The Joint Meetings Industry Council (JMIC), the international body representing the collective voice of the global meetings and events industry, has announced the addition of two new members: the China Business Event Industry Committee (CBEIC) and the Southern African Association for the Conference Industry (SAACI). JMIC says the additions will strengthen its global network and enhance its advocacy efforts for the business events industry across the world.
Zeng Yafei, chairman of CBEIC, said: “JMIC acts as a platform to address and advance global industry issues of common interest and to exchange best practices for the advancement of our industry and its professions. This is also our goal when we founded the China Business Event Industry Committee (CBEIC) under the International Chamber of Commerce, Commercial Sub Council.”
He continued: “JMIC and CBEIC share the same goals and objectives, which is why we are joining JMIC and contributing our efforts, bringing China’s wisdom to the global meetings industry. We believe that the business events industry promotes global economic and social development, fosters communication, strengthens international co-operation, reduces poverty, and promotes world peace. When we come together, magic will happen.”
SAACI also joins JMIC, marking another significant expansion in Africa. Jaques Fouché, National Chairperson of SAACI, remarked: “We are honoured to have been accepted as a JMIC member. This strategic collaboration signifies a major milestone for SAACI, as it allows our members to tap into a global network of industry leaders, access valuable insights, and participate in innovative initiatives that will enhance the meetings and events sector in Southern Africa and across the continent.
This membership strengthens our collective voice in advocating for the role of business events in economic growth, job creation, and regional development. The partnership will also help foster collaboration between African and international stakeholders, ensuring that South Africa and the broader African region remain competitive and at the forefront of global eventing.”
James Rees (pictured), president of JMIC, welcomed the new members, stating: “We are delighted to welcome both CBEIC and SAACI into the JMIC family. These additions not only bolster our representation in two of the most dynamic regions in the world but also reaffirm JMIC’s mission to advocate for the role of business events in driving global economic, social, and cultural development. Together, we are stronger and more unified in promoting the essential contributions of our industry on the global stage.”
