The ICC Advertising and Marketing Communications Code

The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) has released the updated 2024 version of the Advertising and Marketing Communications Code, with contributions from Estonian marketing companies. The Code continues its decades-long mission to establish high ethical standards in advertising and marketing, ensuring that marketing communications are legal, decent, honest, and truthful.

The Code was first created in 1937, and it has been continuously adapted to keep pace with a changing society and technology. The 2024 version reflects significant updates focused on modern marketing trends:

  • Regulation of the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and algorithms in marketing communications.
  • Clear guidelines on influencer marketing and their responsibilities.
  • Enhanced provisions regarding environmental claims and sustainability.
  • A dedicated chapter on marketing directed at children and teenagers.

The ICC Marketing Code has become an international standard widely used in advertising, sales promotion, sponsorship, and digital marketing. The updated Code covers the entire spectrum of marketing activities and helps companies adhere to responsible and ethical marketing practices. The ICC Code allows companies to ensure compliance with international standards while reducing the need for government intervention.

Where can the ICC Marketing Code be applied?

The ICC Advertising and Marketing Communications Code can be applied anywhere advertising and marketing activities take place, whether locally or internationally. The Code is widely used in the following areas:

  • Advertising and marketing: The Code applies to all types of advertising and marketing communications, regardless of the medium—print, TV, radio, internet, social media, etc.
  • Sales promotion: It covers all sales promotion techniques, including discounts, bonus points, sales, and free trial campaigns.
  • Sponsorship: The Code encompasses sponsorship activities that tie brands or companies to sponsored events, organizations, or individuals.
  • Digital marketing: This includes data-driven and direct marketing as well as digital advertising that utilizes algorithms and AI, such as targeted ads and personalized offers.
  • Environmental claims and sustainability: To avoid misleading information, the Code can be applied in marketing that involves environmental claims or sustainability promises.
  • Marketing to children and teenagers: Special rules apply to marketing aimed at younger age groups.

The ICC Code can be applied in all countries and marketing contexts where self-regulation mechanisms are in place and is used as an international standard to ensure responsible marketing practices.

Companies around the world are encouraged to implement the ICC Code to ensure transparency and ethical standards in their marketing activities, while also helping to strengthen consumer trust. The Code is available through ICC channels and is regularly updated to remain relevant in the ever-evolving digital and legal environment.

Download the 2024 ICC Marketing Code here.

Sügiskohtumine Kasahstani suursaatkonnas

 

Eile (15. 09) toimus traditsiooniline sügishooaja kohtumine Kasahstani suursaatkonnas Tallinnas, kus osalesid ICC Eesti ja Balti Kesk-Aasia koja liikmed ning juhtkond. Kasahstani suursaadik Eestis, TE Nurlan Seitimov andis ülevaate Kasahstani presidendi, Kassõm Žoomart Tokajevi kõnes “Õiglase Kasahstani majanduse eesmärgid” esitatud uuest Kasahstani majandusstrateegiast.

Programmi eesmärk on kindlustada Kasahstani, kui Kesk-Aasia suurima majanduse positsiooni. Erilist tähelepanu saab tööstuse moderniseerimine, ekspordi-, transiidi- ja energiasuutlikkuse arendamine. Suursaadik Seitimovi arvates peaks Eesti ettevõtetele huvi pakkuma eelkõige Kasahstani IT-sektori kui ekspordile orienteeritud tööstuse ja põllumajanduse arenguplaan ning transiidi valdkond. Kuna IT sektoril ja transiidil on oluline roll ka Eesti majanduses, saavad osapooled selles valdkonnas edukalt suhelda. 

Kasahstani suursaadiku sõnul ootab korraldamist ka Eesti-Kasahstani valitsuskoostöö komisjoni korraline kohtumine ning vajalikud on kõrgetasemelised visiidid riikide vahel. Loe kohtumisest pikemalt siit 

Meeting with the Kazakh ambassador

 
Ambassador of Kazakhstan H.E. Nurlan Seitimov organized a discussion round at the embassy on 9.03, where he introduced us to the political and economic modernisation program initiated by President Kassym-Jomart Tokajev and the modernised election law. Its purpose is to bring more public opinion into policy making and expand the number and role of people participating in the transformation of the political system.
We also talked about the results of the parliamentary elections in Estonia and the economy. The planned visits of Estonian entrepreneurs and the future prospects of bilateral cooperation between Kazakhstan and Estonia were also discussed. The meeting was attended by Heiti Mäemees, member of the board of the Baltic Central Asian Chamber of Commerce, Aare Mihelson, chairman of the ICC Estonia council, Erkki Veismann, head of international relations and commercial service of the Estonian Railways, Roman Vinartšuk, adviser to the board of BLRT Group, and others.

Best Wishes for 2023 from the International Chamber

Best Wishes for 2023 from the International Chamber

I am very proud of ICC’s many achievements this year that have positioned us as an actor, rather than an observer, in global affairs.

Throughout what has been a tumultuous year for people and business, we played a key role in addressing the world’s many interconnected challenges – a role no better exemplified by our hand in conceiving and brokering the Black Sea Grain Initiative that allowed the resumption of wheat trade out of Ukraine, thereby averting a major hunger crisis from developing in many parts of the world.

But as 2022 draws to a close, I want us to take the opportunity not to look back on the year gone by but to look ahead.

In 2023, we will continue to push for a seat at the highest levels of international decision making to ensure that global business fully participates in shaping the future. For no global crisis can be addressed without the active involvement of the private sector.

This is the start of a new chapter for our truly global organisation – one reflected in our new strategic direction and embodied by our new brand identity. The world is transforming, and so is ICC.

Because the true strength of ICC lies in our global network, I want to sincerely thank our members for their continuing engagement as we seek to create a better environment for businesses and a more peaceful and prosperous future for everyone, every day, everywhere.

