European Chamber of Commerce moves into gear

The European Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Laos (ECCIL) has elected its chairman, vice chairpersons and treasurer to pave the way for official recognition of the chamber by Lao authorities.

The election came shortly after the establishment of the chamber in Vientiane on May 3.

In some aspects, the ECCIL continues the work of the former French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Laos, but on a broader scale and with international membership.

The aim of the body is to represent the European business community in Laos and offer services to members and non-members, according to a press release from the chamber.

The new chamber also aims to promote and increase business between Laos and EU member states for their mutual benefit and the benefit of its members.

This includes, among others, the promotion of investment, raising the profile of Laos in the European business community and vice versa, and promoting linkages between Lao and European small and medium enterprises.

The chamber accepts companies and individuals as members which are from or have close ties to the EU.

Managing Director of ECCIL Dr Ramon Bruesseler said currently about 44 businesspeople or individuals from the EU and its member states are running businesses in Laos.

He said he expects the figure to increase to about 80 by the end of the year following the establishment of the chamber.

Dr Bruesseler added that businesspeople from the EU and its member states are interested in investing in Lao agriculture, infrastructure, environment, logistics and garment industry.

The new chamber will be managed by an Executive Committee comprising 11 persons and the day-to-day operations will be managed by an executive director.

ECCIL Chairman is Guy Apovy, who is CEO of Assurances Generales du Laos (AGL) and has had extensive experience as president of the former French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Laos.

The vice chairpersons are Ms Douangmala Phommavong from Exotissimo Travel and Mr Gerald Walewijk from Lotus Consult. Mr Olivier de Peyrelongue from Sinsai has been elected as treasurer.

Managing Director Dr Ramon Bruesseler is a former advisor to the board of the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

vientiane times

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