BIAC is an independent international business association devoted to advising government policymakers at OECD and related fora on the many diversified issues of globalisation and the world economy.

Officially recognised since its founding in 1962 as being representative of the OECD business community, BIAC promotes the interests of business by engaging, understanding and advising policy makers on a broad range of issues with the overarching objectives of:

• Positively influencing the direction of OECD policy initiatives;

• Ensuring business and industry needs are adequately addressed in OECD policy decision instruments (policy advocacy), which influence national legislation;

• Providing members with timely information on OECD policies and their implications for business and industry.

Through its 37 policy groups, which cover the major aspects of OECD work most relevant to business, BIAC members participate in meetings, global forums and consultations with OECD leadership, government delegates, committees and working groups.

BIAC advocates consensus industry views so to ensure that the resulting policy instruments and guidance assist, not hinder, private sector capacity to generate growth and prosperity.

BIAC’s strength comes from our close relationship with our Members, the major business organisations in the OECD member countries, as well as our Observers, leading business and industry associations in non-OECD member countries. BIAC is also supported by our Associate Experts; numerous supra-national sectoral business organisations.

It is the continual consultation with members (and their member companies) supported by our policy teams that gives BIAC its influence, access and credibility. Over the course of 2009, more than 2100 business representatives were actively involved in the work of the OECD through BIAC.