ICC Statement on Using AI in Advertising and Marketing Communications

The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) released a statement on the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in advertising and marketing communications. ICC’s position on AI will also be reflected in the upcoming 2024 launch of the revised ICC Advertising and Marketing Communications Code (“the ICC Code”). The ICC Code is a globally applicable, self-regulatory framework, developed by experts across all industry sectors worldwide.

The upcoming revised version of the ICC Code will reiterate and clearly address in the scope that marketers’ responsibilities do not change with the use of AI and marketing communications prepared or delivered using AI must meet the same standards as all marketing communications.

ICC states: the ICC Code covers all forms of commercial marketing communications and is media and technology neutral. It applies to all mediums and platforms including social media, mobile, virtual and marketing communications using AI, as well as new technologies that become available in the future. As such, it serves as a practical resource for practitioners developing and delivering marketing communications, including with the assistance of AI, algorithms, and other automated technologies. Marketers should ensure that the ICC Code is followed whether marketing communications are created, modified or delivered solely by humans or with the assistance of AI, whether in whole or in part. When employing such technologies, marketers must remain at the helm and continue to exercise due care and oversight to ensure that marketing communications are legal, decent, honest, truthful, and that data privacy policies are adhered to. Careful oversight should be in place to ensure that marketing communications do not incite or condone any form of discrimination. Marketers are also encouraged to be mindful of diversity and inclusion in advertising and seek to avoid stereotypes and objectification.”

For the full statement, please click here.

 

USCIB Welcomes Release of the US National Action Plan on Responsible Business Conduct 

New York, NY, March 25, 2024—The United States Council for International Business (USCIB) welcomes the release of the U.S. National Action Plan on Responsible Business Conduct (NAP). USCIB also encourages other governments around the world to implement their own NAPs to ensure that progress on human rights remains a global priority.   

Simultaneously, and as a key deliverable to the NAP, the U.S. Department of Labor announced a $2M grant to the International Labour Organization, to strengthen global social compliance systems and to combat forced labor in supply chains. 

USCIB has been providing consultations on the NAP since 2015 and hosted the first public consultation alongside global partners and other major business organizations. Also, in 2022, USCIB submitted comprehensive comments for the 2024 NAP version and organized a briefing for members with the State Department.  

“When done well, NAPs can help companies implement their responsibility to respect human rights, both within their own operations and those of their business partners,” said Ewa Staworzynska, USCIB director for Corporate Responsibility and Labor Affairs. 

The U.S. State Department will host an event on March 25, titled “U.S. Leadership on Responsible Business: The Launch of the U.S. Government’s National Action Plan on Responsible Business Conduct.” The event will feature discussions around key priorities addressed in the NAP, including strengthening access to remedy and protecting workers’ rights, as well as a discussion on government approaches to strengthening business respect for human rights and responsible business conduct more broadly. USCIB President and CEO Whitney Baird will be on a panel during the event, joining representatives from Oxfam, DHS and Simpson Thacher. 

The launch event will feature keynote remarks by Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment Jose Fernandez.  It will also include a panel discussion with other U.S. senior officials from across government, including from the Department of Homeland Security, Department of Treasury, Department of Labor, Department of State, and other stakeholders involved in the NAP process. 

About USCIB: 

USCIB promotes open markets, competitiveness and innovation, sustainable development, and corporate responsibility, supported by international engagement and regulatory coherence. Its members include U.S.-based global companies and professional services firms from every sector of our economy, with operations in every region of the world. As the U.S. affiliate of the International Chamber of Commerce, the International Organization of Employers and Business at OECD (BIAC), USCIB provides business views to policy makers and regulatory authorities worldwide and works to facilitate international trade and investment. More at www.uscib.org.  

USCIB Members Elected to Leadership Roles at BIAC

USCIB is pleased to announce that several members have been accepted to leadership positions across Business at OECD’s (BIAC) Committees. The BIAC Executive Board officially voted on nominations on February 19 to accept the following USCIB members:

  • Mark Prince (Amazon) will be Vice Chair of the BIAC Consumer Policy Committee
  • Jesus Alvarado Rivera (AB-InBev) will be Vice Chair of the BIAC Competition Committee
  • Rick Ziegler (UL Solutions) will serve as Vice Chair of the BIAC Consumer Policy Committee

Additionally, BIAC also appointed Kate O’Sullivan, (Microsoft) and Krisztian Katona (Computer & Communications Industry Association) as special advisors to the BIAC Competition Committee.

“We’re thrilled that so many USCIB members have this opportunity to share their experience and expertise to help lead these important BIAC Committees,” said Norine Kennedy, USCIB senior vice president for policy and global strategy. “We have no doubt that they will provide great value in conveying business priorities to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).”

