Business Summit held on October 15 in Hunan Province, China.

Mr. Inaishvili currently serves as Honorary Chairman of the SRCIC. He is a member of the B20 International Business Advisory Council, the International Chamber of Commerce, World Chambers Federation General Council, as well as member of the Council of the Georgian Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Mrs. Magvan is Vice Chairman of the SRCIC and Chief Executive Officer of Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MNCCI). She started her career with MNCCI in 1985, working as an expert officer. She took the positions from senior expert, deputy chief of the department of inspection for export and import goods, to head of foreign relations and cooperation department.

Both CACCI leaders received a golden camel trophy from Stjepan Mesic, former President of Croatia and SRCIC Senior Consultant.

Two other heads of CACCI Primary members received Outstanding Leadership and Outstanding Contribution Awards from SRCIC as well, namely, Mr. Said Sharif, Chairman of Tajikistan CCI and Mrs. Nino Chikovani, President of Georgia CCI, respectively.

Courtesy call on the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Mongolia

Ulaanbaatar – On September 7, 2018, CACCI President Jemal Inaishvili, Vice President Samir Modi and the CACCI Delegation rendered a courtesy call to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mongolia where they were warmly welcomed by Foreign Affairs Minister H. E. Mr. Tsogtbaatar Damdin.

During the discussions, the Foreign Minister stressed that Mongolia has adopted an open-policy and economy-oriented environment that is conducive to the promotion of trade and commerce and confidence building. He said that new issues such as increased populism and protectionism in western countries, as well as security concerns, his government believes that ensuring economic prosperity also ensures security, adding that if there is economic inequality and disparity, there will be no peace.

He pointed out that Mongolia’s economy has been doing well over the last past years, with growth of between 6% and 8% annually, further noting that foreign exchange reserves and trade surplus have increased significantly, and unemployment going down to manageable levels. He invited the CACCI delegates to see more of Mongolia and identify business opportunities.

Mr. Inaishvili expressed appreciation to the Mongolian government and the country’s business community for its continued strong support of CACCI and its activities. He took the occasion to introduce CACCI, mentioning that it was established in 1966 to provide a platform for networking and cooperation among businessmen in the region and that CACCI’s current membership includes 29 national chambers of commerce and industry from 27 Asian countries and independent economies – including the MNCCI.

He pointed out that, given the geographical scope of its membership, CACCI will provide a good platform for Mongolia’s business sector and government to promote the Mongolia’s economy and the trade and investment opportunities in the country. He informed the Minister that since it joined as a Primary Member in 1997, the MNCCI has been one of the most active members of CACCI in its efforts to promote regional cooperation.

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.

CACCI goes to Taiwan Family Mart Co. Ltd.

Taipei – During the 2-day busy schedule in Taipei, CACCI officers visited the headquarters of the Taiwan Family Mart Co. Ltd., where they were received by top officers of the company and served with various kinds of tea drinks produced and sold by the company in its various stores around Taiwan.

The visitors watched a video presentation on the history of the company, which showed that the Family Mart Convenience Store was introduced from Japan in August 1988, and that the first store was opened in the Taipei Main Station commercial district in December of that year. The video presentation highlighted some of the important milestones in the history of the company, until 2018 – the company’s 30th anniversary – when the first tech-approach concept store opened, making the staff’s job  easier with the aid of technology, and enhancing customer experience with more fun and better quality.

Mr. Samir Modi was also given the opportunity to make his own video presentation on how his family set up the first convenience store operations in India, with the initial assistance of the UniPresident of Taiwan through its 7-11 franchise, as well as it counterpart in the Philippines, and how they expanded their business into its current advanced stage.

Mr. Modi and the Family Mart officers discussed possible areas of cooperation between the two companies, with the Family Mart offering to go to India for further talks with Mr. Modi and his company’s stakeholders.

For his part, CACCI President Mr. Inaishvili asked about the possibility of selling Georgian wine in the Family Mart outlets around Taiwan, as he expects to come out with his first production of bottled wine in a year or so.

CACCI Officers meet with Importers & Exporters Association of Taipei (IEAT)

Taipei – During the September 3-4, 2018 visit to Taiwan, leading CACCI officers Jemal Inaishvili, Samir Modi, Ernest Lin and Amador Honrado met with the Importers and Exporters Association of Taipei (IEAT), where they were received by key executives of the Association led by its Secretary General Mr. Peter Huang.

A video presentation on the history and activities of IEAT was made, from which the CACCI visitors learned the following, among others:

Established in 1947, the IEAT represents businesses engaged in import-export trade. With some 5,700 members, IEAT is the largest importers and exporters association as well as one of the most influential private chambers of commerce in Taiwan.

The IEAT provides comprehensive services to members which can be classified in to the following five areas:

(1) Enhancing Members’ Right and Benefits – Twenty-two sub-committees work on industry-specific issues and eight working groups on specialized topics to examine relevant rules and regulations, and keep watch on market developments

(2) Furthering Foreign Trade – To forge global links, the IEAT reached cooperative agreements with more than 80 business groups and sister organizations in some 30 countries, and signed MOUs with more than 30 entities in mainland China. It conducts exchange with foreign business delegations, arranges for match meetings and hold talks on emerging markets. Every year, it organizes delegations to take part in trade fairs at home and abroad, as well as conducts study tours and procurement trips to emerging markets.

(3) Strategic Alliance and Collaboration – The IEAT encourages its members to foster exchange and cooperation both within and across industries. It sets up strategic collaboration with counterpart organizations as well as business and research agencies.

(4) Comprehensive Information Resources – The IEAT provides information and electronic resources, which include the Trade Magazine, and business publications.

(5) Developing Trade Expertise – The IEAT nurtures talents for the trade sector. In 1979, the R.O.C. Trade Education Foundation was established, and expanded to the the International Trade Business School in 2014 to offer courses on trade-related subjects, professional certification and comprehensive training of international trade personnel.

The IEAT recognizes that, with the advent of globalization and the Cloud Era, cross-border E-commerce is to set to shape future trading patterns. Thus, the IEAT aims to integrate the resources of the industry, the academia and the government for the development of a trade platform and e-commerce expertise to pave the way for global outreach and new business opportunities

Mr. Inaishvili and Mr. Modi thanked the IEAT officers for welcoming them to its headquarters and for introducing the activities of the Association in promoting trade between Taiwan and the rest of the world.

They informed the IEAT that, with its membership of 27 Asia-Pacific countries, CACCI can certainly serve as an effective vehicle for IEAT to achieve its objective of trade promotion. Mr. Inaishvili thereby invited IEAT to join CACCI under the category of Primary Member, given that its membership consists of the broad spectrum of industries from all over Taiwan.

The IEAT welcomed Mr. Inaishvili’s invitation to become a CACCI members, and expressed its intention to do so soonest. It also promised to consider the possibility of sending representatives to the 32nd CACCI Conference in November in Istanbul, during which – as suggested by Mr. Inaishvili – the IEAT can be formally admitted to the Confederation.

Dinner Hosted by CACCI

The day’s program concluded with a dinner hosted by CACCI Budget Commission Chairman Dr. Steve Hsieh. Also attending the dinner was former CACCI Director-General Amb. Victor C. Y. Tseng.

        Dr. Steve Hsieh

CACCI leaders visits TAITRA to promote trade & investment

Taipei – A CACCI delegation led by Jemal Inaishvili and CACCI Vice President Samir Modi visited Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), where they were welcomed by its Chairman Mr. James C. F. Huang on September 3, 2018.

The delegates learned about TAITRA and its activities through a video presentation at the start of the meeting.  Among others, the delegates learned that:

(1) TAITRA, which was founded in 1970, is Taiwan’s foremost nonprofit trade promoting organization. Sponsored by the government and industry organizations

(2) TAITRA assists enterprises to expand their global reach.

(3) Headquartered in Taipei, TAITRA has a team of 1,300 specialists and operates 5 local offices in Taoyuan, Hsinchu, Taichung, Tainan and Kaohsiung as well as 61 branches worldwide.

(4) Together with Taipei World Trade Center (TWTC) and Taiwan Trade Center (TTC), TAITRA has formed a global network dedicated to promoting world trade.

(5) TAITRA assists Taiwanese businesses in developing international market; collaborates closely with Taiwanese government in trade policy implementation; provides business consultation service and connect international firms with Taiwanese partners; and assumes the role of “Smart Integrator” by complement government policies, facilitating industry needs and developing new business opportunities around the world.

