Border-Kei Chamber of Business
Voice of Business
Founded in 1877, the Border-Kei Chamber of Business (BKCOB) is the recognised “Voice of Business” in the Border-Kei region. Headquartered in East London in the Buffalo City Metropolitan municipality, with a satellite branch in Komani, Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality, the Border-Kei Chamber of Business is a not-for-profit, A-political, A-religious, membership-based organisation, representing a wide array of businesses in the private sector, academic institutions, public enterprises as well as the NGO sector.
At a national level, the Border-Kei Chamber of Business is a member of the Association of South African Chambers (ASAC), a national lobby body, that focuses on and addresses matters of national economic importance.
The BKCOB has five specific mandates, namely: – Investor attraction, investor retention, stimulating the economy, business support services and business recognition, through our Annual Business Awards programme. As the voice of business, the BKCOB also advocates for the creation of an efficient and sustainable enabling environment, with the local and provincial authorities.
The Border-Kei Chamber of Business also creates a platform for businesses to network, build new business relationships, maintain existing ones, facilitate strategic conversations, make deals and transact and is a platform where members can connect to like-minded individuals outside of their normal circle of influence. The BKCOB continues to support local municipalities in our region, to create towns and cities that attract and retain Investors and where every citizen aspires to live, work and play in.
Membership to the Border-Kei Chamber of Business is open to any registered business or organisation, running ethically compliant operations, from sole proprietors to large multi-nationals public and private sector Companies.
We invite all businesses to become members of the Border-Kei Chamber of Business and to partner with us to ensure that we fulfil the above mandate effectively and efficiently. This will ensure that we, together, create an enabling environment for all businesses to thrive in, so that jobs are created and poverty is eradicated.
WHY JOIN THE CHAMBER
Membership Benefits
- Raise your company profile, and boost your Company status in the Border-Kei Region.
- Tax-deductible membership and event fees.
- Excellent networking opportunities with like-minded business owners outside of your normal circle of influence.
- Marketing Opportunities at various Chamber events and on digital platforms. (T’s & C’s apply)
- The Opportunity to “give back” by joining our Chamber Committees who meet on a monthly basis to facilitate the change we want to see in our region.
- The Opportunity to Mentor and be mentored.
- Access to information on a wide range of topics from funding opportunities to the latest legislative industry trends and changes, etc.
- The Opportunity to build and grow your Social Capital.
- The Opportunity to gain access to new markets.
- The Opportunity to write an article or to be featured in our Quarterly Chamber magazine – the Business Hi-lite.
- Letters of support/ good standing to members trying to access Government tenders.
- Reduced rates for Certificates of origin to exporting members.
- Municipal Billing Help Desk.
- The opportunity to grow personally and professionally, through personal and professional workshops.
- Small Business Support for growing businesses.
- Corporate departmental support, e.g. HR Forum.
- The opportunity to place your CSI spend with trained & vetted NGO’s.
- The opportunity to stay abreast of any topical issues or opportunities, through our weekly “Chamber Opportunities and updates” newsletter.
Services
Trade & Information
We provide a comprehensive service to all members pertaining to business, including assistance with import and export, as well as trade leads.
Letters of Support
We provide letters of support to members wishing to access government tenders, including letters of introduction to Chambers, locally and globally for members attempting to expand their business abroad.
Website
All members details are available on our membership online directory available on our website, where members are entitled to link from the Chambers website to theirs. Members had to sign a form in compliance with the POPIA act.
Committees
The Chamber has a robust and effective committee system to facilitate members participation, growth and development and to enable us to fulfil our role as the “Voice of Business”.
Seminars & Workshops
A variety of seminars and workshops are offered by the chamber to provide information sharing as well as personal and professional training.
Business Support Services
The Chamber serves on several committees and fora. It works with other organisations where the Border-Kei chamber believes strongly in business unity and the transformation of the South African economy.
What support can the Chamber offer your business?
- Employee development
- Training in international trade
- Direct assistance on business challenges
- Export/import support and advice
- Assistance with employee matters
- Information on business regulations & amendments
- Policy, lobbying and advocacy
- CSI database and advice
- Access to markets
- Business-2-Business support and connections.
SME EXPORT SERVICES
What is a CERTIFICATE OF ORIGIN and when do I need one?
A Certificate of Origin is a certified document that states what the country of origin is of a specific product. As the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) states, ‘it declares the ‘nationality’ of your product. Certificates of Origin are one-time documents that accompany your shipments. The Border-Kei chamber of business provides export business services to members and non-members!
What accompanies a certificate of origin?
- An Original Invoice
- Packaging list stating the consignment
What Determines the Country of Origin?
The country of origin is determined by:
- Where the product originates from.
- The production process and where the production process takes place.
- What parts or ingredients are in your product.
- We have member and non-member rates.
- The Border-Kei Chamber of Business processes Certificates of origin for the SADC region and internationally.
- We provide export & Import support/advice and training in international trade.
