Magazine of the British Chamber of Commerce Thailand Issue 1 2018
UK Firms in Thailand Making Britain Great
Boosting British trade with Thailand Thai visas getting Smarter Nurturing greatness in school News from BCCT members Round-up of Chamber events
Celebrating 60 Years A proud tradition of learning excellence
We oer a British-style education for an international community, from Nursery through to Graduation. Find out how our approach to learning and outstanding teaching sta develop global citizens who shape their world through independence, empathy, creativity and critical thinking. Contact us at admissions@patana.ac.th www.patana.ac.th | +66 (0) 2785 2200 | 643 Lasalle Road, Bangkok 10260
Bangkok Patana is a not-for-profit, IB World School, accredited by CIS and NEASC
Contents BCCT
Board of Directors 2018 CHAIRMAN Chris Thatcher Anglo-Thai Legal Co., Ltd. M: 081 803 7377 christhatcher1@Gmail.com VICE CHAIRMEN Simon Matthews Manpowergroup Thailand T: 02 634 7273 matthews@manpower.th.com David Cumming Amari Watergate Bangkok T: 02 653 9000 david.cumming@amari.com Carl Sellick Lucy Electric (Thailand) Limited T: (0) 2 663 4290 carl.sellick@lucyelectric.com DIRECTORS Ali Adam Arcadia (Thailand) Co., Ltd. T: 02 108 1822 ali@arcadia-engineering.com Billy Chomsakorn British Airways Plc T: 001 80044 15906 billy.chomsakorn@ba.com Viriya (Boyd) Chongphaisal Glaxosmithkline (Thailand) Ltd T: 02 659 3000 viriya.x.chongphaisal@gsk.com Gareth Davies Fluxus (Thailand) Co.,Ltd T: 6696463 4704 gareth.davies@fluxus.io Stephen Frost Bangkok International Associates Ltd. T: 02 231-6201/6455 sfrost@bia.co.th Colin Hastings The Bigchilli Co., Ltd. T: 02 635 5085 editorbigchilli@gmail.com Simon Landy Colliers International Thailand T: 662 656 7000 slandybkk@gmail.com
10 10 Trade focus 11 Duke prepares for Thailand trade mission 12 Exports boost for Britain as whisky sales soar 13 SMART move as Thailand eyes new investors 13 Tesco Lotus leads push for exports to UK
15 Boost to workforce as Thailand boosts minimum wage levels
Issue 1/2018
20 Neoclassical economics: the ‘science’ that refuses to learn
22
23 IP considerations in Thailand for healthcare and medical technologies
HONORARY TREASURER
The Link
19 Factory visit is Triumph for Bangkok Patana students
22 Aviation resumes upward trend after slow start to 2018
Nick Smart Tesco Lotus (Ek-Chai Distribution System Co., Ltd.) nick.smart@tescolotusfs.com
2
18 Nurturing greatness
14 UKEF boosts senior management team
Pinyapa Pichaipalakorn Hlg (Thailand) Co., Ltd. T: 02 670 1848 ppichaipalakorn@harveylawcorporation.com
Jonathan Fryer Mazars (Thailand) Ltd. T: 026701100 ext 124 jonathan.fryer@mazars.co.th
16 Thailand formulates new SMART Visa concept
18
26 Hotel investment hits record levels in Thailand
Contents Issue 1/2018 The Link is published by the British Chamber of Commerce Thailand.
6
Chairman’s Message
Advertising enquiries: Greg Watkins Email: greg@bccthai.com
8
Executive Director’s Message
Editor: Dale Lawrence Email: dalelawrence2008@gmail.com
27 Traill students engineer success at KL science fair
Front cover design: GSBI Production: Scand-Media Corp., Ltd The views expressed by individual authors are not necessarily those of the British Chamber of Commerce Thailand or of the publisher. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the British Chamber of Commerce Thailand is strictly prohibited.
27 Slam dunk success for Traill at youth basketball tournament 28 Oxbridge offers for eight Shrewsbury students 29 China plays key role in Thailand infrastructure
36 36 BOONMA signs MOU with RE/MAX 37 Tourism growth gives boost to Thailand economy 37 New GM appointed at St. Regis Bangkok 38 Berkeley offering full high school scholarships 38 Hilton GM promotes healthy dining
30
39 Meet the new Bcct Board of Directors 46 By the Numbers
30 Prompt action by HSBC for corporate customers 31 Dusit Thani puts closure plans on hold
British Chamber of Commerce Thailand 7th Floor, 208 Wireless Road Bangkok 10330, Thailand Tel: 02-651 5350/3 Fax: 02-651 5354 Website: www.bccthai.com Email: greg@bccthai.com Greg Watkins, Executive Director
4
The Link
Issue 1/2018
33
48 Chamber Events 54 Comings and Goings
33 Boom for Bangkok real estate sector
64 Final Word
New Primary School Campus Opening August 2018
Shrewsbury City Campus Sukhumvit – Rama 9
Early Years to Year 4 now open for applications Contact us today to arrange a visit or find out more at one of our upcoming Open House events (3rd, 26th Apr and 8th, 12th, 17th, 23rd May) Call our Admissions Team on 02 203 1222 or email enquiries-city@shrewsbury.ac.th Visit our website http://city.shrewsbury.ac.th Follow the Shrewsbury success story @SHBcitycampus
Exceptional People • Outstanding Opportunities • Academic Excellence
BOOK YOUR VISIT
Chairman’s Message
I
am writing this after my first few weeks as the Chairman of the BCCT. It is very hard to highlight one thing that has happened in those weeks and I am not even going to try.
CHRISTOPHER THATCHER Sterling Partner
Sustaining Partners
Being elected (by my fellow board members) to the position of Chairman is both an honour and a challenge. Following Simon Matthews and his four years in charge is no easy task and our thanks must go to him for his achievements in that time. Luckily for us, Simon has agreed to continue to serve the members and remains a Board member and a Vice Chairman. In fact we are in a unique position of having two past Chairmen on the Board as Simon Landy continues as a Board member as well. After many years as Treasurer, John Sim has stood down and the new Treasurer is Jon Fryer who works with member company Mazars. John is due our thanks and acknowledgement of the work he has done for the BCCT over many years. I am probably one of the oldest chairmen that the BCCT has had but age is just a number (or so I’m told) and I certainly don’t feel that age is any barrier to continuing to develop the BCCT. You (the members) showed in the recent elections that you wanted to change the profile of the Board by electing two of our younger members and that is both welcome and (in my view at least) necessary. The profile of our members shows that a large majority are SME businesses and their needs are very different from the larger corporates who provide the backbone to much of the work of the Chamber. Part of our challenge is to balance what we do as their representative organisation to ensure that we favour neither one nor the other but cover the issues and needs of all. Not as easy as you’d think. The foundation of the Chamber, and what it can do for you, is Greg Watkins and our staff. Anyone who has ever privately called upon Greg for support will know that his help and advice can be invaluable. Not so many do that and I often wonder why (are you shy? I can’t believe that!). A phone call or email is all that it takes to arrange to see Greg and it might be the best investment of your time that you’ll ever make in developing your business. Don’t put it off - do it now. If you analyse the make up of the BCCT membership you realise that we represent both companies and their people. The vast majority of these people are young and aspiring Thais. Many of them don’t get to see our normal messages so we have to develop new ways to reach them. We are lucky to have a new and ambitious group, the Young Professionals, who are doing just that.
6
The Link
Issue 1/2018
Their recent event at the Residence at the Embassy attracted over 130 people many of who were first timers to a BCCT event and also Thais. This was a very real and much-needed initiative that was organised in full by the talented and enthusiastic leaders of that group (most of them at least half my age!) When we have organised events for members in the past we have always sought to find knowledgeable speakers who can communicate well in English. We do that because we always have done that and that is not a good reason for doing anything. Now we are going to expand opportunities for Thai presentations for those of our members who are more comfortable when operating in their native tongue. We won’t replace English events but rather enhance them. We intend to record each presentation (where speakers are comfortable doing that) and to make those recordings available online. This should help those ‘outside Bangkok’ members to keep abreast of what is going on. When we have run events (and done other Chamber things) in the past we have relied upon person power to support them. We’ll still continue to do that but increasingly we’ll use the power of technology. No longer will people renewing their membership by the end of March get real vouchers for THB 3,600. Now you will have e-vouchers, the deduction of the event cost is automatic and you may see exactly how much is left. We are working to encourage you to book and pay in advance – much easier for you and for our staff. We are considering introducing BCCT cards that allow you to pay simply by flashing the card (or your phone) at a reader – just as you can do at a 7-11 store. Let me close by reminding you that the BCCT is YOUR chamber. We love getting your ideas (not so much your criticism but we have to take that on the chin and try to improve). As your Chairman I am always happy to engage with members. If you don’t know how to get in touch with me and you have read this far, you now have no excuse. (Chris Thatcher, 081 803 7377, christhatcher1@gmail.com). I am happy to meet members (you buy the coffee!) or visit member companies to discuss anything BCCT related. Put simply, if you don’t ask you don’t get. We want to keep the BCCT up to date and fulfilling the needs of all members. This is not a short term project but an ongoing development. It can only be done with YOUR help, YOUR ideas and YOUR support.
Executive Director’s Message
I
t’s hard to believe that we’re a fifth of the way through 2018 already. We’re nearing the end of March which is the deadline for early payers of the 2018 membership fee to receive THB 3,600 worth of BCCT event vouchers. We would be grateful if all member companies could make payment soonest as this releases our limited resources from chasing payments to work in direct support of members and their businesses.
GREG WATKINS Supporting Partners
BCCT is proud that membership fees have been increased only three times in the past 22 years. During this time we have introduced event vouchers for early payers and reduced fees for members based outside Bangkok. In addition each year we work to add benefits to our membership offer. Please let me know if you would value a meeting with me and/or the BCCT membership team. We would be delighted to explore with you ways in which you may enhance the value and effectiveness of your membership. One of the under-used on-site resources that BCCT offers members is the British Business Centre (BBC) which is located next to the BCCT office at 208 Wireless Road. It is a 110 sq.m multi-purpose space with the latest communications technology and is available for members to use for meetings, networking events, product displays, seminars, presentations, training, Skype calls, receptions, press conferences, etc. Catering can be provided. Please contact me or any members of the BCCT team if you would like to use the BBC.
British Business Centre
BCCT has published a magazine for members since 1988 initially every two months and more recently on a quarterly basis. Electronic versions have been available via the BCCT website since 2011 and in 2013 we changed the design, and name from The Brief to The Link. With many more members preferring to read magazines on their phones or tablets and with advertisers looking to digital media for more of their spend, BCCT will no longer publish a print version of Link with effect from the first issue of 2018. It is also not lost on us that the paper cost saving equates to an additional THB 2,000 on each member’s annual membership fee. However, we will offer a print-on-demand service at cost for those who prefer printed versions. Full details will be sent very soon.
Airline Partners
As Chris noted in his message we eagerly welcome ideas and contributions from you the members. Please recommend speakers or topics for events. This year we have started to make video recordings of some events. The recordings are then loaded on to the BCCT website for members to access. We are always looking for feature articles for Link magazine - particularly topics that are likely to be of interest to a large number of members. A final note and request. Membership of BCCT is corporate but any employee of a member company may utilise the benefits of membership - including attending events. We do not restrict access to a specific number of representatives. However, we often find that members only nominate one representative and that he or she does not pass on information to other employees. Please send us more names and email addresses of your team members.
8
The Link
Issue 1/2018
COVER STORY
Trade focus By Richard Porter One of my first objectives since arriving at the British Embassy in Bangkok has been to ensure that the support we are giving to British businesses really makes a difference to prosperity in the UK and creates/saves British jobs. This can be a complex task when British companies that are well established in Thailand, (and arguably are Thai companies with a British ‘brand’), are seeking our assistance. I emphasise this point because the latest trade statistics on UK/Thailand trade are poor and exports have been in overall decline since 2006. Exports of goods from the UK to Thailand are well below £1bn and our trade deficit is almost £2bn. My team needs to take action to redress this imbalance and we will be working closely with the British Chamber of Commerce Thailand and business partners to make sure that we understand fully the issues that make a real difference to British prosperity, thus ensuring that our resources are most appropriately focused.
We need to hear directly from you, the business community, about the priorities in your sector and what a future agreement could include to ensure that your business is ever more prosperous. We have already seen the visit of the Foreign Secretary, the Rt. Hon. Boris Johnson MP, to Thailand this year and over the coming months we look forward to welcoming the Secretary of State for International Trade, the Rt. Hon. Dr Liam Fox MP, and UK Rail Minister Jo Johnson MP. In October, HRH Prince Richard, Duke of Gloucester, will be in Thailand for a week to support some of our commercial work. Finally, may I say that the Chamber continues to do an outstanding job as the first point of contact for, primarily, small and medium enterprises and we send our grateful thanks to all of the hardworking staff at BCCT for their commitment and enthusiasm.
Within the Embassy our four ‘high value’ priority sectors for the forthcoming year will be agricultural technology, infrastructure projects, defence and security and education. We have a strong and realistic pipeline of opportunities in each of these areas, with an overall export value in excess of £3bn. Whilst not all projects will come to fruition, we are confident that we will be supporting British companies to secure contracts valued at hundreds of millions of pounds in the year to March 2019. The main driver of our work over the coming 12 months will be seeking to redefine the trading relationship between the UK and Thailand, post-BREXIT. Land-ownerships laws and the Foreign Business Act are often huge barriers for British companies working in Thailand and we are committed to doing all that we can to remove market barriers for your companies.
10
The Link
Issue 1/2018
UK Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson (centre) pictured with Embassy staff during his recent visit to Thailand.
COVER STORY
HRH The Duke of Gloucester.
HRH The Duke of Gloucester (right) and HRH The Princess Anne, daughter of Queen Elizabeth
Duke prepares for Thailand trade mission The British business community in Thailand looks forwarding to welcoming HRH Prince Richard, Duke of Gloucester to these shores later in the year. The Duke of Gloucester is a cousin of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth and a full-time working member of the Royal Family. He was the second son of Prince Henry, Duke of Gloucester who himself was the third eldest son of George V and Princess Alice. The Duke attends national and international events in support of The Queen and her duties as Head of State as well as undertaking extensive public duties and engagements that reflect his own interests and charities.