CACCI President Mr. Inaishvili thanked Chairman Huang for receiving the delegation and for making the presentation on the activities of TAITRA. He pointed out that one of the objectives of CACCI is to help promote trade and investments among its members from Asian countries, including Taiwan, which he said has much to offer to the other economies not only in the region but in other parts of the world as well, given the quality and variety of its products and services and availability of its advanced and state-of-the art production and manufacturing technologies.

Mr. Inaishvili invited Chairman Huang and his colleagues to attend the 32nd CACCI Conference on November 23-24, 2018 in Istanbul, and consider the possibility of setting up a both at the Conference venue to promote TAITRA and attract the delegates from other countries to visit Taiwan either as tourists or to explore business opportunities in the country. Chairman Huang thanked Mr. Inaishvili for the invitation and said that he will definitely consider sending representatives to the Istanbul Conference of CACCI.

MNCCI holds successful “Discover Business Opportunities through CACCI” International Conference

Ulaanbaatar – Within frameworks of a visit of Jemal Inaishvili, President of the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI), to Mongolia, the Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MNCCI) successfully organized the “Discover Business Opportunities through CACCI” international conference on September 7 in “Tuushin” hotel.

The conference brought together some 30 delegates of eight countries of Asia-Pacific region. Mr. B.Lkhagvajav, MNCCI President and Chairman of the Board, made the welcoming remarks, and opening remarks were made by Mr. Jemal Inaishvili, CACCI President, and Mr. Lu Jianzhong, Chairman of the Silk Road Chamber of International Commerce (SRCIC). Greetings from the Mongolian Prime Ministers were sounded to the audience by N.Enkhbayar, Chief Advisor to the PM.

The Plenary Session One was entitled “Discover Mongolia” and featured presentations on:

(1) Mongolian Economy and Foreign Trade Policy with Asia-Pacific Countries, delivered by Mr. G. Ulziisaikhan, Director of External Trade and Economic Cooperation Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs

(2) The investment environment in Mongolia given by Mr. B. Tuguldur, Officer of the Registration, Information and Public Relations Department, National Development Agency of Mongolia

(3) Tourism Sector and Policy of Mongolia presented by S. Bayasgalan, Head of the Tourism Policy and Regulation Department, Ministry of Environment and Tourism; and

(4) Policy on Supporting SMEs and Potential Cooperation Sectors with Asia-Pacific Countries, delivered by O. Badamkhand, Chief Officer of SME Development Fund, Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry.

The Plenary Session Two featured a presentation by CACCI Director-General Mr. Amador Honrado on “The Role of Chambers of Commerce in Promoting Regional Trade and Investment Cooperation in the Asia-Pacific Region.” This was followed by a presentation by Mr. David Kiang, Chairman, Finance Committee of the Silk Road Chamber of International Commerce (SRCIC) introducing the activities and investment projects of SRCIC.

Talking about significance and outcomes of hosting the CACCI Conference, Mr. B.Lkhagvajav said, “We are hosting today a meeting between the two largest systems of Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Asia-Pacific countries. The first one is the CACCI President’s visit to Mongolia, and another one is participation of the SRCIC’s authorities in the Conference. Utilizing these mechanisms for an economic and business environment development of Mongolia is becoming a challenge for us. Over the past two decades, we had been only taking part in international measures and events. Now we are able to host such a big measure, which brings an advantage of development. Thus, our businesspeople and entrepreneurs have to benefit from it. That’s the importance of this event.“

Mr. Jemal Inaishvili, CACCI President, said, “We expect lots of outcomes from the Conference. My visit to Mongolia is continuing quite productively. I paid a courtesy call on the Mongolian President and Foreign Minister, and met investors and entrepreneurs of countries that attended the conference. They are really interested in investing potentials of Mongolia. The Mongolian President and government are focusing this matter too. Actions by the MNCCI to promote investment potentials are broadening opportunities to attract investments. I think Mongolia has huge potentials to accumulate investments.”

During the visit to Mongolia, the CACCI President was accompanied by the Confederation’s key officials Mr. Samir Modi, Senior Vice President, Mr. Ernest Lin, Director-General, Amador R. Honrado, Deputy Director-General. The visiting group also included Mr. Li Zhonghang, SRCIC Secretary-General, and Mr. David Kiang, Chairman of the Financial Committee of SRCIC.

Addressing the conference’s closing, Ms. Oyunchimeg, CEO of MNCCI and CACCI Vice President, underlined the two-day CACCI Presidential visit, Women Entrepreneurs Conference and the CACCI Conference were fruitful to contribute to the regional economic and business ties. She said MNCCI will pay great attention to next measures and meetings to be organized by the CACCI.

On the final day of the event, CACCI President, accompanying delegates and participants of the conference enjoyed a mini Naadam festival in the Terelj National Park, knowing more about the Mongolian culture and tradition.

Report courtesy of the Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce (MNCCI). See original report at https://www.mongolchamber.mn/en/newsDetail/1466

CACCI President meets with President of Mongolia

Ulaanbaatar – An international forum themed Broadening Business Cooperation through the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI) is taking place in Ulaanbaatar.

Today, President of Mongolia Khaltmaagiin Battulga received and discussed regional economic affairs with Jemal Inaishvili, CACCI President, other top officials of the Confederation, and representatives of the Silk Road Chamber of International Commerce (SRCIC), who are attending the forum.

President Battulga welcomed the guests into Mongolia and expressed his confidence that the business meetings being held in the margins of the visit of CACCI President Jemal Inaishvili to Mongolia will help businesses start mutually beneficial bilateral cooperation.

Moreover, the President discussed the economic development in the Asia and the Pacific region and some sectors that can potentially diversify the Mongolian economy. In particular, President Battulga emphasized the excellent opportunities for starting and expanding business in agricultural, tourism, and high technological sectors, citing some benefits to business, such as the transit transport tariff discount from Russia and customs duty support from other countries.

The delegates of the CACCI and the SRCIC thanked President Battulga for addressing wide range of matters about Mongolia and its characteristics, saying that his advice and experience will influence future cooperation positively.

The delegates also expressed their willingness to work toward short-term success in the sectors mentioned by President Battulga and to consider his proposal to reflect on the unique characteristics of Mongolia during the forum.

News report and photos courtesy of Office of President of Mongolia Khaltmaagiin Battulga. View the original report at https://president.mn/en/2018/09/06/meeting-with-jemal-inaishvili-president-of-the-confederation-of-asia-pacific-chambers-of-commerce-and-industry/

CACCI Presidential Delegation in Mongolia – Itinerary

Ulaanbaatar – Presently, CACCI President Jemal Inaishvili and Vice President Samir Modi are leading a delegation of businessman in Mongolia, where they are holding meetings with key government officials and important local business people. This is their itinerary:

5 September, 2018 (Wednesday)

Arrival of CACCI delegates to Mongolia, Ulaanbaatar

Venue: Chinggis Khaan International Airport

6 September, 2018 (Thursday)

Government Palace of Mongolia

09:20 Assemble at the Lobby of the Hotel

09:30 Departure for Parliament House

10:00 Courtesy call on H.E. President of Mongolia

Participants: VIP Guests only

Venue: Government place of Mongolia

11:00 Courtesy call on Prime Minister of Mongolia /tbc/

Participants: VIP Guests only

Venue: Government palace of Mongolia

10:30 Visit to International Intellectual Museum / for other guests/

Mongolia has a history of puzzle-crafting, and has created some of the world’s most difficult puzzles and chess sets. Shatar, a Mongolian version of chess, dates back to the middle ages, while more modern burr puzzles (made from interlocking pieces of wood) can be traced back throughout the 1900s.

Mongolia’s enigmatic history is honored at the International Intellectual Puzzle Mu-seum, or the IQ Museum for short. The museum displays rare and precious puzzles from around the world. Over 5,000 toys, puzzles, and games are on view, most of which visitors are invited to fiddle with.

08:00-18:00 Women’s Entrepreneurship Day

Venue: Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry

This all day program will give a great opportunity to learn from the global and domestic communities to meet the needs of women entrepreneurs today. Women entrepreneurs from a multitude of backgrounds across the global will discuss about the policies and programs of their governments to promote the women entrepreneurship in their respective countries. In order to establish and enhance the cooperation among the members of Council, the exhibition will take place to showcase all the products and services they offer.

