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The two groups are separate but have many common members. AMCHAM is affiliated with the US Chamber of Commerce as a chapter and is based in Jakarta, Indonesia. It began in 1973, and was an outgrowth of an informal group of American businessmen living in the country. AICC was started in the US in 1949 and thus predates AMCHAM. AICC’s members are primarily US-based and AMCHAM’s live in Indonesia. The two groups cooperate on business issues, information, briefings and government affairs. AICC has many members (usually importers) who do not have a presence in Indonesia.

Yes. AICC has supported the development of both the US-Indonesia Society (USINDO) and the US-ASEAN Business Council. Both groups bring a unique and different perspective on Indonesia and its importance to the United States. Forms of cooperation include: event co-sponsorships, sharing crucial business intelligence and interpretation of developments in Indonesia. AICC believes that it is good for the business interests of our members if there is more than one organization focused on the country. It shows government officials and legislators that there are multiple, important US constituencies linked to Indonesia. Many of the larger US business organizations are active in all three organizations. AICC encourages companies to contribute to all three: the groups have complementary functions. AICC serves as the NY representative office for the US-ASEAN Business Council. 

Lobbying is a specific activity defined by occasions when an organization comments on specific language of a proposed bill or policy. AICC has a 501 c6 tax designation that allows it to use a portion of its revenue for lobbying purposes. AICC has at times lobbied state and federal legislatures and governments. 5% of its revenue is generally allocated for this purpose. AICC also comments on broad matters of policy and legislation. In general, AICC will not lobby for specific companies but will advocate on behalf of business principles deemed to be in the interest of a group of members or the complete membership.

No. AICC’s revenues are from private companies who pay membership fees or contribute to specific AICC activities they may sponsor. AICC’s board of directors will always be composed of a majority of US companies and individuals, as stated in its by-laws.