The Greater New York Chamber of Commerce hosts its 22nd Annual World Trade Reception

The Greater New York Chamber of Commerce hosted its 22nd Annual World Trade Reception at the historical General Society Library in Midtown Manhattan. This marquis event of World Trade NYC 2025 in NYC, brought Chamber members, trade experts, ambassadors, trade ministers, consul generals, senior government officials, and leaders in global commerce.

Reserved for executive and diplomatic leadership, this invitation-only reception fostered dynamic networking opportunities among C-level executives, senior U.S. officials, foreign dignitaries, and policymakers. The event continues to serve as a strategic platform for promoting bilateral and multilateral trade relationships and furthering the United States’ leadership in global commerce.

Featured Speakers                                                          

We were honored to welcome several high-profile speakers from our federal, State and city leadership including:                                                                       

Susan S. Thomas, Acting Executive Assistant Commissioner, Office of Trade, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Washington, D.C.

• Edward Mermelstein, NYC Commissioner of International Affairs

• Brian Teubner, International Trade Manager, Global New York, Empire State 

They shared their significant experience and insights on a number of topics (international trade trends, policy development, tariffs and cross-border collaboration), affecting trade and trade policies with almost 200 people in attendance. The speakers reinforced the Chamber’s ongoing commitment to strengthening global economic ties.

Mark Jaffe, President & CEO and Duvi Honig, President & Founder of the Orthodox Jewish Chamber lead the panel discussions about international trade and the impacts it has on businesses.

Awards & Recognitions                                                           

The 2025 ceremony celebrated significant achievements in global trade and international investment with the presentation of several prestigious awards:

• Global Investment Impact Award: Presented to Korean Air, recognizing its $32 billion contribution to the U.S. economy. The award was presented by James Kim, Chairman of the Operations Board of the Korean American Chamber of Commerce USA.

• Lucio Caputo 2025 Statesman Award: Bestowed upon Dr. Joseph Scelsa, founder and president of the Italian American Museum, for his lifelong dedication to cultural and economic bridge-building.

• Recognition of Azerbaijan: Presented by Ali Kocak, President of the Turkish American Chamber of Commerce, acknowledging Azerbaijan’s accomplishments and enduring partnership with the U.S.

• American Asian Pacific Islander Recognition

In celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Governor Kathy Hochul recognized several individuals for their leadership and community impact, including:

• Amit P. Shah, Queens Community Board 6 & Co-Chair, Greater NY Chamber International Affairs Committee

• Vipul Patel, Administrator, BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir

• Selina Sultana, Owner, Exclusive Creation NY

• Keshab Raj Seadie, Esq., Law Offices of Keshab Raj Seadie, P.C.

• Pragya Panthi, President, Apan Foundation Student Welfare Committee

In a special Proclamation to honor their service and contributions.

Friend of Israel Award 

The Friend of Israel award was presented by the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce to Greater NY Chamber President, Mark Jaffe. In February 2024, the OJC took Mark to visit Israel on a 72 Hour fact finding mission. Since that time, he has been an ardent advocate for Israel. He recently met with the Ofir Akunis, the newly appointed Israeli General Consul in NY to discuss solutions to bring peace and stability to the region.   

Culinary Highlights

Guests were treated to an international culinary experience featuring:

• The Wall Street Grill – Kosher Pavilion

• Turkaz Restaurant – International Cuisine Pavilion

• Al’s Deli & Restaurant – Classic Favorites

Gallery