12:30-14:00 Lunch

Venue: AsemVilla

14:30 Visit to the “Ulaanbaatar Partnership-2018” International Trade Fair

Venue: Misheel expo, Ulaanbaatar

Ulaanbaatar Partnership 2018 is an international Trade fair which is organized annually by MNCCI with collaboration of the Mayor Administration of Ulaanbaatar city. Ulaanbaatar Partnership is expected to attract more than 100 international exhibitors, and the purpose of the trade fair is to present commodityproducts and services of domestic and foreign enterprise promoting its business between interested parties.

16:30 Meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs /tbc/

Venue: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mongolia

18:30-21:00 Welcome Dinner

Venue: Embassy Hotel

7 September, 2018 (Friday)

Best Western Premier Tuushin Hotel

08:15 Assemble at the Lobby of the Hotel

09:00-14:30 “Discover Business Opportunities through CACCI” Conference

Venue: Soyombo Hall, Best Western Premier Tuushin Hotel

This conference gives opportunities for CACCI delegates to obtain information on Economy, Trade and Investment environment in Mongolia as well as for the local entrepreneurs and organizations to learn more about CACCI and its activities.

The objective of the conference aims at increasing knowledge and generating awareness about CACCI among entrepreneurs of Mongolia and enhance the cooperation between Mongolia and Members of CACCI.

08:00-09:00 Registration

09:00-09:30 Opening Ceremony

– Welcoming  remarks by Mrs. Oyunchimeg Magvan, CEO of MNCCI

– Opening remarks by Mr. Jemal Inaishvili, President of CACC /tbc/

09:30-10:30 Plenary Session I:  Discover Mongolia

– Presentation on Foreign Trade and Economy of Mongolia by Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mongolia

– Presentation on Investment Environment of Mongolia by National Development Agency of Mongolia /tbc/

– Presentation by Ministry of Environment and Tourism

– Presentation by Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry

10:30-10:50 Q&A

10:50-11:00 Group Photo Session

11:00-11:20 Coffee Break

11:20-12:15 Plenary Session II:  Discover Business Opportunities through CACCI

– “The Role of Chambers of Commerce in Promoting Regional Trade and Investment Cooperation in the Asia-Pacific Region “presentation by Mr. Amador Honrado, Deputy Director-General , CACCI

– Presentation on Introduction of Silk Road Chamber of International Commerce

– Question & Answer

12:15-12:30 Closing remarks

12:30-14:30 Networking Lunch and the Meeting with Representatives of MNCCI and CEO’s of the councils under MNCCI

Venue: Best Western Premier Tuushin Hotel

Chinggis Khaan Hotel

15:00-17:30 Post-Conference activity

Industrial visit to Gobi JSC Factory

Gobi Corporation is one of the five biggest Mongolian cashmere manufacturer, established in 1981. Gobi supplies 100 percent cashmere, camel wool and yak products to more than 30 countries around the world.

19:00 Gala Dinner

Venue: Khaan Ballroom, Chinggis Khaan Hotel

8 September, 2018 (Saturday)

09:00 Assemble at the Lobby of the Hotel

Sight Visit to Genghis Khan Equestrian Statue

Chinggis khan statue complex is located 54 km from Ulaanbaatar among beautiful natural scenery on the bank of river Tuul, in the place called “Tsonjin Boldog”, memorial place connected with historic events. The statue in total is 40m high from surface erected at about 10 m high foundation and surrounded by columns. Far sighted Chinggis Khaan holds a golden whip in his right hand.

Mini-Naadam Festival /Traditional Festival in Mongolia

Location: Gorkhi-Terelj National Park

Gorkhi-Terelj National Park is located 55km northeast of Ulaanbaatar, this popular national park is characterised by picturesque alpine scenery.

Genghis Khan Equestrian Statue

Gorkhi-Terelj National Park

9 September, 2018 (Sunday)

Departure of CACCI delegates from Chinggis Khaan International Airport

Asia-Pacific trade reps exchange business ideas with Taiwan food giant I-Mei

A delegation from the Confederation of Asia Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry visit Taiwan to meet with representatives of private enterprises and govt. officials 

By Teng Pei-ju, Taiwan News, Staff Reporter – 2018/09/03 16:03

I-Mei Foods Co. Chairman Henry Kao (right-third) and CEO Luis Ko (left-third) welcome CACCI President Jemal Inaishvili (left-fourth) and Vice President Samir Modi (By Taiwan News)

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — A delegation of the largest trade and industry association in the Asia-Pacific visited Taiwan to promote business cooperation across the region. And the delegates took a tour Monday of one of the biggest food factories of the country.

The delegation of the Confederation of Asia Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI) is in Taiwan until Sept. 5 to meet with representatives of private enterprises and officials of the Taiwanese government, before heading to Mongolia for a business conference.

Led by CACCI President Jemal Inaishvili and Vice President Samir Modi, the delegation visited the factory of I-Mei Foods Co. in Taoyuan on Monday morning, where the company’s chairman, Henry Kao (高志尚), received the guests in person like old friends.

The delegation first visited the exhibition center where a selection of I-Mei’s huge product range is showcased.

Particularly interested in the famous Taiwanese dessert, the pineapple cake, Inaishvili later exchanged ideas with Kao regarding how to make such cakes with other fruit available in Georgia, Inaishvili’s country of origin.

Kao also shared his experience in maintaining the values of the company that have been passed on for generations, while at the same time, launching new products that cater to the taste and preferences of modern customers.

I-Mei Foods Co. Chairman Henry Kao introduces the company’s products to the CACCI delegation (Taiwan News)

Following the visit of the exhibition center, Kao led the delegation to the company’s bakery, where fast-food chain McDonald’s muffins have been manufactured with the highest food-safety standards for decades.

CACCI President Jemal Inaishvili enjoys I-Mei’s muffin (Taiwan News)

Having enjoyed the freshly baked muffins, the delegates visited the company’s state-of-the-art in-house food safety laboratory and radiation laboratory. The I-Mei labs are responsible for safeguarding all the raw food materials, purchased either from local farmers or overseas producers, from contamination.

Kao emphasized that ensuring the safety of raw food materials is something I-Mei takes very seriously, as the company is dedicated to providing safe and healthy food to its customers.

The two laboratories have staff that perform tests to detect heavy metals, pesticide drug residues, and radioactive contamination on a daily basis, according to the company.

The CACCI delegation visit the factory of I-Mei Foods Co. on September 3 (Taiwan News)

I-Mei Foods Co. Chairman Henry Kao introduce the company’s products to the CACCI delegation (Taiwan News)

The CACCI describes itself as a regional organization of business enterprises which covers 27 economies in Asia and the Western Pacific. The delegation will also be visiting the Ministry of the Foreign Affairs and other governmental institutes.

The CACCI delegation visits the factory of I-Mei Foods Co. on Sept. 3 (Taiwan News)

News report and photos courtesy of Taiwan News. View the original report at https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/3521423

CACCI President Meets with Key Officers of Primorsky Region CCI

Union Primorsky – Mr. Jemal Inaishvili, President of the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI), met with Mr. Boris V. Stupnitsky, President of the Union Primorsky Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Mr. Michael Veselov, Vice President of the Chamber, following the successful CACCI Presidential visit to Vladivostok.

Mr. Inaishvili thanked Mr. Stupnitsky and Mr. Veselov for the excellent arrangements and generous hospitality extended to the CACCI delegation during the visit. He expressed hs appreciation for the opportunity to meet with key officers of important organizations and to share information with them on the current conditions as well as the trade and investment opportunities in Vladivostok and the Primorsky Region, as well as to exchange views with them on other matters of common interest.

He also thanked the Chamber officers for the opportunity to visit local companies and to learn first-hand about their activities and the areas in which they are open for investments.

He also invited the Chamber to participate in the special session on “Discover Business Opportunities Through CACCI” during the upcoming 32nd CACCI Conference on November 23-24, 2018 in Istanbul.

President Inaishvili invites members to join him at the Istanbul Conference

Istanbul – Following the success of CACCI’s annual gathering in Sydney, Australia in September last year, CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili is inviting members to once again extend the same spirited enthusiasm and strong support to the upcoming 32nd CACCI Conference to be held on November 23-24, 2018 in Istanbul, Turkey, with the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey (TOBB) as the host organization.

In his message to members, President Inaishvili states that the Conference this year aims to provide another important venue for our members to exchange ideas on trends and issues that are currently shaping the global markets. “With the help of invited experts from the government and the private sector, we hope to take an in-depth look at some measures that could be implemented to help achieve stronger investment and output growth over the medium and long-term, particularly those that highlight the use of leading-edge technology and innovative approaches in meeting the current challenges of economic development in
the region,” the CACCI President said.

