The European Chamber of Commerce Taiwan (ECCT) is the foremost organization promoting the interests of European companies operating in Taiwan, representing around 900 members from over 400 companies and organizations. In 2013, the ECCT became a nationwide association, the only foreign business chamber in Taiwan with nationwide status. Collectively, Europeans have invested over US$40 billion in Taiwan, accounting for 25% of all foreign direct investment in Taiwan and making Europeans the largest group of foreign investors in Taiwan. The ECCT’s mission and activities are carried out by a secretariat of 19 staff members and overseen by a board of directors elected by its members.

Through a network of 30 industry and support committees, the ECCT has a successful track record in addressing specific concerns and providing concrete recommendations to all levels of government to facilitate improving the business environment. To this purpose, the ECCT annually publishes a series of position papers that comprise issues identified by its committees as hindering the further development of their respective industries. The papers also serve to keep the European Commission, the European Parliament as well as the governments of individual European Union member states and other European countries informed about Taiwan’s business environment.

Another important part of the ECCT’s mission is to encourage and support corporate social responsibility programs and sustainable business practices. The ECCT’s Low Carbon Initiative (LCI) was created to offer and develop solutions in partnership with the government and Taiwan industry to realize the vision of a low carbon future for Taiwan.

Besides proactive engagement with governmental, research, and academic institutions in Taiwan and Europe, the chamber provides a platform for business networking and development opportunities. Through around 200 annual business activities, ECCT members are presented with opportunities to network with peers, exchange views, keep up to date with socioeconomic developments, and explore business opportunities in Taiwan and the region. In addition, the ECCT arranges frequent social activities such as wine-tasting dinners, golf tournaments, and the annual ECCT Gala Ball as well as the Europe Day Dinner.