22/07/2022

The Global Economic Import Forum on Ukraine on 22 and 23 July 2022 in Istanbul

ICBAC recently co-organised, helped moderate and spoke at the Global Economic Impact Forum on Ukraine - www.tgeif.org. Held on 21 and 22 July 2022 in Istanbul, this Forum had over 700 attendees in person and over 3,000 online, making it the most widely followed business event ever held on Ukraine, attracting participants from Europe, Asia, Africa, Asia, and the Americas.

The Forum dealt with energy issues, export obstacles, supply chains and logistics and many other aspects of doing business in Ukraine today, as well as the domestic and international impact of the war in Ukraine.

The over 70 speakers included the Secretary of the Ukrainian National Investment Council Halyna Yanchenko, the Head of the Ukrainian Parliamentary Committee on Foreign Affairs and the Inter-parliamentary Cooperation Yelyzateva Yasko, the Chairman of the Ukrainian Parliamentary Economic Affairs Committee Dmytro Natalukha and other important Ukrainian politicians as well as the commercial attaches to Ukraine from many European and Africa countries, with many business leaders from Ukraine and numerous other nations.

ICBAC was represented by Gennadiy Chizhikov of the Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (UCCI), Burak Pehlivan of the Turkish Chamber (TUID), Emma Turos of the Canadian Chamber (CUCC), Denis Jatsyshyn of the US-Ukraine Business Council (USUBC) and Alfred Praus of the Ukrainian-Austrian Association (UAA). They all acted as moderators and speakers in several panels, stating the points of view of UCCI and the bi-lateral business organizations of ICBAC on the most urgent actions needed in order to support the Ukrainian economy and to curb the impact of the war on international economy and business.

The panel "Ukrainian Industry - Status Quo and How to Move Forward" involved the above representatives of ICBAC, EBA Ukraine director Anna Derevyanko, Damien Bruckhard of the ICC, the head of the Ukrainian Cluster Alliance Alexandre Yurchak, and Olga Trofymova, President of the Ukrainian Association of Management Consultants as speakers. It dealt with problems affecting most important Ukrianian economic sectors like agriculture, energy, logistics and IT, and what the international business community can do to help, including the necessity for providing political risk insurance as well as ordinary commercial insurance.

John Denton, the Secretary General of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), delivered a keynote paper talking about the role of Ukraine in international business and the action needed from the international business to support Ukraine. He then honoured the chambers and business associations of Ukraine, including ICBAC, for their tireless work in support of the Ukrainian economy.

The event included a great dinner cruise on the Bosporus, networking in the very pleasant atmosphere created by Turkish hospitality and fine cuisine.

The great success of this Forum should lead it to become a regular event.

06/07/2022

THE GLOBAL ECONOMIC IMPACT FORUM ON UKRAINE, to be held at Istanbul, Turkey on July 21-22, 2022

ICBAC has partnered with the International Trade Council and UkraineInvest to support the upcoming Global Economic Impact Forum on Ukraine, to be held in Istanbul, Turkey on July 21 and 22, 2022.

This 2-day, in-person, 1000+ attendee summit, invitation only, is set to be critically important, where a forum of influential international decision-makers can focus on rebuilding Ukraine, including to reorganise regional and global supply chains, address global food security issues, and ensure the economic continuity of Ukraine, Europe, and the world.

This event brings together multiple heads of state, minister-level decision-makers and senior executives from across Europe, the United States, and Asia, including Fortune 500 CEOs, large and medium-sized investors, and other stakeholders. It represent the first of a series of landmark economic forums to be held around the world, including in New York, London and Singapore over the near future, to address the greatest global effort to rebuild a country from war damage since the Marshall Plan.

The Global Economic Impact Forum on Ukraine provides an unparalleled level of access and exposure to the world’s leading political and business leaders and analysts. ICBAC is pleased to be actively working with the International Trade Council (ITC) and UkraineInvest on this vital initiative.

Those interested in attending this groundbreaking global event are encouraged to reach out to ICBAC to enquire about ticket availability as well as other supporting opportunities, at alfred.praus@drei.at, turos_emma@yahoo.com and/or office@icbac.org.

Further information about the Global Economic Impact Forum on Ukraine can be found at www.tgeif.com. For additional factual analysis of the current economic issues surrounding the war in Ukraine, and the war’s impact on international supply chains and global food security, and to engage with both public and private sector stakeholders on these issues, please see www.united4ua.org, which has been developed by the International Trade Council under the auspices of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine.

16/02/2022

Transferring the Presidency from the Chinese Commerce Association to the French-Ukrainienne Chamber of Commerce and the British-Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce in the International Council of Business Associations and Chambers in Ukraine (ICBAC)

February 16, 2022, at the «Holiday Inn Kyiv» was hold the ceremony of transferring Presidency from the Chinese Commerce Association (CCA) to the French-Ukrainienne Chamber of Commerce and the British-Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce in the International Council of Business Associations and Chambers in Ukraine (ICBAC).

