SICCI ANUUAL REPORT final CS5 · Singapore and abroad. Following the initial hiccups, SICCI is...

Annual Report2012/2013

Making Inroads Into Emerging Markets

Recognising the impact of emerging markets as a potential source of business and investment for SICCI members, SICCI decided to make further inroads into some of the neighbouring markets. We led successful business missions to Indonesia and India in 2013. The Chamber also led a mission to the states of Kerala and Gujarat, India in January this year. We participated in the 10th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention in Kochi, Kerala and the Vibrant Gujarat 6th Global Summit in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. Such overseas ventures are important in helping our members internationalise their businesses.

SICCI plans to organise business missions to Myanmar, Indonesia and Sri Lanka, apart from India, in the coming months.

Advancing with a Robust Membership Base

The Chamber aims to cross a landmark figure of 1000 member base, this year. This will indeed be a milestone for the Chamber. The inspiring growth reflects the Chamber’s bearing to Indian businesses. We believe we can grow the membership even further and we shall strive to do so.

SICCI will continue in its endeavour to recognise the contributions and support of long-serving members, by a token presentation ceremony at the Annual General Meeting introduced in 2011. The Guest-of-Honour will present tokens of appreciation to our members who have been with the Chamber for 30 years and more. At the same time, a welcome reception, introduced in December 2011, will continue to further enrich our engagement with the new members.

Highlighting contributions of IndianBusinesses in Singapore’s Economy

SICCI will be publishing the annual SICCI Membership Directory 2013/14, in April 2013. This publication continues to be an important initiative of the Chamber thereby meeting the business needs of its members and the wider business community. The directory helps raise the profile and visibility of the contributors and the SICCI members among business and potential partners in Singapore and abroad.

Following the initial hiccups, SICCI is planning to publish the second edition of the Directory of Indian Companies in Singapore in February 2013. Launched in partnership with the Indian High Commission in Singapore and ANZ Bank Singapore, it provides an important opportunity for businesses to gain a deeper understanding of the huge potential offered by Indian companies in Singapore. It also highlights the pivotal role that Singapore plays in linking Indian companies to regional and international businesses and vice-versa.

Encouraging Entrepreneurial Talent

The SICCI-DBS Singapore Indian Entrepreneur Awards (SICCI-DBS SIEA) 2012 concluded to a resounding success. The Awards presentation ceremony, held in conjunction with the Chamber’s 88th Anniversary Dinner in October 2012, was attended by more than 900 members and guests.

We received a total of 26 applications in all categories. The ceremony saw the unveiling of Singapore’s 9 leading Indian entrepreneurs from which we crowned three entrepreneurs of the year.

The SICCI-DBS SIEA 2012 and the 88th Anniversary celebration saw Mr Teo Chee Hean, Deputy Prime Minister, and Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs as our esteemed Guest of Honour.

Through the SICCI-DBS SIEA, we believe that we have further enhanced the role of the Indian business community towards Singapore’s economy.

Remaining Significant to Members

In addition to its corporate branding initiatives, the Chamber focused its efforts on enhancing its relevance to the members. An important initiative towards focusing its efforts and remaining relevant to its members, SICCI continued the initiatives introduced, to promote the business interests of the members.

The ‘Distinguished Leadership Dialogue Series’ under the Professionals’ Sub-committee’s banner, organised a Dialogue series with Mr Malvinder Mohan Singh of Fortis Healthcare, Singapore. The series saw Mr Singh talk about Mergers & Acquisitions and his take on it. This was aimed at engaging Indian professionals in Singapore. The series continues to be a regular feature on the SICCI calendar.

The Chamber, co-partnered with the Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCCI) and the Singapore Malay Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SMCCI) participated in the second Inter-Chamber networking session in November 2012. The event, viewed by the members as a step in the right direction, continues to explore the immense opportunities with the members of SCCCI and SMCCI, locally and internationally.

Providing Vital Networking Forums

SICCI, staying true to its mission, promotes the spirit of entrepreneurship in Singapore and consistently provides opportunities to its members to expand and grow their businesses. The last one year saw the Chamber actively organising and lending support to many important events.

SICCI in 2012, continued with the ‘Meet-the-Ambassador’ sessions, with the High Commissioners of Pakistan, Bangladesh, Myanmar and Malaysia to Singapore, with its Members of the Chamber.

The Chamber also hosted eminent political and industry personalities such as Mr Partha Chatterjee, Hon Minister for Trade & Industry, Government of West Bengal, Ms Shakhnazaryan Regina, Ministry of Justice, Republic of Uzbekistan, Mr Sultan- Mukhamedov, Nodir, Head of Division for development of entrepreneurship and business, Chamber of Commerce & Industry of Uzbekistan, CII Core Committee members like Mr Adi Godrej, Chairman, Godrej Group, Mr Chandrajit Banerjee, President CII, Mr Atul Punj, Punj Llyod and Mr Malvinder Mohan Singh, Executive Chairman, Fortis Healthcare, Singapore, and they shared their knowledge and expertise with our members.

In our efforts to articulate the views of the Chamber and our members to relevant government agencies, SICCI participated in several dialogue sessions in 2012. These included sessions with Mr S Iswaran, Minister, Prime Minister’s Office, Second Minister for Home Affairs and Second Minister for Trade & Industry, Mr Teo Ser Luck, Minister of State for Trade & Industry and officials from the Ministry of Manpower, International Enterprise Singapore, Tripartite Alliance for Fair Employment Practices and People’s Association.

Pursuing New Markets and New Partnerships

In our effort to help members explore business opportunities new markets, we actively led trade missions to the different countries in the region and beyond. These included Indonesia and India. Organised in partnership with sister chambers and independently by the Chamber, these missions offered potential for companies that are keen to develop their businesses internationally. The business missions provided a platform to the delegates to understand and explore business opportunities in these countries.

SICCI also hosted several visiting business delegations. These included delegates from Uzbekistan, Malaysia and India. We organised networking sessions between these dignitaries and our members so that they could explore mutually-beneficial possibilities.

ABOUT THE INDIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Established in 1924, the Singapore Indian Chamber of

Commerce & Industry (SICCI) has matured in size and

stature over the years to become a vibrant and

progressive organisation with a network of partners

that spans the globe.

Celebrating its 88th anniversary this year, SICCI today

represents a significant membership base of close to

1,000; with members coming from a wide spectrum of

businesses and industries.

SICCI is one of Singapore’s most respected and active

commercial organisations, providing a platform for

exchange of information, promotion of enterprise,

development of commercial opportunities as well as a

forum for constructive interaction with the government

and the broader business community.

Located in Singapore’s central business district, SICCI

conducts its operations out of its modest but elegant

building which is staffed by a dedicated and professional

secretariat team. Offering members a wide range of

services and benefits, SICCI plays a well-garnered role in

meeting the business needs of its members and the

wider corporate community.

SICCI’s subsidiaries – SICCI-Trade Match, Enterprise

Development Centre@SICCI and SICCI-Institute of

Business – combine to actively promote the development

of its members and provide the necessary networking

opportunities and linkages for its members to grow

teir businesses and operations locally and globally.

The Chamber also serves as the community’s

spokesperson at various private and public-sector

platforms in Singapore so that views of Indian

businesses are taken into consideration during policy

formation.

Apart from its role in the business environment, it is an

exemplary corporate citizen, playing a leading role in

the promotion of social welfare and in Singapore’s

nation-building.

Given its dynamism and foresight, SICCI will continue

to progress and build on its strong and prominent

position in Singapore.

More details on SICCI can be found at www.sicci.com.

MESSAGE FROM CHAIRMAN

“SICCI has consistently responded to the changing economic landscape in and

outside Singapore as well as to the needs of its members.”

I am pleased to welcome the members of the

Singapore Indian Chamber of Commerce & Industry

(SICCI) to the 72nd Annual General Meeting (AGM)

and present to you the Board of Directors’ report for

the year ended 31 March 2013.

It has been a rewarding and enriching first year for me

as Chairman, this term, and for my Board of Directors

at the Chamber. The last AGM in April 2012 witnessed

the re-election of several Directors as well as the

election of new Directors, in particular, the Executive

Committee, ensuring both steadiness and change at

the Chamber. The re-election of the Directors and the

election of new Directors has brought a fresh

perspective which will help further advance the

Chamber’s progress.

I am very pleased to also welcome the new Chief

Executive Officer of the Singapore Indian Chamber of

Commerce & Industry (SICCI), Mr Sanjoy Chowdhury.

Mr Chowdhury joined the Chamber as Chief Executive

Officer of SICCI in January 2013. He has more than

more than 30 years of experience in the corporate

industry, primarily in the finance sector. Mr. Sanjoy

submitted his resignation on 18 March 2013 during

his probation period and his resignation was accepted

by the Board. The Board has taken the initiative to

appoint the new CEO to the Chamber.

In our efforts to provide the highest level of support

to our members, SICCI organised a wide range of

events and initiatives in 2012. The foremost among

them was the annual SICCI-DBS Singapore Indian

Entrepreneur Awards (SIEA). The ninth SICCI-DBS SIEA

2012 and the 88th Anniversary celebration of the

Indian Chamber were held on 24 October 2012 at

Raffles City Convention Centre. The awards ceremony

was attended by Mr Teo Chee Hean, Deputy Prime

Minister, and Coordinating Minister for National

Security and Minister for Home Affairs as our

esteemed Guest of Honour. Since its inception in 2004,

the awards have come a long way. Today, they are

acknowledged as a true benchmark of enterprise

development and success for the Singapore Indian

business community.

The Chamber also hosted delegations from the

Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Uzbekistan, the

Malaysian Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Penang

and the Confederation of Indian Industry’s (CII) Core

group and the Pharmaceutical delegation from India.

This was yet another step forward on the Chamber’s

part to explore possible opportunities and develop

strategic alliances for its members.

MESSAGE FROM CHAIRMAN

The Chamber planned and implemented key

networking events, public lectures, seminars and

buyer-seller meets. EDC@SICCI, the one-stop business

solution partner for Singapore entrepreneurs and

Singapore-based enterprises continues to provide

consultancy and advisory services to Singapore-based

businesses. It has reached out to approximately 3,000

businesses through its various outreach activities. SICCI-Institute of Business has expanded its course

offerings and organised more than 30 seminars and

courses in 2012. IOB@SICCI organises two categories

of programmes, namely, educational and skills

improvement seminars and workshops.

