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History of the Chambers
The Belgian Chambers of Commerce have a rich history dating back to the year 1665. Let’s take a journey through time.
Establishment of the Caemere van de Negotie en Commercie in Bruges.
The origin of Chambers of Commerce
The first Chamber of Commerce was established in Marseille in 1599. Chambers of Commerce and Industry developed throughout Europe from the 17th century onwards, with the aim of bringing together merchants’ knowledge in an organisation capable of defending and promoting the economic interests of their city and region without self-interest and without distinction. This origin and the specificity of their mission allowed the Chambers of Commerce to survive and develop through political, social and economic turbulence. Local and regional circumstances have led some Chamber networks to have a status under public law and others under private law.
A worldwide network
Today, the Chambers of Commerce form a worldwide network of 10,000 Chambers that share the same mission and philosophy. Through this global presence, and by adapting their activities to the ever-changing socio-economic context, Chambers of Commerce continue to play a crucial role in local, national and international economic development, both today and tomorrow, as service organisations and as advocates of global business.
More about the Federation and Chambers
The Chambers of Commerce form a worldwide network of 10,000 chambers that share the same mission and philosophy. Through this global presence and by constantly updating the answer they provide to the ever-changing socio-economic context, Chambers of Commerce continue to play a crucial role in local, national and international economic development.
