New American Chamber Formed in Eastern Caribbean -- Expanded Ties Helps Businesses and Economy

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The United States Chamber of Commerce today announced the formation of the Eastern Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce, which will advance two-way investment and trade between the Eastern Caribbean and the United States.

"Increasing trade is vital to the economic growth of the U.S. and the Eastern Caribbean," said John Howard, Chamber vice president for international policy and programs. "This new organization will provide an ideal environment for businesses to better seize trade and investment opportunities that will help both economies."

Only four percent of the world's consumers live in the United States and the U.S. Chamber continues to help American businesses reach the other 96 percent of the world's consumers through its affiliation with more than 90 American Chambers of Commerce. This new facility will be the 94th AmCham currently operating around the globe.

The Eastern Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce (ECAmCham) will help foster better understanding of business cultures and practices necessary for business development, according to the Chamber.

The ECAmCham is comprised of members from the private sector either representing or affiliated with U.S. business and investment interests or servicing U.S. clientele in eight countries of the Eastern Caribbean including: Antigua, Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Montserat, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

"The Chamber is committed to expanding the opportunities for U.S. businesses in every market," continued Howard. "American companies who wish to do business in this region will now have significant additional resources and assistance to help them be successful."

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world's largest business federation, representing more than three million businesses and organizations of every size, sector and region.

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