Participants in the first Indo-Pacific Business Promotion Council (IPacBiz) summit pose for a photo in the auditorium hall of the Seoul Business Agency, Jan. 25. Courtesy of Antonia Giordano
The Indo-Pacific Business Promotion Council (IPacBiz) hosted its first summit on Jan. 24 and 25 in Seoul, bringing together key stakeholders from across the region.
The dynamic two-day event served as a unique opportunity for local businesses, startups and professionals to connect with influential leaders, industry experts and policymakers from India, Canada, the Philippines, Indonesia, the U.S., Singapore and beyond.
IPacBiz is a group of businesses dedicated to strengthening the industrial landscape of the Indo-Pacific region by facilitating meaningful business interactions and providing comprehensive support for businesses seeking to expand their reach and influence. With its secretariat based in Seoul, its vision is to promote sustainable, free, open and fair trade, and it is also deeply committed to promoting sustainable industries and addressing the urgent challenge of climate change.
One of the highlights of Day 1 was the online welcome speech by Sam Pitroda, an internationally renowned telecom inventor, entrepreneur and former adviser to Indian prime ministers. His insights set the tone for discussions on global business trends and opportunities.
Additionally, four major companies focusing on cosmetics, smart cities and pollution control introduced their initiatives. This session also provided Korean businesses with a unique chance to engage with global experts and explore sustainable, cutting-edge solutions that could benefit local industries.
The afternoon session featured an online talk by Udit Raj, former member of parliament and chairperson of India's Council for Promotion of Trade and Industries. Raj has been a key advocate for economic collaboration between Korea and India, particularly in the cosmetics and health care industries.
Business sponsors Microalgae Ask Us and K-Webmaker also spoke, and Kevin Drouin, commercial attaché from the Delegation of Quebec in Korea, emphasized Korea-Canada business synergy.
Attendees also had multiple networking opportunities, including structured company introductions, high tea sessions and exclusive B2B meetings, ensuring valuable connections for startups, SMEs and investors.
The second day shifted focus to digital marketing and influencer engagement, crucial for businesses aiming to penetrate Indian and Indo-Pacific markets, as well as for international products to expand their selling power in the Korean market.
Lucknowi Nawab, the head of Venus Trends who has lived in Korea for many years, discussed why this trend has become favorable for companies to utilize. This knowledge-sharing is particularly beneficial for Korean businesses looking to engage with diverse consumer bases both locally and abroad.
Lucknowi Nawab, the head of Venus Trends, gives a talk during the first Indo-Pacific Business Promotion Council (IPacBiz) summit in the auditorium hall of the Seoul Business Agency, Jan. 25. Courtesy of Antonia Giordano
Other local companies such as Halal Korea, which also co-organized the event, helped to create a warm atmosphere where everyone felt comfortable discussing and giving advice to businesses and other participants.
Global perspectives were shared by Chintia Dewi, director of Atlas and Geo-Spatial Utilization at Indonesia's Geospatial Information Agency, and Aleem Siddiqui M. Guiapal, program manager at the Department of Trade and Industry in the Philippines. Their insights provided crucial information on trade dynamics and opportunities in Southeast Asia.
This event allowed local businesses to connect with foreign investors, global entrepreneurs and industry leaders. By fostering an inclusive business environment, IPacBiz aims to create employment opportunities, cross-cultural collaborations and economic benefits for the local community.
Antonia Giordano is a freelance photographer and writer based in Seoul. An adoptee, Antonia deeply understands and connects with the issues surrounding adoption and post-adoption. Visit giordanoantonia.myportfolio.com and follow @antonia_creative_services on Instagram.