SICCI has consistently responded to the changing

economic landscape in and outside Singapore as well

as to the needs of its members. The Professional

Sub-committee continued to focus on engaging the

growing number of Indian professionals in Singapore.

It spearheaded the initiation of relevant platforms to

reach out these professionals and to involve them in

the Chamber’s activities and programmes. The Youth

Entrepreneur Network (YEN), a subsidiary of SICCI,

continues to be an important link between the

Chamber and the youth by providing the latter with

mentorship, networking and internship opportunities

within Indian and Singaporean organizations.

SICCI’s umbrella body for Indian business women in

Singapore, Women’s Indian Network (SICCI-WIN), a

group of dedicated ladies continue to work positively

towards understanding businesses and actively

collaborating with like-minded organisations.

SICCI-WIN continues to work with PA Narpani

Pearavai on the “Breaking Barriers” seminar which will

is held annually.

SICCI prides itself for being a socially responsible

corporate citizen. As part of the Deepavali

celebrations last year, SICCI and its members reached

out to needy and less fortunate multi-racial residents

in Taman Jurong and South West CDC. The donations

from SICCI and its members were used by Taman

Jurong CC to purchase food vouchers and provisions

for less privileged families.

The last one year has been extremely rewarding and

fruitful for SICCI. We shall continue to build on our

efforts of the last year and will focus on several

important initiatives in the months ahead. SICCI will

continue to work with relevant government agencies

to meet the needs of our members. I am privileged to

have been given the opportunity to lead SICCI for

another two-year term.

I have every confidence that SICCI has the potential

and capability to scale even greater heights. The Board

of Directors, Secretariat and members, working

together, will ensure that SICCI continues to grow

from strength to strength and lead the Indian business

community in Singapore.

I would like to take this opportunity to extend my

deepest gratitude to the SICCI Advisors, Directors and

members who have contributed their time, resources,

suggestions and feedback in ensuring SICCI remains

on course to fulfilling its mandate and objectives. With

such strong partnership between the Chamber and

the members, SICCI is destined to remain the business

partner of choice.

Mr R NarayanamohanChairmanBoard of Directors

Dated: 31 March 20113

YEAR-IN-REVIEW

Despite the global uncertainty, SICCI turned in a sound performance in 2012. We saw the Chamber go through tough and turbulent times and emerge buoyant and robust.

SICCI’s commitment towards its members and the Indian business community remained steadfast through the various networking events, market awareness programmes, and business advocacy initiatives, training programmes, business advisory services, business match-making sessions and capability development programmes.

These initiatives and events have continued to enable our members to explore local and global opportunities, generate new sources of businesses and income.

YEAR IN REVIEW

(April 2012 – March 2013)

SICCI is a vibrant and proactive business association. It continues to have a strong representation, both domestically and in the international arena.

SICCI currently has more than 950 members and it continues to offer its members a diverse range of services to meet their business needs. The Chamber actively promotes the development of its members and at the same time provides the necessary networking opportunities and linkages for its members to grow their businesses and operations locally and globally.

The Chamber continued with its initiatives, for the benefit of the members and their businesses include. These initiatives include networking seminars and events, market awareness programmes, business missions, buyer-seller meets and trade fairs, meetings with overseas business delegations, business advocacy, training programmes and courses.

Creating Awareness for the Business Community in Singapore

The Chamber as a reliable partner has facilitated meetings for the members, with different corporates from business sectors like Maritime, Pharmaceuticals and IT. Through these networking sessions aimed to explore and understand the new avenues that are emerging.

In 2012, SICCI continued to augment its role an enabler. The Board of Directors together made an important exercise to map a vision for this distinguished institution and the strategy to achieve it. The initiative included developing a stronger role in thought leadership and advocacy, tapping on the pool of members for creative ideas, greater engagement of the youth and enhancing SICCI’s corporate identity.

YEAR-IN-REVIEW

Enterprise Development Centre@SICCI

The Enterprise Development Centre (EDC@SICCI), a subsidiary of the SICCI, was set up in collaboration with SPRING Singapore in 2008.

The Centre assists start-up enterprises as well as established small-medium enterprises enhance their capabilities through the provision of value-added services such as business advisory, focused consultancy, business matching, market research, networking opportunities, regionalisation advisory, business promotion and business support information.

It also works closely with government agencies such as SPRING Singapore, International Enterprise Singapore, Economic Development Board, Infocomm Development Authority and Workforce Development Authority to help enterprises develop a better understanding of available government assistance schemes and assist them with the relevant applications.

EDC@SICCI also strives to help businesses upgrade their management skills and acquire enhanced capabilities through the adoption of new technologies.

SICCI Institute of Business

The Institute of Business (SICCI IOB) was set up as a division of SICCI in 2008. It assists SICCI’s members and the Singapore business community at large develop essential knowledge and skills to enhance their competitiveness in business and industry. It organises focused workshops, courses and seminars on a wide spectrum of topics, including trade, marketing, finance management development and language skills, to help them to stay tuned to the dynamic business environment in Singapore, the region and the rest of the world.

The Institute aims to be a successful and respected provider of quality educational services for the Singapore business community. Its mission is to provide quality business education programmes that will enable the participants to not only enhance their productivity but also encourage them to become life-long learners and problem solvers.

SICCI IOB provides relevant and timely courses and training programmes. At the same time, it promotes life-long learning among the members in particular and the business community in general. Lastly, through delivering quality programmes, IOB@SICCI enhances the profile of the Chamber.

SICCI Trade Documentation

SICCI Trade Documentation is authorised by the Singapore Customs to issue, endorse and certify Certificates of Origin, Inward and Outward Permits, and other shipping documents. The Chamber issues these certificates and documents for locally-manufactured and re-export goods, and direct shipment from a second to third country.

The issuance of the Certificate of Origin is an important function of the Chamber in international trade. The majority of governments and governing agencies regionally and internationally rely on the network of the Chamber in this respect due primarily to its knowledge, expertise and credible track record.

SICCI Trade Documentation also processes Inward and Outward Permits through the use of TradeNet. At the same time, it endorses non-standard documents on a case-by-case basis for SICCI members and non-SICCI members.

SICCI Trade Match

Trade Match is a wholly-owned subsidiary of SICCI. It specialises in linking SICCI members and companies in Singapore with suitable business partners, both locally and internationally. Its customised services are helpful and relevant to companies which seek new business ventures or are looking to expand into other emerging markets in the region and beyond.

SICCI Trade Match’s programmes are designed for the business community to build collaboration and networks, facilitate learning and improve capacity to enhance business practices in Singapore and around the region.

SICCI Trade Match also works towards attracting more investments into Singapore. It identifies the latest opportunities that exist for overseas stakeholders and initiates communication channels and exchanges ideas with various associations, business centres and commercial attaches.

In an increasingly competitive business environment, SICCI Trade Match also aims to help the Chamber's members and companies based in Singapore internationalise.

YEAR-IN-REVIEW

Continued Commitment and Support

SICCI has emerged to be a major force in representing the business interests of its members in Singapore, India and across the region. It has strived to create an environment for its members to meet prospective partners, clients and customers, and assist in developing their businesses.

SICCI also has a close working relationship with various stakeholders and partners in the government and non-government sectors. SICCI is represented in several key government platforms. These provide important channels for SICCI to exchange views on a wide variety of topics relevant to our members. SICCI is committed to its role of being the Business Partner of Choice to the Indian community in Singapore.

Charting the Path Forward

The fragile and timid recovery of the world economy does give a sigh of relief as we tread cautiously into 2013. The year 2013 will be a challenging year, even though the Asian economies show a substantial growth due to Intra-Asian trade. However, the slow decision making process and the political crisis in the Eurozone, a still recovering United States economy makes us cautious about the times ahead.

The still not out of the woods economic environment demands the Chamber to play an even more important role in examining various approaches to meet the business needs of its members. We will certainly work towards enhancing our programmes and events. We will continue to introduce more networking events, market awareness and training programmes, business advisory services, and business match-making and capability development initiatives.

We strongly believe that our tactical fortes, regional and global connections, and effective capabilities will facilitate us in supporting our members in their business goals and objectives. We are confident that both SICCI and its members will be able to endure and emerge more robust and strong.

SICCI Trade Match

PANEL OF ADVISORS

SICCI Trade Match

Ms Indranee RajahMember of Parliament for Tanjong Pagar GRC and

President, Singapore Indian Development Association

Mr J Y PillayChairman, Tiger Airways Holdings Ltd, andChairman, Council of Presidential Advisers

Mr S Chandra DasManaging Director, Nur Investment & Trading Pte Ltd, and

Pro-Chancellor, Nanyang Technological University

Mr Sat Pal KhattarChairman, Khattar Holdings Pte Ltd, and

Chairman, Guocoland Ltd

Mr M K ChanraiChairman, Kewalram Chanrai Group, and

Past Chairman, SICCI

Ambassador K KesavapanyGovernor, Singapore International Foundation, and

President, Singapore Indian Association

Mr Haider SithawallaExecutive Director, KSP Investments Pte Ltd, and

Executive Director, Savant Infocomm Pte Ltd

SICCI’S PAST PRESIDENTS/CHAIRMEN

SICCI Trade Match

President/Chairman Years

Mr R Jumabhoy 1935, 1940-1941, 1946-1948, 1950 and 1953-1954

Mr M Jumabhoy 1936 and 1937

Mr G Maganlal 1938 and 1939

Mr Hardilal Singh 1949

Mr D T Assomull 1951, 1952, 1955-1957 and 1962

Mr K M Abdul Razak 1958-1961 and 1963-1965

Mr G Ramachandran 1966-1968, 1973-1974 and 1982-1986

Mr Roop K Vaswani 1970-1972

Mr D D Sachdev 1969 and 1975-1977 Mr J M Jumabhoy 1978-1982

Mr Rupchand J Bhojwani 1986-1990

Mr Tikamdas R Mulani 1990-1992

Mr Murli K Chanrai 1992-1996

Mr Dau Dayal Gupta 1996-2000

Mr Nitin B Doshi 2000-2002 Mr Shabbir Hassanbhai 2002-2004

Mr M Rajaram 2004-2008

Mr Vijay Iyengar 2008-2010

Mr R Narayanamohan 2010-2014

War Years – 1942-1945

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

SINGAPORE INDIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRYSICCI Building, 31 Stanley Street, Singapore 068740Tel: 6222 2855 Fax: 6223 1707

