Peter McMullin has been re-elected as President of the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI), marking a continued commitment to the region’s economic and social prosperity. With a wealth of experience and a forward-thinking mindset, McMullin’s re-election promises an exciting two years of transformative change across the Asia-Pacific region. As the head of CACCI, McMullin is poised to strengthen regional trade, encourage sustainability, and ensure that businesses—particularly SMEs—are equipped to thrive in a rapidly changing global landscape.

“I’m Proud to Announce My Re-Election as CACCI President”

In a statement reflecting his deep sense of responsibility and enthusiasm for the future, McMullin shared,

“I’m proud to announce I’ve been re-elected as CACCI President. Over the next two years, I’ll continue working alongside our diverse network to shape a sustainable and prosperous future for the Asia-Pacific region.”

At the core of his leadership is a vision that transcends traditional business strategies. McMullin believes that businesses can act as “merchants of peace.” In a world increasingly shaped by geopolitical tensions, McMullin is committed to fostering collaboration, not just competition, between countries. He emphasizes that trade is not only about economic exchange but also about building bridges between nations, especially those with a history of conflict. When two countries are economically intertwined, conflict becomes less likely, and peace becomes a natural byproduct.

Building a Sustainable Future: The Asia-Pacific Green Alliance

McMullin’s re-election comes at a time when sustainability has become a central focus in global trade. At the recent CACCI conference, McMullin oversaw the launch of the Asia-Pacific Green Alliance, a groundbreaking initiative designed to equip small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with the tools and knowledge needed to transition to greener business practices. This initiative is particularly crucial as the region faces the dual challenge of climate change and economic growth.

Through this alliance, CACCI is not just responding to climate change but is actively redefining what sustainable growth looks like in the 21st century. McMullin envisions a future where businesses across the Asia-Pacific can thrive while reducing their environmental impact, creating a blueprint for how commerce can contribute to a healthier planet.

Empowering the Next Generation: A Focus on Young Entrepreneurs

One of McMullin’s strongest commitments is to the next generation of business leaders. He has often spoken about the need to empower young entrepreneurs, and during his next two-year term, he will continue to prioritize initiatives that support the growth of young innovators across the Asia-Pacific. From supporting digital transformation to driving sustainability, young entrepreneurs are reshaping industries and pioneering new ways of doing business. However, they often face significant barriers, including limited access to capital, mentorship, and global markets.

To address this, McMullin is working closely with Hiromi Aoki, the newly appointed Chairman of the Young Entrepreneurs Group Asia-Pacific (YEGAP), to launch programs designed to support young leaders in their entrepreneurial journeys. These initiatives include mentorship programs, incubators, and access to international networks that can help young entrepreneurs overcome barriers and scale their businesses.

McMullin believes that by providing these resources, the region can cultivate the next generation of dynamic, innovative business leaders who will create sustainable, prosperous futures for their communities.

A Policy Platform Built for the Future: “SET for the Future”

McMullin’s policy agenda for the next two years centers on three pillars that he believes are crucial for fostering long-term, sustainable growth across Asia and Oceania. This agenda is encapsulated in the “SET” framework, which focuses on Sustainability, Entrepreneurship, and Trade.

1. Sustainability: McMullin is committed to supporting SMEs in their journey towards net-zero emissions. Recent studies conducted by CACCI have highlighted the challenges SMEs face in adopting sustainable practices, and McMullin is determined to ensure that these businesses are equipped with the tools, knowledge, and support they need to reduce their environmental impact.

2. Entrepreneurship: A renewed focus on entrepreneurship will be a cornerstone of McMullin’s leadership. He aims to support the vibrant network of young entrepreneurs in the region, helping them access mentorship, funding, and markets to grow their businesses. Through initiatives like the YEGAP, McMullin will create opportunities for young leaders to collaborate across borders and build enduring businesses that contribute to the region’s prosperity.

3. Trade: As a key pillar of CACCI’s mission, McMullin is passionate about fostering greater trade and connectivity within the Asia-Pacific. He sees trade as essential for regional economic growth and stability. However, he also stresses the importance of ensuring that trade is inclusive and benefits all nations, particularly those that have traditionally been left behind in the global economy.

Fostering Innovation and Collaboration Across Borders

Throughout his tenure, McMullin has been a steadfast supporter of innovation and cross-border collaboration. His experience working in Timor-Leste, where he supported the country’s independence and the establishment of its Chamber of Commerce, has given him a unique understanding of the transformative power of collaboration. McMullin believes that the diversity within the Asia-Pacific region—home to both ancient cultures and modern economies—offers a wealth of opportunities for innovation.

As CACCI President, McMullin is dedicated to creating platforms where ideas can flourish, and partnerships can form. These platforms will bring together business leaders, policymakers, and innovators to tackle the region’s biggest challenges and seize its most exciting opportunities.

The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities

McMullin is optimistic but not naive about the road ahead. He acknowledges that the region will face significant challenges over the next two years, including rising geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties. However, he believes that through these challenges, innovation and growth will emerge.

“If you want to go fast, go alone. But if you want to go far, go together.” This is one of McMullin’s favorite sayings, and it encapsulates his approach to leadership. By fostering collaboration and bringing diverse stakeholders together, he is confident that the Asia-Pacific region can overcome its challenges and build a sustainable, prosperous future for all.

A Vision for a Prosperous and Peaceful Asia-Pacific

With his re-election as CACCI President, Peter McMullin is reaffirming his commitment to the region’s future. Through his focus on sustainability, entrepreneurship, trade, and innovation, McMullin is setting the stage for a new era of economic growth in the Asia-Pacific. By supporting the next generation of leaders, fostering collaboration across borders, and prioritizing sustainability, McMullin aims to create a region where businesses can thrive, communities can prosper, and peace can flourish.

The future of the Asia-Pacific is bright, and under McMullin’s leadership, CACCI will continue to be at the forefront of driving change, building connections, and empowering businesses to succeed in a rapidly evolving world.