After a few years’ hiatus, the British Chamber of Commerce in Lithuania (BCCL) is delighted to announce the resumption of its operations. The association is dedicated to strengthening the business ties between Lithuania and the United Kingdom, fostering international cooperation, and seeking out new synergies.
His Excellency, British Ambassador Brian Olley, who has been a staunch supporter of the Chamber, expressed his enthusiasm for the relaunch, stating, “I am absolutely delighted with the re-launch of the British Chamber in Lithuania. Commerce and trade are the very foundations of economic growth, which, in turn, underpin our ability to defend ourselves and build better futures for our children. The British Chamber has a vital role to play, and I look forward to supporting the new Board as they embark on an exciting and ambitious programme in the coming months.”
Despite the challenges posed by Brexit, the business relationship between Lithuania and the United Kingdom remains robust. Last year, the UK ranked 12th among Lithuania’s trade partners by turnover, and it became Lithuania’s 10th largest export market. In 2023, Lithuania’s imports from the UK amounted to 846 million, while exports reached an impressive 1.5 billion.
The UK’s business presence in Lithuania is further solidified by significant foreign investments. Esteemed British companies such as Unilever, Lloyds, AstraZeneca, Albright International, and Euromonitor International operate in Lithuania, collectively providing employment for thousands of residents.
On 15th July, the general meeting of the association’s members saw the election of a new Board. The Board now includes long-serving member Mariano Andrade, Head of Johnson Matthey Global Business Services Lithuania; Dovilė Vyčinė, Development Director at Baltic Management Institute (BMI); Lauras Butkevičius, Partner at the law firm Ellex Valiunas; Andrew Prosser, Headmaster of The British School of Vilnius; and Neringa Petrauskaitė, Partner at the We Are Marketing agency. Lauras Butkevičius was elected as Chairman of the Board, and Boleta Senkienė was appointed as the new Head of the Association.
Boleta Senkienė brings over 13 years of experience in cultivating international business relations. She has previously served as Head of Export and Investment at the Infobalt Association and has held the esteemed position of Honorary Consul of Oman in Lithuania for more than a decade.
Last week, the Ambassador welcomed the newly appointed members of the Association’s Board of Directors, along with the Director, to an official dinner at his residence in Vilnius. The evening was made all the more delightful by a spirited cricket match in the garden, which added a touch of charm to the engaging discussions about the Association’s future vision.
“For two decades, the British Chamber of Commerce in Lithuania has been recognised as an exceptionally strong international business community, setting a benchmark for many other business organisations. To continue its activities and ‘carry this flag’ is both meaningful and an honour,” remarked the newly elected Board Chairman, Lauras Butkevičius. “In the coming months, we plan to refine the association’s strategic activities, ensuring a balance between the continuation of traditional initiatives cherished by our members and the introduction of new endeavours that meet the evolving expectations of the community. I am pleased to have such ambitious and accomplished leaders on the Board, bringing a diverse range of competencies and a strong sense of continuity. I am confident that, together with the Head of the Association, we will develop a meaningful vision and begin taking our first steps by autumn.”
A great deal of work lies ahead, and the expectations of the association’s members are understandably high, given the sterling work previously undertaken by the BCCL. Reviving the Chamber’s activities, reuniting the community, and honouring both business interests and British culture and traditions will be no small feat for myself and the Board,” said the new Head of the Association, Boleta Senkienė.
The British Chamber of Commerce in Lithuania was established in 1999, and Boleta Senkienė is the third person to have the honour of leading the association.
Where does BCC stand on Brexit? The obvious massive detriment to legitimate British businesses means it can’t possibly be a point of pride. And politically, an own goal for the EU leaves us more vulnerable than ever to you know who. So are we going to be pro-EU and pro-Rejoin now?