Mayor Bass Hosts Tariff Roundtable
Chamber President & CEO Maria S. Salinas joined Mayor Karen Bass, Councilmember Tim McOsker, Port of Los Angeles Executive Director Gene Seroka, and regional goods movement, labor, and business leaders for a roundtable focused on the impact of federal tariffs on the Port of Los Angeles and the broader economy. Mayor Bass reaffirmed her strong support for the Port of L.A. and emphasized that Los Angeles remains open for business. As the gateway for 40% of U.S. imports and a driver of over 1 million jobs in the region, the Port of L.A. plays a critical role in national and local economic health. Mayor Bass pledged continued advocacy on behalf of L.A.’s workers, small businesses, and the entire port community.
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Chamber Joins Copper Wire Theft Crisis Roundtable
Chamber President & CEO Maria S. Salinas joined California Attorney General Rob Bonta, law enforcement, business and utilities leaders, and elected officials for a statewide roundtable on the alarming rise in copper wire theft and infrastructure vandalism. Thefts have triggered widespread outages, disrupting 911 systems, power grids, transit operations, and schools. Nearly one-third of the 6,000 reported incidents nationwide occurred in California between June and December 2024. Attorney General Bonta issued a bulletin outlining legal obligations for scrap dealers and reaffirmed his office’s commitment to supporting local law enforcement. The Chamber stands with partners statewide to protect critical infrastructure and public safety.
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Small Businesses and Buyers Connect at Chamber's Procurement Fair
The Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce hosted the Get in the Game Procurement Fair, bringing together small and diverse businesses with public and private buyers. The day included remarks from Chamber President & CEO Maria S. Salinas, a fireside chat with Donald Jones of Next Street, and a panel moderated by Kevin Keane featuring leaders from FEMA, California DGS, L.A. County, and JACOBS. Attendees engaged in matchmaking appointments and visited the exhibit hall to build valuable connections. The event also highlighted the new Supplier Resource Hub, created with the Chamber, LISC LA, Next Street, VSEDC, and support from JPMorgan Chase, which provides small businesses with capital, technical assistance, and contract opportunities.
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China–California Business Forum Highlights Subnational Collaboration
California Secretary of Transportation Toks Omishakin headlined the recent China–California Business Forum, co-hosted by the Chamber. President & CEO Maria S. Salinas, fresh from the City of Los Angeles’ delegation trip to Shanghai, delivered welcome remarks emphasizing the value of subnational collaboration and people-to-people engagement. Despite ongoing trade challenges, China remains the third-largest goods export market for the L.A. region, totaling $4.8 billion, or 8% of all exports. The Chamber remains committed to advocating for sound trade policies that support regional growth.
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Chamber Continues State Budget Advocacy
Following the release of the Governor’s May Revision for the 2025–2026 state budget, the Chamber is actively engaging in advocacy efforts. The revised proposal projects a $12 billion General Fund deficit and includes a legislative package focused on permitting reform and housing, highlighting Chamber-supported CEQA reform bills AB 609 (Wicks) and SB 607 (Wiener). View the Chamber’s May Revise memo. Read the latest Policy Update for ongoing state budget developments.
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City of Los Angeles Delegation Visit's American Chamber in Shanghai
As part of the City of Los Angeles Delegation visit to China, Chamber President & CEO Maria S. Salinas joined a roundtable hosted by the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) in Shanghai, engaging with U.S. companies operating in the region. AmCham President & CEO Eric Zheng brought together business leaders across sectors to discuss opportunities in China’s innovation-driven economy. While interest in expanding partnerships was strong, concerns over the continued impact of tariffs on business operations and growth were a key topic of discussion.
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Port of Long Beach Awards $355,000 in Scholarships
The Port of Long Beach has awarded $355,000 in scholarships to 190 high school and local college students pursuing studies and training in port-related fields. This initiative is an example of the Port's commitment to fostering education and workforce development within the community. For more details, visit the Port of Long Beach's official announcement.
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RETAP: Export Management Workshop
Join us on June 25 for a free virtual workshop on how to start your own Export Management Company (EMC) and represent U.S. manufacturers in global markets. Led by expert Carlos Sol, this session will show how anyone, even solo entrepreneurs, can build a successful export business with no prior experience or inventory required. Register here.
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RETAP: CGBP Bootcamp at Santa Ana College
Take the next step toward global business success with our free, two-day CGBP Bootcamp, June 13–14 at Santa Ana College. Designed to help you pass the NASBITE CGBP exam, this in-person course covers key international trade concepts and real-world strategies, all led by expert instructors. Ideal for small business owners, professionals, and students aiming to stand out in the global marketplace. Register here.
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Disaster Unemployment Assistance Deadline: June 10
Small business owners and self-employed individuals in Los Angeles County affected by the recent wildfires have until June 10 to apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) through the EDD. DUA provides weekly benefits to those whose businesses were disrupted and who aren’t eligible for regular unemployment. Learn more here.
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WalkUnitedLA 2025 at the Rose Bowl Stadium
Join the United Way of Greater Los Angeles and the Los Angeles Rams for WalkUnitedLA 2025: United for Our Future on Sunday, July 20, at the Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena. Rams Quarterback Matthew Stafford and his wife, Kelly Stafford, will serve as honorary chairs. Proceeds will support wildfire recovery efforts and the United Way’s impactful community initiatives. Register here.
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Chamber Welcomes New Members at Orientation & Mixer
Last week, the Chamber welcomed over 50 new and existing organizations to the Member Orientation & Mixer. Board members Lupita Sanchez Cornejo (AT&T) and A.G. Spanos (Los Angeles Chargers) shared valuable insights on how members can make the most of their Chamber experience. A special thank you to Board member Marty Hodgett (Accenture) for graciously hosting the event at the Accenture offices. View the event photos here.
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COUNCIL MEETINGS & EVENTS
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Land Use, Construction & Housing Policy Council
Wednesday, June 11, 9:00 a.m.
MEMBER ONLY EVENT
Join our next Land Use, Construction & Housing Policy Council meeting on June 11 to hear updates on rebuilding efforts and other topics facing the region.
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Pancakes & Politics
Thursday, June 26, 8:30 a.m.
MEMBER ONLY EVENT
Join the L.A. Area Chamber for our Pancakes & Politics Speaker Series featuring Dee Dee Myers, Director of Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development.
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Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce
350 S. Bixel Street
Los Angeles, CA 90017
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