Mr. Inaishvili stated that he is particularly pleased that the venue of the CACCI Conference this year is once again Istanbul, the business hub of Turkey. “As you may know, Turkey’s economy is on the upswing, with growth gathering momentum last year, driven by strong fiscal stimulus and a strong recovery in export demand. With the economy on strong footing since early 2017, the labor market has improved, and consumer and business sentiments have edged up.”

“I therefore invite all our members to attend this year’s annual gathering in Istanbul and take advantage of another important opportunity to exchange views on how CACCI can help the Asian region remain an important contributor to the world economy. Your participation will also provide you the opportunity see for yourself how Turkey it continues to transform itself into one of the world’s economic powerhouses, and to explore areas that offer growth potentials for your respective companies. “I look forward to seeing you all in Istanbul in November. With your presence and active participation in the forthcoming 32nd CACCI Conference, we hope to affirm CACCI’s role as a vehicle for promoting regional cooperation.”

CACCI President participates in the 2nd World Xi’an Entrepreneurs Convention

Xi’an – Mr. Jemal Inaishvili, President of the Confederation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI), was invited as one of the speakers at the 2nd World Xi’an Entrepreneurs Convention held in Xi’an from June 29 to July 1, 2018.

On 29 June 2018, the Silk Road Chamber of International Commerce Forum of Transforming Xi’an into a Cosmopolitan City, co-organized by Xi’an Municipal People’s Government and Silk Road Chamber of International Commerce (SRCIC), was held at Xi’an Paradise Resort. The forum was aimed at showcasing the business environment of Xi’an as well as inspiring new cooperation ideas and projects.

Over 200 attendees including ambassadors to China from the Belt and Road countries, representatives from international business associations and export-oriented enterprises attended the forum. Mr. Inaishvili serves as Honorary Chairman of SRCIC.

Xi’an is the starting point of ancient Silk Road and a pioneer in today’s Belt and Road construction. The city is active in global communication and collaboration with an aim of transforming itself into a cosmopolitan city.

CACCI President Invited to B20 Summit in Argentina

Buenos Aires – Mr. Jemal Inaishvili, President of the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI), has been invited to attend the B20 Summit to be held on October 4-5, 2018 in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

The Summit is expected to gather some 1,200 business leaders from around the world. The high-level representatives from business will present B20 recommendations and debate on the issues that are shaping our economies today and will have substantial impact on our future.

The B20 – currently chaired by Argentina – is a platform that serves as in intermediary group between G20 governments and the international business community. Its primary mission is to deal with the urgent and significant global issues by developing actionable recommendations from global business leaders to the G20 Leaders. These issues are addressed by the various Task Forces set up for this purpose, including the Task Force on Trade and Investment, of which Mr. Inaishvili as CACCI President is a member.

For more information visit the B20 website at http://www.b20argentina.info/

CACCI members invited to join Presidential Visit to Mongolia – September 5-9, 2018

Ulaanbaatar- CACCI members are invited to join CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili in another Presidential visit in the latter part of the year, this time to Mongolia scheduled to take place on September 5-9, 2018.

The Mongolia National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MNCCI) will be receiving the CACCI delegation and has prepared a Tentative Program for the five-day visit.

Participation in the Mongolia visit will give members the valuable opportunity not only to gather first-hand information on the business situation in the host country, join the courtesy calls on high-ranking government officials, participate in the company visits, and meet leading businessmen of the country mainly through the Business Forum and the B2B meetings to be organized by MNCCI, but also to visit some of Mongolia’s’s major tourist attractions and experience its rich culture and tradition.

The Mongolia visit will also take place at the same time as the Ulaanbaatar Partnership 2018, the country’s largest international trade fair. To be jointly organized by the Mayor Administration of Ulaanbaatar City and MNCCI on September 7-10, the Ulaanbaatar Partnership 2018 will bring together international and domestic companies from the food, textile, light industry, and agriculture sectors. CACCI members are invited to participate in the trade fair and set up their own booths.

CACCI Presidential Visit to Vladivostok, Russia

Vladivostok – Following his successful Presidential visits to Cambodia, Vietnam, and Laos in April 2018, CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili led another delegation of CACCI officers and members for a visit to another CACCI member country, this time to Russia – specifically in the port city of Vladivostok on June 14-15, 2018.

Considered the administrative center of Primorsky Region, the city of Vladivostok (literally means “ruler of the east”) is located around the Golden Horn Bay, not far from Russia’s borders with China and North Korea. The population of the city as of 2017 was 606,589, up from 592,034 recorded in the 2010 Russian census. The city is the home port of the Russian Pacific Fleet and the largest Russian port on the Pacific. The city’s main industries are shipping, commercial fishing, and the naval base. Fishing accounts for almost four-fifths of Vladivostok’s commercial production. Other food production totals 11%. A very important employer and a major source of revenue for the city’s inhabitants is the import of Japanese cars.

The visit was another milestone as it was the first-ever CACCI Presidential visit to Vladivostok. Like the other previous Presidential visits, the Vladivostok trip was  aimed at providing the CACCI visitors the opportunity to gain a better understanding of the economic conditions in the city and explore possible joint business ventures and investment cooperation with their local counterparts.

The CACCI delegation was composed of the following CACCI officers and members:

1. Mr. Jemal Inaishvili, President, CACCI and Member of the Board, Georgian Chamber  of Commerce and Industry
2. Mr. Hardeep Singh, Chairman of the Board of Directors, GeoSteel LLC
3. Mr. Homer Yu, Secretary of Business Affairs Department, Kowloon Chamber of Commerce
4. Mr. Chor Ki Chan, Honorary President, Hong Kong Hair & Beauty Merchants Association
5. Ms. Tatiana Legchilina, Deputy Director, International Cooperation Department, Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Russian Federation
6. Mr. Ernest Lin, Director-General, CACCI
7. Mr. Amador R. Honrado, Jr., Deputy Director-General, CACCI
8. Ms. Wendy Yang, Senior Officer, CACCI

The Presidential visit o Vladivostok served as a valuable occasion for the CACCI delegation to meet with various government officials of the city to exchange views on trade and investment issues as well as identify areas where CACCI members may consider investing. The delegation also had the opportunity to network with officers of local institutions and business enterprises and listened to presentations on their activities and projects, especially those that welcome the participation of foreign investors. As a  result of the delegation’s various meetings , the CACCI Presidential visits to the three countries succeeded in generating  awareness about CACCI and its activities among key administrative officials and the local companies in the city.

A chronology of the delegation’s official program follows:

I. Visit to FEBRAS (June 14, 2018)

The delegation visited the Far Eastern Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences (FEBRAS), where they were welcomed by its President, Academician Valentin Sergienko.

With the assistance of his staff members,  Mr. Sergienko made an introduction on FEBRAS and its activities. He informed the delegation that FEBRAS was organized to develop fundamental research in the field of natural and social sciences and to work out the applied problems of the Far Eastern productive forces development and training of scientific manpower. He said that its main goal is to coordinate the efforts of all research teams, directing them to find solutions to the most urgent problems of interest to the region and to science in general.

The CACCI delegation learned from Mr. Sergienko that the priority directions of the scientific researches of FEBRAS include the following:

• Photonics and laser physics and physics of nanomaterials
• Development of software and hardware tools
• Development of oceanographic instruments and underwater robotic systems
• New functional materials, nanomaterials and chemical technology
• Highly efficient technology of radioactive waste processing
• Biodiversity and bioresources
• Physico-chemical biology , biotechnology and genetic engineering
• Genophysics, geochemistry and biology of world ocean, including the Eastern Sector Arctic region
• Tectonics, geodynamics and metallogeny
• Long-term forecast of catastrophic natural phenomena
• Evaluation of resources of hydrocarbon potential of the Pacific basin
• Regional environmental management
• Medical and physiological problems
• Development of new varieties of agricultural products
• Problems of regional development and international cooperation
• Conservation of rare and endangered species
• History, archaeology, sociological problems.

Mr. Sergienko invited CACCI members to cooperate with FEBRAS in the activities that it undertakes in any of the above mentioned areas of research and product development.

II. Meeting with Vice Governor of Primorsky Region

Following its meeting with FEBRAS, the delegation proceeded to the office of the Vice Governor of Primorsky Region, where they were received by its key officials led by Vice Governor Ms. Tatiana Kazantseva.