President of the Chinese Commerce Association , Mr. Ge Songhua, opened the ceremony and noting: “At the end of July 2021, the Chinese Commerce Association got the governance over ICBAC from the Canada-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce. Now we transfer the governance to the French-Ukrainienne Chamber of Commerce and British-Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce. This is a great example of how the countries from different parts of the world are united in Ukraine in one organization with same goals: Improvement of the conditions for doing business in Ukraine, protect and promoting foreign direct investment. We created ICBAC for strengthening and deepening business dialogue among us and with the Government for further developing the business climate in Ukraine in line with the best world standards. Today, in handing over the presidency to the French-Ukrainienne Chamber of Commerce and British-Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce, we would like to assure you of our unconditional support of our collegues in achieving its goals during the presidency, ”said Mr. Ge Songhua.

Ruslan Osypenko, Executive Director of the Chinese Commerce Association, summed up the presidency in the International Council in the second half of 2021, giving a presentation and sharing a number of successful examples of cooperation between ICBAC and the Ukrainian government. “The Chinese Commerce Association has used its Presidency in ICBAC to strengthen and deepen business ties and dialogue between our Member Associations and their member companies; contributed to the development of intercultural dialogue between members of the International Council; and, as part of charitable activities, donated financial assistance from ICBAC to the Kyiv Perinatal Center, which cares for newborns with birth defects. This shows that international business is thinking not only about profit, but also ready to help solve local issues, and we are grateful to all those who support us on this path, "said Ruslan Osypenko.

President of the French-Ukrainienne Chamber of Commerce Mr. Bertrand Barrier greeted the guests of the event and thanked the CCA leadership for the fruitful work in the framework during the Presinency in ICBAC. "This year, the French-Ukrainienne Chamber of Commerce has decided to join forces with the British-Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce and share the Presidency in the International Council, to emphasize the unity of foreign chambers in continuing the work begun by our colleagues from the Chinese Commerce Association," added Mr. Bertrand.

"Today, the British-Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce intends to add its own initiatives during the ICBAC Presidency to achieve the following objectives: raising the status of ICBAC through the participation of International Council members at the Ukraine Week in London; developing and implementing a political risk insurance mechanism in Ukraine, in connection with the situation unfolding around it, "said President of the British-Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce Mr. Bate Toms.

The ceremony was attended by President of the UCCI / The Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Mr. Gennadiy Chyzhykov, President of the TUID / International Turkish-Ukrainian Business Association Mr. Burak Pehlivan, President of the UAA / Ukrainian-Austrian Association Mr. Alfred Praus, Director, Information & Member Programs of the USUBC / U.S-Ukraine Business Council Michael Datsenko, Representatives of "UBRD", "Eco-Vtor", "Huawei", "Power China", "CSCEC". Directors of the CUCC / Canada-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce and SBA / Swedish Business Association in Ukraine also joined the ceremony online.

10/02/2022

Forum Ukraine-France was held in Paris

10th of February, 2022, the Ukraine-France Forum took place in Paris.

The event was organized by the New Europe Center in cooperation with the French Institute of International Relations (Ifri – Institut français des relations internationales (IFRI). During the forum, various aspects of bilateral relations between Ukraine and France were touched upon. In particular, the following thematic panels were discussed:
• “Why Ukraine Matters? Political and Security Trends in Ukraine and Their Impact on France and Europe”
• “Energy Security and Climate Challenges: View from Ukraine and France”
• “More Than ‘Just Business’. New Trade and Investment Opportunities for France in Ukraine and Vice Versa”

In her welcoming speech Alyona Getmanchuk, the Director of the New Europe Center emphasized: “The challenges and threats to European security and stability today do not come from Ukraine. Ukraine is not a troublemaker on a continental scale, but a “country of solutions” with which to build a lasting partnership”.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Dmytro Kuleba addressed the participants of the forum with his keynote speech. Some key messages from the Minister to the French audience:
• The ultimatums of the Kremlin now being expressed in the form of documents simply do not provide acceptable solutions. This is not a suggestion for discussion — it is a loaded revolver placed on the table.
• Ukraine is currently fighting and will fight for itself and the whole peaceful Europe. Now it is a struggle on the diplomatic front, but we are ready for all scenarios. We are ready to fight because we know all too well what happens if we give up.
• The stronger Ukraine is today, the lower the risks of further aggravation. Tons of defense weapons coming to Ukraine today from friendly countries are tons of arguments for peace and stability.
• Europe will have to keep an electroshocker of sanctions for some time, and also to have courage to use them against those who encroach on the foundations of security. When living in a neighborhood where there is a serial maniac, it is better to have a stun gun not in the store, but in a bag.
• Compromises can lead to peace, though not unilateral concessions on fundamental issues; they only invite war. Europe knows this all too well.