They’ve enabled us to accomplish our vision and helped us create an impact where it matters most. Together, we are ICC.

I look forward to even more success next year! May you and your families have a healthy and happy 2023.

John W.H. Denton AO
ICC Secretary General

ICC unveils new look to reflect contemporary relevance and role

ICC has launched a new brand identity reflecting the global institution’s strategic direction and mission to make business work for everyone, every day, everywhere.

The rebrand incorporates a modern and elegant logo emphasising ICC’s global reach as the institutional representative of over 45 million companies in over 170 countries. The logo features a bold ICC monograph from longitude lines. A brighter blue, and confident, approachable typographic voice are also being used to echo ICC’s trusted role and leadership. 

The new look was unveiled during a global gathering of ICC representatives meeting in Mexico City this week and celebrated worldwide at ICC Global Headquarters in Paris and overseas offices.

ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO said: “We are leading and connecting businesses worldwide to address global crises head-on. We needed a look that mirrored the dynamism and relevance of the work we do and believe this is the right time for ICC to better capture and communicate the essence of our purpose by means of a distinctive, new look.” 

The culmination of an extensive and inclusive journey to redefine ICC’s brand identity, the new ‘look and feel’ continues the century-long evolution of ICC’s historic purpose for the 21st Century. 

“For ICC, our new visual identity also marks the start of a wider campaign to showcase the ‘what, why and how’ of ICC, to put greater emphasis on the true purpose of our organisation: the people at the heart of businesses, and the communities we help grow and thrive,” Mr Denton said. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LyTrVIcECdE

ICC Estonian October evening club with Andres Sutt – Minister of Entrepreneurship and Information Technology

Foreign trade is managed by Andres Sutt, Minister of Enterprise and Information Technology. So, without exaggeration, our “own” minister. Andres Sutt came with Adviser Helmuth Martin Reisner. ICC Estonia was represented by the newly elected chairman Aare Mihelson and half of the council members.
The Minister presented his vision of what is happening in the world and the challenge Estonia is facing. There is a great demand for talented people in the world. Estonia must make an effort to create good conditions to do business, work and live here and for talents to have a reason to strive here. 

The green transition, accompanying digitalization and the immediate threat of cybercrime to business were addressed. The Minister was also very interested in the views of the event participants. Probably there will be a practical continuation of Tõnis Hintsov, chairman of our member company PROLOG, about the problems of logistics digitization, paperless transport, and e-CMR development work.
The “Truth and Justice” of foreign trade is Incoterms. At the end of the evening, Tiit Tammemägi, the Honorary Chairman of ICC Estonia, handed over to the guest our first three volumes of “Truth and Justice”: Incoterms® 1990, 2000 and 2010. The Minister was sure to ask “But where is Volume IV?” “The manuscript is ready, but there is not enough money. We hope that with the support of the Minister we will also have Incoterms® 2020 published in Estonian” was Tiit’s answer.
An interesting story would have lasted even longer. The Minister also wanted to meet with the ICC Estonia and also invited to visit the Ministry.

We are grateful for an interesting and lively discussion for both the main speaker and the participants of the evening.

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Changes in the Board and Council of ICC Estonia.

 

On October 1, Aare Mihelson began his term as the Chairman and CEO of the ICC Estonia.

In September, after the General Meeting, Aare Mihelson (Adviser to the Secretary General of ICC Estonia) was elected Chair of the Council, Jaanus Benjamin (Windline OÜ) as First Vice-Chair, Raigo Tammo (Estanc AS) as Vice-Chair and Raivo Vasnu (NPM Silmet OÜ) as Adviser to the Chair.
Aare Mihelson took the reins from Tiit Tammemägi, the former Chairman of the Council, withdrew his candidacy and after 7 years as Secretary General and 3 years as Chairman of the Council, will continue in the role of Honorary Chair.

ICC Estonia’s Governance

Three ambassadors in the office of ICC Estonia

According to the pre-corona plans, the ICC Estonian business delegation would have traveled to Kazakhstan in early October. There will be no ride this time. However, a meeting with the Ambassador of Kazakhstan residing in Tallinn, Nurlan Seitimov, took place in the ICC Estonia office today. The event was initiated by Heiti Mäemees, the Estonian Ambassador to Kazakhstan. Heiti Mäemees, residing in Nur-Sultan, is also the Estonian Ambassador to the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan.

Tiit Tammemägi, Chairman of the of the ICC Estonia, gave an overview of the activities of the leading international business organization ICC and its Estonian National Committee, ICC Estonia. Among other things, the planned visit to Kazakhstan. It was agreed that a business delegation to Kazakhstan would be held as soon as the Covid-19 pandemic allowed it to do so. But before the trip, an Estonian-Kazakh business forum will be organized in Tallinn.

The previous Estonian Ambassador to Kazakhstan resided in Helsinki. The 2019 decree of the President of Kazakhstan expanded the country’s representation in the European Union. In addition to Tallinn, embassies were established in Bratislava, Belgrade, Lisbon, Riga and Sofia.

The meeting was attended by Marius Kutateladze (GoSwift), Raul Uus, who heads the future Baltic-Central Asian Chamber of Commerce, and Jaan Hein (DefSecIntel Solutions). Jaan Hein is an experienced diplomat who has been the Estonian Ambassador to Kazakhstan, Ukraine, Georgia, Tajikistan and elsewhere. So three ambassadors in the ICC Estonia office.

The joint opinion of the participants about the meeting was businesslike.

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FocusIT joined ICC Estonia

FocusIT joined ICC Estonia.