Directors For The Term 2012 – 2014

POSITION NAME OF NOMINEE NAME OF COMPANY

CHAIRMAN R Narayanamohan Senior Partner Natarajan & Swaminathan

VICE-CHAIRMAN K V Aiyappan Managing Director Arthi International Pte Ltd

VICE-CHAIRMAN Prakash Pillai Head South Asia Practice Rajah & Tann LLP (April 2012 - Mar 2013)

VICE-CHAIRMAN A Dinakaran Madras New Woodlands Restaurant Pte Ltd (W.E.F April 2013)

HON TREASURER S Malaiappan V P Kumaran & Co

DIRECTOR Bagaria Rajan Arvee International Pte Ltd

DIRECTOR C Sankaranathan Kitchen Solutions Pte Ltd

DIRECTOR Chilappagari Srikanth Trident International Investments Pte Ltd

DIRECTOR Deepak S Singapuri New Light Enterprise

DIRECTOR Hiro J Bhojwani Shankar’s Emporium Pte Ltd

DIRECTOR Mahendra Agarwal Gati Asia Pacific Pte Ltd

DIRECTOR Mustaq Ahmad Managing Director Mohamed Mustafa & Samsuddin Co Pte Ltd

DIRECTOR Navin Jatia Managing Director Evergreen Global Pte Ltd

DIRECTOR Neil Parekh Individual Member

DIRECTOR Pichumony Sundaram Pan Asia Resources Pte Ltd

DIRECTOR Purnima Kamath De Ideaz Pte Ltd

DIRECTOR Tushar P Doshi Tushiv International Pte Ltd

SICCI Trade Match

Dated31 March 2013

OFFICIAL REPRESENTATIVE IN INDIA

SICCI appointed Mr Kapil Channa as its official

representative in New Delhi, India, in August 2008. His

key responsibilities are to:

Advise SICCI on the scope and nature of programmes

to be undertaken in India, and formulate and execute

specific programmes;

Keep SICCI informed of all policy matters and changes

of commercial significance in India;

Represent SICCI in making representations to the

Indian government on matters which SICCI feels are

importance to its members;

Develop and manage SICCI’s relationship with the

Indian government and regulators involved in

formulating legal and policy framework;

Keep SICCI posted on important announcements by

the Indian government and other regulatory bodies.

Keep SICCI abreast of major economic events and

issues, particularly those which are significant to

Singapore and are related to trade and investment.

SICCI, through Mr Channa’s office, provides a

facilitating role to its members and the larger

Singapore business community who are seeking to

engage the business community in India. Specifically,

the representative office is able to help with queries

on the Indian market. It also helps businessmen get in

touch with the relevant government agencies.

Mr Channa’s contact details are:

Mr Kapil Channa

SICCI Representative, India

C/o Kapil Channa Consultants Pvt Ltd

901, Tolstoy House

15, Tolstoy Marg

New Delhi 110001, India

Tel 91 11 23717772-75

Fax 91 11 23755800

Email [email protected]

SICCI would like to encourage all its members to avail

the services that are provided through Mr Channa and

his office in New Delhi, India.

SICCI Trade Match

SICCI SUBSIDIARIESEnterprise Development Centre@SICCI

SICCI Institute of BusinessSICCI Trade Documentation

SICCI Trade Match

SICCI SUBSIDIARIES

SICCI Trade Match

SICCI SUBSIDIARIES

JanuaryExploring Strategic Organizational Productivity-How to Improve Your Organization's Top and Bottom LinesProductivity Management Programme

Surviving in this ever-challenging economy is not easy as before. Faced by many obstacles and volatilities, one’s stress lines will definitely appear. Effective productivity and sustainability is what we need to grow. Mr Manoj Sharma, a world class organisation strategist, not only assisted your organisation to explore strategic productivity through a series of incredible ‘spot on’ but he also fully customised your strategic initiatives. Till date, Mr Sharma had worked with more than 80,000 individuals both locally and globally from more than 500 organisations, adding SICCI to his clientele.

Business Enterprise Network 2020 – Networking SessionEDC Outreach Event

BEN 2020 is a forum for entrepreneurs to socialize and form mentor groups. The key goal of this forum was to enable knowledge empowerment within the entrepre-neurs. It provided a fantastic opportunity to meet like-minded folks and businesses that provided services that helped them focus on their core compe-tencies. The session's highlight was a presentation on sales training and setting the right strategic targets.

SICCI Trade Match

FebruaryNuts & Bolts of Tactical Productivity Productivity Management Programme

The workshop discussed the following: 1 Fundamentals of Productivity.2 Measuring Productivity in your Organisation. 3 Benefiting from a FREE 1-To-1 Productivity Clinic.4 Getting your FREE Productivity Report for your Organisation. 5 How to Implement New Profitable Productivity Ideas.

Business Advisory Clinic at American Chamber of Commerce EDC Outreach Event

EDC@SICCI conducted 1-on-1 complimentary Business Advisors session for members of AmCham. Through the session, the members were advised on relevant government grants and schemes that catered to each stage of thecompany’s growth as well as the tax incentivesthey could benefit from.

MarchFacebook 101 - How can SMEs improve their marketing productivity? Productivity Management ProgrammeFacebook is now the largest social networking site. With over 845 million active users, Facebook is an untapped goldmine for savvy businesses. Business owners cannot afford to ignore Facebook when considering implementing marketing campaigns. The big question is, however, whether Facebook can be used to bring in business opportunities, leads and

sales for your business? Well, it certainly can. Key Takeaways • What is Facebook and Why is it Important. • How to Get Started.• How to Create Your Business Page - 5 Tips for Promoting Your Business. • What to Measure and How.• 3 Phases of Facebook Marketing.• Components of a Successful Fan Page.• Engaging Fans And Driving Repeated Business.

EDC Conference

The 4th EDC Conference was organised by all 5 EDCs and supported by SPRING. The aim of the conference was to educate and caution SMEs on the challenging times ahead and how to overcome them. The confer-ence spoke about Effective Sales and Marketing strategies for SMEs, cash flow issues, company sharing, internationalisation and many more. The conference also provided an opportunity for partici-pants to network for business facilitation and also undergo a complementary Business Advisory session with the EDCs.

MayA talk by Ministry of Manpower (MOM) - Further Measures to Moderate Demand for Foreign WorkersEDC Outreach Event The Government introduced further measures to moderate the increasing dependence on foreign manpower which grew by 7.5% per annum over the last two years. MOM briefed on the details of these foreign manpower measures. The measures included changes in the Dependency Ratio Ceilings (DRCs) in the Manu-facturing and Services sectors as well as the S Pass sub-DRC in all sectors. Changes to Man-Year Entitle-ments (MYE) were also covered.

PIC ClinicsEDC Outreach Event

PIC clinics are organised by the EDCs and supported by SPRING to help SMEs to apply for the Productivity & Innovation Credit (PIC) scheme. The clinic entailed a one-to-one session of the SME with an Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore officer to understand the six areas of productivity that can be claimed under tax exemption. The procedure to apply for exemption was also explained to the SME.

JuneMicrosoft Office 365 – SeminarEDC Outreach Event

The event was organised by one of the Microsoft Office 365 resellers for the SMEs to introduce them to:

• Cloud Computing• The features of office 365 and how it improves productivity and eases SMEs on their cash flow• The government support that is available to SMEs to adopt technology and improve productivity through cloud computing solutions.

The PIC was the main government scheme that was discussed. The EDC made a presentation on the government grants and schemes (PIC) that encour-aged SME adoption of technology.

Nanyang Technological University – Seminar EDC Outreach Event

A seminar was organised by the EDC@SICCI to the Aspiring Entrepreneurs at NTU to students from the Entrepreneurial sector. The students were informed about the procedure to set up a business in Singapore and were given an overview of the grants and schemes that can be tapped by start-up companies. The platform gave a good opportunity to the EDC to create its brand awareness and address the questions raised by the group.

JulyA Talk by Infocomm Development Authority (iDA):

Fast Track Your IT Adoption With iSPRINT(Increase SME Productivity With Infocomm Adoption & Transformation)EDC Outreach Event

In the increasingly competitive business environment, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are on the peril of losing out to competition. In order to remain competitive, it is imperative for SMEs to undertake productivity initiatives.

The iSPRINT grant administered by the infocomm Development Authority of Singapore (IDA) assists SMEs in their use of infocomm technology to achieve greater productivity and save costs. During this session, we learned how accessible it is to tap on iSPRINT’s 50% to 70% grant support for IT adoption, as well as other government assistance under IDA’s Infocomm@SME programme.

AugustA Talk by Competition Commission of Singapore

Understanding The Competition Act and How It Affects Your BusinessEDC Outreach Event

Staying competitive in the current economic environ-ment can be challenging if other companies use anti-competitive practices such as price-fixing and bid rigging to increase your business costs illegally. Having joined this session, we managed to find out how Competition Act can help you by stopping any anti-competitive practices which may hinder you from pursuing business opportunities. Your company might also be exposed to the risks of breaking the law by engaging in various anti-competitive practices, which may be hidden from senior management. To avoid this, the session explained how companies can proactively take steps to comply with the provisions of the Competition Act by having an effective competition compliance program in place.

SeptemberMicrosoft Office Tips & TricksEDC Outreach Event

Software’s as basic as Microsoft Excel & Outlook, if used properly increases our efficiency and productivity.The Office Tips & Tricks Event was a session on Excel & Outlook and provided a better understanding and insight of some of these useful features. The seminar was coupled with a session on Productiv-ity and Innovation Credit (PIC) by EDC@SICCI, to help companies convert their IT investments into savings.

