The British-Colombian Chamber of Commerce (BritCham) held its 2025 General Assembly of Affiliate Members at the Gun Club in Bogotá, where we presented the 2024 management results and the projection of strategic initiatives that will shape the direction of the organisation in 2025.
In the words of the Chairman of the Board, Jaime González Moore, “We close 2024 with great achievements for the Chamber and our business community, consolidating BritCham as a strategic bridge for business between Colombia and the United Kingdom.” He highlighted BritCham’s integration into the global British Chambers of Commerce network, which opens the door to new opportunities for connection with the 51 chambers in the United Kingdom, and 75 countries around the world.
One of the key topics addressed at the event was the challenge posed by the reimposition of the visitor visa requirement for Colombian citizens. While the context of this measure is understood, BritCham reiterated its commitment to working with the authorities of both countries to minimise its impact on bilateral trade and investment, highlighting the importance of visa exemption, in terms of driving business and cultural dynamics.
The reactivation of business missions was also emphasised, including a notable visit to the United Kingdom focused on the sustainable infrastructure sector, which laid the foundations for a more ambitious bilateral trade exchange agenda. Meanwhile, the Executive Director, Santiago Uribe, highlighted that the Chamber closed its third consecutive year with positive financial results, maintaining an operating surplus and expanding the reach of initiatives such as BritCham Academy, a programme that trained over 1,900 people from 785 companies in 16 departments across the country through SENA’s Specialised Continuous Training Programme.
The strengthening of the training and networking event network, the publication of strategic studies such as Colombia as an Export Platform, the organisation of over 70 events throughout the year, and the success of the BritCham Lazos Sustainability Awards (with more than 400 nominations and 39,000 virtual votes) have consolidated the Chamber as a key player in promoting business sustainability and generating real opportunities for its members.
For 2025, BritCham is preparing for a pivotal year, framed by the commemoration of 200 years of diplomatic relations between Colombia and the United Kingdom.
Among the most relevant initiatives are:
– The launch of a visa advisory service for Colombians travelling to the United Kingdom.
– The organisation of two trade missions to London, one focused on renewable energy (June) and the other on smart cities (September).
– The execution of a new edition of the Lazos Sustainability Awards, the expansion of services to promote exports, and the promotion of the International Arbitration and Conciliation Centre.
– A joint agenda with members that will include flagship events, academic spaces, and new networking opportunities.
BritCham reaffirms its commitment to each of its members and to strengthening the binational alliance. This Assembly is not only a demonstration of transparency and results, but also a starting point for continuing to build a stronger, more connected business community, prepared for global challenges.
Thank you for being part of this journey!
¡Gracias por ser parte de este camino!