FocusIT is an information security partner. Their experts help protect your assets and reputation by protecting your information systems and information.
The list of services they offer is also extensive:

  • Security level assessment
  • Consulting
  • Information security management
  • Security of personal data
  • More information on their website www.focusit.ee

NJORD Law Office and ICC Estonia cooperation seminars for entrepreneurs

NJORD Law Office has been a gold member of the International Chamber of Commerce ICC Estonia since January. During 2019, NJORD and ICC Estonia plan to organize several free seminars for entrepreneurs.

The first joint seminar will take place on 2 April and will focus on the rights, obligations and responsibilities of board members. The next seminar on data protection is expected at the end of May, one year after the general data protection regulation became mandatory. NJORD and ICC Estonia expect the active participation of entrepreneurs in the seminars. More detailed information will be distributed on both NJORD and ICC Estonia websites as the seminar dates approach.

NJORD Law Office has been an active member of ICC Estonia for many years and thus also a member of the International Chamber of Commerce. Triinu Hiob, Head of Disputes at NJORD, has also been appointed a member of the ICC International Court of Arbitration.

Hardmeier, new member in ICC Estonia

Hardmeier OÜ started its activity as a developer and manufacturer of access control systems already in 1994 in Tallinn. In connection with 2006. With the addition of security systems to the product portfolio, the joint brand FoxSec was created. Over the years, Hardmeier OÜ has continuously developed and improved its production and by now has achieved a considerable position as a developer and manufacturer of access control systems both in Estonia and elsewhere in the world.

The FoxSec family includes three different systems that ensure the satisfaction of even the most demanding customer.

  • FoxSec Net + Integrated security and access control system with a large number of doors
  • FoxSec Lite + Integrated security and access control system with a small number of doors
  • FoxSec 1850 Access control system

All FoxSec software and hardware have been developed in Estonia by the engineers of Hardmeier OÜ. Their specialists help the customer to choose the right solutions and provide support throughout the service life. Hardmeier OÜ has gained a good reputation among users of FoxSec systems primarily due to the high quality of products and services and the professionalism of specialists.

Look closer: https://www.foxsec.eu/

ICC issues warning on fake Incoterms® rules and deceptive training offers

In recent months, a number of websites and providers have started to offer information or training on the new Incoterms® 2020 rules. Please be advised that only ICC and its National Committees (including ICC Estonia) and groups are in the position to inform you about the current status of the Incoterms® 2020 rules until their publication which is planned for next year.

The Incoterms® rules – maintained and revised by ICC since their first publication in 1936 – have become an integral part of international trade through their use in contracts for the sale of goods and are an important tool to increase legal certainty in international trade. While ICC is encouraging the widespread use of the Incoterms® rules, it also warns against fake digital versions and fraudulent training offers.

The Incoterms 2010 rules are currently being revised to respond to the market changes that have taken place over the last ten years, such as increased obligations regarding security procedures. Over the last two years, ICC’s global network has been consulted in the drafting process of the new Incoterms® 2020 rules – which are to be released during ICC’s centennial in 2019 and come into effect in January 2020. A central aim of the revision is to make the new Incoterms rules as user-friendly as possible and promote a better understanding to help users worldwide avoid costly errors by choosing the right Incoterms rule for their transaction.

Over the last years, various false Incoterms rules versions have sprung up on the Internet, for instance versions that reference a year other than 2010, or texts purporting to be partial or complete copies of the Incoterms® 2010 rules. Please be advised that any such materials are very likely to be fakes if they are not sourced directly from ICC or ICC National Committees and groups.

These fakes display incomplete, unauthorized or inaccurate information, the use of which in your contracts may result in mistakes and litigations.

In light of the upcoming new Incoterms® 2020 rules, there is much public speculation about the changes. In addition to the public release of the new rules next year, ICC will offer official ICC certified training as well – be aware of deceptive early training offers coming from bodies other than ICC, ICC National Committees and groups or the ICC Academy, which will offer an online course and exam on the Incoterms® 2020 rules.

If you have any questions, please contact ICC Estonia at icc@icc-estonia.ee

 

ICC Estonia has a new member – SGPharma Europe OÜ

SGPharma Europe OÜ is importer and exporter of niche, orphan and shortage medicines. SGPharma Europe is a subsidiary company of SGPharma Pvt. Ltd. located in Mumbai, India exporting products to more than 43 countries worldwide.

Since 1947, SGPharma has been a pioneer in the field of speciality medicines globally sourced, as well as indigenously manufactured, and making them accessible to people at affordable prices. Mr. Kirit Bhagat, the President of SGPharma, was the only entrepreneur who took the initiation to launch and market many vaccines for the 1st time in India.

SGPharma has its presence all over the world, where its products are registered and being ethically promoted: Central America, Carribean Countries, South America, Africa, South-East Asia, South-West Pacific and CIS countries. Detailed information is available here.

SGPharma Europe is looking for trusted business partners in Estonia. At the meeting at the ICC, the company discussed further plans and activities in Estonia and how ICC Estonia could continue to help with the necessary know-how. B2B meetings were held with our member companies in pharmaceutical industry.

Chetan Bhagat Bhavesh Bhagat Peeter Puskai Mihkel Luur
SGPharma Europe OÜ ICC Eestis

 

AS KEVELT is looking for business partners

pharmaceutical manufacturer kevelt in estonia, europeAS KEVELT, Estonian manufacturer of sterile medicinal products for human use and a member of ICC Estonia, would be interested in cooperation with mid-size pharmaceutical manufacturers and wholesale companies on a contract manufacturing basis.

AS KEVELT was established in 1992 and now has more than 25 years of experience in pharmaceutical industry. Since 2003 AS KEVELT is EU GMP certified for manufacturing of medicinal products for human use and company quality management system is certified by ISO 9001:2015.

AS KEVELT specializes in manufacturing of sterile medicinal products in following forms:

  • Small volume liquids in ampoules
  • Small volume liquids in glass vials
  • Ophthalmic liquids in bottles

Quality control from incoming materials to finished products is performed mainly in-house in their analytical and microbiological laboratories.

