WCF Newsletter- December 2025

ICC WCF | View in the web browser

Working with chambers.

For business. For you.

As we close out 2025, this final edition of the year showcases the leadership, resilience and innovation that define our global chamber community. From empowering MSMEs through new ICC tools and policy insights, to advancing climate action, digital trade and youth entrepreneurship, chambers across the network continue to shape a more inclusive and competitive business environment.

Thank you for your continued engagement throughout 2025. We look forward to working with you in the year ahead to empower chambers worldwide and amplify your impact at every level. Dive in to explore the final updates of the year.

ICC WCF: Empowering chambers worldwide

Business support, policy, and advocacy

COP30 falls short of global economic needs

During 3 weeks of engagement at COP30 in Belem, Brazil, ICC delivered a clear message that business is ready to innovate, invest and accelerate toward a net-zero, resilient future, but urgently needs the right enabling policies to match the ambition. ICC engaged in a series of high-level engagements, emphasising key business priorities for COP30 – focused on delivering outcomes capable of scaling business investment in climate mitigation and adaptation. ICC delivered a final business statement during the COP30 closing plenary— building on these calls but with COP outcomes falling short of economic needs, ICC is already working towards COP31 in Türkiye next year to deliver on behalf of businesses everywhere in the global climate agenda. Read the full final statement.

Supporting young entrepreneurs in Santo Domingo

The Chamber of Commerce and Production of Santo Domingo, through its ICC Centre of Entrepreneurship, launched "Empower Your Future" to equip young entrepreneurs from Cristo Rey with technical, business and personal skills. Chambers can draw on this model to strengthen youth entrepreneurship and local economic opportunity. Contact the ICC CoE team to learn more.

Help shape support for agri-food exporters to the EU

The ICC Agri-Food Initiative invites chambers to share a short survey with agri-food producers and exporters. Insights will inform future guidance on EU rules covering packaging, deforestation and sustainability. Your input will help tailor practical support for businesses navigating these changes. Take the survey.

Supporting small businesses with Authorised Economic Operator programmes

A new joint study by ICC, the World Customs Organization and the World Trade Organization shows how MSMEs can gain from Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programmes—. Chambers can play a pivotal role by promoting AEO benefits and supporting SMEs on their path to trusted trader status. Explore the key recommendations.

Business at COP30: Calling for policies that match private sector ambition

At the COP30 Leaders' Summit in Belém, ICC Secretary General John Denton urged governments to deliver the enabling frameworks needed to scale private investment in climate solutions. Chambers can help amplify this message by advocating for policies that unlock innovation and resilience. Read more.

ICC Chair calls for action at Paris Infraweek

Speaking at Paris Infraweek, ICC Chair Philippe Varin highlighted the urgency of financing energy infrastructure in developing economies. He called for a Global Goal on Adaptation to mobilise private investment for resilience—an area where chambers can drive business engagement and partnerships. Watch the interview on BSmart TV channel to find out more.

Strengthening global cooperation through the Paris Dialogue

During the Paris Dialogue roundtable, co-organised with the French Development Agency, ICC Chair Philippe Varin called for renewed collaboration and reform of the multilateral system. Chambers can play a pivotal role in advancing inclusive cooperation and sustainable development worldwide. Discover the discussion highlights.

Advancing trade resilience and SME growth at the APEC Summit

At the APEC CEO Summit in Gyeongju, ICC Secretary General John Denton engaged with leaders from Vietnam and South Korea on strengthening multilateral trade and SME capacity. Chambers are key partners in promoting open markets, regional collaboration, and sustainable trade growth. Explore the outcomes.

ICC leads call for global materials transparency

At a high-level roundtable during the Paris Peace Forum, ICC Chair Philippe Varin co-chaired discussions on a Global Materials Data Hub to enhance transparency in resource value chains. Chambers can help drive responsible sourcing and circular economy solutions in their local industries. Read more.

Call for experts: Help shape a trusted global carbon accounting system

ICC and Carbon Measures are convening a Technical Expert Panel to design a transparent, verifiable carbon accounting framework based on financial accounting principles. Chambers, members of WCF, can nominate experts to help build a system that ensures accurate, single-counted emissions data across value chains. Submit nominations by 9 January 2026.