At the Forum the leadership of the French RTE International, Ukrainian and French experts took part in the panel devoted to discussing energy matters. “As soon as NS-2 is launched, there will no longer be transit through Ukraine — everyone needs to understand this”, mentioned Yuriy Vitrenko, CEO, Naftogaz, Kyiv.

He pointed out that “Putin demands that Europe allow him to be above the law. GAZPROM is abusing its dominant position on the market. Putin wants NS2 to operate despite even though it doesn’t comply with European rules”.

The final part of the Ukraine-France Forum was dedicated to discussions about new trade and investment opportunities for France in Ukraine and vice versa for Ukraine in France. Participants noted that cooperation in this area is improving with time, new examples of cooperation emerging.

Bertrand Barrier, president of the French-Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and a member of the European Business Association in Ukraine, said the French-Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce currently encompases 158 French companies. They are present in virtually all key sectors. Two French banks are among the Top 10 Ukrainian banks. There are also two car manufacturers; business in agricultural sector; the French companies are among the largest distribution networks; they also work in the IT sector.

Specially in line with the Forum, the New Europe Center analysts Alyona Getmanchuk and Leonid Litra prepared a discussion memo “Why Ukraine is important for France”, in which they highlighted a number of arguments why Ukraine matters for France.

The forum aims to strengthen the understanding between Ukraine and France through an open dialogue between government officials, independent experts and business representatives, to make the partnership between the two countries more predictable and sustainable, and improve the perception of Ukraine in France.

The event was part of Ukraine’s advocacy campaign in France, organized by the New Europe Center and the Institute of International Relations (Ifri – Institut français des relations internationales) in partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine and supported by Naftogaz and the Federation of Oil and Gas Employers for improving the perception of Ukraine in France and building Ukrainian-French dialogue.

02/02/2022

Meeting of ICBAC members with the Business Ombudsman of Ukraine- Roman Waschuk

On February 2, 2022, members of International Council of Business Associations and Chambers of Ukraine (ICBAC) met online with the newly appointed Business Ombudsman of Ukraine, Mr. Roman Waschuk.

In his introductory speech, Mr. Waschuk spoke about the work of the Business Ombudsman's Office, which works for specific companies from sole proprietors to big business and it is the first point of contact for companies seeking help against unfair treatment by government agencies and improving the business climate in Ukraine. Special attention of the Business Ombudsman Council is aimed at strengthening the protection of small and medium enterprises, which is most vulnerable to rising prices, increasing the tax burden, changes in the "rules of the game" in the market. ‘’In addition to considering individual complaints, we are addressing major systemic business issues that companies face and bring to us. In 2021 alone, we processed over 2000 of appeals and helped businesses save and refund UAH 2,3 bn (USD 88 mln)’’– said Mr. Waschuk.

During the meeting, members of the International Council of Business Associations and Chambers of Ukraine (ICBAC) had a great opportunity to exchange views on the business climate and challenges facing foreign investors and local businesses in Ukraine, and better understand the mandate and structure of the Business Ombudsman Council.

The meeting was attended by ICBAC members: representatives of the Chinese Commerce Association, Ukrainian-Austrian Association, British-Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce, Canada-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce, The Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, International Turkish-Ukrainian Business Association and Franco-Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce.

Reference: ICBAC unites 10 foreign bilateral chambers of commerce and industry and business associations, including the Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and together consolidates more than 9000 enterprises representing the majority of employers in Ukraine, as well as companies that make the majority of foreign investments in Ukraine.

These Associations and Chambers represent countries that are Ukraine's largest trading partners.

21/12/2021

Meeting of ICBAC members with the head of the online component of the national business development "Diya" project Andriy Remizov and Andriy Lytvyn, a representative of the Export Promotion Office of Ukraine

On December 21, 2021, members of the International Council of Business Associations and Chambers in Ukraine (ICBAC) met with representatives of the Ministry of Digital Transformation, Andriy Remizov, head of the online component of the national business development project «Diya», and Andriy Lytvyn representative of the Ukrainian Export Promotion Office.

Ruslan Osypenko, Director of the Chinese Commerce Association, welcomed the guests and noted that the «Diya» project significantly contributes to the reform of Ukraine's digital transformation and gave the floor to the guests.

Andriy Remizov made a presentation of the "Diya" project to demonstrate what the project is and how it can be useful for the business community. According to the project manager, the "Diya" is a whole ecosystem, includes several powerful sub-projects implemented by the Ministry of Digital Transformation of Ukraine. The ultimate goal of the "Diya" project is to introduce 100% of public services online, teach 3 million Ukrainians digital literacy, and increase the share of IT in Ukraine's GDP to 10%.