During the dialogue between the two sides, the delegation learned of the major policies adopted by the Primorsky region to take advantage of its strategic location for trade and industry development with countries from the Asia-Pacific region.  These policies include the creation of the free port of Vladivostok and the establishment of an advanced free economic zone .

The CACCI visitors were also informed of the growing importance of the tourism industry for the Primorsky Region, and noted the increasing number of cruise ships that call on the city per month bringing tourists from China, Japan, and Korea; the development of port facilities to receive these cruise shops; the development of eco-tourism; the establishment of gaming zones to cater to foreign tourists, and the construction of more hotels to accommodate the growing number of foreign visitors.

The delegation was also briefed of the importance of the fisheries sector, the mining industries, the agricultural sector, as well as the construction and the development of infrastructure projects.

Mr. Inaishvili and other members of the CACCI delegation noted the rapid development taking place in the country. They  praised the economic progress that the Primorsky Region and Vladivostok have made in recent years and acknowledged the business opportunities they personally witnessed during the visit. They noted that there certainly are many areas that provide great opportunities for trade and investments between the Primorsky Region and other CACCI member-countries.

President Inaishvili suggested to the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Primorsky Region to consider the possibility of hosting a CACCI Conference in the near future, stating that such event will provide Vladivostok the opportunity to tell the world about its  achievements on the economic front as the country’s economic advantages are mostly unknown to most countries.

III. Meeting with Duma of Vladivostok City, Investment Agency of Primorsky Region, and Administration of Vladivostok City

On the afternoon of June 14, the CACCI delegation proceeded to its joint meeting with the Duma of Vladivostok City, the Investment Agency of Primorsky Region, and the Administration of Vladivostok City.

The delegates were informed that the free port facility would comprise a seaport, airport zone, an industrial zone, a scientific zone and a tourist-recreational zone, which includes gaming facilities. The free port and advanced special economic zones will help the Russian Far East region become a new showcase for foreign investors, the speakers stressed, noting that the free port regime, which will target global trade businesses, will last for 70 years with strictly defined boundaries and facilitated customs.According to Far East Development Corp., which manages the free port and economic zones in the area, the program will cover a total of 28,400 square kilometers and a population of 1.4 million.

The CACCI visitors further learned that residents of the free port, who can invest at least 5 million rubles (US$75,900) in three years can enjoy zero profit tax, land tax and property tax within the first five years and 12 percent profit tax for the next five years. Residents of 12 advanced special economic zones, which target domestic markets with no strictly defined boundaries, can enjoy similar tax benefits with minimum investment of just 500,000 rubles.

The city’s port facilities are also noted to be important, and that tourism is a growing industry, particularly sea tourism with the increasing number of cruise liners visiting the city. Also these underscore the great economic potential of Vladivostok, and should encourage members of CCIRF and CACCI to come to Vladivostok.

For his part, Mr. Inaishvili urged the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Primorsky Region to take a more active involvement in CACCI activities to reap the benefits of Asian growth and development, pointing out that it would be a win-win situation for businessmen in Vladivostok and the Primorsky region, as well as in CACCI member countries, given the fact that CACCI is a very big organization.

IV. Visit to the European Diamond Centre Co. Ltd.

On the morning of June 15, the delegation visited the European Diamond Centre Co. Ltd. , where they were received by Mr. Alexey Ivanov, Director of Alrosa, which is the company that manages the Centre.

During the visit, the delegation learned that: (a) Alrosa is a Russian Group of diamond mining companies that occupies a leading position in the industry and has the largest rough diamond reserves in the world; (b) The Group accounts for one third of the reserves and more than a quarter of the production of the global rough diamond market; (c) They key areas of activity, comprising the focus of the major strategic efforts of the Group, are deposits exploration, mining, processing and sales of rough diamonds; (d) The majority of Alrosa Group revenue come s from selling rough diamonds; (e) Rough diamonds are sole under long-term agreements to Russian and foreign diamond cutting companies; and (f) The rough diamond segment accounts for about 90% of the total Group revenue.

The CACCI visitors were also informed that the Eurasian Diamond Centre itself opens up great prospects not only for companies in the industry of rough and polished diamonds, but also for retailers and jewelry manufacturers, including the Luxury segment, cultural values and antiques markets participants. The Centre serves as a unique platform that allows developing and implementation of new manufacturing technologies, holding of exhibitions and regular auctions of precious gems and opening of new market channels.

V. Visit to Aviapolis Yankovsky Co. Ltd.

The delegates then proceeded to the Aviapolis Yankovsky LLC, which is a Russian private industrial park operator which plans to build a mega warehouse and logistics park in Primorsky Krai province. Considered the largest in the Far East region, the facility will cover gross floor area of 680,000 square meters, and is expected to be completed by 2025.

The CACCI visitors were informed that the industrial park has been a resident of the Free Port of Vladivostok since 2016. A viapolis is located in a dynamic zone, both in terms of infrastructure and in close proximity to key transport hubs. The distance to the city of Vladivostok is only 40 km, to the city of Artem and Vladivostok Airport – 4.7 km, to the city of Nakhodka – 139 km. The delegation  learned that some 95 percent of the park’s warehouse space is already booked, pointing to the high demand for warehouse and office space from the residents of Vladivostok Free Port.

VI. Visit to “Primring” & Meeting at Techno Holding Sumotori Co.

Following the visit to the Aviapolis Yankovsky LLC, the CACCI delegation moved to PrimRing, located in the Far Eastern Primorsky region in Artyom city, close to Vladivostok.

The delegates were informed that the aim of the “Primring” is to create a modern, multi-use, leisure and retail destination with motorsport at the core. The site is located on a 78 Ha plot in the vicinity of Vladivostok, located close to a major highway for easy access. The initiator of the project is Sumotori Machinery Group, the biggest technological holding company in far Eastern Russia.

The CACCI visitors learned that the PrimRing will play a strategic role in the development of motor sport in Russia. The project has been granted ‘Strategic Project’ status by the Primorsky regional government and has received grant funding support from the FIA Motorsport Development Fund, bringing significant commercial and planning benefits. The Russian Automobile Federation (RAF), the motor sport regulator for the country, is also fully supportive of the initiative.

PrimRing provides a home for motor sport for all categories in the Primorsky region and a venue for national events in Russia and for visitors from the neighbouring countries of China, South Korea and Japan. Around this mix of motor sport infrastructure, the project proponents have developed leisure, retail and business districts, all combined to provide a natural parkland setting for families and friends to meet, relax, enjoy, watch or participate.

The delegates were further informed that Sumotori is a techno holding company, which has been on the Russian market since 1998. Its former name is Hino-Vladivostok. The main office is situated in Vladivostok, and it is a dealer of different companies: Hino truck, New Holland (a global brand), Doosan Infracore (S. Korea), TCM, Everdigm (Hanwoo), Bishamon. KOBELCO. Sumotori is also the official dealer of trade mark Masalta, which is the part of SUBARU.

On the last day of the visit to Vladivostok, the CACCI delegation also visited the Marine Experimental Center where they observed latest advances in fish reproduction. To conclude the successful visit, the CACCI delegation celebrated in the companion of many Russian officials a dinner in a local restaurant specialized in regional food.

CACCI President attends International Silkroad Forum in Turkmenistan

Awaza – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili was invited as one of the special guests of honor and speaker at the international forum on “The Great Silk Road: Towards New Frontiers of Development” held at the Turkmen Awaza National Tourist Zone in the Caspian Sea shore in Turkmenistan on May 2, 2018.

The Forum took place in conjunction with the opening of the new International Turkmenbashi Port, which is expected to connect Asia and Europe for transferring goods and ideas and help activate the so-called Silk Road corridors.

Also attending the forum was the President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. During the forum, Mr. Inaishvili presented a special award to President Berdimuhamedov as initiator of the project of Turkmenbashy International Seaport.

CACCI President presents award to Turkmenistan President

Awaza – The President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov received a special award as initiator of the project of Turkmenbashy International Seaport during an international forum on “The Great Silk Road: Towards New Frontiers of Development” held in Awaza, Turkmenistan on May 2, 2018.

The award was presented to President Berdimuhamedov by CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili and by Mr. Lu Jianzhong, President of the Silk Road Chamber of International Commerce (SRCIC). By conferring the award to the Turkmenistan President, the SRCIC and CACCI expressed the support of integrational transport projects of Turkmenistan that enhances the convergence of the East and the West through the revival of the Silk Road.