Global banks rally behind ICC Principles for green trade finance

A second cohort of leading global banks has endorsed the ICC Principles for Sustainable Trade Finance—bringing market coverage to nearly 70% of Europe's trade finance sector. Chambers can use these principles to guide SMEs toward greener, more competitive trade practices. Read the full update.

Unlocking climate finance: Why Basel rules must evolve

A new ICC–Oxera report warns that current Basel rules may unintentionally hinder climate-ready investments, especially in emerging markets. Clarifying risk treatment and recognising real-world guarantees could unlock capital for sustainable infrastructure. Chambers can use these insights to inform advocacy and support business financing needs. Explore the findings.

New ICC–Sage report: Digital tools can unlock green finance for SMEs

SMEs are key to climate action, yet many struggle to access green finance. A new ICC–Sage report shows how digital and AI tools can simplify reporting and expand funding opportunities. Chambers can activate five recommended actions to help SMEs accelerate their climate transition. Download the report.

New report reveals US$1 trillion cost of unresolved SME disputes

SMEs lose an estimated US$1 trillion each year to bad debts and unpaid invoices, according to a new ICC–Oxera report. The findings highlight the urgent need for accessible, affordable dispute resolution tools—an area where chambers can directly support their business communities. Read the report.

New Paperless Trade Pilot Playbook to support digital transition

The ICC Digital Standards Initiative, with Singapore's IMDA and the Mining and Metals Digitalization Forum, has launched a practical playbook to help organisations design and run successful paperless trade pilots. Chambers can use it to guide local businesses toward efficient, scalable digital trade practices. Download the playbook.

Trade facilitation services

ICC Centre of Entrepreneurship launches TradeRoots Africa to help 1,000 MSMEs go global

Announced at the B20 South Africa Summit, TradeRoots Africa—led by the ICC Centre of Entrepreneurship—will support 1,000 African MSMEs in becoming export-ready and accessing global markets. Chambers can leverage this initiative to advance AfCFTA opportunities, boost intra-African trade, and create sustainable jobs. Contact the ICC CoE team to learn more.

Community and global network

WCF Vice-Chair receives high honour from the United Kingdom

At an investiture at Windsor Castle, WCF Vice-Chair and British Chambers Director General Shevaun Haviland was appointed Commander of the British Empire (CBE) by the Prince of Wales — a recognition she credits to the collective dedication of the entire British chamber network. Congratulations, Shevaun!

Training, professional development

and chamber empowerment solutions

Iranian Chambers engage in first Knowledge Session on Chamber Benchmarking Tool

On 18 November, we successfully hosted the first knowledge session with Iranian chambers, focusing on the Chamber Benchmarking Tool. Co-hosted with ICC Iran and Dubai Chambers, this interactive session brought together 35 participants representing 20 chambers, marking an important step toward strengthening collaboration and knowledge sharing within the network. Want a demo? Contact us to learn how the Chamber Benchmarking Tool can support your chamber's growth.

Stronger Together in Emergencies

Thank you to all who joined our "Stronger Together in Emergencies" webinar with the Center for International Private Enterprise (CIPE) . Your engagement helps advance chamber-led SME resilience worldwide. The session shared practical tools, case studies, and global resources to strengthen preparedness and continuity. Watch the recording.

Unlocking innovation: Helping SMEs protect and leverage IP

At a recent One Click webinar with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) , chambers learned how the IP Diagnostic Tool helps SMEs identify, protect, and commercialise their intellectual property—often their most valuable asset. Practical steps and success stories showed how integrating IP strategy boosts competitiveness. Watch the recording.

Sanctions made simple: Practical compliance guidance for SMEs

In our latest One Click session, legal expert Victor Guerra outlined how SMEs can manage sanctions risk with basic due diligence and clear contract clauses. Chambers can share ICC's Sanctions Guide and ICC Institute SME Labs to help members stay compliant without costly systems. Watch the recording.

Protect your SMEs: Free cybersecurity toolkit now available

With 60% of SMEs failing within six months of a major cyber attack, chambers can help safeguard their communities using the free Global Cyber Alliance (GCA) Cybersecurity Toolkit for Small Business. A recent ICC–GCA webinar showed simple, high-impact actions—from phishing protection to Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting, and Conformance (DMARC)—that strengthen cyber resilience. Watch the recording.

