About Us – La Camara

Our Mission

La Cámara Oficial Española de Comercio, Industria y Navegación aims to promote, develop, protect and defend at its highest level, trade relations between Spain and the Philippines in accordance with the laws of the Philippines and the business interests of its members.

Our Vision

To be able to carry out the objectives of the Cámara by means of the organization of activities that will help promote Spanish Products to the Philippine Market, the establishment of information services and assistance that would be of help to the Spanish companies wishing to engage in business.

Looking Back in Time

La Cámara, one of the oldest Spanish Chambers in the world, was founded following American conquest of Manila at the end of the 19th century. The Chamber has continued promoting trade between Spain and the Philippines despite the interruption in relations caused by World War II.

July 16, 1899

The Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines was established on July 16, 1899, during a period of significant transition in the country’s history following the transfer of control from Spain to the United States. Its founding marked a continued commitment to fostering economic and commercial ties between Spain and the Philippines, even amidst shifting political landscapes.

1939

In 1939, the operations of the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines were completely suspended due to the outbreak of World War II and the escalating geopolitical tensions in the region. The rapidly changing political landscape and the onset of conflict caused significant disruption to the Chamber’s activities, forcing it to cease its operations temporarily. This period marked a time of uncertainty and instability, as the Philippines, along with much of the world, grappled with the consequences of the war.

1946

In 1946, the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines was able to resume its operations, largely due to the support of the few remaining Spanish nationals who had stayed in the country throughout the tumultuous years of World War II. Despite the war’s devastating effects and the challenges faced during the occupation, these individuals played a vital role in rebuilding the Chamber. Their contributions helped revive the organization, allowing it to reestablish connections with local businesses, reengage with the Spanish community in the Philippines, and restore the Chamber’s influence in promoting economic relations between Spain and the Philippines. This period marked the beginning of a new chapter for the Spanish Chamber, as it worked to regain its standing in a post-war world.

1999

In 1999, the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines celebrated its centenary, marking 100 years of fostering bilateral economic relations between Spain and the Philippines. This milestone was a significant moment for the Chamber, highlighting its enduring presence and contributions to trade, business, and cultural exchange between the two nations. To commemorate the occasion, the Spanish government and various business leaders acknowledged the Chamber’s historical role in strengthening ties between the Philippines and Spain.

2000

The following year, in 2000, former Spanish President José María Aznar visited the Philippines. His visit underscored the importance of Spain-Philippines relations and symbolized the continued collaboration between the two countries in various sectors, including trade, investment, and cultural exchange. The visit further solidified the relationship and highlighted Spain’s commitment to supporting the economic and diplomatic growth of the Philippines.

2024 and Beyond

The Spanish Chamber of Commerce celebrates 125 years in the Philippines, continuing to strengthen long-standing bilateral trade relations.