The "Diya" project includes the following sub-projects:
• "Diya of digital education", increase of digital literacy of the population of Ukraine;
• "Diya City", which is a virtual economic IT zone to improve the business environment in Ukraine.
• "Diya Business" is a national business development project with a focus on small and medium-sized businesses. With the help of the online service, an entrepreneur can find a list of documents for starting a business in a particular region of Ukraine and get advice on business development. As part of the offline component, entrepreneurship support centers are being built in Ukraine, where they will be able to receive free consultations and attend training programs. Currently, 11 such offline centers have been opened and are operating in Ukraine.
• "Diya Market Place". Direction on the financial opportunities that open up.
• "Diya News" potential business opportunities, stories about success stories and successful projects in Ukraine.
• "Diya Single Export Portal", which includes various training programs and is the only portal for exporters. As part of the work on enterprise development and export, 4 training programs are being implemented for exporters and export managers from various sectors of the economy. The program teaches how to build an export plan from scratch and enter international markets. In addition, the portal has free business analytics by country and market, among other things, it contains data on: general data on the country, its main economic parameters, top imports and exports, analysis of individual market segments and more. Within this area there is an opportunity to search for businessmen profile foreign partners.
• "Diya Trade Fair Action" online. It allows businesses to present their products abroad at no extra cost, or to participate in foreign online exhibitions and fairs.

After the presentation, the participants of the meeting had the opportunity to ask questions to the project manager "Diya" and take part in the discussion.

The meeting was organized by the ICBAC Secretariat together with the Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) and took place in a combined online and offline mode. The meeting was attended by ICBAC members: Executive Director of the Chinese Commerce Association Osypenko Ruslan, President of the Ukrainian-Austrian Association Alfred Praus, President of the Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Gennady Chizhikov and online joined the meeting Executive Director of the Canadian-Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce Emma Turos and Chairman of British-Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce Bate Toms.

Reference: ICBAC unites 10 foreign bilateral chambers of commerce and industry and business associations, including the Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and together consolidates more than 9000 enterprises representing the majority of employers in Ukraine, as well as companies that make the majority of foreign investments in Ukraine. These Associations and Chambers represent countries that are Ukraine's largest trading partners.

14/12/2021

Members of The International Council of Business Associations and Chambers in Ukraine (ICBAC) took part in the annual forum UkraineInvest "MAKE in UA"

December 14, 2021, members of The International Council of Business Associations and Chambers in Ukraine (ICBAC) at the invitation of UkraineInvest participated the annual forum "MAKE in UA", during which representatives of the Ukrainian authorities presented Ukraine's production potential and presented the main economic achievements programs to attract investment in the manufacturing sector of Ukraine's economy.

The forum with welcoming speeches was opened by the Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal, People's Deputy of Ukraine Chairman of the Temporary Special Commission of the Verkhovna Rada on Investor Rights and Halyna Yanchenko, Chairman of the Servant of the People parliamentary faction, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of UkraineInvest David Arahamiya, and spoke in more detail about the implementation of reforms for the development of production and the role of international financial organizations in supporting investment projects in Ukraine.

The forum was attended by ICBAC members Executive Director of the Chinese Commerce Association Osypenko Ruslan, President of the UAA / Ukrainian-Austrian Association Alfred Praus, Chairman of the AHK / German-Ukrainian Chamber of Industry and Commerce Alexander Markus, Executive Director of the CUCC / Canada-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce Emma Turos, as well as representatives of the government, international organizations, business and investment community of Ukraine and the world.

Reference: ICBAC unites 10 foreign bilateral chambers of commerce and industry and business associations, including the Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and together consolidates more than 9000 enterprises representing the majority of employers in Ukraine, as well as companies that make the majority of foreign investments in Ukraine. These Associations and Chambers represent countries that are Ukraine's largest trading partners.

15/11/2021

The International Council of Business Associations and Chambers in Ukraine (ICBAC) and the International Women's Club in Ukraine establish cooperation

November 15, 2021, a representative of ICBAC, Executive Director of the Chinese Commerce Association Ruslan Osypenko and President of the CCI Gennady Chizhikov met with the President of the International Women's Club in Kyiv Christina Groenewald.

During the meeting, the parties exchanged information about the irorganizations and their tasks, as well as discussed possible areas of further cooperation of the International Women's Club with the International Council of Business Associations and Chambers in Ukraine (ICBAC), which the Chinese Commerce Association currently heads.

As a result of the meeting, it was agreed to disseminate among ICBAC members information on activities and specific projects implemented with the support of the International Women's Club in Ukraine and will facilitate furthe cooperation of the club with foreign business representatives in Ukraine.