A Talk on Business Growth through Quality Management System Standard: by SPRING Singapore and TUV SUD PSB

EDC Outreach Event

The ISO 9000 Quality Management System (QMS) Series of Standards provide relevant and useful guide-lines and supporting tools for enabling organisations to establish, implement and maintain an effective and robust QMS for organisational excellence. Information provided in this session provided the participants with a basic understanding of the 8 principles of QMS, Plan-Do-Check-Act system process and the third party certification process. The participants also learned more about the $5,000 Innovation & Capability Voucher (ICV), which helps SMEs to upgrade and enhance their capabilities in this area.

OctoberA Talk on Productivity and Innovation Credit (PIC):

Convert your Investments into Tax Savingsby Mr. R Narayanamohan of Natarajan & Swaminathan Certified Public AccountantsEDC Outreach Event

The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Singapore has been growing year-on- year and the workforce contributing to this has increased by 6.5%.This resulted in a drop in the productivitylevels. In order to improve these levels, the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) introduced the Productivity and Innovation Credit Scheme (PIC) in the year 2010.

The seminar aimed at informing businesses about the PIC scheme. The seminar also provided an insight on the benefits of the scheme and guideline on the claimable expenses.

A Talk on Singapore's Free Trade Agreements (FTA) and Certificate of Origin Application by International Enterprise (IE) Singapore and Singa-pore Customs

EDC Outreach Event

International Enterprise (IE) Singapore:Singapore has a total of 18 bilateral and regional Free Trade Agreements (FTA) with 24 trading partners. These FTAs have been instrumental in helping Singapore-based companies in the following manners: • Strengthening cross-border trade by eliminating or reducing import tariff rate• Providing preferential market access These topics aimed to equip companies with the necessary FTAs on their competitive advantage in the business environment.Singapore Customs: This segment aimed to provide participants with an overview on the following topics:a) Types of Certificate of Origin (CO).b) Rules of Origin under FTAs.c) Manufacturer registration.d) Submission of Manufacturing Cost Statement.e) Application of COs via TradeNet.

A Talk on Productivity and Innovation Credit (PIC):

Convert your Investments into Tax Savingsby EDC@SICCI

GDP of Singapore has been growing year-on- year and the workforce contributing to this has increased by 6.5%.This resulted in a drop in the productivity levels. In order to improve these levels, the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) introduced the Productivity and Innovation Credit Scheme (PIC) in the year 2010.

This seminar aimed at informing businesses about the PIC scheme. The seminar provides an insight on the benefits of the scheme and guideline on the claimable expenses.

November

Office 365 for Construction IndustryEDC@SICCI cordially invited you to our inaugural Entrepreneurship Week 2012. This event was to celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit within us, recog-nise the talent and success we possess and to motivate entrepreneurs to achieve new heights in 2013.Six inspiring entrepreneurs from several industries shared with us their journey of how they overcame challenges through their continuous efforts to bring their business ideas to life and also enlightened us with their experience of how they availed Government Assistance to become successful business makers.

December

Entrepreneurship Week 2012EDC Outreach Event

EDC@SICCI organized an inaugural Entrepreneurship Week 2012 – Be Driven, Be Inspired. The event was an initiative aimed to celebrate the work and ideas of businessman, who have launched startups, brought their ideas to life and have contributed to the economic growth.The entrepreneurs shared their personal business experiences, journey and insights and how they have grabbed opportunities, managed risks, solved problems, fuelled their own creativity, built networks and stepped up from pitfalls and eventually climbed the success ladder. Most importantly, they shared the forms of govern-ment assistance received and how advisory sessions with the EDC advisors have been beneficial.Six esteemed speakers for the three days were Ms Shailaja of Om Vedic Heritage Centre, Mr Sachin Dabir of Ashnik, Mr Venkat of San Systems and Ms Maya of A&B Scaffold Engineering, Mr Aaron Lee of Innovez Solutions and Mr Firoz of Hobbs Holdings.

January

PIC Clinic at EDC@SICCIA 1-to-1 Advisory Session on PIC of one hour each was conducted. Customers registered for the advisory session at a preferred time slot. The session was offered on a complimentary basis.

PIC ClinicsPIC clinics are organised by the EDCs and supported by SPRING to help SMEs to apply for the Productivity & Innovation Credit (PIC) scheme. The clinic will entail a one-to-one session of the SME with an IRAS officer to understand the six areas of productivity that can be claimed under the tax exemption. The procedure to apply for the exemption would also be explained to the SME.

FebruarySME Financial Toolkit & Cash Flow Management for SMEsBy Advantage Business Consultancy & Credit Bureau Singapore

Cash Flow Management:Cashflow management is a common challenge faced by many companies. SMEs often engage manpower to maintain financial records rather than managing finances to ensure healthy cash flow. This session addressed cash conversion cycle, accounts receivable, supplier credit and investing options.

SME Financial Toolkit:

The ABS SME Financial Management Toolkit was developed by The Association of Banks in Singapore (ABS) with support from SPRING Singapore, and is available to SMEs at no charge. It is a self-help platform that provides the necessary information, templates and tools to SMEs regarding the financial health of their business. Users will be able to ascertain the working capital requirements for business growth, and other aspects of the company’s financial standing. Key Takeaways:• Identified financial gaps, and enabled SMEs to understand and seek appropriate advisory or financial advice• Understood cash flow conversion cycle, accounts receivable, supplier credit and investing options

MarchEDC ConferenceGo, Grow and Globalise: Step Up and TransformEnterprise Development Centre (EDC) Conference is an annual event organised by the five EDCs in strategic partnership with SPRING, namely:• EDC@ASME (Association of Small and Medium Enterprises)• EDC@SCCCI (Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry)• EDC@SICCI (Singapore Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry)• EDC@SMF (Singapore Manufacturers Federation)• EDC@SMCCI (Singapore Malay Chamber of Commerce and Industry)

The EDCs have experienced business advisors to diagnose and provide information and advice to SMEs in areas like financial and human resources manage-ment, branding and overseas expansion. They also encourage SMEs to upgrade their core capabilities, leveraging on relevant government assistance programmes. Over the years, the number of SMEs that has tapped on the EDCs’ resources and facilities has risen five times, from about 2,400 in 2005 to some 12,000 in 2012.

This year’s themeThis year, the 5th EDC conference was held on 25th March, at the Max Atria, Singapore Expo.The 5th EDC Conference was designed to offer a unique sharing of business experiences from our home grown companies and leading organizations, their successes and failures to inspire our SMEs to “step-up &transform”.

Step-up and transform is the way to go to regain business viability in the current business conditions. The 5th EDC Conference offered excellent opportuni-ties for SMEs to exchange views on how to survive in business downturn and unlock the secrets of business continuation.

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Key Events

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT PROGRAMMES

Food Festival @ Little India 30 June - 31 July 2012 Little IndiaThe Food Festival @ Little India was organised as part of the Singapore Food Festival from 30 June to 31 July 2012. The initiative was undertaken by the Indian Restaurants Association (Singapore). The highlights of this event was a special Food and Beverage festival light up of Little India, ‘Spice Village’, hosted in a specially constructed fishing trawler, cooking and chef competitions. The Seafood Mela’, was the climax of the month long festival. A Guinness World Record attempt was made by serving 2,012 curry fish heads. A sumptuous buffet spread will tantalise your taste buds. With top entertainment by local, regional and international artistes and a sumptuous buffet spread, it was truly a night to remember.

Breaking Barriers9 September 2012The Grassroots Club

Breaking Barriers 2012 was jointly organised by People's Association Narpani Pearavai Ladies' Sub-Committee and the Singapore Indian Chamber of Commerce & Industry's Women's Indian Network.

The forum aimed to promote awareness of entrepreneurship amongst Indian women, and encourage upgrading of skills and work-life balance. The forum besides its objective to inspire and motivate Indian women to become successful business women, also created a platform for the integration of local and expatriate Indian women. The programme brought together 5 eminent speakers who shared their entrepreneurial journey and gave tips to budding entrepreneurs who are aspiring to achieve success in their ventures.

SICCI Trade Match

Deepavali Charity Function 25 November 2012 Taman Jurong Community ClubAs part of the Deepavali celebration, the SICCI reached out, on a charitable and social basis, to the needy and less fortunate residents of Taman Jurong. We participated in Deepavali 2012 on 25 November 2012. Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister for Finance and Manpower, was the Guest-of-Honour for the event.

The Chamber and its members made donations which were used to arrange dinner and purchase NTUC vouchers for more than 400 needy families. This initiative was part of our efforts to include the less fortunate in our Deepavali celebrations.

Inter-Chamber Golf Challenge27 November 2012Raffles Country Club

SICCI members who are Golf enthusiasts represented the Chamber at the ‘Inter-Chamber Golf Challenge’, a segment in the Charity Golf Tournament held annually by the Singapore Malay Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SMCCI) to raise funds for social community development activities.

SICCI was delighted to be a sponsor for the initiative, where players from the different chambers and organisations participate for a friendly game of golf.

EDC Conference

EDC Outreach Event

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DEVELOPING INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

SICCI Trade Match

SICCI Chairman accompanies Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong on his visit to India10 July 2012

Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong made a state visit to India, seeking to boost the bilateral ties which have seen growing trade and investments. PM Lee led a high-level delegation that included the Speaker of Singapore Parliament Michael Palmer, Education Minister Heng Swee Keat and senior government officials. Joining the delegation was Mr R Narayanamohan, Chairman, Singapore Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry. As reported by the press, Mr Narayanamohan said "Very close and cordial relationship is prevailing between India and Singapore and the trade and investment are growing simultaneously between the two countries." He also mentioned that the Singapore Prime Minister’s visit will further strengthen the bilateral relationship and will increase the trade and investment between the two countries. The chairman also shared his views on Singapore as a regional hub and highlighted SICCI’s achievements over the past year and his upcoming plans and agenda for the chamber.

Business Mission to International Jewellery Show (IIJS) 2012, Mumbai, India22 - 25 August 2012

The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) recently held the India International Jewellery Show (IIJS) 2012 at the Bombay Convention & Exhibition Centre in Goregaon, Mumbai. As Asia’s second largest jewellery show, IIJS is the most promi-nent sourcing event in the country, providing an extensive platform for across-the-board B2B trade. This year, the show celebrated its 29th edition and featured more than 800 exhibitors, 1,800 booths and 30,000 trade visitors.

