U.S. Chamber of Commerce CEO speaks to AmChams from around the world on the impact of COVID-19

On Thursday 14 May, 2020Tom Donohue, CEO, U.S. Chamber of Commerce spoke to representatives from AmChams from around the world on a call focused on sharing information on the impact of COVID-19 on businesses. In his remarks, he highlighted the activities of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce aimed at supporting its member companies. Mr Donohue also emphasised the need for governments to work with businesses in order to reopen the economy through practical guidelines and best practices learnt from essential businesses that have remained opened during the crisis.

News
17 May 2020
U.S. Chamber of Commerce CEO speaks to AmChams from around the world on the impact of COVID-19

Tom Donohue’s remarks were preceded by Myron Brilliant, Executive Vice President and Head of International Affairs, U.S. Chamber of Commerce. He outlined that the U.S. Chamber of Commerce has been monitoring issues like protectionism, export controls and other national economic measures that have increased in the last few months. He also explained that while temporary measures and flexibility to rules are understandable in this context, these should not continue indefinitely as they can jeopardise competition and the market.

The call closed with presentations from Directors of several AmChams around the world such as Germany, Kenya, Malaysia, and Peru among others. During their interventions, the Directors shared their experiences and priorities in dealing with the impact of COVID-19 on their member companies and national economies. Some of the common themes included concerns about the ability of small and medium enterprises to stay afloat, the high unemployment rates, disruption to supply chains and the flow of goods.

Related items

News
21 Sep 2026

Looking ahead to Lithuania’s EU Presidency

On Monday, 21 September, AmCham EU hosted Sigitas Mitkus, Lithuanian Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs, for a fireside chat. Moderated by Malte Lohan, CEO, AmCham EU, the participants looked ahead to Lithuania’s Presidency of the Council of the EU and the role business can play in supporting its priorities. The exchange focused on Lithuania’s upcoming Presidency priorities, including strengthening transatlantic relations, enhancing European competitiveness and security, and advancing simplification. Discussions also covered Single Market fragmentation, access to finance, digital policy, support for Ukraine and defence cooperation, with an emphasis on private sector investment and effective implementation of EU initiatives.

Presidency
Read more
Read more about Looking ahead to Lithuania’s EU Presidency
Blog
16 Sep 2026

A strong Europe benefits partners around the world

In her 2026 State of the Union address, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described ‘a complex age of great possibilities and great perils’. From geopolitical tensions and energy prices to supply chain disruption, businesses operating in Europe face this reality every day. It is an environment that underscores the need for a strong Europe. A stronger, more united Europe is a more attractive place for American companies to invest. 

Industry
Read more
Read more about A strong Europe benefits partners around the world
News
10 Sep 2026

Welcoming Brussels back to business

On Wednesday, 9 September, AmCham EU joined 19 other associations to mark Brussels’ return from the summer break at the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences. The event drew over 800 guests and included a keynote speech by Jessika Roswall, European Commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy. The evening provided a platform for stakeholders from industry, politics, civil society and media to connect. This year’s conversations focused on Europe’s place in a changing world and the policies needed to boost growth and the EU’s competitiveness.

Industry
Read more
Read more about Welcoming Brussels back to business