The International Women's Club brings together women from more than 90 countries involved in a wide range of charitable projects, as well as in the social and cultural spheres. These include assistance to children, the elderly, people with disabilities and women.

The Chinese Commerce Association is a non-governmental, non-profit association of Chinese and Ukrainian enterprises, established to intensify trade and economic partnership between Ukraine and China.

05/10/2021

ICBAC financial assistance for Association of Neonatologists of Ukraine

October 5, 2021, the International Council of Business Associations and Chambers in Ukraine (ICBAC) represented by the Executive Director of the Chinese Commerce Association (CСA) Ruslan Osypenko transferred financial assistance (UAH 250,000) to the Association of Neonatologists of Ukraine for the development of the catamnestic Center of the State Institution “Institute of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology named academician A.N. Lukyanova National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine".

President of the Association of Neonatologists of Ukraine, Professor Tatyana Znamenskaya noted: “The catamnestic center is focused on providing free medical care to newborns with perinatal pathology and premature babies from 0 to 3 years old from all regions of Ukraine. The center will have a multidisciplinary team of doctors: pediatricians, neonatologists, neurologists, psychologists, orthopedists, speech therapists, pulmonologists and rehabilitation therapists, etc., at the early stages to diagnose and, if necessary, treat children with identified disorders, which will reduce the rates of childhood morbidity and disability in Ukraine. The Center will conduct training and training seminars for doctors working in this area from all regions of the country.

A separate line of work of the catamnestic Center will be monitoring children with congenital and acquired metabolic disorders, who will receive counseling and treatment in the clinics of the Institute. One of the main goals of the Center is to create a National Register of Children with Hereditary Metabolic Diseases and to determine national reference indicators for the Ukrainian population. To date, 31 clinical protocols for the diagnosis and treatment of metabolic disorders have already been approved, which will allow doctors of maternity hospitals in Ukraine to timely identify rare diseases. We hope that scientific developments in this direction will allow Ukrainian specialists to enter a single medical space with the European Union".

At the end of the meeting, the Charitable Foundation, created under the patronage of the Association of Neonatologists of Ukraine "For the Child" under the leadership of Vitaliy Kushnir, proposed to consolidate efforts for cooperation and attract charitable funds for the implementation of joint projects to improve medical care for children in Ukraine.

15/09/2021

ICBAC members took part in the celebration of the "CRAYFISH FEAST MEETING" festival

On September 1, 2021, the Swedish Business Association in Ukraine "SBA" in cooperation with "Stockholm Studios" held a "CRAYFISH FEAST MEETING" festival. The purpose of the event was to acquaint guests with Swedish traditions and start a new business season.

Mr. Per Magnusson, Chairman of Supervisory Board of the Swedish Business Association in Ukraine, opened the celebration: “I am very pleased to welcome colleagues and friends to the traditional Swedish event "CRAYFISH FEAST MEETING", which marks the beginning of a new business season. "SBA" mission is to strengthen business relations between Sweden and Ukraine, so this event is a great opportunity to meet new partners, exchange plans, opinions and ideas for the upcoming business season".

Welcoming remarks were also made by: Ruslan Osypenko, Executive Director of the Chinese Commerce Association, Olena Rantsevych, Ambassador of Stockholm Studios and Tetyana Korotka, Deputy Business Ombudsman of Ukraine.

After the official part, guests had the opportunity to get acquainted with the traditions of celebrating the festival, taste a variety of seafood dishes and delicious seafood delicacies, enjoy Swedish traditional songs and dances in the company of the Swedish business community.

The event was also attended by representatives of Swedish and Ukrainian «SBA» member companies, the business community and ICBAC members.

Traditionally, the crayfish festival in Sweden is held around mid-August - early September, just at which time the ban on crayfish fishing ends. The festival is timed to the traditional opening of the autumn business season.

09/09/2021

Presentation of the development strategy of Donetsk and Luhansk regions until 2030 by Vice Prime Minister of Ukraine Oleksiy Reznikov for potential investors

On September 9, 2021, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Ukraine (UCCI) hosted a presentation of the development strategy of Donetsk and Luhansk regions until 2030 for potential investors and members of the International Council of Business Associations and Chambers in Ukraine (ICBAC). The strategy was personally presented by the Vice Prime Minister of Ukraine, Minister for Reintegration of the Temporarily Occupied Territories of Ukraine Oleksiy Reznikov. The meeting was organized jointly by the UCCI and ICBAC.

In his introductory speech, Deputy Prime Minister of Ukraine, Minister for Reintegration of the Temporarily Occupied Territories of Ukraine Oleksiy Reznikov noted that the goal of the strategy is to form a state vision of long-term development of the regions of Ukraine affected by the occupation. As a result of the joint work of state experts, representatives of civil society, business circles and local communities, a document has emerged that gives an idea of the direction in which the state will move and how it will develop deoccupied territories. At the same time, according to him, all available risks, both political, economic and security, were taken into account when preparing this strategy.