The Duke is associated with over 150 charities and organisations. His patronages reflect his professional and personal interests which include international humanitarian issues, heritage and the built environment, and military veterans. He attended Eton College and Cambridge University. He was planning a career in architecture until the deaths of his elder brother in a plane crash in 1972 and of his father in 1974. He then inherited the Dukedom and there was an immediate increase in his obligations to carry our royal duties. In 1972 he married Brigitte Eva van Deurs, the daughter of a Danish lawyer. They have three children The Link
Issue 1/2018
11
Exports boost for Britain as whisky sales soar O
verseas sales of UK food and drink continued to soar last year with record exports of over £22 billion demonstrating a clear desire for British taste, quality and high standards around the world. UK food and drink businesses are now selling their products to 217 markets – with notable increases in sales of milk and cream (61%), salmon (23%) and pork (14%). An increasing thirst for British tipples has also seen bottles of UK beer appearing on shelves in markets as far flung as Japan and New Zealand while the popularity of gin continues apace with international sales of UK brands exceeding £500 million. In 2017 UK producers sent some £85 million worth of cheese to France, £21 million worth of chocolate to Belgium and, remarkably, tea to China valued at £2 million. Michael Gove, Secretary of State for the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, said, “Farmers, fishermen and food producers are helping to deliver a BREXIT bonus with more exports of British food and drink than ever. Contrary to the constant negativity of the doom-mongers, the British economy is going from strength to strength showing that a ‘Green BREXIT’ can deliver for the whole country.” This growing hunger for UK produce reveals the huge opportunities for producers and manufacturers as the UK prepares to leave the European Union. The US remains the largest market outside of the EU – worth £2.3 billion last year and rising by three percent compared to 2016. The UK’s mouth-watering food and drink products continue to whet appetites around the world – a point highlight during the recent visit to China by PM Theresa May. China is now the eighth largest export market for UK food and drink with more than £560 million worth of such products purchased by Chinese consumers last year. They showed extremely good taste by displaying a particular preference for UK salmon, whisky and pork. Food and Drink Federation Director General Ian Wright observed, “UK food and drink is known across the globe for its provenance and quality. We are a proud home to many of the world’s most beloved brands. We must now build upon this platform in order to take advantage of new opportunities and the growing global appetite for great British and Northern Irish manufacturing as we leave the EU.”
12
The Link
Issue 1/2018
Michael Gove
The UK government, with its team of trade experts, continues to encourage and support UK business as they seek to exploit new overseas markets and expand global customer bases. This is complemented by the government’s ‘Food is GREAT’ campaign which highlights the success of current exporters and showcases the UK’s top quality food and drink. The newly-created Food and Drink Sector Council, comprising a powerful combination of industry representatives and government officials, is supporting efforts to ensure that British business are better placed to take advantage of post-BREXIT trade opportunities. Major UK food and drink sector exports include: • Whisky (£4.5 billion) • Salmon (£720 million) • Chocolate (£680 million) • Cheese (£623 million) • Beer (£603 million) • Shellfish (£600 million)
SMART move as Thailand eyes new investors T hailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been outlining the benefits of the country’s newly-launched SMART Visa which, it claims, provides more benefits and privileges than any other types of visa issued by the Kingdom’s authorities.
The SMART Visa is a new type of visa specially designed to encourage highly-skilled professionals to work or invest in the 10 targeted S-Curve industries that include next-generation automotive, smart electronics, medical and wellness tourism and robotics.
These benefits include visa validity of up to four years (instead of the usual one year); no work permit requirement; extension of reporting of stay to the Immigration Bureau from 90 days to one year, and the right of legal dependents (spouse and children) of the SMART Visa holder to live and work in Thailand.
Meanwhile the Board Of Investment has been briefing foreign chambers of commerce in Thailand to join forces in enhancing the nation’s business environment.
The Thai government hopes that the SMART Visa will encourage foreign talent and investors to invest in the 10 targeted industries in Thailand and that it will also enhance knowledge transfer and increase the competitiveness of Thailand in the global economy.
The Thailand Board of Investment (BOI), Dr. Korbsak Pootrakool, the Minister attached to the Office of the Prime Minister and representatives from several government agencies have met with delegates representing more than 30 foreign chambers of commerce in Thailand to discuss investment opportunities, the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) development, infrastructure readiness and the gov-
ernment’s facilitation system that now includes the new SMART Visa service. Dr. Korbsak reiterated the Thailand government’s commitment to constant improvement of the overall ecosystem and to the development of infrastructure to support business activities. Miss Duangjai Asawachintachit, Secretary General of the BOI, told media that the meeting had provided updates on investment measures and policies, especially relating to EEC development. The EEC programme is one of the core projects in the government’s economic development plans with major infrastructure projects planned such as the high speed railway linking three airports, the MRO centre at U-Tapao Airport, and the expansion of Map-Ta-Put and Laem Chabang deep sea ports.
Tesco Lotus leads push for exports to UK T
esco Lotus has teamed up with the Thailand government’s Department of International Trade Promotion, the Thai-UK Business Leadership Council and the Thai Chamber of Commerce to present an event promoting export opportunities to the United Kingdom. The event was designed to equip Thai operators of small and medium-sized enterprises with in-depth knowledge and insights into the British market.
“As a leading retailer in Thailand with more than 1,900 stores, Tesco Lotus has been supporting Thai SMEs by providing distribution channels with a nationwide reach,” explained Tesco CEO John Christie, who co-chairs the Leadership Council. “We have also helped develop business capabilities of Thai SMEs to ensure that their products comply with internationally accepted standards and are fit for export. For the
past 10 years, Tesco Lotus has helped Thai SMEs to export their products throughout the Tesco network.” Tesco Lotus has helped in particular with the export of fruit, chicken, shrimp meat, groceries, animal food, stationery and toys from Thailand to the UK. The support provided has helped contribute to the growth of the export sector in Thailand as well as uplift quality standards for SMEs and farmers. The Link
Issue 1/2018
13
UKEF boosts senior management team U
K Export Finance (UKEF) has boosted its senior management team in a move designed to enhance the agency’s drive towards meeting the targets set in the latest plan covering the period until 2020. The three appointees are Richard Simon-Lewis (Head of Origination, Client Coverage, Marketing and Communications); Adam Harris (Head of Civil, Infrastructure and Energy) and Andy Blacksell (Head of Underwriting Policy and Products). They will help UKEF to bring major international business opportunities to the UK and to help UK companies better compete for business around the world. Additional recruitment into senior roles across UKEF’s policy and operations divisions to build the department’s capacity and expertise further is also planned this year. Louis Taylor, UKEF’s Chief Executive Officer, said, “I am very pleased to announce these appointments into key positions as we look to deliver worldleading finance to help the UK’s worldleading exporters grow their business internationally. Richard, Adam and Andy will bring the expertise, creativity and ambition required to help UKEF realise its aim to be the best export credit agency in the world.” Richard Simon-Lewis will focus upon seeking and securing global opportunities for UK exporters by helping to connect UK capability with international demand; by raising awareness of UKEF’s support among exporters and overseas buyers; by generating new business both at home and abroad and, finally,, by helping to develop a new network of international advisers, to support UKEF’s overseas activity across 20 different markets. Richard observed, “In the last year UKEF has enhanced its reputation as a world-leading export credit agency,
14
The Link
Issue 1/2018
Adam Harris
Richard Simon-Lewis
from extending short-term finance to the UK supply chain, to expanding our overseas buyer finance to 62 local currencies. We are better placed than ever before to support UK exports.
Adam began his career in the Civil Service Fast Stream, gaining experience in a range of positions, including credit risk analysis at UKEF, as well as policy at HM Treasury and HM Revenue and Customs. He spent over five years in UKEF’s aerospace underwriting division before becoming Chief of Staff to CEO Louis Taylor in 2016. Andy Blacksell is to focus upon the development and delivery of products that UK exporters need to support them in making the most of trading internationally, with greater pace, efficiency and capacity.
“I want to ensure UK exporters and their buyers can realise the full benefits of that, and am excited to be leading UKEF’s international drive to bring these major opportunities to the UK.” Richard has over 25 years’ experience in structured financing, heading up energy and infrastructure units at leading project and export institutions. Adam Harris is managing and developing UKEF’s growing team of 30 specialist underwriters that is responsible for delivering and enhancing vital support for the civil, infrastructure and energy sectors. He said, “By working closely with our customers and their overseas buyers, and growing our capacity to do ever more business in these vital sectors in which the UK is a recognised leader, we can help UK businesses thrive internationally.”
“UKEF’s offering must remain agile and adaptable, so I am excited to be able to take this role to ensure our product range continues to evolve in a way that is both evidence-based and, crucially, puts the needs of UK exporters first,” said Andy. Andy has over 15 years’ experience at UKEF, spanning roles as a country policy officer for sub-Saharan Africa and an underwriter in UKEF’s civil, aerospace and defence sector teams, as well as managing the department’s transition through landmark changes to its governing statute in 2015.
Boost to workforce as Thailand boosts minimum wage levels By Stephen Frost
In January 2018 the government announced increases in minimum wages on a province-by- province basis. The rates apply from 1 April 2018. In this article, we discuss the changes and the increased tax relief on wages that will lessen the burden of the increase on SME employers (as defined). The new rates are as follows: New minimum daily wage (Baht)
Provinces
Narathiwat, Pattani and Yala
308
Singburi, Trang, Lampang, Lamphun, Tak, Ratchaburi, Ranong, Chumphon, Satun, Nong Bua Lamphu, Phichit, Kamphaeng Phet, Sukhothai, Chiang Rai, Uthai Thani, Srisaket, Chaiyabhumi, Amnat Charoen, Phrae, Mae Hong Son, Nakhon Si Thammarat and Maha Sarakham
310
Roi Et, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Nakhon Sawan, Sa Kaeo, Phatthalung, Uttaradit, Udon Thani, Nakhon Phanom, Buriram, Surin, Phetchaburi, Phitsanulok, Phetchabun, Chai Nat, Loei, Yasothon, Phayao, Bueng Kan, Nan, Kanchanaburi, Ang Thong
315
Chanthaburi, Samut Songkhram, Sakon Nakhon, Mukdahan, Nakhon Nayok, Kalasin and Prachin Buri
318
Ubon Ratchathani, Suphanburi, Saraburi, Ayutthaya, Nong Khai, Lopburi, Trat, Khon Kaen, Songkhla, Surat Thani, Krabi, Chiang Mai, Nakhon Ratchasima and Phang Nga.
320
Bangkok, Nakhon Pathom, Pathum Thani, Nonthaburi, Samut Prakan, Samut Sakhon and Chachoengsao
325
Phuket, Chonburi and Rayong
330
Tax relief for SME employers: SME employers, defined as those with income of up to 100 million Baht annually and with not more than 200 employees, will be allowed to claim increased tax relief on the increase to the minimum wage. The relief is available from 1 April 2018 until the end of 2018 only. The
relief is at different multiples of 1, depending on the province in which the business is located. At the time of writing this article it was not possible to obtain a list of the different multiples that will apply in each province. We expect that this will become available shortly from the Revenue Department office closest to a company’s registered office.
Bangkok International Associates is a general corporate and commercial law firm. For further information, please contact Stephen Frost by email at sfrost@bia.co.th or telephone (66) 2 231 6201/6455.
The Link
Issue 1/2018
15
Thailand formulates new SMART Visa concept to attract foreign experts and investors By Stephen Frost
During the past year or so the Thai government has been discussing strategic moves to attract more hightechnology foreign investment in Thailand. As part of this initiative, the government has set up the Eastern Economic Corridor in the three eastern provinces of Chonburi, Chachoengsao and Rayong. In the EEC, the government will promote development of public utilities, transport, logistics, human resources and investor facilitation. With a view to attracting more highly skilled/experienced foreign experts, the government has also created a new SMART visa scheme. This came into force on 1 February 2018. In this article, we outline the requirements and the benefits available to this new visa category.
Location of employer: The business that employs the foreign expert may be located anywhere in Thailand. Categories of business activity in which such visas may be applied for: The categories of business activity in which such visas may be applied for are the so-called S-curve industries:
• Next generation automotive • Smart electronics • Affluent, medical and wellness tourism • Agriculture and biotechnology • Food for the future • Automation and robotics • Aviation and logistics • Bio-fuels and bio-chemicals • Digital • Medical hub Categories of visa applicant: There are four categories of SMART visa applicant: • • • •
Talent - based As investor As executive In a start-up business
Requirements and benefits for each visa category: The requirements and benefits for each visa category are set out below:
Talent based visa Requirements
Benefits
1. Minimum salary of 200,000 Baht per month exclusive of any benefits 2. Employment agreement with a Thai company with a term remaining of not less than one year 3. Proven experience in science and technology in the specified industry, as certified by the relevant Thai government agency (unless working for a Thai government agency) 4. The employer must be certified to be engaged in that specific industry by the relevant Thai agency
1. Maximum four year visa, but not exceeding the period of the employment agreement 2. No separate work permit required 3. Must report to confirm address every 12 months (the general rule is reporting every 90 days) 4. No need to apply for re-entry permit when exiting and reentering Thailand 5. Spouse and children aged over 18 may work in Thailand without a work permit. Employment not permitted in the 39 occupations that are prohibited to foreigners
16
The Link
Issue 1/2018
Investor visa Requirements
Benefits
1. Must directly invest at least 20 million Baht as an individual investor, in one or more companies in Thailand, using technology as a base in manufacturing or services in the targeted industries, or are delivering services in the targeted industries 2. The investment must be maintained during the visa period 3. The business (whether newly setup or an existing business) must be certified as using technology or delivering services in the targeted industries and certified by the relevant government agency
1. Maximum 4 year visa 2. No separate work permit required. Approval needed to change employment or add additional employments 3. Must report to confirm address every 12 months (the general rule is reporting every 90 days) 4. Spouse and children granted visa to enter Thailand 5. Spouse may work in Thailand without a work permit. Employment not permitted in the 39 occupations that are prohibited to foreigners
Executive visa Requirements
Benefits
1. Minimum salary 200,000 Baht per month exclusive of any benefits 2. Must hold a BA degree or higher and have at least 10 years relevant experience 3. Must have an employment agreement for a company in Thailand or overseas with an assignment to work in Thailand. The contract must have at least one year left to run. 4. Must hold a senior position such as chairman or managing director 5. The business (whether newly setup or an existing business) must be certified as using technology or delivering services in the targeted industries and certified by the relevant government agency
1. Maximum 4 year visa 2. No separate work permit required. Approval required for change of employment or additional employment 3. Must report to confirm address every 12 months (the general rule is reporting every 90 days) 4. No re-entry permit required 5. Spouse and children granted visa to enter Thailand 6. Spouse may work in Thailand without a work permit. Employment not permitted in the 39 occupations that are prohibited to foreigners
Start-up business visa Requirements
Benefits
1. Must hold 600,000 Baht in a fixed savings account in Thailand or elsewhere with remaining maturity term of at least one year 2. Where the applicant is accompanied by a spouse and children, an additional savings amount of 180,000 Baht is required, subject to the other points in 1.above 3. The applicant, any spouse or children must hold health insurance throughout the period of stay in Thailand 4. Must work in an incubator or accelerator programme or similar programme as certified by the relevant government agency. The programme must be in the targeted industries. 5. If not employed in a project referred to in 4 above the applicant must receive joint venture funding or is endorsed by a relevant government agency 6. The applicant must register a company in Thailand within one year. The business must be certified as being in the targeted industries by the relevant government agency
1. Maximum 4 year visa 2. No separate work permit required. Approval required for change of employment or additional employment. 3. Must report to confirm address every 12 months (the general rule is reporting every 90 days) 4. No re-entry permit required 5. Spouse and children granted visa to enter Thailand 6. Spouse may work in Thailand without a work permit. Employment not permitted in the 39 occupations that are prohibited to foreigners
Who may apply? Applications may be made by foreigners already working in Thailand or those who are outside Thailand. Time for processing application? The application should be processed within 30 days. Renewal of visa: An application to renew a visa must be submitted at least 90 days before expiry. Comments: Whilst the benefits under this new scheme may be attrac-
tive, only practical experience will tell whether foreign experts will accept the requirements imposed, and the scheme will prove attract to foreign experts who desires to work in the scurve industries. A number of matters remain unclear. There is silence on the issue of applying for another SMART visa after expiry of the initial visa term. Could a further SMART visa be applied for either consecutively, or after a period of e.g. one month after leaving Thailand? Could an ordinary 12 month visa and
work permit be applied for immediately after a SMART visa expires? Will the proportionality rules still apply, meaning that for every foreigner employed, the company must employ at least four Thais? The answers to these questions are not yet clear.