Policy and Program Administrative Assistant

Position: Policy and Program Administrative Assistant
Organization: United States Council for International Business
Reports to: Senior Vice Presidents for Trade, Investment and Digital Policy, and for Tax
Location: Washington, DC Office

THE OPPORTUNITY – About USCIB

Founded in 1945, USCIB promotes open markets, competitiveness and innovation, sustainable development, and corporate responsibility, supported by international engagement and regulatory coherence.  Its focus is on international policy in the multilateral system, and its members include U.S.-based global companies and professional services firms from every sector, with operations in every region of the world. As the sole American representative of the International Chamber of Commerce, the International Organization of Employers and the Business and Industry Advisory Committee to the OECD, USCIB provides business views to the Administration and to policy makers and regulatory authorities worldwide and works to facilitate international trade and investment. In addition, USCIB serves as the National Guaranteeing Association for ATA Carnets, which allows temporary, tax and duty-free imports overseas for trade shows, commercial samples and professional equipment. More at www.uscib.org

POSITION SUMMARY

We are seeking a highly organized and proactive Administrative Assistant to provide comprehensive administrative support to the Senior Vice Presidents and the trade and digital policy as well as tax team on a variety of USCIB policy and program related activities. This also includes supporting the membership and policy staff with administrative tasks linked to membership engagement and development. The position would also be responsible for the procurement and management of office supplies, including but not limited to stationery, equipment, and other necessary items.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

Administrative support for USCIB’s policy committees, including trade, investment, customs, digital, agriculture and tax policy. Duties include:

  • preparation of materials for committee meetings (e.g., agendas, handouts, letters, forms, reports, participants lists, badges, etc.) and webinars; preparation, organization, and e-mail distribution of meeting notices/materials to committee members and coordination of e-mail responses of same; setting up virtual meetings; assist with logistical support of meetings, including registration and coffee/food service for participants in-house, and taking minutes and providing summaries of meetings for review.
  • Assist with documentation and follow-up actions from meetings, ensuring timely completion of tasks and deliverables.
  • Support USCIB’s SVPs for Trade, Investment and Digital Policy and for Tax including help with schedule, travel, expense reports, responding to some inquiries, and assisting with email distribution.
  • Provide administrative support to annual tax conference.
  • Support maintenance of relevant policy portions of the USCIB website as needed.
  • Enter and update committee member information in CRM software as needed, with ability to run up-to-date reports, rosters, and distribution lists for numerous active committees, and perform routine searches.
  • Support membership and policy staff with new member recruiting efforts and member retention activities.
  • Assist with other administrative tasks and projects as assigned.
  • Proactively manage office supplies, including working with office vendors.
  • Serve as principal point of contact for building management on matters related to the office maintenance, as well as serving as USCIB’s designated “fire marshal” for periodic fire drills.

QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE

  • Bachelor’s degree preferred, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Interest in international business policy issues or international relations a plus.
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to multitask and prioritize competing demands effectively. Must be detail-oriented and have strong interpersonal, administrative, and organizational skills.
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with a keen attention to detail.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and other relevant software applications.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and as part of a team.

SALARY AND BENEFITS

Salary and title are commensurate with qualifications and experience. The salary range for this role is between $55,000 and $65,000. USCIB offers a highly competitive compensation package that includes medical, dental and vision insurance, a 401(k)-retirement company matching program, generous paid time off, and the ability to participate in pre-tax transportation, and flexible spending account programs.

USCIB currently requires in-office work Tuesday – Thursday, with WFH option on Mondays and Fridays.

Apply Now

Applications will be accepted until April 5, 2024.

Note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Thank you for your understanding.

Director International Tax Policy and Banking

Position: Director International Tax Policy and Banking
Organization: United States Council for International Business
Reports to: Vice President & International Tax Counsel
Location: Washington D.C.

THE OPPORTUNITY – About USCIB

Founded in 1945, USCIB promotes open markets, competitiveness and innovation, sustainable development, and corporate responsibility, supported by international engagement and regulatory coherence.  Its focus is on international policy in the multilateral system, and its members include U.S.-based global companies and professional services firms from every sector, with operations in every region of the world. As the sole American representative of the International Chamber of Commerce, the International Organization of Employers and the Business and Industry Advisory Committee to the OECD, USCIB provides business views to the Administration and to policy makers and regulatory authorities worldwide and works to facilitate international trade and investment. In addition, USCIB serves as the National Guaranteeing Association for ATA Carnets, which allows temporary, tax and duty-free imports overseas for trade shows, commercial samples and professional equipment. More at www.uscib.org