Ukraine's losses due to the occupation of Donbass, according to some foreign and domestic experts, amount to 125 billion US dollars, he said. Among the sources of funding for projects under this strategy are the following funds: the state budget, credit resources, donor assistance and foreign direct investment. At the same time, the most important resource after public funds, of course, will be foreign investment. Therefore, the strategy provides for the creation of a special business regime in these areas. It was decided to rely on the existing legal framework, in particular on the territories of priority development and use this model for accelerated development in Donetsk and Luhansk regions.

Among the priority projects are the restoration of the region's infrastructure: construction of new roads, railways, an airport, implementation of a project to supply clean drinking water and reclamation of wasteheaps. Maximum labour source swill be used from the number of displaced persons, which number in the liberated territories of Donetsk and Luhansk regions up to 400 thousand people.

Due to the existing distrust in the local justice system, in order to protect foreign investors and their investments, it was decided to promote the opening of branches of international courts in Ukraine, which are trusted by international business. To insure and guarantee foreign investment against political and security risks, it is planned to create a Consortium Fund of 3 billion euros, which will be managed by foreigners. Ukraine is ready to contribute 5 percent of its equity to this fund.

In addition, incentives for investors included additional preferences to existing preferences for industrial parks operating in these areas; a number of tax preferences; launching a business and investment support regime.

However, when asked by ICBAC representatives about specific plans and parameters for launching tax benefits for investors, or what exactly will be a privileged business regime in these areas, first Deputy Minister Rostyslav Zamlynskyy said that specific figures will appear later after additional consultations, including with business.

The meeting was attended by members of the International Council of Business Associations and Chambers in Ukraine (ICBAC), Executive Director of the Chinese Commerce Association Ruslan Osypenko, President of the Ukrainian-Austrian Association Alfred Praus, President of the Swedish Business Association in Ukraine Bohdan Senchuk, Executive Director of the Canadian-Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce Emma Turos, Information Director of the American-Ukrainian Business Community Mykhailo Datsenko, and ICBAC member companies.

28/05/2021

Privatization of Infrastructure Projects and State Enterprises in Kherson Region

May 28, 2021: Membersof the International Council of Business Association sand Chambers (ICBAC) carried out an online meeting with management of the Kherson Region and representatives of the State Property Fund of Ukraine. The meeting was dedicated toprivatization of the infrastructure projects and state enterprises in the region to the foreign companies interested to invest in these projects. This event was moderated by Emma Turos, General Secretary of ICBAC, Managing Director of Canada-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce, and Artur Madatian, Advisor to the Head of Kherson Region State Administration.

Representatives of the Kherson Regional State Administration, State Property Fund and the Regional Development Agency "European Integration Office" presented the following projects, answered questions and provided a detailed projects. The interested companies have already started cooperation with the Ukrainian partners.

Privatization projects wich were presented during the meeting: «Privatization of Skadovsk Sea Commercial Port» «Privatization of SE "Heroisk Research and Industrial Enterprise» “Privatization of the 100% state – owned stake in PJSC «Kherson plant «Sudmash» . Also, during the meeting, was presented the Regional Development Agency "European Integration Office" of Kherson region one of the main goals of which is information and management support of investment projects in Kherson region.

This presentation continued meeting of the ICBAC members with the Head of Kherson State Administration Serhiy Kozyr , when heads of bilateral chambers of commerce had an opportunity to learn more about the region and vision of its development.

We are grateful to the Administration of the region and SPFU cooperation and proactive approach it involvement of the foreign companies in privatization and development of infrastructure and are looking forward to continuation of the dialogue at the upcoming I International Investment Forum “Southern Development Strategy” . Forum will be held June 10-11, 2021in Strilkove, Arabat Sprit, Ukraine andwill be attended by representatives of the Ukrainian Government, leading economists, business and experts. During the event, participants will have the opportunity to participate in discussions on digitalization, decentralization reforms and the conditions for rapid change under the influence of the coronavirus. The main content of the forum consists of investment projects. They will be the basis for the development of the south and the border. Projects are grouped into regional sections of the forum.

Please see the attached presentation of Kherson region.

The International Council of Business Associations and Chambers in Ukraine (ICBAC) represents nine bilateral chambers of commerce and business associations and the Chamber of Commerce of Ukraine which unite over 9,000 companies, representing the majority of employers in Ukraine as well as the companies that have made most foreign investments in Ukraine.

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17/05/2021

May 17, 2021 Members of the International Council of Business Associations and Chambers (ICBAC) met with Head of the State Fiscal Service of Ukraine (SFSU) Vadym Melnyk and Head of the Office of Effective Interaction with Business Kostryantyn Turchak and Manager of the Office Maryana Mazur.