Bangkok International Associates is a general corporate and commercial law firm. For further information, please contact Stephen Frost by email at sfrost@bia.co.th or telephone (66) 2 231 6201/6455.
The Link
Issue 1/2018
17
Nurturing greatness By Suzanne Lindley
A
s teachers, and as educational establishments, the focus is so often upon academic achievement. However, in today’s quickly evolving world, is academic success enough? Are we at risk of over-looking students as individuals? To focus exclusively upon achievement as greatness is to miss another, perhaps more significant, element. Greatness is not solely about what you can do but about who you are. It describes those who have allowed their failures as well as their successes to define them, shaping qualities of character – resilience, self-belief, risk-taking – that help to pave the road to achieving potential. The challenge, in an increasingly target-driven and competitive society, is for us to parallel our messages about achievement greatness with messages about character greatness. At a recent awards assembly a number of Secondary students in the audience were recognised for their academic ‘greatness’ by achieving outstanding Key Stage 3, (I) GCSE and IB results. We also celebrated those students who did not necessarily achieve the highest grades but who had made the most progress across two or three years, demonstrating their ‘greatness’ by persevering to push themselves forward in their learning. At Bangkok Patana, we recognise the importance of celebrating all students as the unique and interesting individuals they are. At the same assembly I told the Secondary school pupils that ‘we value you because of the person you are and the qualities you have. Individually, as well as collectively, you matter. Being aware of this, frees you to pursue greatness, both of character and achievement, because your value does not depend on outcomes but on your inner core’. The theory behind this is ‘mattering’ – being valued personally, not functionally. 18
The Link
Issue 1/2018
CAS groups in the assembly, led by Senior students, who are excellent role models in demonstrating our core values; where through their activities of kindness and putting others first, they are developing as wellprepared global citizens.
Studies have shown that to matter to others results in high self-esteem and is a key element in building resilience and resistance to stress. All students matter at our school. One of the biggest challenges we face in the 21st century is to balance success in terms of measurable outcomes with the equally important task of nurturing resilient, compassionate individuals for the future. There is evidence to show that strengthening resilience and self-belief may lead to better long-term outcomes, boosting children’s capacity to adapt successfully to changing situations and environments. We are fortunate to have a plethora of opportunities available at Bangkok Patana for students to develop those skills. We heard from some
People are valued here at Bangkok Patana as human beings. In the world of work, high value is given to the non-cognitive, character skills that a person has. With the knowledge that Artificial Intelligence is fast-developing, more and more, students will need to be able to demonstrate the skills that robots do not have. In roles that rely on those personal skills, students will not be replaceable by robots. If students develop the skills of selfbelief and resilience, it is our belief that they are highly likely to achieve not only academic success but also personal success. As I reiterated at the assembly, “Each and every single one of you, will achieve greatness.” Suzanne Lindley is the Assistant Principal for Curriculum and Assessment at Bangkok Patana School. Tel: +66 2785 2200 Email: reception@patana.ac.th
Factory visit is Triumph for Bangkok Patana students By Richard Smith
O
n Tuesday 13th February we took a group of 19 IB Design and Technology (DT) students from Bangkok Patana School to visit the Triumph Motorcycles Factory in Chonburi. Upon arrival we were greeted by an entourage of smiling receptionists and met by Dave Thomas, the Engineering Director, who took us into a conference room where we listened to a presentation on the history of British company Triumph Motorcycles, with a particular focus upon the era from 1983 to the present day. During this time, owner John Bloor and his team built Triumph motorcycles back from insolvency to a worldleading prestigious British motorcycle brand and, in 2002, Triumph opened the first of its three factories in Thailand. In a second presentation, we looked at the manufacturing capability of the three factories. We were taken on a tour of one of the factories where we saw high pressure die-casting and machining facilities, quality control, assembly and rolling road testing of the bikes as they came off the assembly line. Our students were certainly impressed by the scale of manufacturing and the complex production systems in place at Triumph. Students saw examples of Lean Manufacturing, ‘Just in Time’, Mass Customisation, Kaizen philosophy and Quality Control. Industrial visits have many benefits for students such as to seeing a manufacturing plant first hand, observing the latest manufacturing
technologies, and looking at current production engineering systems and philosophies in practice. An industrial visit enables students to hear and question engineers and manufacturing management. We have no doubt that our students were truly inspired by what they saw at Triumph and will be more able to contextualise this aspect of theory that they have been studying and be better prepared for their exams and IA Design Project work. We put an emphasis upon commercial manufacturing in our curriculum in Design and Technology and offer a module in Year 9 where students batch produce a product in teams and study production engineering, lean manufacturing and Kaisen Philosophy in preparation for their learning at IB.
We are now very pleased to be able to put the Triumph Factory visit in the Bangkok Patana School academic calendar for next year and look forward to working with Triumph in the future. As the original British school in Thailand it is fantastic to collaborate with such a prestigious British brand. We would like to thank the following people who helped to make our visit such a success and an invaluable learning experience for all: Carl Smith – Managing Director; Dave Thomas – Engineer Director; Mark Pirie – Factory 5 Quality Manager, and Phatchara Supinrach – HR Section Manager. Richard Smith is Head of Faculty Design and Technology at Bangkok Patana School The Link
Issue 1/2018
19
Neoclassical economics: the ‘science’ that refuses to learn By Paul Gambles
I
t seems the UK economy is back on the rise. The EY Item Club recently announced that it had increased its estimates for the UK’s 2018 GDP to 1.7 percent year-onyear and the Office for National Statistics suggested that final figures for growth in 2017 will be up on 2016. But before we raise a glass to Philip Hammond and his trusty colleagues at the Exchequer and the Bank of England, we should really analyse this properly. I know that’s a little old-fashioned nowadays, and certain members of the cabinet prefer opinion over experts; but hear me out. To start with, measuring GDP is far from an exact science and forecasting it is even less reliable. Over the last few years, the IMF (which pulls together GDP data from 193 different countries) has repeatedly started off optimistically, only to later revise down the UK’s predicted GDP figures (see chart). As Keynes allegedly said “When the facts change, I change my mind. What do you do, sir?” Forecasters seem to be constantly changing their minds - unlike the dogmatic mindset of the UK government, its internal economic advisers and those at the top of the Bank of England. That may sound like a broad brush with which to sweep all the influential economic thinking of those in power but that’s purely because, by and large, they subscribe to the same neoclassical economic school of thought, starting with the belief that the value of a product is driven by 20
The Link
Issue 1/2018
consumer perception and that, consequently, there is no upper bound to income or profits that can be made. This difference between the actual costs of the product and the price it is actually sold for is called the economic surplus. Price, therefore, is studied by its proportionality. Thus, if in 2018 a sandwich cost £5 and a shirt £50; then in 2028 the prices were £10 and £100 respectively, the perception is that if wages also doubled, there would be no real economic change. We would have twice the money to pay twice the price. The problem with this line of thinking is that it does not include three factors which are fundamental to any modern economy: banks, debt and money and it assumes that economic agents (i.e. the likes of you & me) will always make rational decisions, armed with full and equal economic information. If we base the economy on our sandwich and shirt analogy, we’re ignoring the fact that the shirt may have been bought with a credit card. Not just that, there are some things, such as houses, that the vast majority of the population need a loan to buy. As interest rates compound, suddenly that person’s income is not actually proportional to the price of sandwiches and shirts. It seems difficult to believe that practically every government and central bank chief in the world does not include money in its modelling – but it’s true! Neoclassical economists also believe
that the capitalist system is inherently stable and tends naturally towards equilibrium. Money is just there as the lubricant and anything which disturbs the economy is a shock from outside the system. If we take this into account it becomes clearer why very few economists actually foresaw the 2008 global financial crisis – and by the term foresaw, I mean acknowledge it could even happen, never mind predict its timing. And yet, so entrenched is this belief in how the economy works, that the same approach has been used to try to revive the economy. Guess what? Ten years on and the government is talking up a predicted year-on-year growth of less than two percent. Now, you could quite reasonably argue that there are clear indications of revival: year-on-year inflation is up 2.7 percent, consumption is up three percent year-on-year and the unemployment rate last year of 4.3 percent is the lowest since 1973. Whether that is because of or in spite of government policy is a matter for debate. But the fact of the matter is that if you’re in employment and your salary has recently gone up, then you probably don’t really care as to the reasons why. My concern is more from the other side. The level of private debt in the UK shot up between 1997 and 2007. Since the 2008-2009 global financial crisis (GFC) the rate of increase may have dropped but the amount in Sterling continues to rise.
reliable.#Over#the#last#few#years,#the#IMF#(which#pulls#together#GDP#data#from#193#diffe countries)#has#repeatedly#started#off#optimistically,#only#to#later#revise#down#the#UK’s# predicted#GDP#figures#(see#chart).#
#
As#Keynes#allegedly#said#“When%the%facts&change,&I&change&my%mind.%What%do%you%do,%
That’s because the government and chased by households has increased this debt spiral. The problem is that, Forecasters#seem#to#be#constantly#changing#their#minds#F#unlike#the#dogmatic#mindFset# the Bank of England’s solution to at a far lesser rate. Out of every while in short term cycles boom and bust follow each other like night and this was to encourage people and Pound being borrowed today, less UK#government,#its#internal#economic#advisers#and#those#at#the#top#of#the#Bank#of#Engla day, the most meaningful comparifirms to borrow more, dropping the is being spent – suggesting perhaps interest rates it charged to banks. that more and more is being eaten sons suggest that successive governThat#may#sound#like#a#broad#brush#with#which#to#sweep#all#the#influential#economic#thin In other words, their solution to an up servicing the ever increasing debt ments, central bankers and advisers economy pushed into crisis by priburden. might have dug a once in a lifetime those#in#power#but#that’s#purely#because,#by#and#large,#they#subscribe#to#the#same#neoc vate debt was to boost consumption hole as they did in the 1920s. Blind by offering people cheaper debt. This cheap credit has continued devotion to the gold standard back economic#school#of#thought,#starting#with#the#belief#that#the#value#of#a#product#is#driven firms’ and people’s reliance on credit. in those days prevented any escape You could argue that this strategy This is now becoming an expensive from the mess that policymakers had consumer#perception#and#that,#consequently,#there#is#no#upper#bound#to#income#or#pro has worked, given the positive conhabit, given the Bank of England’s created. A slavish devotion to neothat#can#be#made.#This#difference#between#the#actual#costs#of#the#product#and#the#price sumption results – the latest quarshift towards raising interest rates. A classical models today is threatening terly report from the Office of Narecent study by the Resolution Founthe same outcome. actually#sold#for#is#called#the#economic'surplus.# tional Statistics shows an increase of dation found that almost half of low0.5 percent. income families were in debt distress It’s ok, though. Because when they fieven before the Bank increased the nally realise they’ve led us into stagPrice,#therefore,#is#studied#by#its#proportionality.#Thus,#if#in#2018#a#sandwich#cost#£5#and But there are a few caveats to be base rate. This may not be a large nation, they’ll carry on ignoring the aware of. Firstly, 42 percent of this proportion of the UK population but evidence. £50;#then#in#2028#the#prices#were#£10#and#£100#respectively,#the#perception#is#that#if#w increase was down to housing alone. encouraging people to place debt on also#doubled,#there#would#be#no#real#economic#change.#We#would#have#twice#the#mone That wasn’t the case for Q1 or Q2, so top of more debt for a decade, and we shouldn’t look too much into it; then increasing payments without pay#twice#the#price.# yet it wasn’t the first time in the last any other assistance, will inevitably three years that quarterly consumplead to yet another bubble burst. tion figures have been influenced by the house market. But there you have it. Neoclassical economists don’t watch, listen A more reliable yardstick is the fact or learn. They failed to predict the that since the GFC, household con2008 crisis, even though anyone shopping for a mortgage at the time sumption has grown by 14.7 percent could see something was amiss. They in volume terms and, in current pricinsist on ignoring money, banks and es, by 34.8 percent (£82,981 milPaul Gambles is Managing debt in their economic modelling. lion). So, whilst household spending Director - MBMG Investment Rather than tackling the real issues has increased during this period, the Advisory, Bangkok head on, they prefer to keep us on volume of goods and services purThe Link
Issue 1/2018
21
Aviation resumes upward trend after slow start to 2018 Y
ear-on-year growth in global revenue passenger kilometres (RPKs) slowed to a 46-month low of 4.6 percent in January 2018 but this was distorted by temporary factors such as the later timing of the Lunar New Year holiday. IATA is predicting that such effects will now unwind with RPK growth picking up accordingly. The bigger picture is that global passenger traffic has carried solid momentum into 2018, helped by buoyant global economic conditions. Passenger capacity grew faster than RPKs in annual terms in January for the first time in 15 months. Global passenger traffic has carried solid momentum into 2018. Passenger volumes are currently trending upwards at an annualised rate of between 5.5 and six percent – slower than the full-year pace of growth experienced in 2017 but broadly in line with the ten-year average. This is continuing to be supported by the robust global economic backdrop. The composite Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) – a measure of global business confidence that has proved to be a useful leading indicator of air passenger demand growth in the past – has remained at or around a threeyear high in recent months. It is currently at a level that is usually consistent with year-on-year RPK growth in the region of 7.5 to eight percent. Industry-wide available seat kilometres (ASKs) increased by 5.3 percent year-on-year in January 2018. This was the first time in 15 months in which ASKs grew faster in year-on-
22
The Link
Issue 1/2018
year terms than RPKs. The fact that capacity growth did not slow in line with demand in January reflects the fact that aircraft schedules are generally fixed in advance for the season and are therefore usually less prone to the type of fluctuation seen in RPKs. The passenger load factor fell by 0.5 percentage points relative to January
2017, taking it to 79.6 percent. Both capacity and demand are currently trending upwards at broadly similar rates. The two largest regions in terms of international RPKs flown – Asia Pacific and Europe – have both continued to see passenger traffic trend upwards solidly.
