BEIRUT — The British Ambassador to Lebanon, Himesh Cowell, officially launched the British-Lebanese Chamber of Commerce (BLCC) during a reception at his residence on January 27.
The event was attended by Lebanese Economy and Trade Minister Amr Bassat, local business leaders, entrepreneurs, and prospective chamber members.
The British Embassy in Lebanon said in a statement that the new chamber “represents a major step in strengthening trade ties and expanding economic cooperation between Lebanon and the United Kingdom.”
The chamber is a non-profit, official organization and will be affiliated with the international network of British Chambers of Commerce, which includes over 75 chambers worldwide.
Supported by the British Embassy in Beirut, the BLCC aims to serve as a strategic bridge between the Lebanese and British business communities.
Its goals include facilitating partnerships, providing market insights, and advocating for members’ interests.
The chamber’s mission focuses on promoting bilateral trade and investment, supporting businesses seeking to expand in both markets, and building a reliable network that encourages collaboration, innovation, and sustainable growth.
Speaking at the launch, Ambassador Cowell, who serves as the chamber’s Honorary President, said, “The launch of the British-Lebanese Chamber of Commerce is a key step toward enhancing trade partnerships between the UK and Lebanon and creating new opportunities for businesses in both countries.”
BLCC President Farid Shadid emphasized that the chamber will act as a strategic bridge connecting Lebanese initiatives with British standards, while enabling British companies to engage with Lebanon with clarity, prudence, and a long-term vision.
Economy and Trade Minister Amer Bassat added that the chamber “will serve as a platform to boost exports and investment between our two countries, and will be an important part of our economy’s journey from recovery to global prosperity.”
The embassy’s statement also called on Lebanese and British companies to join the growing chamber network and benefit from its resources, representation, and professional connections.