Speaking at the Forum, President Berdimuhamedov outlined Turkmenistan’s priorities in international partnership in the field of transport and communication.

According to the Turkmen leader, the new sea port in the strategically important Caspian region provides a large platform for enhancing inter-regional cooperation, increasing the volumes and improving the quality of transportation, and contributes to establishing the new configuration of the transportation flow.

CACCI delegation meets with Laotian businessmen in Vientiane

Vientiane – Members of the CACCI delegation that joined the CACCI Presidential visit to Laos on April 25 had the opportunity to meet with local entrepreneurs at the headquarters of the Lao National Chambers of Commerce and Industry in Vientiane.

During the meeting, CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili and his delegation introduced CACCI and its activities to the attending chamber members, invited them to participate in the said activities, encouraged them to become Lifetime Special Members of CACCI, and exchanged information with them on and explore possible areas of cooperation in various industries and sectors of Laos.

The local businessmen also expressed interest to join the delegation that LNCCI President Mr. Oudet promised to organize to attend the Istanbul Conference of CACCI in November.

CACCI delegation meets Lao LNCCI President

Vientiane – A delegation composed of officers of the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI) led by President Jemal Inaishvili, was received by Mr. Oudet Souvannavong, President of Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LNCCI), during the former’s visit to Laos on April 25, 2018. The meeting took place at the LNCCI headquarters in Vientiane.

During the special meeting, the visiting CACCI officers exchanged information with the LNCCI President on the trade and investment opportunities in the country.

President Inaishvili also took the opportunity to invite President Oudet to attend the 32nd CACCI Conference scheduled to take place on November 23-24, 2018 in Istanbul. Mr. Oudet said he would consider organizing a delegation from LNCCI to participate in the Istanbul Conference.

CACCI members meet with Officers of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry of Vietnam

Hanoi – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili, accompanied by members and officers CACCI member chambers, met with key officers and staff of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (International Cooperation Department) of Vietnam led by Deputy Director General Dr. Chu Van Chuong in Hanoi on April 21, 2018.

The two sides shared information on the current conditions as well as the trade and investment opportunities in Vietnam, and exchanged views on other matters of common interest.

CACCI Delegation calls on the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of Vietnam

Hanoi – A visiting delegation from the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI) led by President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili called on the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of Vietnam in Hanoi on April 21, 2018. The visitors were received by Vice Minister Vu Van Tam.

The two sides shared information on the current conditions as well as the trade and investment opportunities in the agricultural and industrial sectors of Vietnam, and exchanged views on other matters of common interest.

Vietnam Chamber welcomes CACCI Delegation in Hanoi

Hanoi – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili led a delegation composed of CACCI officers and members to visit the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) in Hanoi on April 19, 2018.

The CACCI visitors were welcomed by VCCI officers and members led by Dr. Doan Duy Khuong, VCCI Vice Executive President, at the VCCI headquarters. The visiting delegation introduced CACCI and its activities to the meeting participants, and exchanged information with them on and explore possible areas of cooperation in various industries and sectors of Vietnam.

CACCI Delegation meets with Cambodia Chamber of Commerce Officers and Members

Phnom Penh – A CACCI delegation led by President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili visited the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce (CCC) on November 19, 2018 at the CCC headquarters in Phnom Penh were they were received by key officers and members of the Chamber led by Vice President Oknha Lim Heng.

In his Opening Remarks, CACCI President Jemal Inaishvili expressed his gratitude to the Chamber for giving him and his delegation the opportunity to get a first-hand information on the economic and business conditions in the country, and to share views on possible opportunities for business cooperation between and among their respective members.

CCC Vice President Okhna Lim Heng invited CACCI members to participate and play a role in the economic growth of Cambodia. He also said that the Chamber is greatly interested to participate in CACCI activities, including the 32nd CACCI Conference to be held in November 2018 in Istanbul as well as the various CACCI awards, and welcomed the proposal of Mr. Inaishvili for the Chamber to host a CACCI Conference in the near future.

CACCI President Jemal Inaishvili attends Belt and Road Trade and Investment Forum in Beijing

Beijing – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili attended 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.

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.

The Forum discussed such topics as financing and unimpeded trade. It brought together about 700 business and industry delegates from more than 70 countries, including those covered by the CACCI membership.

CACCI President joins WCF General Council Meeting

Beijing – Mr. Jemal Inaishvili, President of the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry attended the meeting of the ICC World Chambers Federation (WCF) General Council Meeting held on April 11, 2018 in Beijing.

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

During the meeting, President Inaishvili briefed the other participants about the ongoing and upcoming activities of CACCI, and invited them to the 32nd CACCI Conference scheduled to take place on November 23-24, 2018 in Ciragan Palace Kempinski Istanbul, Turkey

As a transnational chamber, CACCI is a Permanent Member of the WCF General Council and is currently represented by President Inaishvili.

CACCI President Inaishvili Invited to Belt and Road Trade and Investment Forum in Beijing

Beijing – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili has been invited to participate in the “Belt and Road Trade and Investment Forum” to be held on April 11-13, 2018 in Beijing.

The two-day Forum is 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.

Focusing on the theme “Unleashing Potential for Shared Future,” the Forum aims 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.

The Forum will discuss such topics as financing and unimpeded trade. It is expected to bring together about 650 business and industry delegates from more than 70 countries, including those covered by the CACCI membership

CACCI President joins B20 Argentina Task Force on Trade and Investment

Buenos Aires – Mr. Jemal Inaishvili, President of the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI), has been accepted as member of the B20 Task Force on Trade and Investment.

The B20 – currently chaired by Argentina – is a platform that serves as in intermediary group between G20 governments and the international business community. Its primary mission is to deal with the urgent and significant global issues by developing actionable recommendations from global business leaders to the G20 Leaders. These issues are addressed by the various Task Forces set up for this purpose, including the Task Force on Trade and Investment.

CACCI President Inaishvili attends WCF General Council Meeting – Beijing

Beijing – Mr. Jemal Inaishvili, President of the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI), will be attending the meeting of the World Chambers Federation (WCF) General Council Meeting on April 11, 2018 in Beijing.

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

As a transnational chamber, CACCI is a Permanent Member of the WCF General Council and is currently represented by President Inaishvili.

CACCI President Inaishvili Invited to Awaza Global Forum

Awaza – Mr. Jemal Inaishvili, President of the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI) has been invited to be a keynote speaker at the Awaza Global Forum to be held on May 2, 2018 in Awaza, a touristic zone in Turkmenistan located at the east side of the Caspian Sea, 12 km west of Turkmenbashi city.

The Forum will be held in conjunction with the opening of the new International Turkmenbashi Port, which is expected to connect Asia and Europe for transferring goods and ideas and help activate the so-called Silk Road corridors.

CACCI Presidential Visit to Phnom Penh, Hanoi & Vientiane from April 19-25, 2018 – Register now!

Phnom Penh – Following his successful visit to Nepal in November last year, CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili has scheduled a Presidential visit in April 2018, this time covering three neighboring countries in one trip, tentatively as follows:

Phnom Penh, Cambodia: April 19-20

Hanoi, Vietnam: April 22-23

Vientiane, Laos: April 24-25

The host chambers for the above three visits are Cambodia Chamber of Commerce (CCC), Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI), and Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LNCCI), respectively.

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

The host chambers have been requested to arrange their respective programs for the visits.

We will send you the proposed itinerary, along with other relevant information (e.g., hotel accommodation), as soon as VCCI, LNCCI and CCC have made the necessary arrangements. In the meantime, should you wish to meet with specific businessmen in any of the three host countries, visit specific local companies or organizations, or conduct specific activities during the trip, please let us know so we can convey your request to the host chambers for their consideration.

Please download brief economic profiles of Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia.

We encourage CACCI members to join President Inaishvili on his upcoming visits to Cambodia, Vietnam, and Laos and avail yourself of the opportunity not only to establish contacts with key representatives from the private and government sectors of these countries, but also to learn first-hand the business conditions and opportunities they offer.

Kindly confirm your participation by downloading the Confirmation Form and returning it to us through our Fax No. (886 2) 2760 7569 or e-mail at cacci@cacci.biz.

CACCI Presidential Visit to Ulaanbaatar – September 5-8, 2018 – Members should join!