The Singapore Indian Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SICCI) led a business delegation from Singapore to IIJS 2012 from 22 to 25 August 2012. SICCI Director and Chairman of the Events Sub-Committee, Mr Deepak S. Singapuri let the delegation of 23 members to Mumbai. On 22 August 2012, the delegation attended the India International Jewellery Week (IIJW) finale show featuring highlights from the week with top designer brands and extrava-gant runway shows. The event featured many known and upcoming designers from across India and showcased their exquisite jewellery collection at the show. It also served as great introductory platform for the delegates.

The next 2 days were spent covering the IIJS exhibition and programmes. The exhibition featured several exhibitors and trade visitors from all over. Delegates were able to meet several suppliers, businesses and gather prospects during the exhibition. SICCI also arranged a factory visit to Surat, where more than 90% of the world's diamonds are cut and polished. The delegates had the rare opportunity to view the actual processing of diamonds to better understand the procedures involved to make a GIA certified diamond.

Business Mission to Indonesia15 - 19 October 2012The Singapore Indian Chamber of Commerce (SICCI) participated in a business mission to Jakarta, Indonesia, from 15 to 19 October 2012 to partake in the 27th Trade Expo Indonesia (TEI) 2012. Indonesian Ambassador to Singapore, HE Mr Bapak Andri Hadi led the delegation from Singapore with SICCI Chairman, R Narayanamohan and Director, Mr Tushar P. Doshi taking the lead for SICCI. The mission enabled delegates to explore new markets and business opportunities and also met with government officials who provided the latest information regarding the trade and investment policies in Indonesia. During the visit to Jakarta, the delegation participated in the 27th Trade Expo Indonesia (TEI) 2012, an initiative of the Ministry of Trade, Indonesia to promote Indonesian companies as potential and reliable suppliers of qualified and competitive consumer products and raw materials. More than 1000 Indonesian producers, exporters, suppliers and organisations exhibited their services and products in TEI 2012. The exhibition showcased Indonesia's remarkable selection of products, from agricultural and mining raw materials to creativity-based products and technology-intensive products. It also exhibited the services sector, such as skilled manpower, construction services, trade-related services and IT-based services.

Business Mission to India, Kochi & Ahmedabad6 - 12 January 2013The Singapore Indian Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SICCI) led a business delegation to India from 6 to 12 January 2013. The 12 member delegation was led by SICCI Chairman, Mr R Narayanamohan. The delegation visited the two most investor friendly states in India, Kerala and Gujarat. In Kochi, Kerala, the delegation participated in the 11th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD 2013) Convention, which was jointly organised by the Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs and the Government of Kerala.

During the 2 day visit to the 11th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) 2013 Convention, the delegation had the privilege of meeting Sri Vayalar Ravi, Honourable Minister of Overseas Indian Affairs and Sri Oommen Chandy, Honourable Chief Minister of Kerala. The delegation also held discussions with several state officials from the states of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Rajasthan and Odisha.

At the onset of the PBD Convention, the delegation visited the Start-up village at Kinfra Hi-Tech Park, Kalamassery, Kochi to gain an insight on the InfoTech developments in Kerala. Following which, the delegates proceeded to meet the members of Kerala Chamber of Commerce & Industry. The delegation also held meetings with key government officials in Department of Industries, Kerala State Planning Board, Spices Board, Rubber Board, Coconut Development Board and Marine Products Export Development Authority, Government of Kerala. The meetings provided a comprehensive overview of the current business conditions as well as investment opportunities in India, particularly Kerala. The delegation then proceeded to Gujarat to participate in Vibrant Gujarat, 6th Global Summit on 11th January 2013.

This biennial summit organised by the Government of Gujarat, brought together business leaders, investors, corporations, thought leaders, policy and opinion makers. The summit served as a perfect platform to understand and explore business opportunities in Gujarat. The Global summit, as in its previous years, was successful in attracting more than 5000 delegates from 22 Indian states and more than 1800 delegates from 105 countries.

During the Summit, the delegates met Sri Narendra Modi, Honourable Chief Minister of Gujarat who warmly welcomed the delegation. The Honourable Chief Minister briefly shared his plans for the state, as well as the objectives of the Summit. The delegation also met Sri Saurabh Patel and Smt Anandiben Patel, Honourable Ministers, Government of Gujarat.

In Gandhinagar, Gujarat, the SICCI delegation attended the inauguration of Gujarat’s tallest building in the Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT) on 10 January 2013. Among the various initiatives undertaken by the Gujarat Government to accelerate the pace of development, the government aims to create a Global Financial Hub in Gandhinagar, by developing GIFT. SICCI delegates participated in this momentous occasion and met senior officials of GIFT to explore business opportunities for Singapore companies. Later in the day, the delegates held a meeting with the Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry and signed a Memorandum of Understanding between the two chambers.

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SICCI Trade Match

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SICCI Trade Match

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SICCI Trade Match

EDC Conference

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EDC EVENTS

EDC@SICCI EVENTS

SICCI Trade Match

EDC Conference

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EDC@SICCI EVENTS

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IOB Programmes Categories• Trade Documentation• Educational Seminars• Productivity Management Programme • Language Proficiency• Management Development Workshop

AprilManitoba Means Business(Educational Seminar)

This seminar provided an overview of the province and details of the potential business and investment opportunities available in Manitoba. It also covered the details of the Business Immigration programme of the Government of Manitoba, a programme that invited business owners and senior managers to immigrate and invest in Manitoba.

Common Trade Disputes arising out of Market Volatility (Productivity Management Programme)

In this seminar, the speakers examined some of the common issues that players in international trade may face in times of market volatility and how best to address them. The topics covered included dealing with a termination of a sale contract, risks involved in issuing letters of indemnity and the liens that ship owners can exercise against charterers / traders.

Conversational Business Mandarin (3 month Course) (Language Proficiency)

The Conversational Business Mandarin programme was designed for executives and professionals who want to gain competency in Mandarin language for business purposes. Conducted by our partner, KLC School of Education, the course developed our speaking and comprehension skills for daily interactions in a business environment. The beginners’ programme required zero-level Chinese language proficiency.

Incoterms 2010 (2 Day Workshop) (Trade Documentation)

This two-day seminar refreshed our understanding of Incoterms; it’s accepted definitions and rules of interpretation; proper usage; the dangers to avoid in usage; the costs, rights and responsibilities associated with the terms; and when risks are transferred from the seller to the buyer.

MayTechnology Adoption for Growth and Sustainability of SMEs ((Productivity Management Programme)

This seminar was intended to create awareness on technology trends and how growing organisations could adapt them. With help of case studies, participants analysed technology trends that they should be aware of and provided cues on their adaptability. The seminar threw light on the current technologies, including Backup, Cloud Applications, and Social Media which have enabled SMEs to not only structure processes but also improve overall bottom lines.

Achieving Lasting Results through Appreciative Inquiry (Educational Seminar)

Appreciative Inquiry (AI) is a new change management approach created by pioneers in the field of Organisation Development. This seminar provided an understanding of the strengths-based approach for problem solving as opposed to the traditional methods. Real-life stories and case studies of organisations that have implemented Appreciative Inquiry and sustained transformational (measurable) results was discussed.

Essential Negotiation Skills (Management Development Workshop)

Essential Negotiation Skills was designed to provide both the knowledge and skills required by any professional, with respect to the application of knowledge of interpersonal relationships that can facilitate the negotiation process and develop analytical skills, to put negotiation situations in context and evaluate outcomes.

JuneGreat Leaders are Great Storytellers(Productivity Management Programme)

This presentation focused on how these highly productive and successful managers connect, communicate and persuade through the effective use of storytelling - an indispensible tool from the Boardroom to the Showroom.

GST Rules and Regulations for SMEs and Start-Ups (Educational Seminar)It is a common misconception that GST is a ‘simple’ tax and merely imposing the rate of seven percent on local transactions. Many businesses have voluntarily registered for GST even through their turnover does not exceed the threshold of S$1 million. This workshop provided valuable insights into the GST rules and regulations, how to apply the correct GST treatment on business transactions and learn how to minimise the cash-flow impact of GST on business.

Risk Management (Educational Seminar)

The liabilities that flow from Bills of Lading can be extremely complex. Therefore, the need for maximum clarity about our liabilities from the outset is important. Participants learnt the key aspects of liner contracts and charter parties, obligations of the ship owner and the functions of a Bill of Lading to serve as a document of title.

Cash Flow Management for SMEs (Educational Seminar)

Small and Medium Enterprises often engage manpower resources to maintain financial records rather than manage finances to ensure healthy cash flows. This seminar provided an overview on managing your company to ensure cash flows are healthy.

JulyThe High Performance Manager (Productivity Management Programme)

Participants learnt the key result areas of every manager and how they can begin increasing their effectiveness in every area of management activities. To be a better manager does not mean you have to alter your whole approach and style, instead we learnt how to make little adjustments that will yield big results. The facilitator used the method of Catechism to question our knowledge, tickle our imagination, test our listening skills and ensure comprehension by engaging learners in energetic and insightful discussions

BEN2020 – Brand and You – The Skills Enhancement Series(Educational Seminar)

BEN2020 is a new business networking community that empowers Singapore based budding and aspiring entrepreneurs to set out in the market through knowledge sharing. The primary goal was to organise seminars on various subjects that are important to entrepreneurs. This session was on the importance of Branding. In more entrepreneur-lead business, branding is often considered beyond reach, too expensive or even irrelevant and hence not taken into business planning. However, it may be the only tool to differentiate you from your competitors.

Goods and Services Tax- Navigating the Maze (Management Development Workshop)

This GST workshop was specifically tailored to raise the competency of the managers and avoid errors in returns resulting in penalties being imposed.• Learn to apply the correct GST treatment on your business transactions• Learn how to minimise the cash-flow impact of GST on your business• Understand the GST rules which can hamper your business if applied incorrectly• Avoid being penalised for not complying with the Law

Understanding Business Finance (Educational Seminar)

Entrepreneurs need to be able to keep an eye on the financial fitness of their business. Many small businesses struggle because they are not comfortable analysing and tracking and this leads to entrepreneurs running out of cash. This seminar provided an understanding of the financial elements crucial for businesses.