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FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE TO STAY UP TO DATE WITH OUR LATEST NEWS & EVENTS
Border-Kei Chamber of Business
Founded in 1877, the Border-Kei Chamber of Business (BKCOB) is the recognised “Voice of Business"
🌸 Dearest Gentle Reader... 🌸
You are cordially invited to an afternoon of elegance, inspiration, and celebration at the Border-Kei Chamber of Business Bridgerton Women's Luncheon, proudly sponsored by Investec.
Gather your finest Bridgerton-inspired attire and join us for an unforgettable afternoon as we honour the remarkable women who lead, inspire, and make a difference in our community.
📅 Friday, 21 August 2026
🕑 14:00 – 17:00
📍 East London Golf Club
🎟️ R350 Members | R450 Non-Members
👒 Dress Code: Bridgerton-inspired (Prize for Best Dressed!)
Reserve your seat today using this link :
forms.cloud.microsoft/r/guLTDTxqDT
✨ Grace, elegance, and meaningful connections await. We look forward to welcoming you to the social event of the season! 💜 #BridgertonWomensLuncheon #BKCOB #WomenInBusiness #Networking #EastLondon #Investec #BridgertonInspired #CelebrateWomen
AUGUST TRAINNG
ICC INCOTERMS 2020 RULES
3 August 2026
TIME: 09H00 - 15H30
TRAINING FEE: Non-Members R1 390.00 per person VAT Incl
Members R974.00 per person VAT Incl.
Trade into within and out of Africa is going to be different post Covid- 19. There will be opportunities and traps! Incoterms 2020 define the seller’s and buyer’s obligations, risks, costs in trade contracts. Learn about these rules and their application from global and African experts.
MAIN TOPICS
What the Incoterms Rules Do?
What the Incoterms Rules do NOT do?
How best to incorporate the Incoterms Rules?
Delivery, Risks, and Costs in Incoterms Rules?
Incoterms Rules and the carrier?
Rules for the contracts of Sale and their relationship to other contracts?
The 11 Incoterms 202 Rules - “Seas and Inland Waterway”, and “Any Mode of Transport”- getting it right!
Order within the Incoterms Rules?
Difference between Incoterms® 2010 and 2020?
Caution with variants of Incoterms Rules?
EXPORT MANAGEMENT
3 - 7 August 2026
TIME: 09h00 – 16H00
TRAINING FEE: Non-Members R7 050.00 per person VAT Incl
Members R5 655.00 per person VAT Incl
The Chamber’s direct participation in the International Chambers of Commerce (ICC), which makes the rules for international trade, ensures that our students benefit from the most up-to-date information and developments. The course covers all the steps in the Export cycle, from negotiating with foreign sellers to safely getting your goods safely through customs to their final destination.
MAIN TOPICS
Export Control/Indent
Terms of Delivery – Incoterms (R) 2020 Rule
Financing and Payment
Protection and Packing
Shipping services and Freight Rates
Container Technology
The Role of Forwarding & Clearing Agent
Customs ClearanceProcedures
Port Facilities and Operations
Terminals and Depots
Marine Insurance
Airfreight
Road Transportation
Online Examination
MARINE INSURANCE 1-DAY ONLINE COURSE
7 August 2026
TIME: 09H00 - 16H00
TRAINING FEE: Members R 2 750.00 VAT Inc
Non-Members: R 3 300.00 VAT Incl
MAIN TOPICS:
• General Legal Principles used in Shipping
• Common Law Defined
• Civil vs. Criminal Courts
• Arbitration in Dispute Resolution & Mitigation
• Indemnities
• Legal Terms used for Marine Insurance
• The need for Cargo Insurance
• Law of Carriage
• Cargo Safety and Security
• Insurance claims
• Calculating Insurance Values & Premiums
• Types of Marine Insurance Policies
• Areas of investigation: Quality, Adequate & Insurance Shortfalls
SIMULATED ASSESSMENTS
- Notice of an insurance Claim
- Drafting a Proforma insurance Claim
- Presenting a Final Priced Claim
CERTIFICATE OF ORIGIN TRAINING
13 August 2026
TIME: 09H00 – 16h00
TRAINING FEE: Non-Members R1 760.00 per person VAT incl
Members R1 320.00 per person VAT incl.
This course provides a comprehensive overview of Rules of Origin, focusing on the effective implementation and application of origin procedures. Emphasizing practical topics, it prioritizes equipping international trade professionals with the knowledge to understand and adeptly apply the regulations found in Free Trade Agreements or Generalised System of Preferences (GSPs)
MAIN TOPICS
The reason for the Certification of Certificates of Origin and other Commercial Documentations
Analyse Source Documentation
Certify Certificates of Origin and other Commercial Documentation in compliance with regulations, process, and procedures of the issuing Body.
Create and maintain records in conformity with the minimum requirements of the issuing Body.
How to deal with queries relating to Certification of Certificates of Origin and other Commercial Documentation.
CUSTOMS AND COMPLIANCE MANAGEMENT 5 DAY ONLINE COURSE
17 - 21 August 2026
TIME: 09H00 – 16H00
TRAINING FEE: Non- Members R7 050.00 per person VAT Incl
Members R5 655.00 per person VAT Incl.