Leadership award for JLL JLL has received the 2018 Thailand Facilities Management Growth Excellence Leadership Award presented by Frost & Sullivan. The award is given in recognition for the firm’s strong overall performance, following in-depth interviews, analysis and extensive secondary research conducted by Frost & Sullivan’s analysts who then evaluated key benchmarking criteria including growth strategy, above-market growth, share of wallet, growth sustainability and customer ownership experience. David Willcox, Head of Integrated Facilities Management at JLL Thailand, said, “This is the first year JLL in Thailand has participated in Frost & Sullivan’s Best Practices Awards programme and we are very pleased to have won the Thailand Facilities Management Growth Excellence Leadership Award. The award well reflects the continued growth of our facilities management business in Thailand. Today JLL is the Kingdom’s largest international facilities management service provider. We are managing approximately one million square metres of corporate facilities on behalf of many leading multi-national and Thai companies.”
IP considerations in Thailand for healthcare and medical technologies By Helika Jurgenson
Being one of the leading destinations for medical tourism in Asia Pacific region with the ambition of becoming the international key driver of medical devices growth, Thailand offers many promising opportunities business opportunities to European SMEs engaged in the healthcare and medical technologies sector whose top-notch technology is increasingly sought after. The Thai population is aging rapidly with the expectation that, by 2025, people over 60 will make up 22 percent of the whole population the demand for medical devices and technologies will increase considerably . European SMEs engaged in the field of diagnostic imaging, orthopaedics, prosthetics and dental products can expect to find plenty of business opportunities in Thailand as these areas are currently developing fastest in the country. Furthermore, as 85.2 percent of the medical device market in Thailand is supplied by imports there will also be business opportunities for European SMEs engaged in other areas of the healthcare and medical technologies industry. Thailand could also serve as a springboard to Myanmar, Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia because of its geographical location. Intellectual Property Rights are very relevant in the healthcare and medical sector as companies operating in the field reply upon on technology, software and brand reputation. Not only a way to help protect innovations and new products from competitors,
IP assets can also be an important source of cash-flow through licensing deals or selling IP, as well as a significant pull-factor when attracting investors. European SMEs should also not forget to pay attention to protecting their IP. This is because IP infringements are still commonplace in Thailand. Well-managed IP is often a key factor for business success and neglecting these rights could be costly. A comprehensive IPR strategy is needed when entering Thailand’s market, according to IP Business Advisor Valentina Salmoiraghi.
Patent your inventions in Thailand Medical and healthcare technologies are developing rapidly. They are highly competitive and heavily dependent upon innovation and R&D. SMEs in this sector wishing to market their new high-tech inventions in Thailand should consider applying for patents because patent owners acquire, for a fixed period (20 years in Thailand), the exclusive right to prevent others from using, commercialising or importing the patented in-
ventions. Furthermore, patent rights are territorial, meaning that patents granted in Europe are not protected in Thailand. As counterfeiting is still commonplace in Thailand, owning a patent right is the only way to protect your business against infringements in the country. All inventions need to be new, involve an inventive step and be industrially applicable (this means capable of industrial production) to be granted an invention patent in Thailand. There is also a possibility to apply for a petty patent in Thailand that does not require an inventive step but still needs to meet the novelty requirement. Petty patents last for 10 years (if renewed after 6 years) from the filing date and are generally easier to grant. They may be obtained more quickly than standard invention patents (within 3-5 years as opposed to 5-6 years) which better suits inventions with a shorter life cycle. For example, many medical devices have short life cycles due to rapid technology development and product improvements and thus petty patents could be more suitable in these cases. However, patents for processes could sometimes have longer life cycles and would thus benefit more from the longer protection period of a standard invention patent. Thailand is a member of the Paris Convention and the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) which means that applicants for invention patents and petty patents are entitled to a ‘right of priority’ (i.e. the same filing date the original application made in the The Link
Issue 1/2018
23
home country can be used in Thailand) if the same filing is made in Thailand within 12 months from the first filing in any other country that also belongs to the Paris Convention. In using the PCT route the same filing must be made in Thailand within 30 months of the date of the first filed application. Due to increasing backlog in processing applications submitted via PCT route that has become widely popular amongst foreign companies it might be advisable to submit patent applications via direct national filing as the application waiting time may be reduced this way. Direct national filing is especially recommended if parallel applications of the same invention which have been filed in other countries are expected to be granted quickly. In Thailand, the substantive examination of Thai applications depends on the outcome of any patent applications that have already been filed abroad at other Patent Offices.
Design patents protect the appearance of your products Design patents are increasingly used in the medical and healthcare technologies industry to protect the appearance of products. In the case of medical devices, besides making a product distinctive, a product design can also make the use of a product easier and more comfortable and thus design plays a critical role when consumers are deciding between similar products. At the same time it should be kept in mind that design patents protect only the aesthetic aspects of products, not their functionalities. Design patents must also meet the absolute novelty requirement like invention and petty patents. Design patent protection in Thailand lasts for 10 years and the application procedure generally takes about three years. As design patents could be granted quicker, many medical and healthcare technologies companies rely on design patents to protect their
24
The Link
Issue 1/2018
products while the invention patent or the petty patent is still pending, as in this case at least the design will be enforceable and could not be copied. European SMEs should keep in mind that Thailand operates under a ‘firstto-file’ system, meaning that the first one to apply for the design patent will usually be granted the patent. The design patent application fee in Thailand equates to about six euros. The application form and other relevant required documents must be submitted in the Thai language or accompanied by a Thai translation. A notarised Power of Attorney is requested from foreign applicants.
Protecting technical manuals Many medical and healthcare technologies such as electronic diagnostic devices are often operated with software and have technical manuals. Computer programs and printed materials such as technical manuals are protectable as works of copyright. Copyright is useful, especially as unscrupulous companies with lower standard technology are known to use technical manuals of European companies. Source code and object codes are fundamentally recognised with respect to the protection of software and computer programs as prescribed by the Copyright Act. Computer programs are recognised and protected under the Copyright Act if they are the result of a creative expression of the ideas of an author, provided that they are sufficiently original. The Copyright Act only protects expressions of ideas and not the ideas themselves. However, the required level of originality or creativity is minimal. The copyright protection is automatic upon the creation of the work of the author and a registration is not required to enforce a copyright. Copyright protection in Thailand is valid for the life of the author plus an additional period of 50 years after
author’s death. If the author is a legal person, the copyright exists for a period of 50 years after the work is first published or, if unpublished, after its creation. Although copyright protection arises automatically, formal recordation of copyright at the Thai Copyright Office is possible and often recommended for EU SMEs as it is useful as evidence of ownership in the event of a dispute. Recordation of copyright is free of charge in Thailand.
Your brand is valuable In the medical and healthcare technologies sector, brand and company names have high value. Healthcare facilities and other customers place trust in brand names and company names and it could thus be very damaging to reputation if a similar or identical brand was used to provide substandard technologies. This could translate directly into loss of clients’ confidence in the original technology provider. A comprehensive IP strategy should, therefore, also take into account brand protection. Moreover, for those SMEs intending to distribute their products into Thailand a pre-existing registration of their trade mark in the country could also block them from importing and selling their products into the market. It is therefore important to make searches to determine the availability of the mark in question and proceed promptly with registrations. In Thailand a trade mark may be composed of a photograph, drawing, device, brand, name, word, text, letter, numeral, signature, combination of colours, figure or shape of an object, sound or any combination thereof. Additionally, three-dimensional signs can also be registered as trade marks. SMEs should keep in mind that Thailand adopts the ‘firstto-file’ system, meaning that the first person to register a trade mark owns that mark. It is recommended to register the trade mark as early as possible, preferably before entering Thai market. ‘Bad faith’ trade mark reg-
istrations, where an unscrupulous entity registers SME’s trade mark first with the intention to sell it back to the original owner at an inflated price, are fairly common in Thailand. Trade marks are registered at the Department of Intellectual Property of the Ministry of Commerce and registration costs between EUR 50 and EUR 420 for one class, depending on how many items of goods and services are registered and whether agents are needed. SMEs should bear in mind that they need to be represented by an agent when registering trade mark in Thailand. SMEs should also be aware that trade mark application form and other required documents must be submitted in the Thai language or accompanied by a Thai translation. It is now possible to register trade mark in Thailand via the Madrid System which allows applicants to file single application in English in multiple countries at the same time,
making trade mark registration more cost-effective or which enable the extension of existing international trade mark registration to Thailand
by designating the country. Helika Jurgenson, South-East Asia IPR SME Helpdesk
The South-East Asia IPR SME Helpdesk supports small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) from European Union (EU) member states to protect and enforce their Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) in or relating to South-East Asian countries, through the provision of free information and services. The Helpdesk provides jargon-free, first-line, confidential advice on intellectual property and related issues, along with training events, materials and online resources. Individual SMEs and SME intermediaries can submit their IPR queries via email (question@southeastasia-iprhelpdesk.eu) and gain access to a panel of experts, in order to receive free and confidential first-line advice within 3 working days. The South-East Asia IPR SME Helpdesk is co-funded by the European Union. To learn more about the South-East Asia IPR SME Helpdesk and any aspect of intellectual property rights in South-East Asia, please visit our online portal at http://www.ipr-hub.eu/.
KIS International School has been named the winner of the Ultimaker Education Challenge APAC 2017. The prize was an Ultimaker 3D printer with accessories and an invitation to join the Ultimaker Pioneer Programme. The award was granted jointly by Ultimaker and Septillion. Pictured left to right: Sally Holloway - KIS Head of School; Michael Hirsch - Secondary School Principal; Philip Toews - MYP Design Teacher; Vorawat Vadhanakovint Managing Director of Septillion and Kantaya Vadhanakovint - General Manager of Septillion
The Royal Wing Suites and Spa at the Royal Cliff in Pattaya has been recognised by the 2018 TripAdvisor awards for Hotels in three categories: Top 25 Hotels in Thailand, Top 25 Luxury Hotels in Thailand and Top 25 Hotels for Service in Thailand. The award winners are determined based on millions of reviews and opinions from TripAdvisor travellers worldwide. Pictured are: Vitanart Vathanakul, Executive Director of Royal Cliff Hotels Group (centre) together with Prem Calais, General Manager of Royal Cliff Hotels Group (left); Thibault Sellier, Resident Manager of Royal Wing Suites and Spa (second from right); Jan Lorenzen, Resident Manager of Royal Cliff Grand Hotel (right). and Maria Gequillana, PR and Marketing Manager of Royal Cliff Hotels Group (2nd from left).
The Link
Issue 1/2018
25
Member News
Hotel investment hits record levels in Thailand H
an increase of more than 10 million visitors in the last three years. The authority is predicting 37.6 million visitors to Thailand in 2018.
otel investment transaction volume in Thailand hit an alltime high of THB 17 billion in 2017, led by a number of marquee transactions. However, despite high levels of investor interest, the volume of transactions this year is unlikely to match 2017. That’s according to property consultancy JLL.
Data from JLL’s Hotels and Hospitality Group shows that 12 hotel assets were sold last year with a combined value of THB 17 billion. This is a 70 percent jump from 2016 and is 39.7 percent higher than the five-year average annual volume recorded between 2012 and 2016 of approximately THB 12.2 billion. By value, Bangkok dominated the investment activity with six hotel assets sold for almost THB 14 billion, accounting for nearly 80 percent of the total market-wide volume last year. The six assets included the EDITION hotel at Thailand’s iconic Mahanakorn development, sold to a US private equity fund together with its observation deck. Major transactions beyond Bangkok included the Dusit Island Resort Chiang Rai.
“The forecast is certainly achievable,” added Mike Batchelor. “Bangkok was crowned the most visited city in the world by MasterCard where visitor numbers surpassed the 21 million mark on international tourist arrivals last year and is expected to strengthen its reputation as a culinary destination as the first edition of the Michelin Guide has been released for the city.”
Mike Batchelor
Mike Batchelor, CEO at JLL’s Hotels and Hospitality Group Asia, said, “Continued growth in visitor arrivals and healthy hotel trading performance, supported by a stable political environment, are the driving factors behind strong levels of investment in Thailand’s hotel market.” According to the Department of Tourism and Sports, Thailand welcomed over 35 million visitor arrivals in 2017, up 8.6 percent compared to 2016 and
“Moreover, improving connectivity is a key theme with the planned and ongoing expansions of multiple international airports throughout Thailand, additions of new low–cost carrier flights and the high speed railway to enhance intercity connectivity,” he said. Several airport expansions that are underway or nearing completion will help increase Thailand’s capacity to accommodate more visitors. Combined capacity for Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi together will be 100 million passengers per year and U-Tapao airport, near Pattaya in Rayong province, will see further expansion in 2018.
Thais eye second city home C BRE is reporting a ‘strong start’ to condo sales in Bangkok’s Central Business District (CBD) for 2018.
“We believe marketing efforts both domestically and internationally have driven interest in high quality, luxury projects in Bangkok, where the price of real estate is still affordable when compared to other major hub cities 26
The Link
Issue 1/2018
such as Hong Kong or Singapore,” said Miss Aliwassa Pathnadabutr, Managing Director of CBRE Thailand.
In 2017, CBRE sold THB 17.7 billion of Thai residential properties with a total value of THB 17.7 billion – growth of 12 percent compared to 2016. CBRE is forecasting growth in numbers of Thai and foreign purchasers interested in prime Bangkok residential property.
The company states that ‘while many wealthy Thais own a larger home in the suburb areas of Bangkok, many still want to have a residence in the city centre because this is where they work, live and play. A second reason is that they are purchasing a condominium in the city to use as a second home for their children who are attending school or university, or working in the city’.
