French Chamber of Commerce in Laos launched to strengthen business ties

The French business community in Laos recently celebrated a significant milestone with the official launch of the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Laos (CCIFL) at the Residence of the French Ambassador to Laos.

A poster advertises the Beaujolais Nouveau charity event.

This long-anticipated establishment serves as a testament to the growing collaboration and mutual interests between France and Laos in advancing economic and social development.
The evening commenced with a welcome address by the French Ambassador to Laos, Mrs Siv-Leng Chhuor, who highlighted the pivotal role of the CCIFL in fostering business relations between the two nations and more.
 “We believe that the French Chamber will serve as a bridge, bringing together French and Lao entrepreneurs to create sustainable economic opportunities,” she said.
The CCIFL, which is now officially under the umbrella of the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LNCCI), with support from the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, is committed to helping French businesses and investors within and outside Laos, navigate the Lao market while supporting local businesses looking to collaborate with French enterprises.
The chamber was born out of discussions initiated by the French Business Club (Club Français des Affaires CFA) in 2023, when a shared vision emerged to create a formal institution that would advocate for French companies and promote cross-border business opportunities.
“Our mission is to offer French businesses a gateway into Laos, equipping them with the knowledge, resources, and connections necessary to thrive here,” explained the President of the CCIFL, Mr Stéphane Gil.
“At the same time, we aim to support Lao companies interested in the French market and foster a vibrant ecosystem of exchange and innovation.”
Operating in a rapidly evolving economic environment, the CCIFL will prioritise addressing some of the significant challenges that businesses face in Laos, such as inflation, adapting to local market dynamics, and finding skilled talent.
As a dedicated business network, the chamber will provide its members with vital services, including market analysis, regulatory guidance, networking events, and professional development opportunities.
“Having a structure like the CCIFL in place will enable us to effectively support our members in overcoming challenges and seizing opportunities unique to the Lao market,” noted the President of LNCCI, Mr Oudet Souvannavong.
“This partnership is a significant step towards deepening economic ties between our countries.”
The executive team behind the CCIFL comprises accomplished professionals from various industries, each bringing valuable expertise and a shared commitment to strengthening the French business footprint in Laos.
Notable figures include Vice-President Mr Jean-Pierre Grzelczyk, CEO of Savan Logistics, and Treasurer Yvan Bolliet, Managing Director of Comin Asia Laos, among other influential members.
Together, they form a team dedicated to fostering partnerships, supporting new entrants in the market, and driving forward economic integration.
At its core, CCIFL serves as a platform for connection and collaboration, providing a community where business leaders can exchange insights, create synergies, and find solutions to common challenges.
The members will not be solely limited to French or companies working with French parties. Other companies are also welcome to join. As part of its action plan, the chamber will focus on hosting workshops, industry forums, and training sessions to enhance the skills and networks of its members.

To mark the beginning of this exciting journey and celebrate the spirit of French culture, the CCIFL is pleased to invite its members, partners, and the wider business community to join the Beaujolais Nouveau celebration.
This annual event, organised by the chamber, will be held at the Simeuang Field (Khouvieng Road) on the third Thursday of the month, as celebrated every year on November 21. 
The Beaujolais Nouveau is a cherished tradition that symbolises the joy of sharing and celebrating achievements. This year, it will also serve as an occasion to introduce the chamber’s vision to the business community and gather in a convivial atmosphere to foster new connections.
For this first Beaujolais event, all proceeds from the Beaujolais Nouveau event will be donated to NK Seeds, a local NGO dedicated to supporting education in remote areas of Luang Prabang.
Through this initiative, NK Seeds provides essential school supplies such as notebooks and pens to children who lack basic learning materials, helping to ensure that young students in underserved communities have the tools they need to pursue their education.
This collaboration allows attendees not only to celebrate but also to make a meaningful impact on the future of education in Laos.

By Advertorial Desk
 (Latest Update November 18, 2024)