Record number of chambers bid to host 9th World Chambers Congress

“We have been overwhelmed by the enthusiasm of chambers from around the world who have embraced the Congress as their event to reach out and build relationships with their peers, and explore together how chambers are adapting to serve their local business communities,” said WCF Chair Rona Yircali.

Held every two years in different regions of the world, the World Chambers Congress is the only international forum for chamber of commerce leaders to share best-practice experience, develop networks and learn about new areas of innovation from other chambers, as they face the challenge of remaining relevant to companies in their region. The 8th Congress will be held in Doha, Qatar 22-25 April 2013.

“These cities and chambers are at the heart of very diverse and exciting trade and business hubs, as well as attractive tourist destinations. It will be exciting to see what these chambers emphasize on in their bids” said Mr Yircali.

Many of the bidding organizations had expressed their interest in hosting the Congress as early as 2005, with all final letters received by the 1 March 2012 deadline.

On 14 September, each candidate will have the opportunity to demonstrate why they consider their city the best destination for the Congress, at the WCF General Council session in Istanbul, Turkey. Candidates then have until 15 October to submit their official bidding books to WCF Council members. WCF will announce the winning 2015 Congress host in November.

“Everything counts,” concluded Mr Yircali. “The destination chosen by the WCF General Council must address the needs of all our Congress delegates, who come from more than 100 countries. The presentations this September shall be another exciting moment in our Congress’ history.”