Chambers progress AustCham Greater China initiative
On 17 April 2010, the Chairs and representatives of the Beijing, Hong Kong and Macau, Shanghai and South China Chambers of Commerce signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to explore the creation of a single AustCham Greater China identity.
This MOU records the Chambers’ agreement on the ultimate objectives of the AustCham Greater China initiative, which was first announced by the Chairmen at the AustCham Australia-China Business Awards in Beijing on 3 December 2009.
In the MOU, the Chambers agree to establish a committee with the purpose to identify and progress ways in which they may co-operate more closely in order to advance the interests of their members.
The MOU signing was witnessed by the Australian Ambassador to China, Dr Geoff Raby, and signatories included: Chairman of The China-Australia Chamber of Commerce in Beijing (AustCham Beijing), Mr Roger Wolfe; Deputy Chairman of the Australian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong and Macau (AustCham Hong Kong & Macau), Mr Andrew Steadson; Chair of the Australian Chamber of Commerce, Shanghai (AustCham Shanghai), Mr Stephen White; and Chairman of the Australian Chamber of Commerce - South China, Mr Alfred Leong.
Speaking on behalf of the Chairs, Mr Roger Wolfe, Chairman of The China-Australia Chamber of Commerce in Beijing, commented: “This is about evolution, not revolution. As individual Chambers we are all fully focused on strengthening Australia-China business, government and community relationships while promoting Australian business and the interests of our memberships. It makes sense to explore the benefits that might result from the establishment of a combined identity, which could enhance the value we bring to the memberships of our individual participating Chambers”.
A working committee has been now been established, consisting of two members from each Chamber who will report back to their respective boards.
It should be noted that the creation of a Greater China AustCham identity would not impact on the existence of AustCham Beijing nor your relationship with it.
We will keep you updated as this initiative progresses. If you have any questions, I would be happy to discuss this initiative with you.
Yours sincerely, AustCham Beijing Chair, Roger Wolfe