Border-Kei Chamber of Business
Voice of Business
Founded in 1877, the Border-Kei Chamber of Business (BKCOB) is the recognised “Voice of Business” in the Border-Kei region. Headquartered in East London in the Buffalo City Metropolitan municipality, with a satellite branch in Komani, Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality, the Border-Kei Chamber of Business is a not-for-profit, A-political, A-religious, membership-based organisation, representing a wide array of businesses in the private sector, academic institutions, public enterprises as well as the NGO sector.
At a national level, the Border-Kei Chamber of Business is a member of the Association of South African Chambers (ASAC), a national lobby body, that focuses on and addresses matters of national economic importance.
The BKCOB has five specific mandates, namely: – Investor attraction, investor retention, stimulating the economy, business support services and business recognition, through our Annual Business Awards programme. As the voice of business, the BKCOB also advocates for the creation of an efficient and sustainable enabling environment, with the local and provincial authorities.
The Border-Kei Chamber of Business also creates a platform for businesses to network, build new business relationships, maintain existing ones, facilitate strategic conversations, make deals and transact and is a platform where members can connect to like-minded individuals outside of their normal circle of influence. The BKCOB continues to support local municipalities in our region, to create towns and cities that attract and retain Investors and where every citizen aspires to live, work and play in.
Membership to the Border-Kei Chamber of Business is open to any registered business or organisation, running ethically compliant operations, from sole proprietors to large multi-nationals public and private sector Companies.
We invite all businesses to become members of the Border-Kei Chamber of Business and to partner with us to ensure that we fulfil the above mandate effectively and efficiently. This will ensure that we, together, create an enabling environment for all businesses to thrive in, so that jobs are created and poverty is eradicated.
WHY JOIN THE CHAMBER
Membership Benefits
- Raise your company profile, and boost your Company status in the Border-Kei Region.
- Tax-deductible membership and event fees.
- Excellent networking opportunities with like-minded business owners outside of your normal circle of influence.
- Marketing Opportunities at various Chamber events and on digital platforms. (T’s & C’s apply)
- The Opportunity to “give back” by joining our Chamber Committees who meet on a monthly basis to facilitate the change we want to see in our region.
- The Opportunity to Mentor and be mentored.
- Access to information on a wide range of topics from funding opportunities to the latest legislative industry trends and changes, etc.
- The Opportunity to build and grow your Social Capital.
- The Opportunity to gain access to new markets.
- The Opportunity to write an article or to be featured in our Quarterly Chamber magazine – the Business Hi-lite.
- Letters of support/ good standing to members trying to access Government tenders.
- Reduced rates for Certificates of origin to exporting members.
- Municipal Billing Help Desk.
- The opportunity to grow personally and professionally, through personal and professional workshops.
- Small Business Support for growing businesses.
- Corporate departmental support, e.g. HR Forum.
- The opportunity to place your CSI spend with trained & vetted NGO’s.
- The opportunity to stay abreast of any topical issues or opportunities, through our weekly “Chamber Opportunities and updates” newsletter.
Services
Trade & Information
We provide a comprehensive service to all members pertaining to business, including assistance with import and export, as well as trade leads.
Letters of Support
We provide letters of support to members wishing to access government tenders, including letters of introduction to Chambers, locally and globally for members attempting to expand their business abroad.
Website
All members details are available on our membership online directory available on our website, where members are entitled to link from the Chambers website to theirs. Members had to sign a form in compliance with the POPIA act.
Committees
The Chamber has a robust and effective committee system to facilitate members participation, growth and development and to enable us to fulfil our role as the “Voice of Business”.
Seminars & Workshops
A variety of seminars and workshops are offered by the chamber to provide information sharing as well as personal and professional training.
Business Support Services
The Chamber serves on several committees and fora. It works with other organisations where the Border-Kei chamber believes strongly in business unity and the transformation of the South African economy.
What support can the Chamber offer your business?
- Employee development
- Training in international trade
- Direct assistance on business challenges
- Export/import support and advice
- Assistance with employee matters
- Information on business regulations & amendments
- Policy, lobbying and advocacy
- CSI database and advice
- Access to markets
- Business-2-Business support and connections.
SME EXPORT SERVICES
What is a CERTIFICATE OF ORIGIN and when do I need one?