Member News
Traill students engineer success at KL science fair E ight students from Traill International School have received awards for projects submitted to the recent Kuala Lumpur Engineering Science Fair (KLESF). Traill International School, Thailand’s sole representative at the Fair, faced fierce competition from schools in China, Singapore, Philippines, Malaysia, Cambodia, Hong Kong and Indonesia. The Fair attracted almost 300 entries in the secondary schools section and the eight Traill students received silver, bronze and merit awards respectively for their three projects. KLESF is an initiative with various programmes and activities that aims to promote interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) among primary and secondary school students. KLESF partners include the ASEAN Academy of Engineering and Technology (AAET), the Malaysian Industry-Government Group for High Technology
(MIGHT) and the Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM). Competitors are judged not only on the originality and innovativeness of their projects but also on the potential impact they may have on a current and future generations.
Another factor considered by the judges is the ability of the competitors to demonstrate and communicate clearly their respective projects. The Traill silver award winners were invited to showcase their project at the World Science Exhibition in Brisbane.
Slam dunk success for Traill at youth basketball tournament
T
raill International School’s U18 basketball team has reached the final of the OBEC – Mono Championship Cup. The competition attracted almost 200 of the nation’s best basketball teams, with Traill competed in one of the most prestigious youth basketball tournaments ever held in Thailand, organised by Mono 29, a TV and media company.
The OBEC – Mono Championship Cup 2017 saw close to 200 of the best basketball teams with Traill beating Bangkok Christian College, Thew Paigarm B and Assumption Thonburi en route to the final when they lost to top seeds Thew Paigarm A. The Traill girls U18 team also did well, finishing in third place in their competition. The Link
Issue 1/2018
27
Member News
Oxbridge offers for eight Shrewsbury students E
ight pupils currently studying at Shrewsbury International School Bangkok have been offered places at Oxford and Cambridge universities. Drama scholars Yanissamone Ngarmnil (Chemistry) and Yasmin Nguyen (Human Sciences) have received offers from Oxford’s Balliol College and Mansfield College respectively. Natcha Yongphiphatwong, a recent TEDx speaker and winner of the Bangkok Economics Essay Competition, has received an offer from the University of Oxford’s St. Peter’s College to read Philosophy, Politics and Economics. Head Girl Pimara Soongswang is amongst five students to receive offers from Cambridge University. Pimmy’s passion for sustainability and environmentalism is reflected in her choice to read Land Economy at Queen’s College. Colleges in Cambridge have also offered places to Paisa Posadas, Natchanan Sun-
From left to right: Natcha Yongphiphatwong; Yasmin Nguyen; Yanissamone Ngarmnil; Vichayut Leelayana; Chris Seal (Principal) ; Thirat Wongwaisayawan; Pimara Soongswang; Natchanan Sunyabhisithkul and Panisa Poksawas.
yabhisithkul, Thirat Wongwaisayawan and Vichayut Leelayana. The school’s Director of Higher Education Jo Fretwell said, “Our focus is to ensure that all students are given the advice and support they need to pursue Higher Education choices that
are right for them. In the case of the Oxbridge admissions process, this is something that both universities themselves are renowned for testing with unrivalled rigour and why they offer just a handful of places for every thousand applications.” Khun Malee Tangsin, Chairwoman of the Ramada Plaza Bangkok Menam Riverside and the Tangsin Foundation, hosted a special lunch and activities for more than 500 children from Charoenkrung District and Community on the 26th Annual Children’s Day for ‘Child Development Fund for Youth in the Wilderness’. Khun Malee was joined by representatives from Bangkok Kho Laem District, Charoenkrung Pracharak Hospital, the Department of Education, the Rotary Club of Yannawa and hotel employees.
28
The Link
Issue 1/2018
Member News
China plays key role in Thailand infrastructure K
night Frank Thailand has been highlighting Thailand’s role as a transport and logistics hub for China. Executive Director Marcus Burtenshaw, pictured right, explained that the fraternal bond of cultural and familial ties between Thailand and China had been established for over 200 years but Chinese direct investment in the property sector had been limited by Thailand’s foreign land ownership restrictions. “Sino-Thai joint ventures have always played an important role in the trading and manufacturing sectors but a notable example in the property sector in recent years has been the partnership between China’s Holley Group and the Thai public-listed industrial estate developer Amata PCL,” he said. “Together, they developed the Thai-Chinese Rayong Industrial Park, located in Thailand’s Eastern Economic Corridor, which has benefitted from China’s ‘Go Out’
policy.” This policy encouraged Chinese manufacturers to invest some US $2.5 billion in the park which now employs over 20,000 Thai staff and over 3,000 Chinese expatriate workers. HNA Innovation Finance and CT Bright will contribute equally to 20 percent of a fund, which may reach US $5 billion next three to five years, to invest in Thailand’s US $43 billion Eastern Economic Corridor project. Thailand’s role as a transport and logistics hub for China in south east Asia has been underscored following the Thai government’s approval for the US$5.2 billion railway from Bangkok to the north eastern province of Nongkhai on the border with Laos. Chinese expertise will be enlisted to develop this first phase of a rail network that will eventually link China with Malaysia and Singapore via Laos and Thailand.
“Aside from the growing presence of Chinese corporates in manufacturing and e-commerce sectors we expect to see more JVs being formed in the hospitality sector as a way of capitalising upon the growing numbers of tourists flocking to get ‘Lost in Thailand’,” said Marcus. Dr. Virachai Techavijit, founder and Chairman of Regent’s International Schools and Colleges and Dr. Peter Jones, Head of Secondary School, welcomed 24 teachers from 12 Princess Chulabhorn high schools in Thailand. The teachers were accompanied by their senior advisor Dr. Kosol Pechsuwan, a member of the National Legislative Assembly on Education. The visit, prompted by a recommendation from Her Royal Highness, was part of a fact-finding mission to observe how international schools provide instruction in mathematics.
The Link
Issue 1/2018
29
Member News
Prompt action by HSBC for corporate customers H SBC Thailand has launched Corporate PromptPay – a payment scheme that enables corporate customers to receive realtime fund transfers and bill payments from its payers. The service is designed to improve account receivables management and working capital.
Ai Chen Lim, Head of Global Liquidity and Cash Management at HSBC Thailand, said “I am pleased that HSBC has secured several Corporate PromptPay signups as a result of dedicating our resources to working with clients to transform their financial and treasury operations. The goal is to improve their overall financial and operational flows, leveraging our investments in technology and people. “HSBC is dedicated to being the international bank of choice for cor-
ing propositions to enable our corporate clients to achieve world-class cash management standards. We are uniquely positioned to do this with our Process and Technology consulting team, connecting corporates’ cash management needs to our global network that can be leveraged by multinational corporates growing in and out of Thailand,” she added. HSBC corporate customers may now link a Corporate Tax ID with a current or savings account in Thai Baht to receive domestic real-time fund transfers in that currency.
Ai Chen Lim
porates in Thailand. We have been in this region for 130 years and will continue to invest in market lead-
HSBC states that its vision is ‘to become the leading international provider of main collections services for business clients in Thailand’. The bank adds that ‘we are committed to supporting the Thai government’s drive towards a cashless society’.
Bhutan’s Queen Mother, Her Majesty Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, paid a recent visit to Regent’s International School, Bangkok. Her Majesty met with the Board, staff and students and expressed her appreciation for the support provided to Bhutanese students and, in particular, those scholars benefitting from the Queen Mother’s Tarayana Foundation by The Regent’s International School. Pictured, from left to right: Mr. Kanet Techavijit, Dr. Virachai Techavijit, Her Majesty the Queen Mother Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, Mrs. Thiphavan and Miss. Kwanshanok Techavijit.
30
The Link
Issue 1/2018
Member News
Dusit Thani puts closure plans on hold D usit International has shelved plans to close the iconic Dusit Thani Bangkok in April 2018. A press statement announced that the hotel’s closing date had been extended to allow Dusit and its partners ‘more time to add even greater value to the new version of the hotel’ which will open as part of a THB 36.7 billion (approximately USD 1.1 billion) landmark mixed-use project to be built in partnership with Central Pattana PLC. The hotel is now scheduled to close in January 2019. “Since we officially announced the hotel’s redevelopment earlier last year, we have been inundated with messages from guests, customers and longtime fans of the hotel expressing their opinions about the project,” said Miss Suphajee Suthumpun, Dusit International’s CEO.
we could possibly embrace our heritage and continue our legacy in a new building. The answer, of course, lies in taking our time to ensure we get it right. We are exploring many ways to add value to the new hotel and mixeduse project in terms of design and innovation.
Dusit Thani Bangkok
“While the majority expressed excitement about our next chapter, there were also those who wondered how
“This includes embracing a green concept which reflects our prime location opposite Lumpini Park, creating direct links to both the MRT and BTS mass transit rail systems, and alleviating traffic in the area by providing new infrastructure. While our scrupulous attention to detail means we must extend the project timeline by eight months, we are delighted that guests now have more time to experience the hotel as it stands. We plan to enrich that experience by hosting a series of special events throughout the year,” she added.
Standard Chartered Bank (Thai) organised a Global Research Briefing 2018 seminar to provide perspectives on economic trends and forecasts. The briefing covered issues affecting Thailand’s economy and foreign exchange markets in 2018. Plakorn Wanglee (third from left), President and CEO - Thailand and Representative Offices at Standard Chartered Bank, presided over the seminar. The panel of experts comprised Dr. Tim Leelahaphan, Economist ( far right); Divya Devesh (second from right), Asia FX Strategist; Kaushik Rudra ( far left), Head - Rates & Credit Research; Sarah Hewin (second from left), Chief Economist - Europe, and Edward Lee (third from right), Head - Economic Research ASEAN at Standard Chartered Bank.
The Link
Issue 1/2018
31
Member News
JLL predicts drop in UK property investment J
LL UK is predicting that investment volumes in the UK property market this year will total around £55 billion – down slightly on the £60 billion investment volumes expected by JLL for 2017.
tion of the boom in deals for flexible office providers as more corporates take space. While proptech will continue to transform the industry, JLL highlights digital construction as one area that could have more dramatic impacts over the next few years.
The real estate firm cites the impact of the removal of the capital gains tax exemption for overseas investors in UK commercial property as a temporary blow to the market but that the new regime will not deter investors in the long term. JLL also predicts that the UK, and London in particular, is likely to be a key destination for Japanese and Korean capital. Jon Neale, Head of UK Research at JLL, said, “Undoubtedly there will be investors who are dissuaded by the capital gains tax changes but the change only aligns the UK with most other developed countries. In spite of this the major reasons for investing in UK property remain – liquidity, lot sizes, landlord-favourable leases, the strong economic and leasing fundamentals and, at present, relatively high yields and a weak currency. “We also expect Korean investors to add weight to the broader push from
Jon Neale
Asia this year. While they have held back from adding to their UK exposure in the aftermath of the referendum, we expect a return in 2018, attracted by the market’s resilient performance and high pricing in other global markets.” JLL’s property predictions for 2018 also include the sustained and resilient performance of the industrial and logistics sector and a continua-
Joon Kwan Park (left), Hotel Manager of Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers, welcomed Miss Universe Thailand 2017 Maria Poonlertlarp. Maria was taking part in a wedding magazine photo shoot at the hotel’s Giorgio’s restaurant.
32
The Link
Issue 1/2018
Following a number of recent landmark deals, JLL forecasts that 2018 will see wider participation by institutions and pension funds in the alternative sectors. Appetite is being driven by a mix of long income opportunities linked to inflation, exposure to strong demographic trends and a number of sectors which benefit from a structural supply and demand imbalance. There will be a rise of mixed-use alternatives as investors and operators will increasingly regard themselves as providers of living space and social infrastructure. The shortage of supply will result in established operators in one sector moving into a similar or complementary market. JLL states that, amid continued political uncertainty, 2018 will be the year in which many companies finally make decisions about their business strategies post-Brexit. Nevertheless, GDP growth looks set to be around 1.5 percent in 2018, roughly in line with 2017 and well ahead of some of the more pessimistic forecasts produced at the time of the referendum. Jon Neale added, “A deal with the European Union, even if it only covers transition, is likely to emerge towards the end of the year, but this means that this will be another year of Brexit uncertainty with many in property still unable to make informed decisions. But in spite of this mood music, inflation will fall back, base rates will remain unchanged and employment growth will be solid, suggesting that the economy will grow at roughly the same rate as in 2016.”
Member News
Boom for Bangkok real estate sector B angkok’s real estate market witnessed several large investment sales transactions in 2017 – including three concluded by JLL with a combined value of THB 7.9 billion. The firm expects the momentum to continue this year as rising real estate asset values have continued to motivate owners of prime properties to sell. JLL Managing Director Suphin Mechuchep said that, in comparison with 2016 when the major deals were long leases of prime land plots in Bangkok, the significant investment deals closed last year by the company in the city involved the sale of prime assets on a freehold basis. JLL Managing Director Suphin Mechuchep
JLL’s three major real estate investment transactions included the acquisition by Supalai PCL of the former Australian Embassy site on Sathorn Road in Bangkok.
the owners motivated by high price offers from interested purchasers,” says added Suphin Mechuchep.
JLL expects real estate investment activity in Bangkok to remain robust in 2018. The firm has already closed the sales of two prime land plots in Bangkok’s CBD with a combined value of over THB 3.6 billion. Both plots are considered suitable for luxury condominium development. “Whilst a concern over a new financial burden following the proposed new land and buildings tax has been expected to encourage more owners to dispose of property, evidence shows that sales of prime land in Bangkok have been motivated more by opportunities for owners to realise capital gains. The recent sales of the two prime land plots that JLL concluded on behalf of the sellers exemplify the case well. In addition, there are currently a few sizeable prime land plots and investment-grade hotels offered for sale in Bangkok with
Australian Embassy aerial view
“The proposed property and buildings tax should have an apparent impact on many property owners when there is more clarity about the new tax scheme and the rollout plan. However, we do not expect the new tax to lead to distress sales, particularly for prime real estate assets. Developers and investors will compete fiercely for sought-after assets when put up in the market.”
New faces at PKF Thailand Three senior executives have joined PKF in Thailand. Ajarn Supot Singhasaneh has joined the company’s Assurance team as a Senior Advisor. He has over 40 years of experience in the auditing and accounting of major companies in Thailand including Millcon Steel and TPI Poline and he has served as Chairman of the Auditing Profession Committee at the Federation of Accounting Professionals. He joins, in Assurance, new Partners Pitinan Lilamethwat and Pornchai Paingpornpen. Mrs Sawinee Sawanont has been promoted to Partner at PKF Audit.