AS KEVELT is focused on the sales of its products and interested in expanding markets.

You can find more information about KEVELT’s products on their web page: https://kevelt.ee/products-and-services/pharmaceuticals/.

AS KEVELT holds a wholesale distribution authorization for medicinal products and is authorized to import medicinal products under the Mutual Recognition Agreement and to release/certify imported batches when imported to EU.

AS KEVELT is able to provide following services on a contractual basis:

  • Development of generic medicinal products
  • Preparation of CTD or eCTD for submission
  • Stability studies of medicinal products
  • Labelling and packaging services from design to release
  • Release of the products
  • Storage and transportation of medicinal products.

AS KEVELT is also authorized to manufacture and import human medicinal products for clinical research.

Should you be interested in cooperation in the areas mentioned above or have any questions in this regard, please feel free to contact KEVELT AS by e-mail kevelt@kevelt.ee.

Contact Information:

Svetlana Gladysheva
Sales and Logistics Manager
AS Kevelt

E-mail: Kevelt@kevelt.ee
Website: http://kevelt.ee

ICC-FIDIC International Construction Contracts Conference

Register now for the ICC-FIDIC International Construction Contracts Conference, taking place in Tbilisi on 20-21 September 2018, and save 30% with the following NC discount code: EST-30

Topics will include:

  • Dispute Boards in Action: a Mock Dispute Avoidance and Adjudication Board (DAAB)
  • Liability issues during the life of the project in Construction Disputes
  • A particular focus on the One Belt One Road initiative and the construction projects in CIS countries and Caucasus region

View the complete programme and confirmed speakers here.

Description

The event, which gathers the world’s leading construction practitioners aims to provide participants with an update of the latest industry trends and developments, deliver real-world insight and specialist knowledge, as well as offer an exclusive networking platform for the international construction community.
Internationally renowned engineers, construction arbitration specialists and in-house lawyers of leading companies in the field will share their practical experience and knowledge on the FIDIC contracts and the related procedures for claims and disputes, Dispute Boards and ICC Arbitration in construction cases.

Who should attend?

Any practitioner involved in international construction contracts and disputes:

  • engineers, contractors, in-house lawyers from construction companies
  • construction lawyers, arbitrators
  • mediators, experts, contract managers
  • financial institutions and Government entities involved in procurement

Webpage

Edu UK foundation

Get Your Tickets to Nordic Business Forum 2018!

Join one of the leading business seminars in the world!

In just nine years, Nordic Business Forum has become one of the world’s most significant business conferences for a reason. The events are known for a customer experience like no other, attention to detail, an impressive speaker lineup, top notch customer service, and bright-minded attendees. Some have even called it a business conference and a rock concert all wrapped into one. Be inspired, discover new ideas, and build valuable networks. You will not regret attending.

Check out Nordic Business Forum 2018 full lineup here including 44th president of the United States – Barack Obama! 

ICC Estonia offers Nordic Business Forum 2018 tickets for ICC members just for 999€ + 20% Estonian VAT. Discount for others: 1199€ + 20% VAT.

Normal ticket price from NBF Price for members of ICC Estonia ICC discount for others
1599,60 € 999 € * 1199 € *

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* 20% Estonian VAT will be added to the price.

You will get:

  • Two-day seminar pass
  • Access to the Brella networking app
  • Full catering
  • Simultaneous interpretation to Finnish & Russian
  • On-demand access to the presentations for 30 days

Nordic Business Forum 2018 will be held on 26 – 27 september 2018 in Helsinki Expo and Convention Center, Finland.

NBF is behind the corner and tickets are going fast. Get yours now!

ICC Estonia has a new member – Atlas Baltic

ATLAS BALTIC Ltd. was established at 2008, a company is based on private capital with head office in Tallinn. We are shipping agency actively working in all main Baltic ports and dealing with all logistic services including, but not limited to port agency services, freight forwarding, chartering, customs brokerage, travel & shore excursion services.

For further information please read HERE.

 

 

 

 

 

ICC Estonia has a new member – Ecofleet Eesti

Ecofleet is an international IoT software company that specializes in GPS-based fleet and team management solutions. Our focus is on optimizing car fleets and workflows to help our customers reduce costs and increase revenue. 

Our expertise is in sales, service, and R&D. We offer a wide range of standard solutions, but also provide scalable solutions for individual needs.

For further information please read HERE.

ICC Estonia’s gold member Estanc succeeded at a mission impossible project

Last Monday morning ICC Estonia’s gold member Estanc received an impossible project request. They were requested to produce a vessel on the picture by Saturday evening, on the same week! Stakes for the customer were high because their operations were not able to continue without replacing the vessel in their process. Under normal conditions Estanc would deliver such project in 3,5-4 months. Their team calculated the risks and prepared itself for the 24/7 beyond maximum effort regime and they decided to pursue the challenge.

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Photo: Estanc

Thanks to the extraordinary effort from all of the departments Estanc managed to grant their clients wishes and this piece of equipment was delivered timely against all odds and the client was able to get back to their normal processes and save cost damages that could have turned into a possible disaster.

Click here to read more about Estanc!

ICC Estonia’s business delegation visit to Zedazeni Factory

On September 19, 2016 members of the ICC Estonia’s business delegation were pleased to be the special guests of Zedazeni factory where they were able to observe the manufacturing process of beer and lemonade. Mr. Vasil Sulkhanishvili, General Manager of Zedazeni, welcomed the guests and gave an overview of the history of company and shared with the members of the delegation the information regarding beer producing. The company visit was hosted by ICC Georgia and turned out to be an excellent example of cooperation between two ICC National Committees.

Please click here to find the photos of the vist to Zedazeni factory.

