Hafa Adai Catherine,

It’s the weekend, and I guess we can say it’s the official first weekend of summer, with all the graduations just about completed and the kids home from school. Have you made plans for this summer? Whatever they are, I hope they are enriched with some good family and friends time!

Here at the Chamber, we have been counting down to this Monday’s public hearing on Bill No. 11-38, which seeks to roll back the Business Privilege Tax from 5% to 4%. This hearing is not just a legislative formality—it is a rare and crucial opportunity for the voice of Guam’s business community to be heard directly by our elected officials.

For the past seven years, our businesses have shouldered the increased BPT, first introduced as a temporary response to federal tax changes. Government revenues have risen thanks to federal support and surpluses, but this increase has not translated into substantial relief for local businesses. Bill 11-38 is our chance to advocate for a fairer tax environment—one that will allow businesses to reinvest, create jobs, and help ease the cost of living for all island residents.

The Guam Chamber of Commerce and many of your peers have already voiced strong support, emphasizing that with responsible budgeting, the government can afford this rollback without jeopardizing essential services. The projected $60 million reduction in revenue is offset by recent surpluses and the potential for economic growth if businesses are given breathing room to thrive.

Your testimony—whether delivered in person or in writing—can make a real difference. Lawmakers need to hear your stories: how the BPT impacts your operations, your employees, and your customers. Your perspective will help ensure that the final decision reflects the realities faced by those who drive Guam’s economy every day.

We urge you to:

• Attend the public hearing on Monday, June 9th, at 9:00 a.m. in the Guam Legislature’s Public Hearing Room in Hagåtña (Guam Congress Building) Your presence will speak volumes!

• Submit written testimony sharing your experience and support for Bill 11-38. (Need a testimony template? Click here!) Note that each person will be given five minutes to provide verbal testimony.

• Sign the petition (Especially if you are off-island and unable to send testimony or be present for the public hearing). The Guam Young Professionals will be at the Guam Premier Outlets (GPO) this morning collecting signatures in support of Bill No. 11-38. Give them some support if you plan on being in the area!

• Encourage your colleagues, partners, and employees to do the same.

This is a moment for unity and action. Let’s show our elected officials that the business community stands together for a stronger, more sustainable Guam. I look forward to seeing you there.

Another exciting and important event next week is the Summit on Government Procurement on Thursday, June 12th, at the Hyatt Regency Guam. Kudos to the planning committee, who have been hard at work, bringing people together to address the challenges of government procurement. The day will feature interactive panels, a keynote lunch speaker, and breakout sessions. The Summit is open to the business community, government officials, and stakeholders interested in enhancing Guam’s procurement system. Scroll down to learn more and register for this event. This event is produced in partnership with the Guam Contractors Association, Guam Travel & Tourism Association, and the Guam Chamber of Commerce.

The calendar is full! We look forward to seeing you at any of our planned activities soon!

Onward together!

Catherine Castro

President

GYP Roadside

Beutification

The Guam Young Professionals, a Committee of the Guam Chamber of Commerce, is pleased to present its Roadside Beautification clean-up scheduled for Saturday, June 14, 2025, alongside Asponall Avenue, and Paseo Drive in Hagatna from 6:00 am to 7:00 am. Come out and join the Guam Young Professionals in helping keep our island clean and green!

We are taking action to improve our community and keep our island looking its best. Get involved, lend a hand, and let's make a visible difference!

A Conversation with Jeffry Grimes, Executive Director, 36th Wing, Andersen Air Force Base

The Armed Forces Committee is pleased to present A Conversation with Jeffrey Grimes, Executive Director, 36th Wing, Andersen Air Force Base, on Thursday, June 19, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. at the Guam Chamber of Commerce Office, 372 West Soledad Avenue, Hagåtña.

AFC members will have time to engage one-on-one with Jeffrey Grimes and other committee members in this intimate setting. We hope that your schedule will allow you to participate. Seating is limited so please be sure to save your spot today!

This meeting is exclusive to AFC members. Member attendance is non-transferable and admission will not be allowed for members' guests. This meeting is not open to the media. Thank you for your understanding.

For AFC members who wish to attend, please contact the Chamber Team at (671) 472-6311/8001

General Membership Meeting

Wednesday, June 25, 2025

Mark your calendars and save the date for the Guam Chamber of Commerce General Membership Meeting scheduled to take place on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, in the Micronesian Ballroom at the Hilton Guam Resort & Spa. This month's meeting will feature Former Senator, Rory Respicio, Port Authority General Manager. Stay tuned for information and seat reservations!

Discover the stories behind Guam’s business community with the Chamber Member Spotlight Podcast. Each month, we sit down with a featured Guam Chamber member to explore the unique challenges, successes, and innovations that shape their business. Every episode offers an inside look at what makes each company- and its leaders- stand out, from their products and services to the personal journeys that fuel their growth.

Whether you’re interested in learning about local entrepreneurship, seeking inspiration, or simply curious about the people driving Guam’s economy, this podcast is your backstage pass to the island’s vibrant business landscape.

Haven’t caught every episode? Scroll through our library by clicking on any of the links below and tune in to the stories you’ve missed! Interested in sharing your own business journey? We’d love to feature you - contact us today to schedule your spotlight episode!

Youtube • Spotify • Apple Podcast