The Tribune

By NATARIO McKENZIE

Tribune Business Reporter

nmckenzie@tribunemedia.net

THE BAHAMAS Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation (BCCEC) is getting set to host the first National Conclave of Chambers of Commerce in the Bahamas.

The conclave set for April 2-3 at SuperClubs Breezes, is being held “to create better linkages between the Chambers of Commerce in an effort to strengthen their constituencies, and also provide well-researched and comprehensive contributions to the national economic plan discussions”.

BCCEC chairman, Chester Cooper, said: “This is an historic occasion. This is the very first time that this event is happening in the Bahamas, and we anticipate attendance from across the Bahamas.

“Many times we feel that Nassau is the centre of the universe. This event is hoping to create a platform and a framework for private sector consultation, as we seek to zoom in on issues such as National Health Insurance, arbitration, WTO and other national issues such as gaming, for instance.”

Conference participants will include Prime Minister Perry Christie, who will deliver the keynote address on public-private sector partnerships; minister of state for investments, Khaalis Rolle; minister of state for finance, Michael Halkitis; minister of financial aervices, Ryan Pinder, as well as private sector and industry leaders.

International governing bodies such as the International Labour Organisation (ILO), the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the Association of American Chambers of Commerce in Latin America will also be represented at the conclave.

“I look forward to participating in the conclave. I think it’s a ground-breaking event. I think that it’s very important to bring business interest from throughout the Bahamas and the different Family Islands together for central discussions,” said Mr Pinder, who will present on international arbitration, WTO accession, EPA membership and its impact on the Bahamian economy and businesses, as well as access to trade opportunities regionally and internationally.