Wednesday, December 11, 2024
Dear Friends of PBEC,
As we look ahead to celebrating 58 years since the founding of PBEC in 1967, we wanted to reflect on our journey and the pivotal role each of you plays in our continued success. From our origins in California USA to our current home in Hong Kong since 2003, our commitment to fostering economic collaboration in the Asia Pacific remains steadfast.
In 2024, PBEC hosted and co-organized 32 events and meetings, significantly contributing to our community’s engagement. We proudly published our annual report, “Unlock the Scope 3 Opportunities in APAC,” with invaluable support from our member sponsors, including KPMG, Hinrich Foundation, and ICAEW, alongside our academic partner, La Trobe University Business School.
This year was not without its challenges. The reopening of international borders in Greater China and the ongoing economic difficulties faced by Hong Kong, Mainland China, and some ASEAN economies have impacted our membership renewals. Many valued members have also had to reduce their contributions due to these circumstances. Despite trimming our annual operating costs to the bare minimum, we need your support to navigate these challenges and seize the opportunities ahead.
Every contribution, no matter the size, helps PBEC fulfill its mission. We aim to expand our efforts in regional economic integration, supply chain resiliency, AI, ESG/SDGs, climate risk mitigation, and digital initiatives. To achieve these goals, we must enhance our team and resources, ensuring we continue to provide exceptional value to our members.
PBEC’s strong connections with regional organizations like APEC, ABAC and PECC are vital to our influence in the Asia Pacific. As your partner of choice, we are committed to facilitating meaningful dialogue, advocating for sustainable trade agreements, and promoting responsible business practices.
Reflecting on the leadership of our former chairman and the HSBC Chairman at that time, David Gordon Eldon CBE, who took the bold step to relocate PBEC to Hong Kong back in 2003, we recognize that calculated risks are essential for our continued growth and resilience. As we look toward 2025, we invite you to join us on this transformative journey.
A Call to Action:
We encourage you to renew your commitment to PBEC by making a donation or potentially increasing your annual membership renewal contribution or better still refer a friend, peer leader or firm to us, utilizing the collateral available upon request. Your support is crucial for us to continue making a difference. Together, let’s pass the salt and turn on the light—sharing resources and illuminating the path forward for our community and future leaders.
Thank you for your continued support and dedication. Together, we can unlock the potential of our global network and create new lasting impacts across the Asia Pacific for this and the next generation of leaders. Please refer to the commitment card 2025.
Andrew Weir MBE, BBS, JP Michael Walsh
Chairman Executive Director
Pacific Basin Economic Council Pacific Basin Economic Council