The Link
Issue 1/2018
33
Member News
Knight Frank flags potential of Taopoon-Bangsue
T
Bangkok to Nong Khai, and it will serve as a connecting point for five Airport Rail Link stations.
aopoon-Bangsue could become the largest mass transit hub in Thailand. That’s the considered opinion of Phanom Kanjanathiemthao, Managing Director at Knight Frank Thailand.
The Knight Frank Thailand announcement also refers to the development of a new parliament building which will bring about further infrastructural developments such as a new bridge crossing the Chao Phraya River and new roads.
The development is scheduled for completion in 2020 and it will also become ‘a new business centre in Bangkok’, according to Knight Frank Thailand, due in part to the MRT Blue Line at Bangsue Station connecting with the Purple Line at Taopoon Station. A recent media announcement by Knight Frank Thailand stated that ‘this has greatly boosted the attractiveness of the residential area in Taopoon-Bangsue, further augmented with plans to develop over 300 rai around the station into a Transit Oriented Development (TOD) that encompasses mixed-use developments’. There will be up to four train lines
The area will benefit from the development of the Gateway Bangsue shopping complex close to Taopoon station. Expected to open this year the complex features some 40,000 square metres of retail space. Phanom Kanjanathiemthao
that connect at Bangsue Station: Blue Line, Purple Line, Dark Red Line, and Light Red Line. Bangsue Central Station will also be the originating station for two high speed rail lines, Bangkok to Chiang Mai and
According to Knight Frank Thailand, Bangsue Central Station will be developed as a Smart City with the National Economic and Social Development Board assigning ministries and government agencies, as well as domestic and international private enterprises, to support this endeavour.
SENA Development PCL and Hankyu Realty have engaged Knight Frank Thailand as sales and marketing agents for the Niche Price condo development at Taopoon Interchange in Bangkok where pre-sales prices begin at THB 3.2 million. Pictured: Dr. Kessara Thanyalakpark. Deputy Chief Executive Officer, SENA Development PCL (centre); Phanom Kanjanathiemtha - Managing Director, Knight Frank Thailand ( far left); Frank Khan - Executive Director and Head of Residential Department, Knight Frank Thailand ( far right), and Potjaman Vorakitpokathorn - Director of Project Marketing, Residential Department at Knight Frank Thailand (second left).
34
The Link
Issue 1/2018
Member News
Interactive learning at KIS
K
IS International School has introduced an interactive way to learn about earth science concepts and topography through an augmented reality sandbox. Students shape the sand to create mountains, dams, rivers and lakes. With help from a 3D camera, which measures the distance to the sand below, the topographic lines, elevation colours and water are created and projected onto the sand in real time. Students can also make it rain and change the topography by holding their hands above the sand. KIS designed and added a unique feature specifically for younger learners. Two buttons were incorporated with the sandbox to create a flood or a drought.
This hands-on experience will be part of the KIS Maker Space in support of the learning of the STEAM (Science, Tech-
nology, Engineering, Art and Maths) subjects including geography, topography, landforms, geology and hydrology.
BOONMA staff support homeless women
S
taff employed by the BOONMA Group of Companies, led by Managing Director Chaivudhi Punthong, have been helping women who are resident at the Thanyaburi Housing and Homeless Shelter in Pathum Thani. The company hosted a lunch and donated much-needed daily essentials including clothes, dried food, kitchen ware and cleaning materials. “Our management has highlighted the need for our group of companies to focus on creating meaningful longterm impacts for corporate social purpose. The management always encourages staff to understand the linkages between business operations and society, and the key role they should play in creating a
world that is liveable, sustainable and fir for future generations.� said
BOONMA Executive Director Tiddy Teerawit.
The Link
Issue 1/2018
35
Member News
BOONMA signs MOU with RE/MAX
B
OONMA, the global provider of end-to-end moving and relocation solutions has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with a RE/MAX Real Estate Franchisee in Thailand. Under the terms of the MoU both parties agree to provide ‘hassle-free and one-stop assistance to expatriate parents and teachers taking international assignments’. BOONMA has been providing services to international schools, universities, diplomatic coirps and multinational corporations for over 50 years. Pictured are: Front row from left: Tiddy Teerawit (Boonma), Don Hong (Re/Max); back row: Jean Valendez, Chai Pungthong, Simon Hoban and Kongkarn Yodkom.
BOONMA Thailand wins ecology award
B
OONMA Mobility has received a prestigious award for ‘the best contribution on global environmental issues’ from the Pan American International Movers Association (PAIMA). The award reflects PAIMA’s commitment to ecological awareness and environmental responsibility and is presented to the member that best exhibits these qualities through education, commitment and environmentally-sound business practices. BOONMA executive director Tiddy Teerawit (centre) receives the award from PAIMA President Jose Marrero. Also pictured is BOONMA VP Lars Lemche.
36
The Link
Issue 1/2018
Member News
Tourism growth gives boost to Thailand economy
C
BRE is reporting that 2018 has started with a mood of optimism for the Thai economy, lifted by an upbeat global outlook. Developers are competing fiercely for prime development sites, driving up prices to record levels and both condominium prices and office rents are at record highs. E-commerce and changes in consumer behaviour are shaping the retail and modern logistic property sectors. CBRE states that the Thai economy is picking up with growth in exports and tourism. Thailand finished 2017 with growth of 3.9 percent in gross domestic product (GDP) compared to 2016, resulting from a significant increase of 9.9 percent in exports to all major markets.
The tourism sector, accounting for 20 percent of the country’s GDP, saw a record 35.4 million arrivals, an increase of 8.6 percent on 2016. Further growth in numbers is predicted for 2018. Thai banks are being conservative about new project lending to developers and so Thai developers are seeking funding from foreign partners. The number of JV projects in Bangkok has grown exponentially from only four such enterprises in 2013 to 52 projects in 2017. Most joint ventures to date have been with Japanese investors on a project-byproject basis for condominiums. CBRE Thailand is also seeing investors from other countries such as Singapore, Hong Kong and China. Although earlier joint
ventures started with condominium development, CBRE expects new investment in both condominium and income producing properties such as office complexes. The proportion of foreign to Thai buyers rose slightly to 25 percent of total CBRE’s transactions. The company expects foreign buyers to continue to buy Thai residential property as developers are placing put greater emphasis on overseas marketing. “Demand for prime sites has remained strong with developers continuing to acquire sites both for condominium and rental income producing office, hotel and retail developments,” said Miss Aliwassa Pathnadabutr, Managing Director of CBRE Thailand.
New GM appointed at St. Regis Bangkok
K
laus Christandl (pictured right) has joined the St. Regis Hotel Bangkok as General Manager. He was previously GM at the St. Regis property in Singapore. Austrian-born Christandl began his hospitality career in Vienna and has spent some 20 years working with Starwood Hotels & Resorts. He has experience in many different countries and territories including Macau, Philippines and the Middle East.
He has also overseen significant renovation and revitalisation programme as well as successful brand repositioning projects – including the Hotel Imperial in Vienna during his tenure from 2011 to 2015. He said, “I am thrilled to be back in Thailand. This country has always held a special place in my heart with its unique spirit of hospitality and rich culture.”
The Link
Issue 1/2018
37
Member News
Berkeley offering full high school scholarships
B
erkeley International School is offering both academic and sporting scholarships for high school students. Multi-talented sporting girls and boys are encouraged to apply. Berkeley has state of art sporting facilities to fully develop all athletes in all areas and we already have a proven track record with national team players within our ranks, and a championship athletics team. The scholarships are full and stay with students until graduation. Visit the school’s website for an application form. https://www.berkeley. ac.th/scholarshipawards
Hilton GM promotes healthy dining
H
otel General Manager Ian Barrow has been promoting healthy dining at the Hilton Sukhumvit and DoubleTree by Hilton properties in Bangkok. He joined Chef Thanawat Yotpan in welcoming local media and bloggers to Dee Lite restaurant for a dinner featuring nutritious seafood and shellfish. “Our new-look ‘What the Fish’ buffet dinner at Dee Lite gives guests the opportunity to choose sashimi, seafood and shellfish dishes that are known to benefit their health and wellbeing. Fish is a high-protein, low-fat food that provides a range of health benefits. White fish, in particular, is lower in fat than other sources of animal protein. Oily fish is high in essential omega-3 fatty acids. Our message for 2018 is to eat well and stay healthy at Dee Lite,” said Ian. 38
The Link
Issue 1/2018
Ian Barrow (right) and Dee Lite restaurant chef Thanawat Yotpan
Meet the new BCCT Board of Directors I have been a member of the Board for some while now and firmly believe the members are the reason that the BCCT exists. Their needs and expectations lie at the heart of everything that the Chamber does. Board members carry the responsibility for ensuring that this is translated into action. Although often elected from larger companies the quality of the Board comes from the individuals who serve the BCCT. It is, in my view, important to keep a balance between the larger companies and the majority of BCCT companies that are in the Micro or SME community.
CHAIRMAN CHRIS THATCHER Group Chairman, Anglo-Thai Legal Co., Ltd.
During my time on the Board I have attended most BCCT events and Board meetings as well as representing the BCCT from time to time at other events. I have lived in Thailand since 2003 and came here to run a World Bank Education project working for the government of Thailand. Previously, I was a Head teacher in the UK for 20 years and became the National President of the National Association of Headteachers in 1999. I am now the Chairman of Anglo-Thai Legal and am currently one of the Vice Chairs of BCCT. Additionally, I chair the Events Group and am also a member of the Legal Group and the D&T Group as well as offering support to the newly established Young Professionals Group. Members are at the heart of the BCCT and, as a membership organisation, it exists primarily for the benefit of its members. No organisation is perfect but neither should it be complacent and the BCCT Board should always be striving to make the Chamber even better. With your support, I will seek to assist in ensuring that the chamber continues to find ways to improve in whatever way that it can.
Simon has worked in Thailand for the past 25 years and is currently the Country Manager of ManpowerGroup, the world’s leading HR solution provider with more than 3,000 offices in 82 countries. He was responsible for the startup of Manpower Thailand in 1998 and currently the business has over 16,000 associates supported by over 300 permanent staff in 12 locations across Thailand. BCCT activities during 2017
VICE CHAIRMAN SIMON MATTHEWS Country Manager, Manpowergroup Thailand
• As Chairman of the BCCT Board for the last four years, have focused on continuous improvement to our members; promoting the Chamber’s advocacy role both independently and in collaboration with other bodies and ensuring sustainable financial health for BCCT • Member of the Overseas Business Network Steering Committee • Represented the BCCT as Director of the Board of Trade attending there quarterly meetings and events • As Chairman represented the BCCT at external events with Government, British embassy and member functions • Worked on BCCT HR Policy and KPI’s • Attended numerous networking events, breakfast and luncheon meetings both in Bangkok and ESB • Sponsorship of events as well as being a Supporting partner for the past four years
The Link
Issue 1/2018
39
The Amari Watergate Bangkok, part of the Onyx Hospitality Group which is privately owned by the family behind the Italian-Thai Development Public Company Limited, one of Thailand’s leading companies with a wide range of commercial interests including construction and trading. David has been in Thailand for over 15 years, previously as General Manager of the Amari Pattaya before two years as VP Operational Development for Onyx where he amongst other duties was overseeing the pre-opening process for the company’s new properties. Currently he is Regional Vice President Operations Bangkok, Malaysia and Laos. Previously, David had worked in the Middle East with the Inter-Continental Group in a variety of countries. VICE CHAIRMAN DAVID CUMMING Regional Vice President Operations, Bangkok, Malaysia and Laos, Onyx Hospitality Group (Amari Watergate Bangkok)
With over 24 years’ experience as an expatriate, David has developed an understanding and knowledge for the importance of dealing with both expatriates and local business leaders alike. David is committed to developing this further and to helping drive the requirements of the BCCT and its members in Thailand. While being in the tourism sector and a regular attendee of such trade shows as World Travel Market in the UK, David is promoting Thailand to travel agents or corporate business in a bid to further enhance the destination. If re-elected to the board, amongst other things, David would wish in 2018 to continue to drive the Travel and Tourism committee, for which 2017 was again a very encouraging year with a number of well attended high profile events. It is vital that the needs of this ever-growing sector are being correctly met for the benefit of our members. David was elected to the board in 2012 and previously headed the BCCT Eastern Seaboard Group before in 2013 re-establishing the Travel and Tourism committee. David was a regular attendee at networking evenings, events and often supports other Chambers in Bangkok.
VICE CHAIRMAN CARL SELLICK Regional Managing Director, Lucy Electric (Thailand) Limited
Carl Sellick is the Regional Managing Director of Lucy Electric (Thailand) Ltd. He brings to the BCCT: direct experience of setting up and running a successful manufacturing business in Thailand; a region-wide perspective including the practicalities and effectiveness of ASEAN trade agreements; and close working ties with the Thai Board of Investment (BOI) and the Customs Department. During his tenure on the board, Carl has initiated several projects including the initiation of a Manufacturing Group which, in co-operation with the Eastern Seaboard Directors’ Club attempts to focus on key issues facing manufacturers. He is also Chair of the Steering Group which oversees the project part-funded by the UK Department for International Trade for which BCCT provides business support services to British SMEs. Carl is a regular attendee at events in Bangkok and the Eastern Seaboard. Carl Sellick has lived in Thailand for almost 4 years. He has specific responsibility for the Asia Pacific region for all Lucy’s commercial and operational sites including businesses in China and Malaysia. In addition Carl is responsible for sales of Lucy Electric products and services from all sites globally. Carl has been with Lucy Electric for almost 20 years including in the UK, Dubai and Malaysia where he set up commercial operations before relocating to Thailand in 2014. Carl has been involved in the electricity supply industry for over 30 years in senior positions working for French and German multi-nationals before joining Lucy Electric. Lucy Electric is a global leader in switching, protection and automation solutions for electrical distribution systems, with over 100 years’ industry experience. Today the company is a specialist in secondary power distribution,
40
The Link
Issue 1/2018
engineering high-performance medium voltage switchgear for utility, industrial and commercial applications, overhead line equipment and providing retrofit and automation solutions to customers internationally. Lucy Electric (Thailand) Limited with over 150 employees is located in the Eastern Seaboard, in Rayong at Hemaraj Eastern Seaboard Free Zone. The factory produces a range of Medium Voltage Switchgear Ring Main Units and associated products which are sold to customers throughout the world. In addition there is a commercial office located in Bangkok serving the needs of customers in Thailand and the region.
Arcadia is an international professional services firm headquartered in Bangkok, providing engineering, design, procurement, project and construction management services for all aspects of the built environment. As executive director of strategy, I am responsible for the operations, strategic plans and providing the vision and dynamic leadership to the company as a whole and to ensure a commercial culture is developed and maintained to complement the technical activities.
