About CAPA
Leadership in Energy
Founded in 1983, the Chinese American Petroleum Association (CAPA), a non-political, non-profit organization was established with the original intent of serving Chinese American professionals engaged in petroleum industry, as well as visiting Chinese scholars, scientists, and entrepreneurs. Over the past forty-two years, the Association has made significant contributions to facilitating successful investments by U.S. oil companies in China’s oil and gas exploration and development, and to helping American oilfield service companies access the Chinese market. The development of the Association can be broadly divided into three stages:
Our Evolution
1983 - 1995: Building Bridges
During this period, CAPA organized informational sessions and networking receptions to help U.S. companies understand the current status and potential of oil and gas exploration and development in China. As a result, many CAPA members became key representatives for U.S. oil and gas companies’ operations in China.
1996 - 2015:
Expanding Collaboration
CAPA expanded its role by organizing the "Global Chinese Petroleum and Petro-Chemical Technical Conference," fostering collaboration among oil and gas companies from the United States, Taiwan, and Mainland China. These efforts helped with fortifying cooperation in exploration and development, refining and petrochemicals, and commercial ventures.
2016 - Present:
A Renewed Focus
In response to changing circumstances, the Association refocused its mission toward serving Asian American members and enterprises operating in the United States. Its primary activities now include but not limited to fostering fellowship among members and promoting technical and business exchanges. In March 2025, CAPA's Board of Directors and Executive Council jointly decided to retire the Association’s existing Bylaws and dissolve the Board of Directors. A rotating chairmanship and leadership council consist of past presidents will be adopted and maintained until new Bylaws are formally constructed.
Governance Update
(2025)
In March 2025, CAPA transitioned to a rotating leadership model, retiring its previous bylaws and board structure pending new governance guidelines.
