Chambers of commerce around the world follow the laws, traditions and structures of the countries in which the chambers operate in. However, there are also a few unique features and characteristics that set them apart from other non-profit business associations:
• Chambers are multi-sector organisations admitting members without sectoral restrictions.
• Chambers function and serve within one specific geographic area.
In many parts of the world, chambers of commerce, chambers of commerce and industry, and other combinations with the word “chamber” are, as a rule, protected by national laws – this is not so in South Africa.
• Chambers do not pursue political goals, they are apolitical (therefore they do not take part in elections or nominate candidates for political positions), although they do act as the voice for the business community.
• Chambers support, promote and advocate legislation that is advantageous to business.
• Chambers perform public functions, for example, they register enterprises, provide members with opportunities for business training, validate country of origin certificates, matchmaking, and so on.
In South Africa the chamber system is hierarchical, with local, national, and international affiliates. Whereas, in many other countries, each level of the chamber system corresponds to a level of government.
In South Africa, business is represented through South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SACCI) and various other structures, such Business Unity South Africa (BUSA), representing business with government and labour at National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC).
Depending on the countries’ national legislation on chambers of commerce, their organisational and legal forms will vary, allowing for either mandatory or voluntary membership.
In some countries, a chamber’s constitution may contain restrictions on member admission on the basis of gender, religion and nationality. This goes against the Constitution of South Africa.
In South Africa membership is voluntary, meaning that there is a lack of legal acts regulating chambers’ activities and companies are not obligated to become chamber members.
The chambers’ actions and activities are governed by the Constitution of South Africa, The Company Acts, the constitution of the individual chamber, SACCI’s Code of Good Conduct and various other acts, which all strive to reinforce and promote a strong business community through sound practices that support social and economic development.
Businesses pay dues to belong and expect to receive the benefits of membership as long as they continue to invest in the organisation.
Chambers normally accept any reputable business as a member, once a due diligence is concluded, which is done to avoid harm to people, businesses and their property. It is important to note that in most cases it is the company that is the member, not an individual, although companies should encourage members to participate in chamber activities.
Chambers are built on a willing participant model where local business people freely volunteer their time and expertise to chambers. This is an important element that sets the chambers apart from many other businesses, which should play a more progressively important role if they want to unlock business to business mentoring.
For more information phone the CEO of the Aerotropolis Chamber of Commerce, Vincent Marino, on 082 257 3213 or 010 285 0313 or send an email to vincent@eacci.org.za