DIRECTOR ALI ADAM Executive Director, Arcadia (Thailand) Co., Ltd.
Prior to co-founding Arcadia, I worked for Halcrow Group Ltd for 25 years in a variety of technical and management roles in Asia, North America and Europe. I moved to Thailand 14 years ago to assume the position of Regional Director Thailand and was a member of the Asia regional management team. I maintain an active role as Chairman of the BCCT Property and Infrastructure Group. I have been a key-note and panel speaker at BCCT events and other international conferences and seminars. My involvement over the last two years has been to attend 26 BCCT events, including 21 Board meetings and meetings with Thai and UK government ministers and officials. If re-elected I will continue my active participation in BCCT events, meetings, sponsorship and contributing to the agenda and the promotion of the Chamber and its members. I am passionate and committed to the BCCT and business in Thailand and will provide the leadership for the development of British interests in Thailand.
Billy Chomsakorn, also known as Chaiyavut Chomsakorn, joined British Airways in April 2014 as a Country Commercial Manager Thailand. Born in 1970, Billy grew up in Bangkok, Thailand. Billy has finished his secondary school in Bangkok, Thailand in 1987 then he continued his high school study in Melbourne, Australia where he has also graduated from La Trobe University in 1994. In 1998 Billy has continued his study in Tourism Management at Victoria University of Technology.
DIRECTOR BILLY CHOMSAKORN Country Commercial Manager Thailand, British Airways PLC
Billy began his career in the travel industry in 1994 while he was in his final year of the university and was in the same industry until 2000. During that time Billy has undertaken all the duties required and held various positions in the travel industry in Melbourne, Australia. As Billy has always been interested in the Marketing field, in 1997 he has also explored part time event marketing career at the Melbourne Entertainment Complex, Crown Casino as well as his full time job. After 16 years away from home, he has moved back to Thailand in December, 2000 to joined Emirates Airline as Sales Executive until 2004 then started his new career with Etihad Airways in August 2004 as Sales & Marketing Manager for Thailand and Mekong Region until March 2014 before he has a great opportunity to joined British Airways where he is enjoying this new and exciting challenge.
The Link
Issue 1/2018
41
GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), one the world leading pharmaceutical, biologics, vaccines and consumer healthcare company. GSK is a well-respected leader of the Thai pharmaceutical industry, has been operating in Thailand since 1964, and actively involved as a key contributor to public and non-profit organizations. Our initiative support GSK Global policy s Access to Medicine framework, aiming to increase access to quality, innovative medicines and vaccines for all people, including those at the lower end of the economic spectrum.
DIRECTOR VIRIYA CHONGPHAISAL General Manager, Glaxosmithkline (Thailand) Ltd
Prior to joining GSK, Boyd has experiences cover fast moving consumer goods, consumer healthcare, and pharmaceuticals. He held a variety of commercial roles and was based in the US, China before moving back to Thailand. He is currently the Board of Director of the British Chamber of Commerce Thailand (BCCT), and the President of the Pharmaceutical Research & Manufacturers Association (PReMA). He is the member of the Institute of Directors of Thailand.
Gareth is a Digital Innovation Specialist with a background in web development and consultancy. Working with many companies, from large enterprises to startups. Using his technological expertise to help businesses grow, reach new customers, and find new ways to improve, he empowers businesses to become leaders in their field.
DIRECTOR GARETH DAVIES Managing Director, Fluxus (Thailand) Co., Ltd
Gareth holds a strong belief that those who embrace new technologies today will become the most successful business of tomorrow. He is interested in working with businesses that will shape Thailand 4.0 with cutting-edge innovations. Further to having consulted for many of the UK’s top technology startups, Gareth was a founding member of Fluxus Co. Ltd., and has also founded two startups in Asia. Gareth brought UK-based consultancy Fluxus to Thailand in 2015, opening up the digital expertise and experience of the UK team to businesses in south east Asia. In the UK, Fluxus has worked on large-scale projects for clients like BBC Worldwide, TES Global, and Cancer Research UK. Since setting up in Thailand, Fluxus has built Asia’s largest digital media project, worked with one of Thailand’s largest property and land developers, several SET listed companies, and has established itself in the ecommerce market. In his role as Managing Director of Fluxus Thailand, he has led and overseen several large scale web development projects, user experience design, digital marketing, and also offers his expertise through technological consultancy services. Having worked alongside teams that have been involved with some of the world’s largest and most complex enterprise web-development deliveries, Gareth and Fluxus are in their third year of membership with the BCCT, and are looking to offer Gareth’s expertise to both the BCCT and its members to help them make the most out of digital, offering an advisory role to anyone looking to invest in their technology.
42
The Link
Issue 1/2018
I have lived and worked in Thailand for 23 years. I am a director of Bangkok International Associates, an independent law firm. I specialise in corporate and commercial law, including many areas of concern to BCCT members: corporate set-up, joint ventures, employment, property, taxation, company takeovers, and banking. I served BCCT members as a director during 2007-2011, and from October 2012 to date. My time as a board director brings me into regular contact with BCCT members, many of which are SMEs. I enjoy sharing my knowledge and helping to resolve legal issues that they experience particularly. DIRECTOR STEPHEN FROST Director, Bangkok International Associates Ltd.
More particularly, I represented BCCT members’ interests during 2016 as follows: • the revision of the BCCT constitution. • conducting a survey concerning the Immigration Bureau Additional Information Form required when making a 90 day reporting, or renewing a visa • as Chairman of the BCCT Legal & Taxation Group. We arranged events during 2016 on visas/work permits, employment, taxation, corruption and the Business Security Act. For 2017, we already have events planned on arbitration, visas/work permits, and a discussion on the legal aspects of the Supreme Court judgment on the UK’s serving notice to terminate its membership of the EU. • as an active member of the BCCT Events and Property & Infrastructure Groups, • as a member of the European ASEAN Business Centre (EABC) Advocacy Group on Cross-Sectoral issues: I updated the commentaries on legal issues that formed part of the annual EABC Position Paper submitted to the Thai Government, and • at meetings with the Board of Investment and other relevant organisations.
Colin Hastings is the founder and Managing Director The BigChilli, one of Bangkok’s leading publishing companies. Its flagship publication, The BigChilli, was launched 18 years ago as the country’s first magazine focusing on the international / expatriate community.
DIRECTOR COLIN HASTINGS Managing Director/Publisher, The Bigchilli Co., Ltd.
A graduate in business studies, London-born Colin is a career journalist, working initially on local newspapers and then for the Daily Express in Fleet Street in the early 1970s before joining the Bangkok Post in 1975. In 1980, he returned to the UK where he worked for the Sunday Times and as a PR consultant for Thai Airways International. Returning to Thailand in 1982, Colin edited a number of magazines here and in Singapore before rejoining the Bangkok Post to launch Thailand Tatler. In 1999, he established his own publishing venture. Colin is a longtime member of the BCCT and served as a Board member for three consecutive years. He is also a member of the Royal Bangkok Sports Club and the British Club, representing both in football, rugby, cricket and squash. He is a family man with five daughters. Colin looks forward to rejoining the BCCT Board and to continue its good work promoting British interests in Thailand.
The Link
Issue 1/2018
43
DIRECTOR SIMON LANDY MBE Shareholder, Colliers International Thailand
A resident of Thailand since 1981, I have mostly been working as a property consultant for the last 30 years, most recently as co-founder and Executive Chairman of Colliers International Thailand, until my retirement in 2017. I am currently an independent director of Charn Issara REIT Management and the Vietnam Property Fund. I have held a number of professional roles in the Thai and international property market, including past chairman of RICS Thailand and a member of RICS Asia Pacific Board, of the UK-based International Valuation Standards Board (the global standard-setter for business and property valuation) and of the Thai SEC sub-committee on property fund/ REIT regulation. I served as Chairman of the BCCT Board from 2012-14 and since then as Vice-Chairman. My main role is representing the BCCT on the Board of Trade of Thailand (BOT), where I am advisor and sit on various committees (including Foreign Chambers of Commerce and Property), and on the Thai-UK Business Leadership Council (TUBLC), where I am co-chairman of the Ease of Doing Business Working Group. I also sit on the Strategy Committee for BCCT’s Overseas Business Initiative Project. For services to Thai-UK trade and investment, I was awarded an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List in 2016. I am standing for another term on the Board where I hope to contribute by supporting the continuation of ongoing projects and developing some new initiatives. In particular, I have been asked to participate as an advisor to the government committee looking to eliminate or reform over 1,000 business licences within 2018.
After graduating with Merit in Law from Durham University, United Kingdom, Pinyapa (Aime), moved back to Thailand to start her career as an attorney at law with Harvey Law Group (HLG). HLG is an international law firm with offices all over the world including in Thailand. The firm was founded in 1992 and has quickly evolved into a leading and multinational law firm with a worldwide reputation amongst discerning businesses, individuals and governments across Canada, Asia and South America. DIRECTOR PINYAPA PICHAIPALAKORN Attorney at Law, Hlg (Thailand) Co., Ltd.
HLG combine world-class acumen with local insight to deliver exceptional legal advice to assist clients. Amidst a complex and ever-changing regulatory environment, HLG has consistently proven itself to embrace change and deliver results for its clients across the world. Aime has extensive experience across the Asia-Pacific region in a broad range of areas including Foreign Direct Investment both offshore and onshore projects, commercial and corporate transactions, joint ventures, mergers & acquisitions and investment schemes and property management for both private companies and HNWIs clients. Aime is a young, ambitious and highly motivated professional, who has developed a mature and responsible approach to any given task. Aime is part of the BCCT Young Professionals (BCCT YP) committee, which aims to encourage and support the career development for young professionals in Thailand. Her recent accomplishments include hosting the first launch of BCCT YP in November last year, where she continues to encourage other young professionals to get involved and participate in the activities and events organised by the BCCT, to bring further diversity into the Chamber.
44
The Link
Issue 1/2018
Aime’s passion is to represent the young professionals, start-ups and entrepreneurs and aim to develop and broaden the insights of the BCCT Board of Directors to appreciate that
A UK citizen, Nick has lived and worked in Thailand for nearly 25 years. Nick has been with Tesco Lotus for 15 years. He is currently CEO of Tesco Lotus Financial Services (TFS), a position he has held since June 2016. TFS is a joint venture between Tesco Lotus and Krungsri Consumer, the consumer finance arm of Bank of Ayudhya, and provides credit cards, personal loans and various insurance products to serve Tesco Lotus customers.
DIRECTOR NICK SMART CEO, Ek-Chai Distribution System Co., Ltd (Tesco Lotus)
Nick previously held a number of senior positions at Tesco Lotus, starting in Finance, then spending several years in Retail Operations before moving to Buying. He is the only non-Thai national to have managed a Tesco Lotus store in Thailand. Tesco Lotus serves over 15 million Thai customers a week through a network of 1,900 stores across the Kingdom, and employs more than 63,000 people. Prior to joining Tesco Lotus, Nick spent 4 years apiece at Tara Siam, a financial research company, and CSL, a boutique corporate finance advisory business. Nick has completed the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) programme of the Association of Investment Management & Research. He recently passed the Director Certification Programme of the Thai Institute of Directors. Nick speaks, reads and writes Thai to a reasonably proficient level. With John Christie’s assignment in Thailand coming to an end, Nick is committed to ensuring that Tesco Lotus, as the largest UK corporate in the Kingdom, maintains an active role in the BCCT and its efforts to promote the interests of British business in Thailand.
The Link
Issue 1/2018
45
Dataconsult
this represented growth from 1.7 percent in 2016. This latter performance can be expected to rise in 2018 to at least 3.4 percent. Meanwhile inflation remains very low, with headline inflation at 0.7 percent and core inflation at 0.6 percent, although these levels are forecast to increase to 1.2 percent and 0.8 percent respectively in 2018.
Chamber Events
By the Numbers
Chris Bruton Director, Dataconsult Ltd.
Low inflation is reported to be only one of the factors enabling Thailand to be judged the “happiest country in the world”, beating Singapore by a narrow margin. Provided that happiness can continue to be measured by low living costs and modest inflation, then Thailand may continue to make the championship grade. Democracy and transparency do not appear to be important factors in compilation of the happiness index.
Heading for modest recovery
W
hereas only the most optimistic of analysts had predicted Thailand GDP growth performance of four percent in 2017 there is now greater confidence that better performance could, potentially, be achieved in 2018.
Consumption levels have remained modest. Real private consumption growth in 2017 reached 3.2 percent, much the same as in 2016, and is forecast to reach 3.5 percent in 2018. Real public consumption reached growth of only 2.0 percent in 2017, although
According to the latest forecasts from the Fiscal Policy Office of the Ministry of Finance, growth in 2018 could reach 4.2 percent or even, in a best case scenario, as high as 4.7 percent.
Major assumptions and Economic Projections for 2017 and 2018 (As of January 2018) 2015
2017f (as of Jan 2018)
2016
2018f (as of Jan 2018)
average
Average
Range
MAJOR ASSUMPTIONS Exogenous Variables
Performance is still very much dependent on export of goods and services. For 2017, in US$ terms, exports increased by 9.7 percent, as compared with no growth in 2016 and a series of previous declines. The forecast for 2018 of 6.6 percent could be achieved, or exceeded, depending on the state of economic health of Thailand’s trade partners as well as the impact of possible continued Baht currency strengthening against major world trading currencies. Another important factor will be tourism arrivals which achieved 36.4 million in 2017 (32.6 million in 2016). The accuracy of Thailand’s tourist statistics is, however, somewhat questionable. The figures include short-term repeat travellers and cross-border shoppers. But growth figures are, nevertheless, encouraging.
