Cook Islands Chamber of Commerce held its annual general meeting (AGM) last week, marking a milestone in its journey towards fostering a vibrant business environment in the country.

According to a statement, the meeting, attended by members and stakeholders, showcased the Chamber’s achievements over the past year and outlined an ambitious strategic plan for 2024-2025.

Chair-person Addrienne Hosking-Tinirau, in her inaugural report, highlighted the resilience and adaptability of the Chamber in navigating the post-Covid landscape.

“Our business activity across all sectors has largely recovered, with tourist numbers exceeding pre-pandemic levels. This economic uplift is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our members,” Hosking-Tinirau stated.

She emphasised the importance of collaboration and engagement, noting that the Chamber has successfully represented private sector interests in various national boards and panels, ensuring that the voice of business is heard in government activities.

The AGM also unveiled a comprehensive calendar of events designed to enhance networking opportunities for members. Key past events include the End of Year Event on December 18, 2023, featuring guest speaker Gilbert Enoka, and a Sponsorship Leadership event in July 2024. These initiatives aimed to foster connections and provide valuable insights to members, reinforcing the Chamber’s commitment to delivering value, the statement said.

In line with its strategic vision, the Chamber is focused on enhancing communication and support for its members.

“The upcoming year will see the introduction of a member pack, fact sheets on relevant business topics, and a dedicated members-only section on the Chamber’s website. These resources are designed to empower members and ensure they have access to the information they need to thrive in a competitive market,” the statement said.

“The Chamber's commitment to maintaining a unified voice for the private sector was reiterated, with plans to engage members through monthly newsletters, sectoral focus meetings, and networking opportunities. The Board aims to achieve measurable success through membership growth, satisfaction surveys, and active engagement in sectoral discussions.”

The election of office-bearers was also held to fill three director vacancies due to completion of their two-year terms. The incoming directors are Gaye Whitta, Liana Scott and Brent Fisher.

The meeting concluded with refreshments kindly sponsored by CITC.

“As the Chamber looks to the future, it remains dedicated to being the most reliable source of information and support for businesses in the Cook Islands. The strategic initiatives outlined during the AGM reflect a proactive approach to addressing the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead,” the statement said.