ICC Estonia’s business delegation visit to Georgia from 16 to 23 September includes as well a business forum, B2B meetings and another company visit in Kakheti region. The business delegation consists of up to 20 business representatives. The head of the delegation is Mr. Arnold Rüütel, The President of the Republic of Estonia 2001–2006.

In memoriam. Francois-Gabriel Ceyrac, Director of ICC National Committees and Membership

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ICC Estonia so as the whole worldwide ICC family has lost its prominent leader and good friend Francois-Gabriel Ceyrac. We are shocked getting this news late evening yesterday.

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Dear Colleagues,

It is with profound sadness that I have to inform you of the death of Francois-Gabriel Ceyrac earlier today.

Francois passed away in his sleep. His death has come as a great shock to us all and I trust you will join me in conveying our deepest sympathies to his friends and family.

Francois was nothing short of an ICC icon. His energy, drive and humour was a real inspiration to us all and he was dearly loved and respected throughout the organization. Francois spent over 30 years at ICC—most recently in the role of Director of National Committees and Membership—and he leaves behind an organization which is much stronger thanks to his tireless work. Francois played a central role over many years in extending and strengthening our global network and we are truly grateful to him for the legacy he has left behind. His intellect, charm and character brought joy into our lives and workplace.

I know that many of you worked closely with Francois and you will also have very many fond memories of him. We will all miss him greatly, both professionally and, above all, personally. The world is a little darker today with his passing. Should you wish to send written tributes, please do not hesitate to send these to me and we will collate them in a book of remembrance.

We will let you know further details about Francois’ funeral and remembrance services as soon as these are available.

With all best wishes,

John Danilovich
Secretary General
International Chamber of Commerce

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Francois-Gabriel Ceyrac visiting ICC Estonia in Tallinn and ICC Export Conference in Narva in June 2014

 

ICC Estonia´s goldmember LAWIN in Estonia celebrating 25th anniversary by creating a new pan-Baltic alliance COBALT

This spring marks LAWIN Tallinn office’s 25th anniversary on the legal services market and the law firm established in 1990 is now entering a new exciting stage of development.

LAWIN continues under a new business name COBALT

The Estonian office of LAWIN created a new Pan-Baltic alliance, also expanding into Belarus, and will continue under the new business name COBALT. COBALT is a new closely integrated alliance formed by the LAWIN office in Estonia, former Raidla Lejins & Norcous offices in Latvia and Lithuania and the new office simultaneously opened in Belarus.

Focus of the law firm stays the same. An experienced team of 120 lawyers aims to support and facilitate clients’ business activities and development by offering outstanding innovative legal solutions in all areas of business law and do this in a manner that is the most effective and convenient for each client.

Changes in the management

After a quarter of a century of intense and successful work in the field of law, founding partners Peeter Lepik and Toomas Luhaäär have decided to entrust younger partners with the daily management of the office and continue on as consultants.

The role of managing partner will be taken by Martin Simovart who has worked at the office for more than twenty years and has been a partner since 2006. The circle of partners welcomes new additions, Pirkko-Liis Harkmaa and Elo Tamm, who both have consistently contributed to the work of the office for more than fifteen years.

Liina Linsi, who was part of the team already upon the foundation of the office in the beginning of the nineties, as well as Marina Tolmatshova, who joined our team in 2009, will continue on as partners.

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COBALT team in Estonia

A good example of cooperation

From 23 to 28 April ICC Estonia’s business delegation visited Albania. The main event during this visit was an Estonian-Albanian Business Forum in Tirana on 24 April. The forum was hosted by ICC Albania and by Secretary General Ardita Seknaj in particular.

The forum was opened by Deputy Prime Minister of Albania Niko Peleshi. In summary, the event included high ranking speakers, great media interest and a number of Albanian companies to meet Estonian colleagues at the subsequent B2B session, which turned out to be an excellent example of cooperation between two ICC National Committees.

Mr Margus Rava, the Estonian Ambassador to Albania: “I appreciate highly ICC Estonia’s initiative to come to Albania with such a representative delegation”.

Mr Tiit Tammemägi, the Secretary General of ICC Estonia: “Business delegations travelling to different countries is one of the services we are offering to our members. In September we will go to Ukraine and in November 2015 to China and Taiwan.”

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New video introducing ICC

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A new video introducing ICC is available . The video tells the story of ICC, states ICC’s mission, and describes a range of ICC’s various work activities through interviews with ICC leaders, photos and short texts.
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ICC has new logo!

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Attention! International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) has decided to upgrade its historical logo!
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National Committees of ICC have to upgrade their logos in social media before January 16. ICC Estonia has two versions of the new logo – one in Estonian and one in English:
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‘The world business organization’ tagline is being retained, but needs to be used separately from the logo. It will be a complement to the logo when needed.
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Members of ICC Estonia still have the right to use ICC Estonia’s logo at their homepages. Please innovate the old logos to new!
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ICC Estonia has a new member!

