The International Trade Council (hereinafter referred to as "ITC", "we", "us", or "our") is a unique chamber of commerce, as our membership encompasses a diverse range of entities, including corporations, government trade and investment agencies, other chambers of commerce, and government foreign direct investment agencies. Given the nature of our membership, our role is distinct from traditional chambers of commerce in that we do not engage in lobbying activities. This Non-Lobbying Policy outlines our commitment to this principle and the focus of our work on promoting understanding and compliance with trade rules and regulations among our members.

Scope

This Non-Lobbying Policy applies to all ITC employees, board members, volunteers, and representatives when they are acting in an official capacity on behalf of the ITC. 

Objectives

Our primary objectives as a non-lobbying organization are as follows:

  1. To foster a thorough understanding of trade rules and regulations among our participating organizations.
  2. To provide guidance and assistance to members in interpreting and complying with relevant trade rules and regulations.
  3. To facilitate collaboration and cooperation among our members to enhance the global trade environment.

Non-Lobbying Activities

In line with our commitment to being a non-lobbying organization, we focus on the following activities:

  1. Providing educational resources and training programs to help members understand and navigate trade rules and regulations.
  2. Offering expert advice and guidance on compliance with trade regulations to our members.
  3. Organizing networking events, conferences, and seminars that promote the exchange of information and best practices in international trade.
  4. Encouraging collaboration between government agencies, chambers of commerce, and foreign direct investment agencies to strengthen the global trade ecosystem.

Prohibited Activities

ITC employees, board members, volunteers, and representatives must not engage in any activities that could be construed as lobbying, including but not limited to:

  1. Attempting to influence legislative or regulatory outcomes on behalf of our organization or any of our members.
  2. Directly or indirectly advocating for specific policy changes or legislative measures.
  3. Offering financial support, gifts, or other incentives to government officials, lawmakers, or regulators with the intent to influence their actions or decisions.

Compliance and Reporting

All ITC employees, board members, volunteers, and representatives are expected to adhere to this Non-Lobbying Policy. Any concerns or suspected violations of this policy should be reported to the appropriate supervisor, manager, or designated contact person within the organization.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Any violation of this Non-Lobbying Policy may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or association with the ITC. We reserve the right to take any necessary legal action against individuals or entities found to be in breach of this policy.

Changes to this Non-Lobbying Policy

We reserve the right to modify this Non-Lobbying Policy at any time. We will notify you of any changes by posting the updated policy on our website with a new effective date. Your continued association with the ITC after the posting of changes constitutes your acceptance of the updated policy.

Contact Us

If you have any questions or concerns about this Non-Lobbying Policy or our commitment to being a non-lobbying organization, please contact us.