Pitfalls in Letters of Credit (Trade Documentation)

This course helped the participants learn about the risks in international trade, selecting the appropriate payment method, comparing the risks and benefits of the various LC options, the actual LC process and ensuring appropriate trade documentation. It also helped in limiting and dealing with discrepancies and avoiding LC fraud situations.

The Importance of Process Improvement in your Organisation (Educational Seminar)

This seminar focused on helping managers, including IT Heads, to understand the role process plays in productivity and the process improvement tools and techniques available. Process Improvement tools include those used for capture and documentation to automation and process re-engineering.

Internationalisation (Educational Seminar)

This seminar acquainted participants with a richer understanding of branding and brand building principles and tools that will enable businesses to make an effective strategic expansion plan in the region. Participants also learnt the various branding ideas and strategies that they can use to make their expansion plans more strategic and well grounded.

AugustBusiness Continuity Management (Productivity Management Programme)

Business Continuity Management is a management framework that empowers the organisation with the capability to proactively manage risks, effectively respond to incidents and smoothly resume business operations. This seminar intended to build awareness amongst participants about the principles of Business Continuity Management (BCM) and to empower them with the fundamentals of the BCM program. The speakers shared their experience on how a robust BCM Program enables an organisation in proactively managing risks and effectively handling incidents.

How to succeed through a structured and customer-focused client appointments (Educational Seminar)

Starting with the basics, this seminar focused on a logical structure, motivation and effective client handling to build. This seminar provided participants with an insight into how easily client appointments can become more result-oriented, as well as, an understanding of how easily cross-selling potential can be tapped into many cases of practiced-based client appointments.

BEN2020 – Transition to Entrepreneurship (Educational Seminar)This seminar series was a peer sharing session for entrepreneurs. This session was about learning from mistakes and the journey of a successful entrepreneur, who took a plunge from his CEO position 8 years back and started a new life Singapore.

International Shipping and Logistics Contracts (Trade Documentation)

The course also included an overview of responsibilities in arranging marine insurance along with an update on Incoterms 2010.• Supply Chain and Logistics Concepts and Rules• Learn about Shipping and Logistics terms in

International Sales and Purchase Contracts• What are international rules affecting Shipping and Logistics Contracts• Overview of Logistics and Warehousing Contracts• Carriage of Goods by Air / Sea / Road and Rail and multimodal Carriage• Limitation of Liability and Time Bars

SeptemberClear & Creative Thinking (Educational Seminar) Clear and Creative thinking is a great asset and a skill set that can be improved with practise. With increased competition in the market, companies need to adopt creative ideas to gain a competitive edge. This seminar showed how clear thinking can open the mind to new ways of looking at problems and opportunities and also explore creative and analytical techniques for generating fresh ideas.

Selling – The Right Way (Productivity Management Programme)

This seminar was intended to showcase techniques on how to drive sales and grow our organisation. We seldom realise the hidden potential of effective sales strategies; the right strategies can increase revenues, productivity and effectiveness with the same or fewer resources.• How to drive growth in a challenging environment?• Increase Sales through improved Service• How to execute a Sale better?• Are our processes transparent and visible?• Are we customer and Client Centric?

Import & Export Procedures and Practice (Trade Documentation)This workshop included an introduction to the main elements of the export and import procedure and documentation involved in global trade operations. An understanding of various types of shipping documents and use of the various trade declarations. The seminar provided an overview of global trade, the risks associated

with it and the management of these risks. The focus was on Singapore import export documentation and procedures. The programme also included an introduction to Bills of Lading, Letters of Credit and the UCP 600.

BEN2020 – Pitching and Networking (Educational Seminar)

This session was about the importance of pitching and networking. The session included a Question & Answer session on how to pitch and network for business development. Participants got to hear from fellow entrepreneurs and experts.

OctoberBEN2020 – Seminar and Networking (Educational Seminar)

The October session focused on managing your personal finance. Time and again we have heard from experienced entrepreneurs that there is a direct link between your personal finance and the success of your entrepreneurship journey. Participants got to hear from Mr Udaysinh Jagtap, an experienced investment advisor and financial consultant who has helped manage the personal finances of many successful entrepreneurs and investors.

NovemberStop Playing with Fire! – Threat and Error Management Seminar (Productivity Management Programme)

This programme focused on exploring the root causes of errors and how you fix them with a system that has worked with some of the safest industries. If your organisation embraces the concepts from this programme, you are already on your way to greater resiliency and competitiveness. The aim of this seminar was to help leaders of SMEs learn critical, but often-ignored error management processes that embrace competitiveness and productivity.

BEN2020 – Experience Sharing and Networking Session (Educational Seminar)

This session was about learning from ‘experience sharing’. Participants got to hear from, Jason Masciarelli, founder, CEO of Acromobile. Acromobile helps companies leverage mobile and social media channels to improve customer experience, deliver more value and drive revenue. Jason shared his story on how he started off his career in USA and built a successful company focusing on Asian market. He talked about his next venture, which is based on Singapore.

DecemberSales Training: Beyond Chit Chat- How to succeed through more structured and Customer Client appointments (Management Development Workshop)

Sales and Advisory training means to be high result oriented, process focused and based on 'easy to use techniques'. The aim of this workshop was to increase the confidence level and success rates of junior sales staff as well as show senior sales people ways to further enhance and diversify their sales techniques. On top of this, our approach offered sales managers an easy to apply tool to incorporate their sales staff and to control them in an efficient and effective manner.

BEN2020 – Pitching and Networking (Educational Seminar)The upcoming session began with the segment, 'Bring in your Challenge', where we could ask a question related to entrepreneurship or our business. We got to hear from fellow entrepreneurs and experts. Chances were that we would really get enlightened with new perspectives or would feel our thinking has been validated, giving us encouragement.

Change your Organisation’s Fate – Improve Productivity through a Structured Framework (Productivity Management Programme)

This seminar was intended to showcase a Structured Framework to identify the productivity levers that assisted in identifying the strengths and areas of improvement. SPRING's IMPACT (Integrated Management of Productivity Activities) FRAMEWORK is designed to assist SME's, to know where they stand both qualitatively and quantitatively. This seminar enlightened us with the know-how, on how to measure the right parameters that determine our company's success. It also highlighted how to draw a pragmatic road map to close the identified areas of improvement.

JanuaryBEN2020 – Workshop and Networking (Educational Seminar)

The session was about the topic, 'Fail to Plan is Plan to Fail'. Very often we think business planning is a long, tedious work and we simply do not force ourselves to think about it. This session included a group activity which exposed us to various aspects of business planning. We got to hear from, Mr Mahesh Balakrishnan, experienced business consultant who has worked with over 100 startup companies for their business planning.

Efficient and Productive Financing for Local and Global Growth (Productivity Management Programme)

This seminar helped us discover how to combine existing financing solutions with government initiatives, as well as introduced unconventional avenues for financing. Some of these ideas also addressed short-term financing concerns and provided a tax savings channel. We looked at ways to effortlessly expand your business using innovative corporate and financial solutions.

Let’s talk about Food Safety – Food Management System Seminar (Educational Seminar)

This seminar focused on exploring the global food safety certification trends and also, the local food safety requirements. If your organisation embraced the concepts from this programme, you are on your way to greater resiliency and competitiveness. The aim of this seminar was to help leaders of SMEs learn about food safety management processes that embrace competitiveness and productivity.

FebruaryChange your Organisation’s Fate – Improve Productivity through a Structured Framework.(Productivity Management Program)

This seminar was intended to showcase a Structured Framework to identify the productivity levers that assisted in identifying the strengths and areas of improvement. SPRING's IMPACT (Integrated Management of Productivity Activities) FRAMEWORK is designed to assist SME's, to know where they stand both qualitatively and quantitatively. This seminar enlightened us with the know-how, on how to measure the right parameters that determined our company's success. It also highlighted how to draw a pragmatic road map to close the identified areas of improvement.

Beyond Chit Chat – How to Effectively Manage a Sales Team to Improve Productivity (Productivity Management Programme)

BEN2020 – Meet and Greet (Educational Seminar)

'Coming together is a beginning...' As they say, it is a path to success. The upcoming session was about pitching your business and networking with fellow entrepreneurs. It was an opportunity to mingle and make the right connections. This assisted individuals in realising their strengths and abilities. We hoped it provided a new perspective and helped in reinforcing your thought process.

MarchBusiness Continuity Management (Management Development Workshop)

This workshop was designed to enable the participants understand and grasp key concepts of Business Continuity Management. Participants gained a comprehensive understanding on how to provide organisational resiliency through a methodical process. During the workshop, various templates was shared which could be used for implementing in their own organisation.

EDC@SICCI EVENTS

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EDC@SICCI EVENTS

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EDC@SICCI EVENTS

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IOB EVENTS

IOB PROGRAMMES

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IOB PROGRAMMES

ACE-ETPL Investor Forum 20121 June 2012 | Breakthrough and Discovery Theatrettes | 1.30pm - 6.00pm One of the main difficulties many technology companies faced while starting up is commercialising their novel concepts and developing them into new products and businesses. Jointly organized by the Action Community for Entrepreneurship (ACE) and Exploit Technologies (ETPL), the ACE-ETPL Investor Forum 2012 aimed to discuss the local technology scene and showcase the latest exciting technologies from the research institutes and start-up scene. The forum also provided the platform for networking among industry and start-up partners, experienced entrepreneurs, investors and small and medium enterprises.

iAdvisory Seminar Series: Trade and Investment Opportunities in Canada 6 June 2012 | IE Singapore | 9.00am – 2.00pm Organised by International Enterprise Singapore, the ‘iAdvisory Seminar Series on ‘Trade and Investment Opportunities in Canada enabled businesses to explore the current trade and business opportunities in Canada. With high GDP per capita, an attractive tax regime and business-friendly legislation, Canada is an appealing option for Singapore businesses looking to expand their global reach. It is the world’s top 11th economy and among the top four trade partners with Asian giants like China and Japan. No stranger to technological advancements and rich in natural resources, Canada offered an abundance of opportunities in commodities, oil and gas, aerospace, clean technology and water solutions.