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AS SAMELIN is a footwear manufacturer based on Estonian capital. The most well-known production in Estonian market are work- and safety boots and -shoes under the trademark named SAMELIN. Company produces also womens, mens and childrens street footwear made of leather. Also hiking boots, ski boots and military boots.
Since 1993 SAMELIN has successfully obtained the skill to use hygienic and licensed materials (that are waterproof) while producing hiking, ski and special purpose boots.
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More information from their homepage: www.samelin.ee
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PROLOG joined with ICC Estonia

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Estonian Purchasing and Supply Chain Management Association also called as PROLOG is a vital link between the Estonian SCM community and SCM professionals worldwide. Through global marketing actions the Association assists its members in developing their businesses in target markets. It provides the so-called all-in-one service – the customer can simultaneously find overviews, business contacts and support.
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PROLOG as a partner of the Estonian Government is deeply involved in the national law making process and elaboration of SCM and transport policies. Our current priorities include the Estonian maritime policy, creation of Estonian supply chain cluster, Estonian investment and export competitiveness strategy and also the participation of Estonia at World Expo in Shanghai in 2010.
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More information from their homepage: www.prolog.ee
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Success of our members

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On 8 October, the winners of the competitions Entrepreneurship Award 2013 and Estonian Companies’ Competitiveness Ranking 2013 were declared at the Estonia Concert Hall. ICC Estonia’s goldmember Estanc was given Entrepreneurship Award in ‘innovator of the year’ category and skimpily missed the main prize of the Entrepreneurship Award 2013. The main prize and the foreign investor of the year award were given to Kühne+Nagel AS. Knowing our goldmember’s activities, we think that the main prize should have been given to Estanc.
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Congratulations to the Estanc family, special congrats to chairman of the council, Mr Raigo Tammo (in the picture above). He owns two family companies – Estanc AS and T-Tammer OÜ. Mr Tammo has so many interests, participates in most of ICC Estonia’s events, leads two family companies etc. Unbelievable what strenght some people have!
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Most competitive company in transport and logistics area was ICC Estonia’s member Tallinna Sadam AS.
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ICC Estonia has a new member

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ELI started in 1995 with simulators for rifles and antitank weapons to learn and improve the operational use of small arms in near-realistic situations. They are especially proud of patented recoil and reload for small arms with built-in CO2 system. Software to learn anti-tank weapons. Innovatically new idea in mortar simulation. CO2 operated mortar simulator M-GOLF for 81mm and 120mm are designed for operations in open landscape. Interactive simulator ALFONS is made to learn to use anti-tank weapons with co-operation infantry small arms. Radio controlled target systems for infantry and sub-caliber anti-tank weapons
ELI is the leader of the Baltic countries in developing and producing simulators and training systems for police and defence forces.
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More information from their homepage: www.eli.ee
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HeatConsult joined with ICC Estonia

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HeatConsult is an Estonian company, based in Tallinn. They specialise in design projects of gas and district heating systems, HVAC (heating, ventilation and cooling) and steam systems projects. Their main references is Estonian onshore part of BalticConnector (Estonia-Finland gas pipeline, 54km from Kiili to Paldiski) and some projects in Russia: HVAC, plumbing and steam systems of industrial buildings.
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More information from their homepage: www.heatconsult.ee
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Ukrainian Business Forum

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The Embassy of Ukraine and ICC Estonia organized a business forum on 12 September on the premises of the Embassy of Ukraine.  Presentations were presented as follows:

  • On the economic situation of Ukraine before the EU Eastern Partnership Summit in Vilnius. Viktor Kryzhanivsky, the Ambassador of Ukraine to Estonia
  • On new business opportunities in Ukraine. Vadim Trjuhan, partner at Ukrainian law office IMG Partners
  • Entrepreneurial climate in Ukraine, as seen by Estonian diplomat Roman Vinartšuk, Embassy of Estonia in Kiev, I Secretary
  • Investing opportunities in different Ukrainian regions. Volodymyr Reshetniak, Councellor, Embassy of Ukraine to the Republic of Estonia
  • On the activities of the European Integration Development Centre of Ukraine. Jaaika Merilo, the director general of the centre
  • How the National Committees of ICC in Estonia and Ukraine can contribute to creating business connections and concluding deals. Tiit Tammemägi, Secretary General of ICC Estonia
  • My entrepreneurial experience in Ukraine. Viktor Lõsak, director of Everwelle Ltd

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After presentations was a buffet party and informal discussions. ICC Estonia is very glad that there was a big interest regarding the forum, it started many discussions and the event went very well. The business forum was sold out.

ICC Estonia has a new member

The Salary Information Agency is an independent survey agency offering employers and employees the latest salary information. The Agency is an offspring of salary surveys launched in April 2011 on the initiative of Tark Tööandja OÜ (Smart Boss Ltd) in cooperation with the Estonian Employers’ Confederation and CV-Online.
The Agency’s mission is to generate useful information for employers to help them create competitive remuneration packages and for employees to develop adequate salary expectations.
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More information from their homepage: www.salaryinfo.eu
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Kase Kaubandus joined with ICC Estonia!

Kase Kaubandus LLC is created in 1994. They offer passenger services across Europe. Company has all the necessary permits to organize passenger transport. Kase Kaubanduse bus drivers are friendly, helpful and have a long driving experience.
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Please find more information from their homepage: www.autobussirent.ee
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ATC joined with ICC Estonia

ATC Ltd operates in the field of sale of agricultural products and feed ingredients. The raw material is from Ukraine, Russia, Belarus, Argentina, Brazil and European Union countries. Their strengths are flexibility, a well-organized logistics, supply security and the team’s long-term experience in the field.
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More information: www.agritradingcompany.com
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Kevelt joined with ICC Estonia

Kevelt is an Estonian pharmaceutical company that is engaged in the manufacturing, resale and subcontracting of pharmaceuticals. Kevelt product development, manufacturing and issue of products comply with the strictest quality requirements in the pharmaceuticals industry. Since 2003, Kevelt has had a Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) Certificate. The team of Kevelt has strong scientific potential.
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More information from their homepage: www.kevelt.ee
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ICC Estonia has a new member!

Estonian EXPO Center is a permanent trade fair in Tallinn Airport near gate 3. Every day the purpose of EXPO is to introduce different companies to local and foreign markets. Through active promotion and personal approach EXPO gathers feedback and contacts of potential clients and business partners. Trained representatives ensure a professional introduction of  products/services, through which a company gathers reputation and increases its trustworthiness.

