On the evening of 27 January 2026, business and diplomacy mixed comfortably at the British Ambassador’s residence in Beirut.
British Ambassador Hamish Cowell hosted a reception that marked the official launch of the British Lebanese Chamber of Commerce, an initiative designed to give fresh momentum to economic ties between the UK and Lebanon.
A New Chamber Steps Onto the Stage
The British Lebanese Chamber of Commerce, widely referred to as the BLCC, arrives at a moment when both countries are looking for practical ways to deepen cooperation.
Its creation is being described as a milestone for bilateral trade, offering a formal structure to support companies on both sides that want to explore new markets and partnerships.
Ministers, Entrepreneurs, and Future Members in the Room
The launch brought together a wide cross-section of Lebanon’s economic community.
Minister of Economy and Trade Amer Bisat attended alongside prominent Lebanese business figures, entrepreneurs, and potential members of the new chamber.
The turnout signaled clear interest in building stronger commercial links with the UK.
Plugging Into a Global Business Network
The BLCC is set up as an official non-profit organisation and will join the British Chambers of Commerce International Network.
That network spans more than 75 chambers around the world, giving Lebanese and British businesses access to a global ecosystem of contacts, standards, and opportunities.
A Bridge Between Two Business Cultures
Backed by the British Embassy in Beirut, the chamber’s role is straightforward but ambitious.
It aims to act as a bridge between British and Lebanese companies, helping them understand each other’s markets, navigate challenges, and build long-term partnerships.
Market insights, advocacy, and practical support are central to its approach.
Promoting Trade, Investment, and Sustainable Growth
At its core, the BLCC wants to boost two-way trade and investment.
The chamber plans to support companies looking to expand into either market while building a trusted network that encourages collaboration, innovation, and sustainable growth rather than short-term wins.
Ambassador Cowell on Strengthening Commercial Ties
Speaking at the launch, Ambassador Hamish Cowell, who also serves as Honorary President of the BLCC, highlighted the wider importance of the initiative.
He described the chamber as a vital step toward strengthening commercial partnerships between the UK and Lebanon and opening up new opportunities for businesses in both countries.
A Strategic Vision From the Chamber’s Chairman
Farid Chedid, Chairman of the BLCC, framed the chamber’s mission in strategic terms.
He said its role is to anchor Lebanese enterprise to British standards while helping British companies engage with Lebanon clearly, carefully, and with a long-term perspective.
Economic Recovery and a Look Beyond It
Minister Amer Bisat placed the chamber within Lebanon’s broader economic journey.
He said the BLCC would serve as a platform to increase exports and investment between the two countries and play an important role as Lebanon moves from economic recovery toward global prosperity.
An Open Invitation to Join the Network
With the launch complete, the BLCC is now inviting businesses from both Lebanon and the UK to become part of its growing network.
Members are encouraged to take advantage of the chamber’s resources, advocacy efforts, and connectivity.
What’s Next?
The focus now shifts from ceremony to action.
As membership grows and projects take shape, the British Lebanese Chamber of Commerce will be tested on its promise to turn goodwill into real trade, investment, and shared growth between Beirut and London.
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