SME BizTech Summit 2012 25 - 26 July 2012 | Singapore The SMB World Asia was pleased to announce its inaugural SME BizTech Summit 2012 scheduled on 25 and 26 July 2012 in Singapore. Organised by SMBWorld Asia, a Questex Media publication, the event was dedicated to provide a platform for strategic level discussion to sustain small-medium enterprises’ (SMEs) business growth in today’s increasingly competitive and global market. Recognizing the economic importance of SMEs, SME BizTech Summit 2012 brought together business leaders from Singapore’s SME community to discuss business strategies and technology solutions that empowered their businesses. From high level business strategy discussions to cutting-edge technology solutions such as Cloud Technology, SME BizTech Summit covered all topics pertinent for the forward thinking business leaders.

Inter-Association Networking Night 201225 July 2012 | Zouk | 7.00pm - 10.00pm The Association of Small & Medium Enterprises was pleased to present the Inter-Association Networking Night 2012 at Zouk on 25 July 2012. The Inter-Association Networking Night was a high profile event that offered a platform for members of selected Associations to come together to network and expand business contacts in an informal and relaxed setting. This event benefitted members of participating Associations as it created an excellent opportunity for members to network beyond their Association community. Moreover, the event enabled members to reach out to a wider pool of potential partners and investors which was highly essential in enhancing the growth of their businesses.

Seminar on Sanctions and Export Controls: What It Means for Businesses 31 July 2012 | SBF Seminar Room 2 | 9.30am – 1.00pm The Singapore Business Federation (SBF) organized a Seminar on Sanctions and Export Controls: What It Means for Businesses on 31 July 2012. As companies conducting business globally are continuously faced with the pressures of dealing with economic sanctions and export control requirements, they need to exercise caution and practice due diligence in all transactions they undertake. This seminar addressed the increased need to keep up to date with the latest legislative changes and concerns on compliance.

Africa Singapore Business Forum 29 - 30 August 2012 | SMU Auditorium and Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel The Africa Singapore Business Forum, organized by IE Singapore, was held on 29 and 30 August 2012. The forum was a premier business platform for exchanging business insights and promoting collaboration between Africa, Singapore and Asia through the exchange of business insights and networking. Into its second edition, the forum will feature top minds in business and the government from Africa, Singapore, and other Asian countries as they delve into topics pertinent to Africa, Singapore and post-recovery Asia, such as achieving sustainable growth, identifying opportunities emerging in these regions and harnessing these new engines of growth. This conference also provided numerous opportunities for networking over a cocktail reception.

12th Global Conference of Women Entrepreneurs in association with IFWE 3 - 5 September 2012 | The Ashok, New Delhi

The Federation of Indian Women Entrepreneurs (FIWE) organized the 12th conference on “Trade Liberalization and its Global Impact on Women Entrepreneurs” in India in association with IFWE in New Delhi.

The main objective of the conference was to foster entrepreneurships among women and to provide them international platform to promote their business through women to women networking. This conference witnessed around more than 800 women entrepreneurs participating across the world from more than 8 key sectors of SMEs.

Participants of this event had access to high-end business houses of international stature, this exhibition enabled them to be exposed to lot of innovative idea, techniques and an excellent network of like minded people.

For more information, please visit http://fiwe.org/PRegistration-Information.html or email to [email protected].

2nd MOGP Summit 3 - 6 September 2012 | Yangon

Organised by CMT with Myanmar's Ministry of Energy as Official host, the 2nd MOGP Summit was the platform for key officials, global and local energy/power companies and investors to receive first-hand information on latest regulatory reforms, oil and gas fiscal regime and tax structure updates.

The Myanmar Oil, Gas & Power sector is the last frontier market in South East Asia and the Myanmar government aims to accelerate growth by encouraging foreign direct investment. At 2nd MOGP Summit, Official speakers' panel presented investment opportunities as the second round of bidding invitation commence for the upstream oil, gas as well as electric power sector. Participants also found out how they can participate in this growth and development from leading oil and gas operators in Myanmar.

Emerging Kerala12 - 14 September 2012 | Kerala

Emerging Kerala was planned as a biennial Global Connect, the first being 'Emerging Kerala 2012' held from 12th – 14th September 2012 at Le Meridien Convention Centre, Kochi, Kerala. The Honourable Prime Minister of India inaugurated the three-day event.

Several programmes were planned in connection with and running up to 'Emerging Kerala 2012’, including business meets, sectoral conclaves, domestic and international road-shows, discussion and debates. The Event as well as its associated programmes had the support of the Government of Kerala (GoK), in addition to various Trade and Industrial bodies.

Emerging Kerala 2012 was our opportunity to explore, invest and establish your business interests in Kerala. With a pro-active administration and investment-friendly policies, this is your gateway to make a mark on the industrial playground of Kerala.

iAdvisory Seminar: Thailand beyond Bangkok27 September 2012 | IE Singapore | 9:00am - 5:00pm

The International Enterprise (IE) Singapore organized the iAdvisory Seminar: Thailand beyond Bangkok on 27 September 2012 at IE Singapore. Following widespread devastation by the floods last year, an ambitious US$10 Billion project to protect Bangkok from future flooding was expected to present numerous opportunities in Thailand. The government also made an effort to restore business confidence and draw investment to Thailand. The IMF had forecasted Thailand’s real GDP growth to increase from 0.1% in 2011-2012 to 6% in 2012-2013. Diverse opportunities await Singapore companies that can support Thailand’s reconstruction and development.

Singapore International Energy Week (SIEW)22 – 25 October 2012 | Marina Bay Sands

The 5th Annual SIEW 2012 was the foremost platform for top policymakers, energy practitioners and commentators to discuss energy issues, strategies and solutions. SIEW brought together the world’s leading conferences, exhibitions, workshops and networking events from across the energy spectrum of oil & gas, clean and renewable energy, smart grids, carbon abatement and energy trading, in one week, in one location.

2nd New Myanmar Investment 17 - 18 October 2012 | Yangon, Myanmar

The Centre for Management Technology organized the 2nd New Myanmar Investment Summit specially structured to provide vital updates and offer a broad outlook of the investment scenario in Myanmar.

Targeted at both foreign and local business entities, the conference took place in Yangon on 17-18 October 2012 that hosted top officials as well as experts from the private sector who shared their expertise via cutting-edge sessions and presentations.

For more information regarding this event and to register, please visit www.cmtevents.com or email to Ms Sherly Cai at [email protected].

FLAsia 2012 Exhibition1 – 3 November 2012 | Marina Bay Sands

The Franchising and Licensing Association (Singapore) organized the annual trade exhibition, Franchising & Licensing Asia (FLAsia), the International Event for Entrepreneurship, Business Opportunities & Intellectual Property Rights in Asia. Along with an international conference, FLAsia 2012 exhibition was held from 1 – 3 November 2012 at Marina Bay Sands.

FLAsia convenes a myriad of top international franchises, brands and licenses from various industries. It provided an excellent platform for introducing both established and new business concepts into Asia and acted as a springboard for new concepts to expand beyond their own shores. This year’s show also encompassed new and extensive segments, incorporated a wider spectrum on franchising and licensing related business support needs, as we continue to grow beyond franchising and licensing.

iAdvisory Seminar: Indonesia – Tapping Business Opportunities in Southeast Asia15 November 2012 | IE Singapore | 9am - 5pm | Free-of-charge

The International Enterprise (IE) Singapore organized the iAdvisory Seminar: Indonesia – Tapping Business Opportunities in Southeast Asia on 15 November 2012.

Indonesia’s economic performance has been on an uptrend, with positive growth through the global financial crisis and growing 6.5% in 2011. It also achieved its highest FDI since the first Asian financial crisis in 2011 (S$25.49billion), 29% growth in trade (S$381.11 billion) with positive trade balance, and regained its investment grade status after a 14 year hiatus. This growth is expected to be sustainable in the short term, supported by its large domestic consumption, rising income and the strong private sector.

The seminar provided an economic outlook of Indonesia, as well as strategies on how to enter and expand in the market. Companies were also introduced to the investment opportunities available in various parts of Indonesia, through presentations by the Indonesian Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) and provincial officials. In addition, company representatives with substantial experience in Indonesia shared their perspectives on overcoming the challenges of doing business in Indonesia.

Accelerate Business Growth Through HR21 November 2012 | Padang & Collyer Ballrooms, Level 4, Raffles City Convention Centre | 1.30pm – 6.00pm | Fee per pax : $30.00

The Singapore National Employers Federation (SNEF) and SPRING Singapore organized a seminar on “Accelerate Business Growth Through HR” on Wednesday, 21 November 2012. At this seminar, we gained valuable insights on talent management from Mr Peter Cheese and better understood how to strengthen your core HR Functions through the enhanced HR Capability Toolkit and the dedicated HR Portal for SMEs, offered a single point of access to a wide range of HR Information and services for Singapore-based SMEs.

Keynote speaker Mr Peter Cheese is the Chief Executive Officer of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD). CIPD is the world’s largest Chartered HR and Development Professional Body, with over 135,000 members across 120 countries. He has spent 30 years working at Accenture, culminating seven years as Global Managing Director, leading the firm’s Talent and Organisation Performance Consulting Practice. He has also held various executive sponsorship positions for Accenture’s firm-wide skills, capability development programs and its global Human Capital and Talent Strategy.

SME employers, senior management, HR practitioners and line managers of SMEs are recommended to attend the seminar.

For more information and to register, please visit http://www.sgemployers.com/. For enquiries please contact the organisers at 6827 6955 or email to [email protected].

iAdvisory Seminar: China – Bohai Rim, China’s Northern Economic Powerhouse22 November 2012 | IE Singapore | 9.00am to 4.30pm | Fee per pax : $60.00

International Enterprise (IE) Singapore organized an iAdvisory Seminar: China – Bohai Rim, China’s Northern Economic Powerhouse on 22 November 2012.

After three decades of rapid economic growth since China opened up in 1978, China has overtaken Japan in 2010 to be the world’s second largest economy. The rise of China has placed the country in the international spotlight and China is expected to continue taking centre stage in the global economy. In particular, the Bohai Rim region is well poised to undertake the next wave of rapid developments with the shift in its economic structure and urbanisation drives.