A Certificate of Origin is a certified document that states what the country of origin is of a specific product. As the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) states, ‘it declares the ‘nationality’ of your product. Certificates of Origin are one-time documents that accompany your shipments. The Border-Kei chamber of business provides export business services to members and non-members!
What accompanies a certificate of origin?
- An Original Invoice
- Packaging list stating the consignment
What Determines the Country of Origin?
The country of origin is determined by:
- Where the product originates from.
- The production process and where the production process takes place.
- What parts or ingredients are in your product.
- We have member and non-member rates.
- The Border-Kei Chamber of Business processes Certificates of origin for the SADC region and internationally.
- We provide export & Import support/advice and training in international trade.
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FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE TO STAY UP TO DATE WITH OUR LATEST NEWS & EVENTS
Border-Kei Chamber of Business
Founded in 1877, the Border-Kei Chamber of Business (BKCOB) is the recognised “Voice of Business"
CALL FOR EXHIBITORS
Showcase your business at one of the Eastern Cape’s
biggest agricultural platforms.
Exhibition Packages: From R15 000 – R18 000 incl. VAT
- 3x3 Shell Scheme
- 3-day pass for 2 exhibitors
- Catering included
Early Bird Specials available until 15 April 2026
Secure your seat today. Register using this Link:
forms.office.com/r/TneR9tLREc
Contact us now: communications@kcob.co.za
Visit the Indaba Website:
www.africaindaba.co.za/
Position your brand where industry meets opportunity.
#AfricaAgriIndaba2026 #GameChanger
#EasternCapeEconomy #Agriculture #Agropocessing
#farming
CALL FOR DELEGATES 🔈🔈
Be part of the conversations that matter.
Join us at the Africa Agricultural Indaba 2026 and gain
access to:
- Plenary sessions
- Breakaway discussions
- Field visits
- Trade negotiations
Conference Pass: R2 000 excl. VAT (includes
catering)
Venue: East London ICC
20–22 May 2026
Secure your seat today.
Secure your seat today. Register using this Link: lnkd.in/eMbd4iJR
Contact us now: communications@kcob.co.za or call 043 743 8438
Visit the Indaba Website: www.africaindaba.co.za/
#africaagriindaba2026 #gamechanger #easterncapeeconomy #agriculture #agropocessing #farming
Celebrate Excellence. Be Inspired. Showcase Your Brand.
The Border-Kei Chamber of Business proudly invites you to the Winners Lunch, an event honouring the outstanding achievers of the 2025 BKCOB Business Awards.
This event is more than just a celebration — it’s a powerful platform for connection, inspiration, and business visibility within our local economy. Join us as we recognise businesses that have demonstrated exceptional innovation, resilience, and excellence.
Guided by the theme, “Aloe Elegance: Thriving Through Growth & Resilience,” the event will reflect on how businesses continue to grow stronger through challenges — while our 2025 winners share their journeys, insights, and lessons to inspire others.
🚀 Showcase Your Business – Book an Exhibition Stand
Take advantage of this unique opportunity to promote your products or services directly to a high-value audience.
Exhibition stands are available at R1500 (incl. VAT)
🎟 Ticket Prices:
R295 – Members | R395 – Non-Members
📍 Venue: Osner Hotel, Quigney
📅 Date: 15 April 2026
🕐 Time: 13h00 for 13h30
Seats and exhibition spaces are limited — secure your spot today.
Book at: members@bkcob.co.za or call 043 743 8438
REGISTER FOR THE INTERNATIONAL TRADE TRAINING BY BKCOB IN PARTNERSHIP WITH GMLSe & ECDC - Eastern Cape Development Corporation
Boost your global trade capabilities with specialized training from the Border-Kei Chamber of Business (BKCOB) in partnership with Global Maritime Learning Solutions Empowered (GMLSe) and the Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC). Covering topics like Import/Export Management, Incoterms® 2020, Customs Compliance, and Freight Logistics, this practical, expert-led training helps local businesses navigate international markets, reduce risks, and achieve compliance. Enhance your international trade proficiency with industry-focused, actionable education.
Key Highlights:
• Expert Training: Comprehensive workshops on international trade logistics, import/export practices, and Customs compliance.