POSITION SUMMARY

The Director International Tax Policy and Banking will support the Vice President & International Tax Counsel on a variety of programs and projects involving the development and dissemination of USCIB tax policy positions, papers and meeting preparation and materials. The Director will support USCIB member engagement and development for the organization’s Tax committee and have the possibility to lead in defined international tax policy areas with the potential to expand responsibilities in the course of the role.  The Director will also oversee and manage the Banking Committee.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Lead policy expert and work product drafter on U.S. Congress, U.N., single country and developing countries portfolios. Support VP on OECD and U.S. government, and European (member state and European commission) tax policy portfolios.
  • Prepare and participate in internal USCIB planning meetings, webinars, Tax Committee meetings and events, and the annual OECD international tax conference.
  • Work with the Tax Committee leadership team and member companies to understand their tax policy needs and develop policy positions that support their interests.
  • Monitor and analyze tax policies and legislation in respective portfolios.
  • Conduct research and analysis to identify emerging tax policy issues and opportunities for advocacy.
  • Oversee and manage USCIB Banking Committee, working with committee leadership to engage with ICC Banking Commission and related partner organizations.
  • Support Banking Committee member priorities, including those regarding digitization of trade finance and promoting standardization of international banking and commercial practices.
  • Represent USCIB before government officials, advocacy groups, and other stakeholders to promote our members’ interests and the growth of international business.
  • Develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including government officials, business leaders, and advocacy groups.
  • Assist the membership department in new member and retention efforts by identifying potential new members, setting goals for annual recruitment, and nurturing relationships with existing members.

QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE

  • Advanced degree (e.g., JD) or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • 10 years of experience in international tax and/or international tax policy in the public and/or private sector, U.S. Congress, U.S. government, Big Four accounting or law firm or other advocacy organization. Demonstrated knowledge of global frameworks and institutions that influence the development of international tax policy. Some banking regulatory experience required.
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently, manage multiple projects against tight deadlines as well as work collaboratively in team settings.
  • Superior time-management skills with respect to setting priorities and managing multiple workflows against tight deadlines.
  • Strong written communication and advocacy skills.
  • International work experience and foreign language skills preferred.
  • Some international travel required.

SALARY AND BENEFITS

Salary and title are commensurate with qualifications and experience. The salary range for this role is between $150,000 and $175,000 per year. USCIB offers a highly competitive compensation package that includes medical, dental and vision insurance, a 401(k)-retirement company matching program, generous paid time off, and the ability to participate in pre-tax transportation/commuter benefit and flexible spending account programs.

USCIB currently requires in-office work Tuesday – Thursday, with WFH option on Mondays and Fridays.

Apply Now

Note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Thank you for your understanding.

USCIB Hosts ICC ATA Carnet Administrative Committee Meeting 

Last week, USCIB hosted the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) World Chambers Federation (WCF) ATA Carnet Administrative Committee (ATAC) in New York.

Chaired by USCIB Chief Operating Officer Declan Daly and Henk Wit (Netherlands Chamber of Commerce (KVK), the discussions revolved around important topics such as the 2024 ATA Carnet work plan, preparation for the global transition of e-ATA (digital ATA Carnet), ATAC composition, global issuing and claims statistics, new members’ accession, and ATA Carnet administration.  

This biannual meeting gathered participants from 13 national guaranteeing associations. 

“USCIB was delighted to host this year’s spring ATAC meeting at USCIB’s NY office, particularly since it has been nearly a decade since we held a U.S.-based meeting,” said Daly. “I look forward to this year’s work plan and the exciting milestones we have already achieved this year, namely the first ever test processing of a digital ATA Carnet last month at JFK.” 

Last month, USCIB helped coordinate a highly successful U.S. digital ATA Carnet (e-ATA) test processing at John F. Kennedy Airport in collaboration with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Roanoke Insurance Group Inc. and Rock-it Cargo. This first e-ATA test in the United States was done in conjunction with the London Chamber of Commerce & Industry (LCCI) and UK Customs (HMRC), which processed the e-ATA for import at London’s Heathrow airport. 

Rick Minor Testifies at House Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Tax

L-R: Megan Funkhouser (Information Technology Industry Council), Rick Minor, Gary Sprague (Baker McKenzie), Daniel Bunn (Tax Foundation)

USCIB’s Tax Counsel Rick Minor testified on March 7 at the Hearing before the U.S. House Committee on Ways & Means Subcommittee on Tax, “Ensuring the Biden Administration Puts Americans First.”  It was the first Congressional hearing on the current Pillar One proposals of the OECD Two Pillar solution project.

“The message from the U.S. should be that discrimination against U.S. companies should not be permitted in any case,” emphasized Minor during his oral testimony. “Fiscal measures specifically targeted at U.S. multinationals should never be a legitimate tax policy choice in a stable international tax system.”

Minor also told the Subcommittee Members that a Pillar One solution that does not effectively eliminate double taxation in its application is not sustainable and that U.S. industry is concerned that the current design of Amount B falls short of the stated objectives of the OECD in its original blueprint.