The Bohai Rim is traditionally well-developed in heavy industries coupled with the deep seaports as their key advantages. With the implementation of the national-level Marine Economy strategy the Bohai Bay Rim region, this presents immerse opportunities for Singapore companies.

IOB PROGRAMMES

SICCI EVENTS

SICCI SUPPORTED EVENTS

UPCOMING EVENTS

Launch of Indian Companies in Singapore Directory4th Distinguished Leadership Series (Professional Sub-Comm)

Seminar on Singapore Budget 2013 – Highlights

Seminar on India Budget 201329th March 2013

72nd SICCI AGM Dinner and Board of Directors Induction Ceremony

Welcome Reception for New Members

Business Mission to Myanmar

5th MP Exportech1-3 March 2013

Investors’ Forum

SICCI- Institute of Business

Pitfalls in Letters of Credit

Going Overseas – Some HR Pointers

Business Entrepreneur Network

Goods and Services Tax Navigating the Maze

Import & Export Procedures and Practices

Great Leaders are Great Storytellers

BEN 2020International Shipping & Logistics Contracts

Business Continuity Management Why do people play tough when negotiating?

EVENT CALENDAR

January • Business Mission to India (Kolkata & Hyderabad)• International Shipping and Logistics Contracts• Exploring Strategic Organizational Productivity• Student Delegation from Alliance University Bangalore, India• SICCI Meet-the-Ambassador Series - Bangladesh• Business Enterprise Network 2020 – Networking Session

February • Nuts & Bolts of Tactical Productivity • 2nd Distinguished Leadership Dialogue Series• Conversational Business Mandarin• Import & Export Procedures• WSH Assist• Student Delegation from BSE Institute Ltd., BSE Ltd. International• SICCI Business Seminar Series• Student Group- G Best Tours (Ibex)• Facebook 101 for Business• Facebook 101 for Business• SICCI-SAL Joint Seminar• SICCI Meet-the-Ambassador Series - Myanmar• Business Advisory Clinic at American Chamber of Commerce

March • Seminar on Singapore Budget 2012- Highlights• Ministerial Dialogue Series• Seminar on India Budget 2012• Dinner and Networking with High Commissioner of Malaysia• Business Continuity Management• Leading & Engaging Multigenerational Workforce• Pitfalls in Letters of Credit• Facebook 101 - How can SMEs improve their marketing productivity • Business Enterprise Network 2020 – Networking Session• Essential Negotiation Skills

April • EDC Conference• Search Engine Optimisation• International Leadership Symposium• Visit by Kerala IT Delegation• Dinner Reception In Honour of Ambassador GopinathPillai• SICCI AGM Dinner and Board of Directors Induction Ceremony• Manitoba Means Business• Common Trade Disputes arising out of Market Volatility• Conversational Business Mandarin• Incoterms 2010• Business Enterprise Network 2020 – Networking Session

May • 'Beautiful Bengal' Seminar• Lunch Session with Minister Shri Partha Charterjee• Business Matching Session with Delegatio from Cashew Export Promotion Council• Meet with Chairman of Gem & Jewellery • Export Promotion Council• Welcome Reception for New Members • Achieving Lasting Results Through Appreciative Inquiry• Essential Negotiation Skills• Changing Perspective - Technology Adoption for Growth and Sustainability of SMEs• Talk by Ministry of Manpower (MOM): Further • Measures to Moderate Demand for Foreign Workers• PIC Clinics

June • Great Leaders are Great Storytellers• GST Rules and Regulations for SMEs and Start-ups• Welcome Reception for New Members• Risk Management• Indian Women Entrepreneurs Peer Sharing Session• Cash Flow Management for SMEs • Business Enterprise Network 2020 – Network-ing SessionMicrosoft Office 365 - SeminarNanyang Technological University – Seminar

July • Essential Negotiation Skills• The High Performance Manager• Business Entrepreneur Network (BEN2020) - • Brand and You - The Skill Enhancement Series• GST Workshop for SMEs• Understanding Business Finance• Pitfalls in Letters of Credit• Process Management• A Talk by Infocomm Development Authority (iDA)• PIC Clinics• Internationalisation

August • Business Continuity Management (PMP)• Indigo Art Gallery Networking Event Incoterms 2010• “Inner Engineering “ Session with Sadhguru• 3rd Distinguished Leadership Series • Business Mission to India (for India International Jewellery Show 2012)• Welcome Reception for New Members• Beyond Chit Chat - How to succeed through a structured and customer-focused client appointments• Business Entrepreneur Network (BEN2020) - • Transition to Entrepreneurship• International Shipping and Logistics Contracts• PIC Clinics• A Talk by Competition Commission of Singapore (CCS):• Understanding The Competition Act and How It Affects Your Business

September • Clear & Creative Thinking• SICCI WIN& PA Narpani 'Breaking Barriers'• The Business of Film Making: Boom in the Crisis • PMP Seminar -Selling - The Right Way• GST Rules and Regulations for SMEs and Start-ups• Import & Export Procedures and Practice • Business Entrepreneur Network (BEN2020) • Pitching and Networking• Microsoft Office Tips & Tricks• Talk on Business Growth through Quality • Management System Standard• Microsoft Office Tips & Tricks

October• Inter-Chamber Networking Night• SICCI’s 88th Anniversary Celebrations and Presentation Ceremony for the SICCI-DBS Awards • Welcome Reception for New Members• Changing Perspective - Technology Adoption for Growth • Business Entrepreneur Network (BEN2020) - • Personal Finance for Entrepreneurs• Talk on Productivity and Innovation Credit • (PIC): Convert your Investments into Tax Savings• A Talk on Singapore's Free Trade Agreements (FTA) and Certificate of Origin Application

November • A Talk on Productivity and Innovation Credit • (PIC): Convert your Investments into Tax Savings• Business Mission to Indonesia• Stop Playing with Fire! - Threat and Error • Management Seminar • CII Core Group visit to SICCI• Visit by Delegation from Uzbekistan• Goods and Services Tax - Navigating the Maze • Business Entrepreneur Network • (BEN2020) - Building the Global Business• Office 365 for Construction Industry

December • Pitfalls in Letters of Credit• Welcome Reception for New Members• Visit by Delegation from Malaysian Indian Chamber of Commerce & Industry (MICCI) Penang• Sales Training: Beyond Chit Chat• Business Entrepreneur Network • (BEN2020) - Pitching and Networking • Change your Organisation's Fate - Improve • • • Productivity through a Structured Framework • Inaugural Entrepreneurship Week

January• PIC Clinic at EDC@SICCI• Business Mission to India (Kolkata & Hyderabad)• PIC Clinics

February• 2nd Ministerial Dialogue Series• Welcome Reception for New Members• SME Financial Toolkit & Cash Flow Management for SMEs

March • Business Mission to Myanmar• Seminar on Singapore Budget 2013 - Highlights• Seminar on India Budget 2013• EDC Conference

EVENT CALENDAR

MEMBERSHIP

SICCI MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS

The Chamber’s members are entitled to a wide range of exclusive benefits which help them to establish important linkages with like-minded individuals and organisations as well as develop their businesses locally and globally.

Trade Documentation Services

Members enjoy up to 30 percent discount on the processing and endorsement of Certificates of Origin as well as up to 12.5 percent on the processing of Inward and Outward Declarations through Trade Net.

Commercial Information Dissemination ServicesMembers receive regular updates and commercial news electronically. These e-circulars include local and international commercial news, Singapore government policies and regulations, international trade enquiries and events organised and/or supported by SICCI.

Membership Directory and Website Listing

Members have their corporate contact details listed free-of-charge in the Chamber’s membership directory and its website. Members also receive a complimentary copy of the membership directory which has an extensive local and international distribution.

Publications

Members receive a tri-annual newsletter, The Chamber Times, which feature news and happenings at the Chamber and on local and international business developments. Members are also entitled to discounted prices for all SICCI publications. In addition, members wishing to advertise in the Chamber’s membership directory or e-newsletter receive attractive discounts off the published rates.

Booking of Boardroom and Seminar Room

The Chamber’s new premises boast of modern and convenient conference facilities for members wishing to conduct seminars, meetings or workshops. The preferential rates provided to members help them avoid the incurrence of expensive overhead charges, normally associated with hosting such events.

SICCI Events

The Chamber organises and supports a diverse range of events which provide ample networking and business matchmaking opportunities for its corporate and individual members. A majority of the events listed below are heavily subsidised or sponsored by the Chamber – an invaluable and exclusive privilege for SICCI members:

Conferences and business summits: Organised annually, these events focus on latest developments in key emerging markets in Southeast Asia, South Asia, Middle East and other relevant regions.

Business and trade missions: These missions are organised on a regular basis to help members gain information and access to vital and developing markets.

Networking events: Members benefit by way of privileged access or discounted fees for exclusive networking sessions and functions.

Public lectures, seminars and workshops: These informative sessions cover a wide range of industry and market-related topics, and are presented by experts in the respective fields.

SICCI’s anniversary celebratory gala dinner: This prestigious event is a highlight in the Singapore business community’s calendar and acts as a special celebration of the Chamber’s members and their progress.

MEMBERSHIP GROWTH

SICCI’S MEMBERSHIP STATISTICS

At the end of March 2013, SICCI’s membership stood 845 members. The Chamber will continue to strengthen its relationship with its current group of members as well as reach out to prospective members.

Membership Growth(2005-2012)

Members

SICCI’S MEMBERSHIP COMPOSITION

The Chamber’s membership has traditionally comprised the trading community. However, in recent years, there has been a steady increase in membership from the services sector as well. This is the result of the increasing number of Indian companies from industries such as information technology, wealth management and financial services, and food and beverages, setting up operations in Singapore.

SICCI’s members from the trading and services sectors have been contributing significantly to its growth and development. We strongly believe that the professional group will also be able to add value to our programmes and initiatives. It will also create greater diversity in SICCI’s membership and further contribute to its mandate and objectives.

Membership Statistics by Sector (2012)

Industries

Singapore Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry31 Stanley Street, 068740T: 6222 2855

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