• Practical Skills: Focus on real-world applications including Incoterms® 2020 Rules, documentation, and valuation.
• Tailored for Business: Designed by GMLSe to help professionals manage complex global supply chains effectively.
• Access: Supported by the BKCOB and the ECDC to empower East London and regional businesses, promoting economic growth.
Why You Should Participate: Gain practical, up-to-date knowledge to confidently navigate international trade, logistics, and compliance. These courses combine expert insights with real-world application and simulated assessments, helping you reduce risk, improve efficiency, and unlock new opportunities. Invest in your skills, stay competitive, and position yourself or your business for success in today’s global market.
COURSES COMING UP:
1. Certificates of Origin 1-DAY ONLINE COURSE
8th April 2026
TRAINING FEE: R1840.00 Per learner Incl. VAT
TIME: 09H00 – 16H00
MAIN TOPICS:
• The reason for the Certification of Certificates of Origin and other Commercial Documents
• Analyse Source Documentation
• Certify Certificates of Origin and other Commercial Documents in compliance with regulations, processes, and procedures of the Issuing Body.
• Create and maintain records in conformity with the minimum requirements of the Issuing Body.
• How to deal with queries relating to Certification of Certificates of Origin and other Commercial Documentation
2. ICC Incoterms® 2020 Rules 1-DAY ONLINE COURSE
13th April 2026
TRAINING FEE: R 1452.45 Per learner Incl. VAT
TIME: 09H00 – 16H00
What will you learn?
• What the Incoterms Rules Do?
• What the Incoterms Rules do NOT do?
• How best to incorporate the Incoterms Rules?
• Delivery, Risks and Costs in Incoterms Rules?
• Incoterms Rules and the Carrier?
• Rules for the Contract of Sale and their relationship to other contracts?
• The 11 Incoterms 2020 Rules – “Sea and Inland Waterway”, and “Any Mode of Transport” – getting it right!
• Order within the Incoterms Rules?
• Differences between Incoterms® 2010 and 2020? • Caution with variants of Incoterms Rules?
3. IMPORT MANAGEMENT 5-DAY ONLINE COURSE
13th to 17th April 2026
TRAINING FEE: INCL. VAT R 7050.00 Per member
TIME: 09H00 to 15H30
Course Main Topics
• Import Control/Indent
• Terms of Delivery – Incoterms(R) 2020 Rules
• Financing and Payment
• Protection and Packing
• Shipping Services & Freight Rates
• Container Technology
• The Role of Forwarding & Clearing Agent
• Custom Clearance Procedures
• Port Facilities and Operations
• Terminals & Depots
• Marine Insurance
• Airfreight Road Transportation
• Complete Simulation training with simulated assessment
4. MARINE INSURANCE 1-DAY ONLINE COURSE
17th April 2026
TRAINING FEE: R 3300.00 Per member Incl. VAT
TIME: 09H00 – 16H00
MAIN TOPICS:
• General Legal Principles used in Shipping
• Common Law Defined
• Civil vs. Criminal Courts
• Arbitration in Dispute Resolution & Mitigation
• Indemnities
• Legal Terms used for Marine Insurance
• The need for Cargo Insurance
• Law of Carriage
• Cargo Safety and Security
• Insurance claims
• Calculating Insurance Values & Premiums
• Types of Marine Insurance Policies
• Areas of investigation: Quality, Adequate & Insurance Shortfalls
Registration link: forms.cloud.microsoft/r/gWcZgwrBH1
For more information and to register, contact the Border-Kei Chamber of Business at: communications@bkcob.co.za or call 043 743 8438
Wishing you a joyful and safe Easter weekend filled with happiness with your loved ones. 💙🐣
#HappyEaster #easterweekend #bkcob #Easter2026
Interested in membership?
To join as a member, please fill in the application form or email members@bkcob.co.za
Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success.
– Henry Ford
GET IN TOUCH
EAST LONDON
Tel: 043 743 8438
Email: info@bkcob.co.za
Chamber House, The Hub
Bonza Bay Road, Beacon Bay, 5201
KOMANI
Tel : 060 555 5392 / 063 229 3511
Email: admin@bkcob.co.za
Sign up for newsletter: communications@bkcob.co.za