Asia-Pacific Council of American Chambers of Commerce (APCAC)

The Asia-Pacific Council of American Chambers of Commerce (APCAC), now known as AmCham's of Asia Pacific (AAP), was established in 1968 to strengthen business ties between the United States and the Asia-Pacific region. Representing American chambers of commerce in 22 countries, APCAC/AAP serves as a platform for networking, trade promotion, and advocacy for favorable business conditions. With over 20,000 organizations and 50,000 business executives as members, it actively engages with governments and stakeholders to foster economic partnerships. APCAC/AAP has played a vital role in advancing economic cooperation, managing trade volumes exceeding US$400 billion and direct investments of over US$200 billion. The rebranding in 2019 reflects its commitment to supporting American businesses in the region, continuing its role as a leading advocate and facilitator for trade and collaboration in the Asia-Pacific.

The Asia-Pacific Council of American Chambers of Commerce (APCAC) has a history that dates back to its establishment in 1968. It was founded to promote and strengthen business ties between the United States and countries in the Asia-Pacific region.

APCAC represents the collective interests of American chambers of commerce in the Asia-Pacific, encompassing 22 countries. These chambers of commerce serve as a platform for American businesses and executives operating in the region, facilitating networking opportunities, promoting trade, and advocating for favorable business conditions.

With a membership base of over 20,000 organizations and 50,000 business executives, APCAC has become a prominent voice for American business interests in the Asia-Pacific. Through its member chambers, it actively engages with governments, policymakers, and stakeholders to foster an enabling business environment and promote mutually beneficial economic partnerships.

Over the years, APCAC has played a vital role in advancing economic cooperation and trade relations between the United States and the Asia-Pacific region. Its members manage trade volumes exceeding US$400 billion and direct investments (FDI) of over US$200 billion, contributing significantly to the region's economic growth and development.

In 2019, APCAC underwent a rebranding and officially changed its name to AmCham's of Asia Pacific (AAP), reflecting its close affiliation with the American Chambers of Commerce network and its continued commitment to supporting American businesses in the Asia-Pacific region. Today, AAP continues to serve as a leading advocate and facilitator for American businesses, promoting trade, investment, and collaboration across the Asia-Pacific.

The Asia-Pacific Council of American Chambers of Commerce (APCAC) aims to achieve several key goals in its mission to foster economic growth and strengthen business ties between the United States and the Asia-Pacific region.

Promote Trade: APCAC seeks to enhance bilateral trade between the United States and Asia-Pacific countries by advocating for open markets, reducing barriers, and facilitating trade negotiations. It aims to create a business-friendly environment that promotes fair and mutually beneficial trade relationships.

Facilitate Networking: APCAC provides a platform for American businesses and executives to connect, network, and share best practices. It organizes conferences, business forums, and events that promote collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and the exchange of ideas among its members.

Advocate for Business Interests: APCAC serves as a collective voice to advocate for the interests of American businesses operating in the Asia-Pacific region. It engages with governments, policymakers, and stakeholders to address regulatory challenges, promote a level playing field, and create favorable conditions for business growth and investment.

Foster Economic Cooperation: APCAC strives to foster economic cooperation and partnerships between the United States and Asia-Pacific countries. It encourages the exchange of technology, innovation, and investment to drive economic growth, job creation, and sustainable development in the region.

Support SMEs: APCAC recognizes the importance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in driving economic growth. It provides support and resources to SMEs, including access to market information, networking opportunities, and business development programs, to help them navigate and succeed in the Asia-Pacific market.

The Asia-Pacific Council of American Chambers of Commerce (APCAC) has made a significant impact on fostering economic growth, promoting trade, and strengthening business ties between the United States and the Asia-Pacific region.

Trade Promotion: APCAC's advocacy efforts have contributed to the reduction of trade barriers and the facilitation of business transactions between the United States and Asia-Pacific countries. Its initiatives have helped create a more favorable trade environment, leading to increased bilateral trade volumes and market access for American businesses.

Networking and Collaboration: Through its networking platforms and events, APCAC has facilitated connections and collaborations among American businesses and executives in the Asia-Pacific region. These networking opportunities have led to the establishment of strategic partnerships, joint ventures, and business expansion, enhancing the overall business ecosystem.

Policy Influence: APCAC's engagement with governments and policymakers has had a tangible impact on shaping policies that support business interests. By providing input, sharing expertise, and advocating for fair and transparent regulations, APCAC has helped create a conducive environment for American businesses to operate, invest, and grow in the Asia-Pacific.

Economic Development: APCAC's efforts have contributed to economic development in the Asia-Pacific region. By promoting investment and technological exchange, APCAC has supported job creation, knowledge transfer, and the development of local industries. Its emphasis on sustainable development has also encouraged responsible business practices and social impact initiatives.

Support for SMEs: APCAC's focus on supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) has been instrumental in helping these businesses navigate the complex Asia-Pacific markets. By providing resources, guidance, and networking opportunities, APCAC has empowered SMEs to expand their market reach, explore new business opportunities, and contribute to economic growth.