Women driving the green transition across Latin America

In partnership with AL-INVEST Verde, ICC highlighted women entrepreneurs leading sustainability efforts across Latin America. Chambers can draw on practical insights and success stories shared during the session to champion inclusive, climate-smart growth in their regions. Watch the recording.

Master the basics of digital trade for just US$25

Register your interest in MLETR Foundations and receive a +70% discount. In one hour, the Certificate in Digital Trade Strategy (CDTS) module clarifies the legal framework underpinning digital trade and awards an ICC Certificate of Completion. A useful entry point for chambers supporting SMEs on digitalisation. Secure your code—limited spots available. Sign up now.

Should tariffs feature in your Incoterms® training?

With tariff changes reshaping global trade, chambers training on Incoterms® 2020 should address who bears tariff costs and when to discuss them. This explainer by Miguel Angel Bustamante provides guidance for integrating tariff risk into your training programmes. Learn more.

UCP 600 vs ISP98: What chambers need to know

A new analysis by Xavier Fornt clarifies the practical differences between UCP 600 and ISP98—two essential standards for documentary and standby credits. Chambers can use these insights to better guide exporters on documentation, timelines and banking expectations. Learn more.

Inside the role of a Regional Trade Compliance Leader

In this interview, Veolia's Gimun Solomon Yang shares how compliance, technology and cross-border teamwork drive trusted global trade operations. Chambers can draw lessons on building strong compliance cultures and supporting members navigating complex regulations. Explore the discussion.

Events and conferences

Join us in Dubai for the 14th ICC MENA Arbitration Conference

Chambers supporting cross-border business are invited to the 14th ICC MENA Conference on 27 January in Dubai. Gain insights into emerging arbitration trends and strengthen your legal support services. Enjoy 10% off registration with code WCF-10 and explore the ICC Advanced Training on 26 January. Register now.

Your ICC tools and resources

ICC Handbook clarifies transport and Incoterms® 2020 for global trade

The ICC Transport and Incoterms® 2020 Handbook helps chambers and businesses navigate the link between contracts of carriage and Incoterms® rules. It provides clear guidance to manage logistics complexity and reduce risk in cross-border transactions. Access the handbook.

Upcoming events

View the full calendar on the Chambers Connect platform. If you don't have access to Chambers Connect yet, join our Affiliation Programme free of charge to get access to our exclusive online community platform designed for chambers of commerce.

Contact us today to discover how partnering with ICC for our upcoming events can boost your organisation's global visibility and provide exclusive networking opportunities. This is your chance to connect with a high-caliber audience and strengthen your presence within the global business community.

About us

The ICC World Chambers Federation (WCF) is the backbone of the global chamber network leading, connecting and inspiring chambers to benefit real economies and communities, every day, everywhere.

For feedback, suggestions, or collaboration opportunities, please contact us at wcf@iccwbo.org.

Not yet a WCF member? Now's the time to join the world's largest chamber network Join the ICC World Chambers Federation (WCF) and connect with thousands of chamber leaders committed to making business work for everyone, everywhere. As a WCF member, you gain exclusive access to global networks, tools, and opportunities to grow your chamber's influence, services, and impact.
Become a member | Find your ICC National Committee | Contact our team

Already a member? Don't forget to explore the full range of your benefits—from shaping ICC policy to commercialising trade tools, reselling ICC Academy trainings, or gaining global visibility through our platforms.

Not ready for full membership? Get started by joining our WCF Affiliation Programme—free of charge for eligible chambers. Discover the Affiliation Programme and access a global network, exclusive insights, and promotional platforms.

Thank you for reading the final WCF newsletter of 2025. We appreciate your continued engagement and dedication to strengthening our global chamber community.

Wishing you a joyful Christmas season and a successful start to the new year.

The ICC World Chambers Federation Team

Contact

33-43 avenue du Président Wilson, 75116 Paris, France

www.iccwbo.org

Disclaimer
This email is sent as per your request to receive material and invitation to events related to the activities of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) or its affiliates.

Please use this link should you wish to update your subscription preferences or unsubscribe from ICC emails. For any question you may have regarding the processing of your personal data by ICC or its affiliates, please contact the ICC Global Data Protection Officer at dataprotection@iccwbo.org