Jitka Haubová: We want to be an innovation hubICC Czech Republic will also focus on digitization and ESG

While the International Chamber of Commerce is celebrating its 105th anniversary this year, the National Committee of the ICC CR is only 25 years old. Meanwhile, the Czech branch has a strong position among the 170 branches across the globe. One example: the ICC’s Paris-based HQ recently assigned the Czech branch with a new project focusing on the integration of ESG strategy into the ICC’s services. We talked about this and many more with Jitka Haubová, Chairwoman of the ICC Czech Republic.

You have been at the helm of the ICC Czech Republic for over a year. How was the first year in your view?

It was very inspiring for me. It has been a confirmation that international trade is a fascinating and dynamic area where new opportunities and prospects open up. I was excited to accept the honorary position of chairwoman of the Czech ICC, because I am convinced that business entities have the power to make the world a better place. This strong international organization is a great platform for businesses that gives them a unique chance to be heard, no matter how big they are.

I have spent most of my professional life in business, so the topics that the ICC deals with are very close to me. Since this prestigious organization has presence in dozens of countries, it gives us a huge opportunity to share experience, and it is only up to us how we leverage that. Personally, I really appreciate this variety of solutions and opinions, and our team strives to make the most of this potential for Czech companies.

Can you give any examples of your accomplishments?

I think we’ve managed to convince the Paris HQ that our country is a good testing ground for trends in international trade. That’s mostly thanks to our openness to business, advanced industry with strong technological know-how, qualified workforce, innovation capacities and, last but not least, our strategic location in the middle of Europe. As a proof, the ICC HQ entrusted us with a grant to focus on ESG and the preparation of companies for this massive change, targeting SMEs in particular. I believe this is the first time that we have been entrusted with such a groundbreaking project and we can be the driver of change within the entire ICC.

ESG and digitization and the related changes in business models are the topics we started to deal with. We are now also focusing on insurance. Within the ICC CR, we have initiated the creation of new commissions, such as for commission for environment and energy or for transparent business. We are also active in our traditional agenda, which includes trade financing, logistics, arbitration, business skills and, of course, Incoterms rules. Our educational role is strong here, as we hold regular conferences, seminars and meetings, publish documents and so on.

Regarding Incoterms, companies have been calling for decades for the simplification and unification of these rules of international trade, which have been amended countless times. Can we expect any improvements soon?

Incoterms have been revised several times since 2000, aiming to adapt the rules to the latest trends and needs of international trade. However, these rules are complex and extensive as they have to cover a huge number of business situations. It is important to make them clearer and easier to navigate, using electronic communication and digital documentation for example.

Another trend is sustainability and ecological transport with increasing emphasis on reducing emissions. Real-time shipment tracking is also related to this. However, it is important to note that Incoterms are voluntary rules that must be agreed between the seller and the buyer. Their use and success depend on their correct interpretation and application in specific business cases. Simplification and unification of international trade rules is a gradual process and requires cooperation and coordination between different countries and business entities.

Jitka Haubová was interviewed by Jana Jenšíková

Photo credits: Tomáš Nosil