Chambers are a global bridge for opportunity

As you read in my column last week, you will know that I recently returned from a trip to China. It is hard to believe that a week has flown by since being in one of the fastest growing economies on earth. I was struck by one comment by the First Secretary, U.S. Commercial Service, Embassy of the United States to our group. He gave a presentation of his view of China and emerging opportunities. As I referred to his slide presentation references, his source was largely the AmCham Shanghai 2010-2011 China Business Report.

The American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) was apparently a significant resource for the U.S. Embassy in developing an understanding of doing business in China. The presentation concluded with a Q & A period. The room of hands raised as questions were asked and answered. I waited until the questions by others were completed. I raised my hand and asked “What relevance do the Chambers of Commerce have in doing business in China”?

The response was both surprising and very interesting. “Chambers of Commerce are critical to doing business in China. If you are going to do business here, they are an essential part of your plan.” He went on to say that you do not want to go it alone. The market respects your connections and your network. The Chambers of Commerce are aware of the business environment and can provide substantial guidance in developing opportunity in China.

I was further impressed that we were greeted at every venue with signage welcoming our group, the American Chambers of Commerce, including restaurants, business meetings, business locations, and even at the China version of Cirque du Soleil show that we were treated to on the last day of the trip.

I met a group of Darden School students at the show that were visiting China as part of their studies on spring break. They were glad to see someone from the “Virginia Piedmont”. Their itinerary had them visiting a Chamber of Commerce in Shanghai the following day.

During the presentation from the Vice Mayor of Hangzhou, we were welcomed in the warmest terms. Her description of the Chambers of Commerce was that Chambers of Commerce (in the U.S.) are a “bridge to business opportunity”.

As I reflect on the generosity and warmth shown our group of approximately 50 Chamber of Commerce executives, I understand better that the brand that we as Chambers in the U.S. are associated with is valuable. We work in our communities everyday to help set the table for economic prosperity. We are sometimes unaware of the true value of the work that we do.

From the outside looking in, we are very important as economic gardeners within our communities. In addition, we are a global bridge for opportunity. Investment in your Chamber of Commerce is clearly good for business.

Jim Charapich is president/CEO of the Culpeper Chamber of Commerce. He can be reached at jcharapich@culpepervachamber.com.