Members enjoyed January networking event and educational presentations on the new tax system and its impact on corporate philanthropy and social responsibility. The event was kindly hosted by our long-term member Ellex Klavins.

A group of members met to discuss their businesses and to provide feedback on AmCham activities. Developing a program offering educational opportunities for both personal and professional development and promoting Latvia as an investment destination for R&D and innovation were identified as some of the priorities AmCham should focus on in the future.

The AmCham Board held its semi-annual retreat to discuss the strategic direction for the coming year. Among key priority areas are the enhancement of transatlantic trade and investment through further development of "Gateway to the USA" program; attracting international talent and promoting Latvia as a career destination, and continuing work to improve the business and investment climate with a focus on the new Whistleblowers' Law introduction and monitoring the progress of the Latvian financial sector.

Look out for the survey coming your way in the next weeks. Our Labor Force Working group has developed a survey for members to gather your experience of attracting employees, both domestic and international. At the last meeting, the Working group reviewed survey questions and engaged in a discussion with the representative of the Ministry of Economics on labor market trends.