The strengths of EXPO are:

  • Location
  • Uniqueness
  • Personal approach
  • Wide target group
  • Live promotion
  • Giving out company`s flyers/business cards
  • Visual experience/display
  • Active feedback
  • High quality of service

 

Many of Estonian companies have found clients and business partners through EXPO. Different success stories are shown on EXPO`s website – www.estonianexpocenter.com
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T-Tammer joined with ICC Estonia!

T-Tammer OÜ is a manufacturer of steel profile and metal opening fillings from 1995. By today, the family company has grown to one of the biggest manufacturers of steel profile opening fillings in Estonia with ca 75 employees. In addition to opening fillings, the company also produces stainless steel handrails, special handles, all-glass solutions and facades. Besides manufacturing of own products, the profile – Stålprofil necessary for manufacturing doors is imported from Sweden and sold also to other producers in Estonia. The first production building was opened in 2002 and another, with special aim to produce stainless steel products, in 2008. T-Tammer exports ca 55% of its production and the export volume is increasing fast.
T-Tammer thinks that its strength is finding optimal solutions for the clients, meeting the deadlines to perform works, quality of products and good relations with leading construction companies in Estonia.
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More information from their homepage: www.tammer.ee
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Grader Service joined with ICC Estonia

Grader Service is established in 1992 and it’s primary industry is preparing cutting edges for both domestic and export market. They export their production to neigbouring countries like Finland, Sweden, Norway, Latvia and Lithuania. Grader Service prepares cutting edges for graders, snow ploughs and other road and soil machine positioning elements. Cutting edges are made from Sweden-made boron steel. After the cutting edge is thermically processed, it’s hardness will be 45…50 HRC. Optimal hardness and impact strenght of the products guarantee long lasting working life. Especially effective are carbide cutting edges and dowels. We also produce special orders by drawings or examples of a customer.

More information on their homepage: www.grader.ee
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Chemi-Pharm joined with ICC Estonia

Chemi-Pharm is established in 1997 and based on British-Estonian capital. Company produces and markets disinfecting and cleaning agents and products of special care. Year 2000 started manufacturing in Estonia. They have successfully entered to Latvian, Lithuanian, Poland, Finnish, Swedish and Russian market. Disinfectants and cleaning agents are mainly sold to medical institutions, dental offices, family doctor offices, schools, kindergartens, food industry companies, cleaning companies, sports centers, spas, etc. AS Chemi-Pharm offers more than one hundred different products for disinfecting, cleaning and maintenance. At the present Chemi-Pharm AS has 20 products with CE label.

On the 8th of November 2012 Chemi Pharm’s manager and owner, Mrs Ruth Oltjer, was announced as the ‘Estonian Entrepreneur of 2012’.

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More information: www.chemi-pharm.com

The Six O’Clock Club guest Mr Aku Sorainen

The Six O’Clock Club was held on the 21st of November, guest of honour was Mr Aku Sorainen, the founder and senior partner of Law Firm SORAINEN.
Mr Sorainen introduced which strategies  the law firm under his name is using to motivate their personnel to work. Guests got many useful tricks.  In relation to that the firm is located in four different countries, Aku Sorainen explained the main differences of those nationalities. Club guests admitted that people work harder and are more productive in the cold climate.
The athmosphere of the dinner was great!

Next Six O’Clock Club will be held on the 19th of December.

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Viljandi Metall joined with ICC Estonia

Viljandi Metall has been constantly developing as an organisation and has become a strong company with more than 30-year tradition in producing and assembling steel structures. As they operate according to the principle “from idea to solution”, the list of their services and products covers everything related with metal. AS Viljandi Metall has a yearly capability of producing up to 3000 tons of steel structures, including different construction and interior products, components for machine-building products and subcontracting works. Production land area is more than 10 ha, with production plants operating on 9000 m² and nearly 150 workers are employed in Viljandi, Karksi-Nuia and Põltsamaa.

More information: www.vmt.ee

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Law firm LAWIN joined with ICC Estonia

LAWIN – internationally highest ranked business law firm in the Baltics – was launched in 2004 by Lepik & Luhaaar (Estonia), Klavins & Slaidins (Latvia) and Lideika, Petrauskas, Valiunas ir partneriai (Lithuania) – leading law firms in each jurisdiction since their very foundation in the beginning of 1990‘s.
LAWIN has earned its reputation by consistently being at the heart of the largest and most complex commercial and financial transactions in each jurisdiction and regionally; working with the largest foreign investors in the Baltic States, major local and international businesses, and governments in the Baltics. They pride themselves with pro bono initiatives and active work to further the development of the local legal environment. With over 140 legal professionals working in five practice groups, LAWIN is ideally positioned to provide the highest caliber, specialized legal services both domestically and on a pan-Baltic dimension.Their recent recognition include Chambers Europe Award for Excellence 2012 for the Baltic region; Law Firm of the Year 2011 European award for the Baltic States by The Lawyer magazine and Law Firm of the Year 2011: Baltics award for the legal innovation by International Financial Law Review (IFLR).

More information from their homepage: www.lawin.ee

Law Firm Entsik & Partners joined with ICC Estonia

On the 15th of August Law Firm ENTSIK & PARTNERS joined with ICC Estonia. Entsik & Partners is a new generation law firm founded in 2004. They are advising both domestic and international clients in all aspects of business law. The firm has especially strong expertise in the fields of Corporate & Commercial, Real Estate, Construction, Public Procurement and Dispute Resolution. Clients are served in English, Estonian, Russian and Finnish.

Visit their website: www.entsik.ee

Logitrans Consult joined with ICC Estonia

On the 16th of July joined Logitrans Consult with ICC Estonia. Logitrans Consult is a transport-forwarding company founded in 2004 that provides typical 3PL level (third party logistics providers) services. Specializes in transportation of all types of containers; general cargo; perishable goods; out of gauge and heavy lift cargoes and project cargo. Transit cargo transportation from / to: Asia, China, USA, Canada, Europe (including Scandinavia and Baltic States), Russia, Belarus, Ukraine, Kazakhstan and other CIS countries.