Ulaanbaatar – As part of his activities during the second half of this year, CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili is inviting CACCI officers and members to join him in another Presidential visit, this time to Mongolia scheduled to take place on September 5-9, 2018.

The Mongolia National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MNCCI) will be receiving the CACCI delegation and has prepared a Tentative Program for the five-day visit, which is attached at the end of this news report and a brief report about about Mongolia’s fundamentals.

CACCI members joining the Mongolia visit will gather first-hand information on the business situation in the host country, join the courtesy calls on high-ranking government officials, participate in the company visits, and meet leading businessmen of the country mainly through the Business Forum and the B2B meetings to be organized by MNCCI. They will also to visit some of Mongolia’s major tourist attractions and experience its rich culture and tradition.

CACCI also wants to inform members that the Mongolia visit will also take place at the same time as the Ulaanbaatar Partnership 2018, the country’s largest international trade fair. To be jointly organized by the Mayor Administration of Ulaanbaatar City and MNCCI on September 7-10.

The Ulaanbaatar Partnership 2018 will bring together international and domestic companies from the food, textile, light industry, and agriculture sectors and CACCI members are invited to participate in the trade fair and set up their own booths.

Visit this link https://www.cacci.biz/cacci-members-invited-to-ulaanbaatar-trade-fair/ to read a brief introduction on the trade fair.

CACCI will inform more details about the visit (e.g., hotel accommodation, updated progams) as soon as these are available.

In the meantime, should you wish to meet with specific businessmen in Mongolia, visit specific local companies or organizations, or conduct specific activities during the trip, please write to cacci@cacci.biz so we can convey your request to MNCCI.

Please confirm you participation by downloading the Confirmation Form and returning to us by Fax (886 2 2760-7569) or e-mail (cacci@cacci.biz). Should you have questions, please feel free to contact us at the Secretariat.

CACCI President is expert panelist at the ICC CEO Forum

Tokyo – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili served as a member of a panel of experts during the 4th ICC Asia-Pacific CEO Forum held on March 8-9, 2018 at the Hotel New Otani in Tokyo, Japan.

Mr. Inaishvili was invited by ICC Japan as Panelist during the session on “Achieving the United Nations Sustanable Development Goals Through Innovation and Entrepreneurship.” He joined Mr. Takeo Harada, CEO, Institute for International Strategy and Information Analysis, Inc, and Ms. Cherie Nursaalim, Vice President, GITI Group in the panel discussion.The session was chaired and moderated by Mr. John Danilovich, Secretary General, International Chamber of Commerce.

President Inaishvili Meets with TOBB President in Istanbul

Istanbul – Mr. Jemal Inaishvili, President of the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI), recently met with Mr. Rifat Hisarciklioglu, President of the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey (TOBB), in Istanbul to discuss preparations for the upcoming CACCI Planning Committee Meeting to be held on February 5 in Istanbul.

Mr. Inaishvili and Mr. Hisarciklioglu also had preliminary discussions on the proposed activities for the 32nd CACCI Conference scheduled to take place in November 2018 in Istanbul.

President Inaishvili Attends Ukraine CCI 45th Anniversary Celebration

Kiev – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili accepted the invitation from the Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce and
Industry (UCCI) to attend the 45th Anniversary celebration of the Ukranian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (UCCI) held on December 14-16, 2017 in Kiev.

In particular, Mr. Inaishvili was invited to attend the Opening Session on the International Conference on “New Industrialization: Challenges, Opportunities and Prospects for Ukraine.” which was part of the anniversary celebration.

Mr. Inaishvili’s presence provided him the opportunity to meet and network with UCCI members, gain a better
understanding of the chamber’s activities, and explore how the two organizations could work together for the mutual benefit of their respective members. He also invited UCCI to join CACCI as an Observer.

Nepal President Welcomes CACCI Officers and Members in Kathmandu

Kathmandu – A 30-member CACCI delegation led by CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili made a courtesy call on Right Honourable President Bidya Devi Bhandari as part of the program of the CACCI Presidential visit to Nepal on November 21-22.

The CACCI delegation consisted of CACCI members from Georgia, Australia, Bangladesh, Hong Kong, Pakistan, the Philippines, and Taiwan.

During the courtesy call, Right Honourable President Bidya Devi Bhandari cited the strong economic performance of Nepal in recent years due mainly to reforms and government stability and invited CACCI members to consider investing in its various sectors, particularly agriculture, tourism, infrastructure, power generation, textile production, timber, and ater production, among others. She assured them of government protection for foreign investments and the facilitating role paid by government.

Right Honourable President Bidya Devi Bhandari is the second President of the Republic of Nepal and the first President after the promulgation of the Constitution of Nepal 2015.

CACCI President Inaishvili Attends the EU-Eurasia-China Business Summit in Athens

Athens – Mr. Jemal Inaishvili, President of the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI) and Honorary Chairman of the Silk Road Chamber of International Commerce, attended the recent EU-Eurasia-China Business Summit as a commentator.

Held on October 9-10, 2017 in Athens under the sponsorship of The Economist magazine, the Summit carried the theme “Building Bridges from East to West”.

CACCI President Inaishvili Speaks at 4th Eastern Partnership Business Forum

Tallinn – Mr. Jemal Inaishvili, President of the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI), was one of the invited speakers at the 4th Eastern Partnership Business Forum held on October 26-27, 2017 in Tallinn, Estonia.

The Forum is a traditional event to the EU Eastern Partnership Summit. The main objective of the forum is to promote cross-border economic relations, transparency, new business opportunities and cooperation between EU and Eastern Partnership countries, with particular focus on SMEs.

President Inaishvili visits Kocaeli Chamber of Industry’s 5th Edition of Match4Industry

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

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

The 5th edition of Match4Industry was organised by ABIGEM in collaboration with the Kocaeli Chamber of Industry and Chamber of Commerce of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, and offered you two days of exclusive business meetings.

Under the Chairmanship of Mr. Ayhan Zeytinoglu (shown in photo with CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili and TOBB President Mr. Rifat Hisarciklioglu), the Kocaeli Chamber of Industry is a local organization of businesses and companies in Izmit – Kocaeli with the intention to develop and further the interests of local companies and businesses in Turkey.

President Inaishvili Meets with Iran Chamber delegation in Sydney Congress

Sydney – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili, along with other CACCI officers, met with with the delegation from Iran Chamber of Commerce,Industries, Mines and Agriculture (ICCIMA) led by ICCIMA Vice President Mr. Pedram Soltani. The meeting was held on the sides of the 31st CACCI Conference and 10th World Chambers Congress held on September 18-21, 2017 in Sydney, Australia

The two sides exchanged views on how the two organizations can further strengthen their relationships and possible activities for cooperation such as in the area of training for ICCIMA members.They also talked about a possible visit by a CACCI delegation led by President Inaishvili in early 2018.

CACCI President Inaishvili Speaks at the Opening Ceremony of 10th World Chambers Congress in Sydney

Sydney – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili was featured as a Speaker at the Opening Ceremony of the 10th World Chambers Congress held on September 19, 2017 in Sydney, Australia. Mr. Inaishvili joined Mr. Peter Mihok, Chair of the ICC World Chambers Federation; Mr. John Denton, First Vice Chairman of the International Chamber of Commerce; and Mr. Stephen Cartwright, Chief Executive Officer of the Sydney Business Chambers, in welcoming all the delegates to the10th World Chambers Congress, of which the 31st CACCI Conference was an integral part of the proceedings.

Also gracing the Opening Ceremony was New South Wales Premier Ms. Gladys Berejiklian In his Welcome Statement, Mr. Inaishvili said that the Sydney gathering was significant as it marked the first time that CACCI was holding its annual Conference in conjunction with the World Chambers Congress, an important event being organized every two years by the ICC World Chambers Federation jointly with the host country chamber, which for this year was the Sydney Business Chamber.

10th World Chambers Congress Day 1 .Picture : Gregg Porteous

“The joint event manifests the mutual understanding and great partnership between and among our three organizations and is certainly good for their respective members. It creates a positive experience for all sides and creates new dimension in their relationships, and certainly constitutes a positive step towards keeping economic prosperity in the region. Attendance in the joint event by members of our three organizations certainly increases the value of their participation,” the CACCI Presidebnt said.

