Benelux Chamber to Moderate First "Shanghai Chambers Roundtable" Session
During the first "Shanghai Chambers Roundtable" session on August 26, 2024, moderated by the Benelux Chamber of Commerce, a diverse array of pressing topics was discussed, reflecting the complex and evolving business environment in China. Representatives from the British Chamber of Commerce Shanghai (BritCham Shanghai), SwissCham China, European Union Chamber of Commerce in China, ColCham Colombia China Chamber of Commerce, German Chambers of Commerce Abroad (AHK), and FinnCham China contributed their insights on key issues such as the disconnect between multinational corporations' headquarters and their local offices in China, the impact of geopolitical tensions, and strategies for event planning in the upcoming quarter.
The Q3 Shanghai Chambers Roundtable focused on key topics such as regaining global investor confidence in China, with strategies discussed to support existing investments and prevent outflows. Event planning for the next quarter was also a major focus, with participants sharing insights, plans, and exploring collaborative opportunities for venue sharing and event execution. Additionally, the roundtable addressed current challenges, particularly in membership retention and engaging with industry zone representatives, offering a platform for exchanging strategies and fostering collaboration among the chambers.
"The Shanghai Chambers Roundtable was an invaluable opportunity for international chamber representatives to come together and exchange insights on events, membership feedback, and best practices. It highlighted the importance of collaboration among chambers to avoid overlaps in event topics and foster joint projects. Overall, it was a productive platform for learning and enhancing our collective efforts in the community.”
- Ni Ni Qi, Deputy Executive Director, Swiss Chamber
“I am delighted to have been a part of this cross-chamber roundtable, a platform that fosters the sharing of insights, networking with peers, and the exchange of valuable experiences. It's been a great opportunity for collaboration and I anticipate the future engagements that will undoubtedly enrich our collective knowledge and endeavors.”
- Cheryl Chen, Talent Director, AHK Greater China
"It was a great catch up with Chamber peers and interesting discussion on the opportunities and challenges Chambers face.”
- Tingyi Ji, Marketing and Event Manager, EU Chamber
"The Shanghai Chambers Roundtable provided a fantastic platform to connect with other representatives. It was an insightful dialogue to share the challenges that every Chamber is facing and the opportunities and solutions other chambers have implemented. This was the first edition organized by the Benelux Chamber, establishing discussions with other Chambers each quarter will greatly benefit all participants by enhancing our coordination, communication, and cooperation. Therefore, the Roundtable will lead to improved services, venue sharing and maximizing benefits for the members of all chambers in Shanghai."
- Kari Hakala, Executive Director, Finland Chamber
A Chamber of Commerce is a particular type of organisation. The breadth of enterprises and industries with which we engage, and the multi-faceted nature of the roles of service, support and activities we provide - with a relatively limited size of team - means that some of the most valuable people with which to discuss ideas and challenges are our fellow Chambers. These roundtables are an excellent way of learning from each other, of maintaining the links between our Chambers, with of course, a view to continuing to support our members and the cultural bridges between our nations and host country, China.
- Adam Davis, BD Manager, BritChamber