Their services:

  • Full range of international freight forwarding services by all transport modes,including sea, rail, road and air transportation;
  • Intermodal container transportation;
  • Door–to–door services;
  • Optimal transport logistics for all kinds of cargo, except liquids;
  • Supply Chain Management, including 3PL provider services;
  • Customs brokerage services;
  • Chartering / brokerage.

The company provides cargo handling in the free customs zone of the port of Muuga (Estonia) and other Baltic ports.

More information on their homepage: www.logitrans.ee

Interlex joined with ICC Estonia

On the 16th of July Interlex joined with ICC Estonia. Interlex is a translation company from 1997. Interlex does translation, interpretation, internationally and legally competent document translations, localisation of media and software, subtitling and more. They offer translations from the most common European languages and they owns ISO 9001:2008 quality management certificate.

More information on their homepage: www.interlex.ee

ICC Estonia has a new member

On the 20th of June joined Janere with ICC Estonia. Janere was established in 1995. Their main field of activity is wholesale of fastenings, including product groups like nails, screws, bolts, rebars and mesh. Biggest costumers are building material resellers, concrete producers and construction companies in Estonia. Janere is leading Estonian company in this field of activity.

More information on their homepage: www.janere.ee

ICC Estonia’s export conference “Make Trade Simple!”

ICC Estonia’s export conference “Make Trade Simple!” was held on the 7th of June at Lawfirm Glikman & Partners conference room. During the conference was also held ICC Estonia’s first birthday.

“Make Trade Simple!” is ICC WBO’s slogan that was directed to raise the quality of foreign trade transactions.ICC Estonia, as national organization of ICC, took that slogan to be its device primarily because at complicated times we need simple, clear and relative export deals! All of ICC Estonia’s foreign trade trainings have enacted under the slogan “Make Trade Simple!” . Export conference was a logical appendage.

Guest performers came from all over Europe – Timo Vuori from ICC Finland, Martin Granholm, prof Jan Ramberg from Sweden and capt Pottengal Mukundan from London.

Conference talked about:

Global economy from Nordic business perspective – what business leaders should know about the ICC – Martin Granholm;
How companies should take advantage of the ICC services by Making Trade Simple? – Timo Vuori;
What is a good transaction in international trade and how to achieve it? – Tiit Tammemägi;
Incoterms – so simple, so effective. – Jan Ramberg;
Big export deals concerning Molycorp Silmet – David O’Brock;
Does mindset “Make Trade Simple!” suit with development of Estonian Air? – Rauno Parras;
Dispute resolution – State Court vs Arbitration Court vs amicable settlement by parties. Live dispute between Leon Glikman vs Asko Pohla vs Tiit Tammemägi;
Commercial crimes – how to avoid becoming a victim? – Pottengal Mukundan;
Panel of conclusions – performed Meelis Tambla from KredEx Credit Insurance; Kristo Vrager from Schenker; Urmas Koidu from Estonian Tax and Customs Board; Age Valgepea from Swedbank.

ICC Estonia has big plans with export conference “Make Trade Simple!”. Next year we plan to arrange it at Narva and we hope that “Make Trade Simple!” is an international conference.

Next some pictures that were made at conference:


Opening words by Mr Andre Pung, Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Director of External Economic and Development Cooperation Department
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“Father” of Incoterms – professor Jan Ramberg
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Little piece of ICC Estonia’s library – ICC publications
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Chief Commercial Officer of Estonian Air Mr Rauno Parras (on the left) and ICC Estonia’s Secretary General Mr Tiit Tammemägi
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Barrister Asko Pohla, Manager of Law Firm Pohla & Hallmägi
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Barrister Leon Glikman, Partner at Law Firm Glikman & Partners
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Capt Pottengal Mukundan from ICC Commercial Crime Services

Competency course for exporters-importers, logistics-freight forwarders

On the 11th of May finished a half-year lasting competency course for exporters-importers, logistics-freight forwarders.
ICC Estonia arranges this course once a year to deepen foreign trade professionalism. The course started at January and ended at 11th of May. Next course starts already this autumn!

Have a great summer!

The annual general meeting of ICC Estonia

On the 23rd of May took place the annual general meeting of ICC Estonia. Meeting was held at ICC Estonia’s office at A.H. Tammsaare tee 47.
According to the agenda the general meeting had to correct the margin of membership fees, change the articles of association, verify the annual report, elect new council members and other questions.

Estonian Trade Council desided one year ago to constitute national organization of International Chamber of Commerce (ICC). The general meeting gave an overview of the ICC Estonia’s first year activities. Secretary General Mr Tiit Tammemägi confirmed that ICC Estonia has actuated very well! The decision to create ICC Estonia was right. ICC Estonia is the sole representative of ICC in Estonia. We have a liability to name candidates to ICC’s divisions and members to commissions. Estonia has a member in ICC International Court of Arbitration for the first time! General meeting desided that Estonian Trade Council will carry on with the company name ICC Estonia, in Estonian ICC Eesti. Because of that ICC Estonia needed to change its articles of association.

 

Thank you all for participating!

The Six O’Clock Club guest Mr Indrek Teder

This seasons last Six O’Clock Club in the Three Sisters was held on the 16th of May and special guest was the Chancellor of Justice Mr Indrek Teder. Mr Teder informed us how the institution of the Chancellor of Justice in Estonia works. Indrek Teder said that Chancellor of Justice is a very versatile and evolving position.
This seasons very last Six O’Clock Club is going to departure to Ida-Virumaa.
ICC Estonia wishes you a great and memorable summer! See you in autumn!