Minister Wilson Meets With ABIC Group
Bringing a sharper focus to the needs of the private sector and the availability of suitably trained Bermudians is just one of the mandates the new Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, Senator Kim Wilson shared as she commenced a round of stakeholder meetings today [Nov 16].
Aiming to meet with a myriad of private sector stakeholders in the upcoming weeks, Minister Wilson’s first meeting was with the Association of Bermuda International Companies [ABIC].
ABIC represents the internationally owned businesses which are physically located in Bermuda, but conduct their operations worldwide. According to ABIC, there are more than 1,500 exempted or international companies currently registered in Bermuda, of which some 400 have a physical presence.
Minister Wilson said: “As a Ministry, we are prepared to take the necessary steps to strengthen and enhance our local economy, and today was an opportunity to share areas of common interest and concern. I was pleased to hear first-hand the views of the Association and better understand the issues affecting this segment of industry. What I’ve made abundantly clear is that a partnership built on effective and consistent communication will be the hallmark of our working relationship, as a result, I have agreed to quarterly meetings with the industry to ensure that issues within my purview are resolved expeditiously.”
The Association’s Executive Director, Richard Winchell, said: “ABIC’s membership includes companies with a physical presence in Bermuda. These companies all employ Bermudians at various levels within their organisations. The nature of international business is dynamic and therefore there is a need for open and frank dialogue on a regular basis. We are pleased with the invitation to meet and the openness that has been expressed by Minister Wilson.”