In these tough economic times, you have the opportunity toreduce international customs and trade compliance costs by ensuring that they do not only know the empowering your key staff theoretical but have also been exposed to the practical scenarios acquiring the knowledge to succeed in international market.Since 1989 the chamber’s course has been the benchmark for Customs Training. The content is comprehensive and constantly updated to reflect the latest information and requirements from international chamber of commerce.
MAIN TOPICS
WCO SAFE framework, AEO and Rules of Origin.
The Customs Act, Including SEZ & CCAE Defined.
Customs HS Tariff Classification Nomenclature.
Customs Values vs, ICC Incoterms (Shipping Terms)
Customs Compliance Audits (Essential Internal Audits)
Complete Simulated training
DANGEROUS GOODS
25 - 26 August 2026
TIME: 09h00 – 15H30
TRAINING FEE: Non-Members R3 300.00 per person VAT Incl.
Members R2750.00 per person VAT Incl.
This course is indispensable for professionals across various industries involving the handling hazardous materials. Whether you’rea driver, warehouse worker, shipping clerk, or supervisor, our comprehensive course equips you with the essential skills and knowledge to work safely and efficiently.
MAIN TOPICS
The nature of dangerous goods
Regulations and responsibilities
Classification and identification of dangerous good
Packaging, labelling, and marking
Handling and storage of dangerous goods
Transporting dangerous goods by road, air, rail and sea
Emergency response procedures🌍 Ready to take your business global?
Join the Border-Kei Chamber of Business, GMLSe, and ECDC for this practical, expert-led training programme designed to help businesses reduce risk, improve efficiency, and unlock new market opportunities with the Internation Trade Training Opportunities.
We offer tailor-made global solutions that provide our clients with superior and competitive results. The GMLS Team is comprised of recognised leaders in the field of International Trade, with a focus on trade facilitation initiatives. GMLS aims to secure the International Logistics Supply Chain by providing superior skills and knowledge transfer to African countries. Benefits to these countries will include maintaining and increasing their participation in world trade, whilst they contribute, in turn, to Global Supply Chain Security.
Why Attend?
✔ Gain practical, industry-relevant skills from leading international trade experts.
✔ Reduce compliance risks and improve operational efficiency.
✔ Strengthen your understanding of global supply chains and customs procedures.
✔ Enhance your competitiveness in local and international markets.
✔ Access expert-led training supported by BKCOB and ECDC to empower regional business growth.
Here are the courses for July:
✅ Import Management
✅ Incoterms® 2020 Rules
✅ Certificates of Origin
✅ Marine Insurance
✅ Customs Compliance
📈 Invest in your future. Strengthen your business. Expand your global reach.
Register Now using this link: forms.cloud.microsoft/r/gWcZgwrBH1
#InternationalTrade #ImportExport #Logistics #SupplyChainManagement #BusinessGrowth #BKCOB #ECDC #GMLSe
🚀 THE FUTURE OF WORK IS HERE – HAVE YOU BOOKED YOUR SEAT? 🚀
Join business leaders, entrepreneurs, innovators, HR professionals, and decision-makers at the Future of Work Conference 2026 and gain valuable insights into the trends, technologies, and strategies shaping tomorrow’s workplace.
This is more than a conference – it's an opportunity to connect, learn, collaborate, and position your business for future success.
📅 3 SEPTEMBER 2026
💼 Members: R1 000 excl. VAT
💼 Non-Members: R1 500 excl. VAT
📢 Want to showcase your business? Secure your exhibition space for R2000 or promotional banner for R500 and put your brand in front of influential business leaders and decision-makers.
📞 Book your ticket today: 043 743 8438
📧 members@bkcob.co.z
🚀
Do you have a brilliant business idea/startup business or know someone with a brilliant business idea/business? Tag them below and share this post! They could be one step closer to securing the investment they need to grow. 💼🌱
🎉 PLUS: Tag your friends, share this post and stand a chance to WIN a Wellness Voucher!
Applications for E-Monti Money 2026 are still open!
Don't miss this opportunity to showcase your business, connect with investors, gain valuable exposure, and potentially secure funding to grow and scale your business.
Closing Date: 31 July 2026
Apply now and take your business to the next level, using this link:
forms.cloud.microsoft/r/x0MCqmMHHC
📅 Applications close 31 July 2026. Don't miss out!
#eMontiMoney #InvestInBusiness #SupportLocal #Entrepreneurship #BorderKeiChamber #TagAndWin #BusinessGrowth
July 2026 New Member Induction
Nomaxabiso Klaas
Email: info@aptitude.africa
Tell: 072 552 8641
Web: www.aptitude.africa
Venue: 36 Inverleith Terrace Quigney
#welcome #newmemberswelcome #bkcob #businesscommunity #EastLondonBusiness #supportlocal #BusinessGrowth #networking
Interested in membership?
To join as a member, please fill in the application form or email members@bkcob.co.za
Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success.
– Henry Ford
GET IN TOUCH
EAST LONDON
Tel: 043 743 8438
Email: info@bkcob.co.za
Chamber House, The Hub
Bonza Bay Road, Beacon Bay, 5201
KOMANI
Tel : 060 555 5392 / 063 229 3511
Email: admin@bkcob.co.za
Sign up for newsletter: communications@bkcob.co.za