In the course of discussion Mr. Melnyk talked about reform of SFSU and its key achievements within the last four months. Telling about work of the office he emphasized on different approach to legal and illegal businesses: «One of the important factors of economic security is clear division between legal and illegal businesses, outlining the boundaries and ways for interacting: with legal businesses - dialogue and partnership; with illegal businesses – taking a hardline, within the legislative framework only, no attempts to "reach an agreement“.

Head of the Office of the Effective Interaction with Business has outlined the core goals of the Office: “We aim towards the common analytical base and extensive dialogue between the Business and Government for the better Economic Security of the country and better conditions for the legal business”

We thank the State Fiscal Service of Ukraine for its openness to dialogue and willingness to actively cooperate with business.

Please see the attached presentation

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16/04/2021

Members of the International Council of Business Associations and Chambers (ICBAC) met with the Head of Kherson State Administration Serhiy Kozyr

During the meeting, the Governor stressed that creation of a favorable climate for business development and investment in the Kherson region was and remains a priority issue for the team of the Kherson State Administration. Mr. Kozyr presented the region: industrial potential, logistics network, transport network, functioning infrastructure, privatization projects, agricultural potential, and many other prospective directions for the international cooperation.

"Cooperation with ICBAC is an important step for us in the development of the region's economy." - Mr. Governor said - "After all, this is an association of the largest bilateral chambers operating in our country, which actually serve as a driver and an important link in establishing relations between Ukrainian and foreign business organizations, state and non-governmental organizations. And I am convinced that by consolidating our efforts we will be able to establish good relations with foreign investors and significantly increase the level of the economy in the region. "

Speaking on behalf of ICBAC, President of the Austrian-Ukrainian Association Alfred Praus told about activities of ICBAC during last three years and its plans for 2021as well as prospects for attracting international expertise.

The Governor has expressed gratitude to all ICBAC members and General Secretary of ICBAC Emma Turos (CUCC) for the interesting discussion and proposals. The parties agreed on further steps and future visit of the ICBAC delegation to the Kherson region when the quarantine restrictions will be lifted.

The International Council of Business Associations and Chambers in Ukraine (ICBAC) represents nine bilateral chambers of commerce and business associations and the Chamber of Commerce of Ukraine which unite over 9,000 companies, representing the majority of employers in Ukraine as well as the companies that have made most foreign investments in Ukraine.

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01/03/2021

Founded in 2017 the International Council of Business Associations and Chambers (ICBAC) has become a reputable voice for advocacy of the Ukrainian and international business in Ukraine. To date ICBAC joins nine bilateral chambers of commerce and associations and Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce and Industry which together represent about nine thousands of companies both in Ukraine and abroad.

During last two years, headed by Alfred Praus, President of the Ukrainian-Austrian Association, ICBAC carried out a number of activities aimed at achievement of its goals. In 2018 - 2019 the organization focused its attention at promotion of investments and the political risk insurance. Attention of the business community to the issue was attracted after several broadcasts and interviews with Alfred Praus, President of the Ukrainian–Austrian Association, Bate Toms of the British – Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce and Head of German –Ukrainian Chamber of Industry and Commerce Alexander Markus. A large article in Kyiv Post about ICBAC and importance of the political risk insurance for foreign investors and joint presentation with the Head of UkraineInvest Daniel Bilak in May 2019 returned this issue to the agenda of the Ukrainian business community.

Cultural diplomacy has always been an integral part of the international cooperation. For the first time Ukrainian public enjoyed modern Canadian, Chinese and Turkish music performed by the orchestra Kyiv Symphony Orchestra conducted by Alla Kulbaba at Concert at Philharmonic Hall in September 2019. Prominent Ukrainian soprano Susanna CHAKHOIAN was as usually excellent singing Classic European and American areas and songs.

Apart from business and cultural events ICBAC is supporting initiatives aimed at modernization of the Ukrainian education to meet challenges of the developing economy and technologies. Preparation of the qualified specialists in all fields and shortage of labor force as an impeding factor for growth of the international cooperation in business and investments were discussed at the Educational Forum arranged by the ICBAC members in October 2020.

Last few month ICBAC dedicated to advocacy of the business in Ukraine. Since the beginning of the COVID -19 pandemic chambers support businesses and industries severe damaged by lock-down including hospitality and investments in renewable energy. Heads of chambers and associations met with the key state officials including Prime – Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal, Minister of Economy, Head of UkraineInvest, acting minister of Energy, Head of the State Property Fund and other policymakers.