Minor with Mike Kelly

“We can imagine a reality in which these rules can exist in some form, if the final rules stabilize the international tax system,” added Minor.

On behalf of USCIB, Minor encouraged the Biden administration and U.S. Congress to remain engaged in the OECD process.

House Committee on Ways and Means Tax Subcommittee Chairman Mike Kelly (PA-16) led the meeting before the 18 member Subcommittee. Minor’s testimony was one of four from the private sector; other witnesses included Megan Funkhouser, senior director of Policy, Tax and Trade at the Information Technology Industry Council, Gary Sprague, partner at Baker McKenzie and Daniel Bunn, president and CEO of the Tax Foundation.

USCIB Celebrates International Women’s Day and Joins UN in Calling for Continued Investment in Women 

New York, NY, March 8, 2024 — The United States Council for International Business (USCIB) celebrates International Women’s Day. USCIB also welcomes the United Nations’ 2024 theme of “Invest in women: Accelerate progress” and believes that investment in women is a human rights imperative.  

USCIB and its members have long championed the critical role of gender equality, support for female change-makers and implementation of gender-responsive financing. USCIB is also proud to be led by Whitney Baird, the first female President and CEO in the organization’s 79-year history, as of September 2023. 

“Through our engagement in the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), the International Organization of Employers (IOE) and Business at OECD (BIAC), we will continue to work with our business counterparts around the world to address gender equality barriers that continue to confront women and girls and to accelerate progress for women everywhere through adequate investment and effective policies,” said USCIB Director for Corporate Responsibility and Labor Affairs Ewa Staworzynska. 

About USCIB: 

USCIB promotes open markets, competitiveness and innovation, sustainable development, and corporate responsibility, supported by international engagement and regulatory coherence. Its members include U.S.-based global companies and professional services firms from every sector of our economy, with operations in every region of the world. As the U.S. affiliate of the International Chamber of Commerce, the International Organization of Employers and Business at OECD (BIAC), USCIB provides business views to policy makers and regulatory authorities worldwide and works to facilitate international trade and investment. More at www.uscib.org. 

USCIB Advocates for US Business Interests at OECD Responsible Business Conduct Events in Paris

Jose Arroyo

The OECD hosted its annual Forum on Due Diligence in the Garment and Footwear Sector late last month, along with a series of side events on responsible business conduct (RBC) workstreams. This year’s OECD Forum addressed various issues, with a particular focus on living wages and binding company-union agreements in due diligence processes.

In recent years, the OECD has intensified its work in RBC standards and guidance for companies. USCIB, with its in-person engagements and partnership with Business at OECD (BIAC), advocates to ensure that those workstreams, especially those closely related to labor affairs, are consistent with parallel initiatives in other international agencies, such as the International Labor Organization (ILO).

“It is critical that the OECD ensures that new standards are implementable on the ground,” said Jose Arroyo, policy manager for Corporate Responsibility and Labor Affairs at USCIB, who represented U.S. business at the OECD. Arroyo underscored the pioneering role of U.S. businesses in RBC practices and emphasized the importance of clear, concise, and implementable guidance for business. Some of the OECD work includes guidance on responsible purchasing practices and meaningful engagement with workers via due diligence.

Arroyo emphasized the importance of OECD cooperation with other non-OECD countries, particularly in high-risk geographical zones where divestment risks are prevalent. “Meaningful cooperation and implementable standards are essential, ultimately benefiting local communities”, he said.

USCIB will maintain its strong engagement with OECD RBC workstreams.

 

USCIB Joined Multi-Association Letter Opposing Expansion of WTO TRIPS Waiver 

USCIB co-signed a multi-association letter to the Biden Administration at the end of February strongly opposing the proposed expansion of the WTO TRIPS waiver to cover COVID-19 diagnostics and therapeutics. The letter was addressed to Secretary of State Antony Blinken, USTR Katherine Tai, Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo and White House Chief of Staff Jeffrey Zients.  

The letter advanced the same arguments USCIB made in its submission last year to the U.S. International Trade Commission (Investigation No. 332-596) on the TRIPS waiver extension: the extension would undermine innovation, global health security as well as research and development for products that are fundamental to fighting global crises. USCIB was deeply disappointed with the TRIPS waiver for COVID-19 vaccines announced at the WTO in June 2022. Extending the waiver to diagnostics and therapeutics would further erode international rule of law.

As such, USCIB welcomed the outcome at the 13th WTO Ministerial Conference in Abu Dhabi last week to table this proposal.  

For nearly 30 years, the WTO TRIPS Agreement has served its role well in providing the global legal architecture for supporting and driving innovation,” said USCIB Senior Vice President for Trade, Investment and Digital Policy Alice Slayton Clark. “The waiver extension would have represented a virtual death knell not only for the pharmaceutical industry but also for innovative industry writ large.”