CACCI President and Officers Join Other VIPs at the Welcome Reception Hosted by NSW Governor

Sydney – CACCI officers led by President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili attended the VIP Reception hosted by His Excellency General The Honourable David Hurley AC DSC, the Governor of New South Wales, for selected delegates of the 31st CACCI Conference and the 10th World Chambers Congress on the evening of September 18, 2017 in Sydney. The reception was held at the Government House Sydney. The Governor of New South Wales is the viceregal representative of the Australian monarch, Queen Elizabeth II, in the state of New South Wales.

The Government House is the Governor’s Official Residence and Office. It was completed in 1845. Over the years the building has been extended, refurbished and modernized to suit the tastes and needs of successive Governors. Today, the House holds a significant collection of portraits, furniture, decorative arts and gubernatorial memorabilia as a result of Vice Regal patronage.

10th World Chambers Congress .Picture : Gregg Porteous

Presidential Visit to Nepal on November 20-21, 2017 – Register now!

Kathmandu – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili has been invited by The Federation of  Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) to make a Presidential visit to Kathmandu, Nepal on November 20-21, 2017, and is inviting CACCI members to join the delegation.

The last CACCI Presidential visit to Nepal was held in September 2011. The 17-member delegation was led by then CACCI President Amb. Benedicto Yujuico and received a warm welcome from both the private and government sectors of Nepal.

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

For this year’s Nepal visit, President Inaishvili has requested the FNCCI to:

• Arrange a meeting with members of the FNCCI so that the CACCI President can brief them on ongoing CACCI projects, discuss how the two organizations can support each other in the implementation of these projects for mutual benefit; and explore possible areas where CACCI can supplement the FNCCI services to its constituencies.
• Set an appointment with relevant government officials of Nepal to introduce CACCI to them and solicit their support for CACCI activities;
• Arrange factory or company visits for the delegation to enable them to explore possible areas of business cooperation.

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

Following the two-day program, CACCI Vice President and former FNCCI President Mr. Pradeep Kumar Shrestha is inviting delegates to attend his son’s wedding ceremony, which starts on November 22.

We therefore encourage you to join President Inaishvili on his visit to Nepal, and avail yourself of the opportunity not only to establish contacts with key representatives from the private and government sectors of Nepal, but also to learn first-hand the business conditions and opportunities available in the country. You will also be able to participate in the wedding ceremony for Mr. Shrestha’s son.

Kindly confirm your participation by filling out the attached Confirmation Form and returning it to us through our Fax No. (886 2) 2760 1139 or e-mail at cacci@cacci.biz.

Should you have further questions, please do not hesitate to contact CACCI Secretariat.

CACCI President Meets with Esfahan CCI President in Sydney Conference

Sydney – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili held a special meeting with the delegation from Esfahan Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture (ECCIMA) led by President Mr. S.
Abdolvahab Sahlabadi on the sides of the recently concluded 31st CACCI Conference and 10th World Chambers Congress held on September 18-21, 2017 in Sydney, Australia.

The officers of the two organizations exchanged views on the trade and investment opportunities offered by Esfahan, considered as the most industrialized city in Iran, and how CACCI members can take advantage of these opportunities. They also talked about a possible visit by a CACCI delegation to be led by President Inaishvili in early 2018.

Heads of CACCI and Russian CCI Meet During the CACCI Conference and World Chambers Congress in Sydney

Sydney – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili and Vice President Mr.Peter McMullin took some time off from their busy schedule in Sydney to meet with the delegation from the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Russian Federation (CCIRF) led by Mr. Sergey Katyrin.

The officers of the two organizations exchanged views on possible collaborative initiatives between CACCI and CCIRF, particularly in hosting a CACCI Conference, as well as in receiving a CACCI delegation either in Moscow or Vladivostok in the near future.

President Inaishvili informed Mr. Katyrin that CACCI members from other countries will certainly welcome the opportunity to visit either of these two cities to meet with representatives from both the business and government sectors of Russia and to explore possible areas of cooperation.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Crans Montana invites Inaishvili to 2017 Homeland & Global Security Forum

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

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

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

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

Thai ITD Investment & Trade Forum invites CACCI President to speak

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CACCI President Invited as Judge for the 2017 World Chambers Competition

CACCI President Jemal Inaishvili

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

President Inaishvili attends WCF General Council Meeting in Paris

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

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

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

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

To see more photos of this event:

Paris

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

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

Ladies and Gentlemen:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

To see the photos of the event:

Paris

CACCI President invited to Global Chamber Platform (GCP)

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

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

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

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

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

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

CACCI President speaks at the Economic Chamber of Macedonia

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

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

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

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

To see more photos of the event:

Skopje

CACCI President Invited to the B20 Joint Taskforce Meeting in Paris

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

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

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

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

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

CACCI President invited to Macedonia

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

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

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

CACCI President joins B20 Germany Task Force

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

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

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

CACCI President attends 2016 Global Diaspora Business Summit in Singapore

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

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

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

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

DJ Paul Meador:

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

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

CACCI President Jemal Inaishvili:

Thank you.

DJ Paul Meador:

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

CACCI President Jemal Inaishvili:

It will be a great pleasure, thank you.

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

DJ Paul Meador:

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

CACCI President Jemal Inaishvili:

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

DJ Paul Meador:

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

CACCI President Jemal Inaishvili:

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

DJ Paul Meador:

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

Jemal Inaishvili, CACCI President

CACCI President Jemal Inaishvili:

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

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

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

DJ Paul Meador:

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

CACCI President Jemal Inaishvili:

Actually you are right.

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

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

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

DJ Paul Meador:

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

We wish you all the best. Thank you.

CACCI President Jemal Inaishvili:

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

DJ Paul Meador:

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

CACCI President recollects 50 years of success

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

Here are CACCI President Jemal Inaishvili’s comments…

CACCI President recollects
50 years of success

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CACCI President attends Madrid Meeting of the ICC World Chambers Federation

Madrid – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili attended the 2nd Meeting for 2016 of the General Council of the ICC World Chambers Federation (ICC-WCF) held on October 12-13, 2016 in Madrid, Spain.As a transnational chamber, CACCI is a Permanent Member of the WCF General Council and is currently represented by President Inaishvili.

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

CACCI President visits Taipei to discuss Conference preparations

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

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

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

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

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

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

CACCI President Mr. Inaishvili Attends B20 Summit in Hangzhou

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CACCI President Meets with Bulgarian CCI Vice President

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

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

CACCI President Attends Crans Montana Forum in Vienna

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CACCI President Inaishvili calls on Ceylon Chamber of Commerce officers

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

CACCI President Meets Sri Lankan Finance & Ports Ministers

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

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

President Inaishvili appointed Vice-President of SRCIC

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

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

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

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

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

CACCI President signs MOU with Investelligence Group’s CEO

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

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

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

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

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

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

CACCI President Visits Australian CCI & New South Wales Business Chamber

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

CACCI President Attends WCF General Council Meeting in Slovakia

Brastislava – CACCI President Mr. Jemal Inaishvili meets with other participants of the meeting of the General Council of the World Chambers Federation (WCF) held on October 1, 2015 in Bratislava, Slovakia. The General Council is the governing body of WCF, of which CACCI as a transnational chamber organization, represented by Mr. Inaishvili, is a Permanent Member.

Visit to the High-Tech Park Administration

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

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

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

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

Visit to the Belarusian Potash Company

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

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

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

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

Delegates pose at the lobby of the BPC headquarters

CACCI President Calls on Belarus Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CACCI President Holds Successful Two-Day Visit to Belarus

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CACCI President attends B20 Conference in Ankara

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

CACCI President at the 9th World Chambers Congress in Torino

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kowloon CCI & CACCI officers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Washington D.C. – The CACCI President Jemal Inaishvili attended the Joint High-Level B20-World Bank Group Meeting and the First B20 IBAC Meeting in Washington D.C.

IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde addressed the joint high-level B20-World Bank Group on April 17 2015 in Washington DC.

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

CACCI President Meets with Chamber Leaders of Ireland

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

Mr. Inaishvili exchanged ideas with Mr. Talbot and Mr. Healy on possible areas of cooperation between CACCI and their respective chambers, and invited both chamber leaders to attend the 29th CACCI Conference to be held on October 29-30, 2015 in Hong Kong. Chambers Ireland is Ireland’s largest business organisation with a network of Chambers of Commerce in every major town and region in the country. Cork Chamber is the leading business organisation for the promotion and development of economic and commercial activity in Cork, the capital of the South of Ireland and the Republic of Ireland’s second largest City region. 

CACCI Presidential Visit to Bangladesh FBCCI and Government Ministers

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

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

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

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