All ICBAC members appreciate tremendous contribution of Mr. Praus and his team in development of this important platform of international communication and his dedication to our common mission. Continuing this course in 2021, ICBAC will be run by Emma Turos, Managing Director of the Canada-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce and then by Ruslan Osypenko, Head of Chinese Commerce Association.
Our agenda for this year is including:
• Preparation for reenergizing of big privatization in Ukraine and strengthening of cooperation with UkraineInvest, State Property Fund of Ukraine, State Geological Service and other key organization involved in the process
• Advocacy of the Ukrainian and International Business
• Participation in anti-corruption initiatives
• Cultural diplomacy and promotion of the up-to-date business educational programs
• Development of the ICBAC’s presence in the social media
• Regional Cooperation and visits to different regions of Ukraine

In 2021 our colleagues from ICBAC and their members will have an opportunity to learn more about Canada during on-line conferences with the governments and businesses of the Canadian Provinces, and will be invited to take part in a number of Canadian events such as ICT on-line event , SIAL and Global Petroleum show.

Emma Turos, General Secretary of ICBAC

26/01/2021

New General Secretary of ICBAC - Emma Turos, CUCC

On January 25, 2021 Alfred F. Praus, President of Ukrainian-Austrian Association, after serving for two years as ICBAC General Secretary, handed over the General Secretariat of the International Council of Business Associations and Chambers in Ukraine, which is rotated yearly, to Emma Turos, Managing Director of the Canada-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce.
Alfred Praus will continue contributing to ICBAC as member of ICBAC's executive committee.

13/01/2021

Privatization in Ukraine to be started in 2021

On 13 January 2021 the International Council of Business Associations and Chambers in Ukraine (ICBAC) invited for a mostly online-meeting and discussion with the CEO of the State Property Fund of Ukraine (SPFU), Dmytro Sennychenko, at the Coliseum Hall of UCCI. ICBAC General Secretary Alfred F. Praus was moderating this event.

The full event can be watched at youtu.be/C9TMR4vTA2U

The photos can be watched here

Summary:
A professional, ambitious and, most of all, necessary approach by SPFU to break up the resistance of some stakeholders, to create conditions acceptable for potential investors in privatisation of state companies not being of strategic importance for Ukraine and finally to see to the straight-forward and transparent offer-, bidding - and hopefully selling process. Political decisions in Verkovna Rada concerning the list of companies are aimed at for spring 2021. Focal points in the factual discussion following, among others: involvement of international IFIs and auditing companies; due diligence processes, guarantees by SPFU (or the state); how to deal with wrongdoers in the previous management; how to handle overstaffing at many of those state companies. ICBAC expressed its continued interest in this initiative and will support SPFU in that.

06/01/2021

Privatization in Ukraine in 2021:
Discussion with Mr. Dmytro Sennychenko, CEO, State Property Fund of Ukraine
Online Meeting on January 13, 2021 at 11 AM (Kyiv time)
Invitation

End of December a bill aimed at comprehensively modernizing privatization legislation in Ukraine was passed in the Parliament (full name of the bill – “On Amendments to Certain Legislative Acts of Ukraine in the cases of Improvement of the State Policy of Management and Privatization of State and Municipal Property, as well as the Institutional Principles of activity of the State Property Fund of Ukraine”). Its purpose is to simplify and expedite privatization procedures, protect and encourage investment and restore investors’ trust in Ukraine and its state institutions.

During the meeting ICBAC-members will discuss with Mr. Dmytro Sennychenko the implications of such bill and of the privatization programme.

The discussion will be held in English.

Please see the Programm enclosed and join us!

To join the streaming of the event: youtu.be/C9TMR4vTA2U

11/12/2020

UKRAINE: INVESTMENT HARBOR IN THE TIME OF CHANGE
Annual Conference

On December 11, 2020 the First Annual International Online Conference UKRAINE: INVESTMENT HARBOR IN THE TIME OF CHANGE was held by the UkraineInvest Investment Promotion Office.

The leaders of three members of ICBAC have participated in the conference: Alfred F. Praus, ICBAC General Secretary and President of Ukrainian-Austrian Association, in the panel on relocation of manufacturing, moderated by Gennadiy Chyzhykov, President of the Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Zenon Potoczny, President of Canada-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce about building investment bridges between regions of Ukraine and international business.

"President, government and agencies like UkraineInvest are spending substantial and dedicated efforts to improve the business climate for FDI. Such climate, however, is marred by actions of anti-reform minded, partly malicious powerbrokers. Media have been amply reporting on such activities.

In order for Ukraine to be in a position to exhaust its tremendous potential in terms of attracting FDI, TRUST has to be built up.

For that, among others, predictability, stability, rule of law, institutional reliabilty, compliance and fair competition conditions are needed." - said Alfred F. Praus.

The recording of the Conference can be found at youtube.com/watch?v=91eDwb_s8DM