Celebrating the 99th World Trade Week Conference
The Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce hosted the 99th World Trade Week Southern California Conference this week, bringing together business, government, education, and international diplomacy leaders to highlight global trade's vital role in the region. This year’s theme, “A New Horizon: Reimagining Trade with Innovation,” focused on how technology, policy, and partnerships shape the future of international commerce. Program highlights included featured remarks from L.A. Mayor Karen Bass, a keynote from Paula Natoli of Google and a panel discussion on AI-driven trade innovation featuring executives from Alba Wheels Up, APM Terminals, and Maersk. Read our release.
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Chamber Honors Dr. Hacegaba and Pacific Harbor Line at World Trade Week
At the 99th World Trade Week Southern California Conference, the Chamber honored two standout leaders in global trade. Dr. Noel Hacegaba, Chief Operating Officer at the Port of Long Beach, received the Stanley T. Olafson Award, the Chamber's most prestigious honor, for his exemplary leadership and contributions to international commerce. Pacific Harbor Line was presented with the Bob Kleist Leadership Award, accepted by President Otis Cliatt II, recognizing the company’s commitment to sustainable freight operations and regional economic impact.
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Next Year Marks the 100th World Trade Week
President & CEO Maria S. Salinas announced at the Chamber’s World Trade Week Conference the launch of the 2026 Centennial Summit. The celebration of international trade will be co-chaired by three visionary leaders at the helm of Southern California’s global gateways, including John Ackerman, CEO, Los Angeles World Airports, Mario Cordero, CEO, Port of Long Beach, and Gene D. Seroka, Executive Director, Port of Los Angeles. Together, they represent the critical infrastructure that powers international commerce, drives innovation, and connects our region to the world.
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Chamber Advocates Against Proposed Wage Increase
This week, the Chamber continued advocating for the local economy in response to a proposed wage increase being considered by the L.A. City Council. The council is revisiting the issue of raising wages for certain hotel and airport concession workers, despite the tourism industry’s current struggles. The impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, wildfires, and tariffs have significantly hindered the city’s ability to attract tourists, exacerbating the ongoing fiscal crisis by reducing transient occupancy tax (TOT) revenues. The Chamber has been in discussions with city leaders to oppose this policy, understanding that it could negatively impact the regional economy. The Chamber will continue to monitor this issue.
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L.A. City Council Begins 2025–2026 Budget Hearings
The Los Angeles City Council Budget and Finance Committee, chaired by Councilmember Katy Yaroslavsky, kicked off hearings this week on the proposed 2025–2026 budget. The committee will continue reviewing presentations from city departments next week as they evaluate the Mayor’s proposal ahead of final adoption in June. The Chamber previously joined a coalition letter, urging the city to prioritize funding for departments that generate revenue through services, permits, and programming.
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Mexican Consul General Gonzalez Gutierrez Welcomes International Trade Community
For the first time in World Trade Week's long history, the Chamber hosted an exclusive reception the evening before our kickoff breakfast. Held at the residence of the Mexican Consul General Carlos Gonzalez Gutierrez, the event welcomed several Chamber Board members along with World Trade Week committee members. A special thank you to our Committee Chair, Dr. Nick Vyas, for bringing this vision to life.
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Chamber Attends GABA’s White Asparagus Gala & Achievement Awards
The Chamber attended the German American Business Association’s (GABA) White Asparagus Gala Dinner & Outstanding Achievement Award event. Broadcast journalist Frank Mottek led a fascinating discussion with Mohamed El-Erian, the recipient of the GABA Outstanding Achievement Award. El-Erian shared valuable insights on the global economy and financial markets.
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Doing Business with the Department of General Services
Join us on May 14 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. for an important workshop on navigating procurement processes and gain tools to effectively partner with the Department of General Services. Attendees will learn insights into contracting opportunities and discover resources designed to support small businesses. Don't miss this chance to expand your business prospects and network with key stakeholders. Register today.
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RETAP: Certified Global Business Professional (CGBP) Bootcamp
Advance your career at no cost by enrolling in the Certified Global Business Professional (CGBP) Bootcamp through RETAP. This two-day course—offered at Loyola Marymount University (May 15–16) and Santa Ana College —provides the tools and strategies needed to pass the CGBP exam successfully. Sessions run from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and cover key topics essential to thriving in global business. Don’t miss this opportunity to strengthen your international business credentials. Learn more here.
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2025 L.A. Wildfires and Comparative Study
The 2025 Los Angeles wildfires inflicted unprecedented damage across the region. Estimated property losses range from $28 billion to $53.8 billion, impacting more than 20,000 parcels, 1,900 businesses, and displacing 9,600 workers. Over the next five years, L.A. County could face up to $8.9 billion in economic losses, with significant job disruption and serious impacts to key sectors including retail, health care, and education. For a full analysis of the economic impact, affected communities, and recommended recovery strategies, view the complete report here.
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Spectrum News Launches Spectrum Noticias with Celebration at L.A. City Hall
Spectrum News is launching Spectrum Noticias, a new 24/7 national Spanish-language news network. To celebrate, join Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez, the Los Angeles Latino Chamber of Commerce, and the California Latino Legislative Caucus for a special event at L.A. City Hall on May 15. RSVP by May 10 to Maria Zepeda here. Learn more here.
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Auto Club Takes Action to Support Wildfire Relief
In response to the urgent needs caused by the recent wildfires, Auto Club employees assembled thousands of hygiene kits for those displaced by the disaster. The Auto Club also pledged $800,000 to the United Way of Greater Los Angeles and $200,000 to the American Red Cross to support wildfire relief efforts. Read more here.
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COUNCIL MEETINGS & EVENTS
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Transportation & Goods Movement Council
Tuesday, May 6, 8:00 a.m.
MEMBER ONLY EVENT
Register for the upcoming Transportation & Goods Movement Policy Council meeting, taking place at City Club Los Angeles. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect and engage on transportation and infrastructure plans ahead of the 2028 Olympics.
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Member Orientation
Thursday, May 29, 4:00 p.m.
MEMBER ONLY EVENT
Meet fellow new members and engage in insightful conversations with Board members and staff to jump start your membership journey. If you are a new member or an existing member of the Chamber, we encourage you to attend this informative orientation. Learn how to unlock the full potential of your L.A. Area Chamber membership.
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Get in the Game: Procurement Fair
Thursday, June 5, 9:00 a.m.
Join us for our Procurement Fair at California State University, Los Angeles, and discover how you can partner with leading companies and public agencies to empower Los Angeles’ recovery. Together, we’re not just rebuilding—we’re creating a stronger, more resilient city ready to host future global events.
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Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce
350 S. Bixel Street
Los Angeles, CA 90017
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