Since its establishment in 1921, the Manufacturers Association of Israel (MAI) is recognized as an important pillar in the Israeli economy and its industry in particular. As an independent umbrella organization, the MAI represents private, public, government and kibbutz-owned enterprises, constituting a powerful advocacy element both at the level of proposed legislation, and in practice. Through lobbying efforts and hands-on involvement in policy making, MAI supports free and open trade based on reciprocity and fair trade practices, and facilitates opportunities for international trade. The MAI’s direct and indirect membership of more than 2,000 companies accounts for over 90% of Israel's industrial output. Along with the government and the Histadrut (trade union), the MAI is one of the leading influencers in the Israeli economy and the sole representative body of all industrial sectors in Israel. Additionally, the MAI President serves as Chairman of the Presidium of Israeli Business Organizations, a body that consists of more than a dozen business organizations from a range of sectors.