The EU-Malaysia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (EUMCCI) held its annual trade & investment forum aimed to address key issues of EU-Malaysia trade and investment with the Malaysian government.

The highlight of the forum is the launch of the EUMCCI Trade Issues and Recommendations 2018 position paper.

The position paper represents the summary of the work conducted by the EUMCCI’s industry sector Committees outlining the most pressing issues, as well as recommendations on how to improve the business environment with the public stakeholders.

“The EU stands ready to work together with the new Malaysian government in addressing issues and problems of common interest for both sides, such as open trade, transparency, accountability and good business governance,” said Maria Castillo-Fernandez, ambassador and head of EU Delegation to Malaysia in her keynote.

Referring to the theme of the forum, “Whither Malaysia’s Competitiveness and Its Role in ASEAN Economic Integration in Enhancing ASEAN-EU Economic Relations?”, the EU ambassador emphasised on the importance of regional economic and political integration within ASEAN as a key factor in generating economic growth, social inclusiveness, fostering democratic values and ensuring political stability.

“EUMCCI is determined to be the go-to platform for the EU business community.

“EUMCCI aggregates business critical issues into recommendations for our stakeholders to make Malaysia a business-friendly environment for EU businesses,” said Tan Seri Dr. Rebecca Sta. Maria, chairperson of EUMCCI.

She added, given that EU is Malaysia’s third largest trading partner, the EUMCCI will continue to play its crucial role as the ‘Chambers of Chambers’.

As part of the trade forum, a panel discussion was also held to address how Malaysia and the EU-Malaysia business community can benefit from a deepening ASEAN Economic Community integration.

The panelists invited were; Wan Suraya, the secretary-general of the Entrepreneur Development Ministry and Dr. Arup Raha, head of Research and chief Economist at RHB Research Institute Sdn. Bhd.

During the event, Roberto Benetello, chief executive officer of EUMCCI, reminded the audience about EUMCCI’s flagship event, “Europa Awards for Sustainability” that follows the success of this initiative in 2017, the 2018 edition has been officially launched and nominations can be submitted until 31st October through their website.

The forum was also officiated by Datuk Seri Mohd Azmin Ali, Minister of Economic Affairs alongside Castillo-Fernandez.

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