Average Economic Growth Rate of Major Trading Partners (percent y-o-y)
3.61
3.40
3.96
3.88
3.38 to 4.38
Dubai Crude Oil Price (U.S. dollar per Barrel)
51.2
41.2
53.1
61.5
56.5 to 66.5
Policy Variables Exchange Rate (Baht per U.S. dollar)
34.25
35.30
33.94
32.25
31.25 to 33.25
Policy rate at year-end (percent y-o-y)
1.50
1.50
1.50
1.50
1.00 to 2.00
Public Expenditure (Trillion Baht)
3.23
3.39
3.49
3.74
3.70 to 3.78
Number of foreign tourists (Million)
29.9
32.6
35.4
38.2
37.2 to 39.2
2.9
3.2
4.0
4.2
3.7 to 4.7
2.2
3.1
3.2
3.5
3.0 to 4.0
3.0
1.7
2.0
3.4
2.9 to 3.9
PROJECTIONS GDP Growth Rate (percent y-o-y) Real Consumption Growth (percent y-o-y) - Real Private Consumption (percent y-o-y) - Real Public Consumption (percent y-o-y) Real Investment Growth (percent y-o-y) - Real Private Investment (percent y-o-y)
-2.2
0.4
2.1
3.8
3.3 to 4.3
- Real Public Investment (percent y-o-y)
29.3
9.9
-1.1
11.8
11.3 to 12.3
Export Volume of Goods and Services (percent y-o-y)
0.7
2.1
6.2
4.6
4.1 to 5.1
Import Volume of Goods and Services (percent y-o-y)
0.0
-1.4
7.1
5.1
4.6 to 5.6
Trade Balance (USD billion)
26.8
36.5
31.2
29.3
28.8 to 29.8
- Export Value of Goods in USD (percent y-o-y)
-5.6
0.1
9.7
6.6
6.1 to 7.1
- Import Value of Goods in USD (percent y-o-y)
-10.6
-5.1
14.7
8.6
8.1 to 9.1
32.1
48.2
48.3
45.5
45.0 to 46.0
Current Account (billion U.S.)
Foreign exchange reserves have appreciated handsomely over the past year, rising from US$179.2 billion in January 2017 to US$202.6 billion by end December 2017.
8.0
11.9
10.8
9.1
8.6 to 9.6
Headline Inflation (percent y-o-y)
- Percentage of GDP
-0.9
0.2
0.7
1.2
0.7 to 1.7
Core Inflation (percent y-o-y)
1.0
0.7
0.6
0.8
0.3 to 1.3
Source: Fiscal Policy Office, Ministry of Finance
Thailand Statistical Update (February 2018) Item
Dec
Nov
Oct
Sep
Aug
Year 2017 Jul Jun
May
Apr
Mar
Feb
Jan -7.3
Production Indicators Agricultural Production Index (y-on-y %)
7.5
-5.8
0.1
5.5
16.5
20.3
17.8
10.2
36.8
20.5
1.8
Manufacturing Production Index (y-on-y %)
n.a.
4.2
-0.3
4.6
4.2
3.4
-0.3
1.6
-1.8
0.0
-1.1
2.2
Industrial Capacity Utilisation (%)
n.a.
64.2
60.2
63.5
62.4
60.0
61.4
62.1
53.7
67.0
60.0
60.7
Key domestic product sales Electricity (KWH bn.)
13.84
14.91
15.47
16.05
16.40
15.67
15.92
16.51
15.33
16.54
13.62
14.07
Benzene/gasohol (mn. litres)
955.49
879.21
928.33
909.54
949.03
934.70
935.39
922.76
898.05
937.28
822.04
888.53
Beer (mn. litres)
204.52
196.19
147.04
127.15
234.07
178.47
174.45
172.96
198.44
242.23
176.09
154.01
Soda / soft drinks (mn. litres)
280.70
283.75
272.78
267.86
273.60
254.92
266.20
262.24
263.03
312.37
255.05
250.25
Passenger cars (000 units)
41.50
31.44
28.74
29.47
26.87
26.80
29.42
26.15
25.49
33.48
26.70
20.23
Motorcycles (000 units)
131.52
153.06
135.58
155.53
147.91
137.62
175.80
188.88
123.08
164.03
150.53
147.22
Commercial vehicles (000 units)
62.82
46.65
39.81
48.12
41.09
38.38
40.37
40.27
37.77
51.32
41.73
37.03
Cement (mn. metric tonnes)
2.75
2.59
2.45
2.63
2.82
2.57
2.74
2.75
2.41
3.27
2.92
2.90
Passenger cars (y-on-y %)
40.7
34.9
24.3
14.9
8.5
10.0
15.6
4.4
23.2
40.9
49.8
23.5
Motorcycles (y-on-y %)
1.9
10.7
6.6
-0.7
-5.2
8.1
-2.6
15.4
16.3
3.0
14.9
-6.2
Commercial vehicles (y-on-y %)
9.5
12.5
6.1
26.6
5.8
5.8
-0.5
-1.7
10.1
5.0
6.3
4.5
Cement (y-on-y %)
3.4
6.4
-0.4
4.9
6.1
-0.5
1.3
-5.1
-0.9
-0.3
-0.1
2.0
46
The Link
Issue 1/2018
Year 2017 Item
Dec
Nov
Oct
Sep
Aug
Jul
Jun
May
Apr
Mar
Feb
Jan
Producer / Consumer Price Indicators Producer Price Index
101.5
101.7
101.8
102.0
101.3
101.0
101.4
102.3
102.8
103.0
103.7
103.0
Change (m-on-m %)
-0.2
-0.1
-0.2
0.7
0.3
-0.4
-0.9
-0.50
-0.2
-0.7
0.7
0.9
Change (y-on-y %)
-0.6
0.5
0.1
0.5
-0.6
-1.3
-1.2
-0.2
1.7
2.6
3.9
3.1
106.7
106.6
106.8
107.3
105.7
103.9
103.5
106.1
104.4
104.6
104.5
104.6
Change (m-on-m %)
0.1
-0.2
-0.5
1.5
1.7
0.4
0.1
0.4
-0.2
0.1
-0.1
1.0
Change (y-on-y %)
3.0
3.6
4.2
4.2
3.2
1.7
-0.7
4.8
-0.3
1.6
2.1
2.4
101.37
101.45
101.38
101.22
100.64
100.53
100.66
100.64
100.49
100.33
100.79
100.75
-0.08
0.07
0.16
0.58
0.11
-0.13
0.02
0.15
0.16
-0.46
0.04
0.13
0.8
1.0
0.9
0.9
0.3
0.2
0.0
0.0
0.4
0.8
1.4
1.1
0.6
0.6
0.6
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.6
0.6
0.7
Construction Materials Price Index
Consumer Price Index (2011 = 100) Change (m-on-m %) Change (y-on-y %) Headline Inflation (Change y-on-y%) Core Inflation (2011 = 100)
101.61
101.59
101.53
101.44
101.35
101.30
101.22
101.14
101.13
101.10
101.07
101.05
Change (m-on-m %)
0.02
0.06
0.09
0.09
0.05
0.08
0.08
0.01
0.02
0.04
0.02
0.01
Change (y-on-y %)
0.6
0.6
0.6
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.6
0.6
0.7
Industrial Confidence Index
89.1
87.0
85.9
86.7
85.0
83.9
84.7
85.5
86.4
87.5
86.2
87.2
Business Sentiment Index
50.2
51.3
50.6
52.2
50.7
50.3
50.7
52.3
49.6
52.6
49.8
50.1
Private Consumption Index
129.2
124.2
118.1
125.9
120.6
119.5
115.8
120.2
125.5
125.2
109.6
115.7
Private Investment Index
126.5
126.3
125.9
125.5
124.4
124.5
123.9
124.9
124.3
124.6
124.8
125.2
Consumer Confidence Index
40.6
60.4
39.7
39.5
38.4
38.6
39.5
40.3
36.1
38.5
40.4
39.2
Consumption & Confidence Indicators
Fuel Prices Benzene 95 (Baht/litre)
35.11
35.18
34.35
34.53
33.77
32.82
32.93
33.98
34.47
34.05
35.21
34.74
Gasohol 95 (Baht/litre)
28.00
28.07
27.24
27.42
26.66
25.71
25.82
26.87
27.36
26.94
28.10
27.63
Diesel (Baht/litre)
26.64
25.46
25.93
25.46
24.99
24.52
24.17
25.02
25.57
25.80
26.57
24.63
Manufactured products (Baht bn.)
562.71
626.53
595.45
617.63
603.49
562.10
615.14
604.91
504.48
632.55
556.75
526.16
Agricultural products (Baht bn.)
54.43
57.99
44.54
45.44
52.31
49.95
46.73
52.23
49.05
58.03
52.42
48.66
Total exports (Baht bn.)
612.58
704.90
659.52
720.18
707.21
635.79
693.43
680.12
581.72
726.02
647.36
609.54
Total exports (y-on-y %)
4.0
8.4
8.7
7.7
9.3
7.7
9.2
9.8
4.6
5.4
-6.7
5.1
Foreign Trade of Thailand: exports
Foreign Trade of Thailand: imports Consumer goods (Baht bn.)
65.36
71.17
66.55
63.75
69.49
61.98
66.35
69.69
58.29
69.68
59.51
58.34
Raw materials (Baht bn.)
337.25
339.16
357.97
324.66
352.44
337.01
342.28
364.25
328.13
377.76
310.85
313.74
Capital goods (Baht bn.)
151.60
169.02
166.04
168.69
157.62
161.15
152.23
161.26
153.75
166.85
176.39
141.24
Other Imports (Baht bn.)
105.54
75.71
70.12
59.93
65.81
89.91
74.77
60.79
46.73
63.76
51.44
73.91
Total Imports (Baht bn.)
659.75
655.06
660.68
617.03
645.35
650.05
635.64
655.99
586.89
678.05
598.19
587.23
Total Imports (y-on-y %)
9.4
6.9
8.7
5.0
10.9
14.6
10.5
13.3
6.7
11.4
10.5
-3.0
Suvarnabhumi and Donmueang Arrivals (000 persons)
2,786
2,505
2,327
2,084
2,485
2,540
1,953
2,194
2,476
2,473
2,360
2,508
Nationwide Arrivals (000 persons)
3,535
3,021
2,724
2,556
3,133
3,088
2,711
2,591
2,828
3,008
2,989
3,197
Change (y-on-y %)
15.51
23.18
20.92
5.75
8.66
4.81
11.43
4.60
6.97
2.01
-3.23
6.52
Hotel Occupancy Rate (%)
75.94
70.58
63.48
63.14
65.07
63.74
64.44
66.26
71.78
70.08
73.96
75.89
Tourism Indicators
Commercial Banking Indicators Loans (Baht billion)
14,525.6
14,476.0
14,439.1
14,144.1
14,292.5
14,033.5
13,863.8
13,814.8
13,891.2
13,513.9
13,806.4
13,779.2
Deposits (Baht billion)
13,019.7
12,853.6
12,787.8
12,613.4
12,673.3
12,611.7
12,601.9
12,572.5
12,552.1
12,452.3
12,547.4
12,468.9 1,577.31
Stock Exchange and Foreign Investment indicators 1,753.71
1,697.39
1,721.37
1,673.16
1,616.16
1,576.08
1,574.74
1,561.66
1,566.32
1,575.11
1,559.56
Market Capitalisation (Baht bn.)
SET Index (1975 = 100)
17,587
16,837
17,041
16,471
16,023
15,576
15,613
15,469
15,474
15,491
15,344
15,518
Foreign Purchase (Baht bn.)
298.08
398.72
344.78
385.40
303.95
263.17
276.10
286.91
219.08
310.14
296.48
282.36
Foreign Sale (Baht bn.)
275.93
307.04
417.88
352.08
378.44
308.13
269.75
276.26
281.38
217.27
306.54
300.23
Foreign Direct Investment (net, Baht bn.)
n.a.
12.94
18.51
26.45
23.99
24.60
8.81
17.38
25.94
16.07
59.27
11.67
Foreign Portfolio Investment (net, Baht bn.)
n.a.
29.99
-28.52
90.86
69.41
16.85
-22.88
72.14
2.37
-11.28
47.92
45.09
US$ / Baht (mid-rate)
32.67
32.93
33.25
33.15
33.26
33.75
34.00
34.45
34.45
34.90
35.02
35.43
ÂŁ / Baht (mid-rate)
43.79
43.54
43.90
44.07
43.14
43.86
43.53
44.52
43.57
43.08
43.76
43.73
Euro / Baht (mid-rate)
38.65
38.62
39.07
39.48
39.28
38.83
38.17
38.07
36.93
37.28
37.28
37.68
Japan (100) Yen / Baht (mid-rate)
28.92
29.18
29.47
29.96
30.28
30.02
30.66
30.71
31.28
30.90
30.98
30.87
International monetary indicators
A$ / Baht (mid-rate)
24.98
25.10
25.91
26.42
26.33
26.68
25.68
25.61
25.97
26.60
26.83
26.46
S$ / Baht (mid-rate)
24.26
24.28
24.45
24.55
24.45
24.61
24.57
24.71
24.65
24.83
24.75
24.82
Exports (f.o.b. US$ bn.)
19.92
21.24
20.01
21.87
21.02
18.74
19.81
19.74
16.54
20.75
18.40
17.06
Imports (f.o.b. US$ bn.)
18.37
17.90
18.39
16.47
17.62
17.40
16.87
17.56
15.25
17.84
14.39
15.17
Trade balance (US$ mn.)
1,544.08
3,335.01
1,623.99
5,400.11
3,398.91
1,343.92
2,941.07
2,173.51
1,290.89
2,908.99
4,014.57
1,890.59
Current account balance ( US$ mn.)
3,856.05
5,285.33
3,535.32
6,276.30
4,718.10
2,757.97
4,189.71
979.24
2,653.32
3,704.32
6,027.01
5,295.83
Balance of payments ( US$ mn.)
-1,175.58
2,264.02
2,108.86
4,577.90
5,686.80
2,312.10
1,968.80
-1,631.40
1,657.50
-3,421.60
4,824.20
6,785.10
Foreign currency reserves ( US$ bn.)
202.56
203.07
200.53
199.30
196.91
190.38
185.56
184.15
184.47
180.87
183.00
179.16
Statistical sources: these statistics have been derived from the following official sources: Bank of Thailand, Ministry of Commerce, Ministry of Finance (Department of Customs, Fiscal Policy Office), Ministry of Industry, Board of Investment, Immigration Department, Stock Exchange of Thailand. The above statistics represent the principal economic indicators for Thailand, but the original sources provide much more extensive and detailed coverage of different aspects of the economy. Statistics as presented are, in most cases, provisional figures, which will be adjusted at a later date when final returns are available from the respective sources. While best efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, readers are referred to original sources for definitive statistics. Note: month-by-month figures are updated as adjustments are made in the original statistical sources The Link
Issue 1/2018
47
Chamber Events
BCCT Christmas Luncheon BCCT celebrated Christmas in style at BCCT Annual Christmas Lunch on Thursday 14 December at Amari Watergate Bangkok. Over 600 guests joined together for the festive lunch with fun activities and great raffle prizes. Thank you to all our generous sponsors for their fantastic support.
48
The Link
Issue 1/2018
Chamber Events
Thank you to our sponsors. The Link
Issue 1/2018
49
Chamber Events
BCCT One-Day Workshop: Build Your Way to Success
BCCT Multi-Chambers Lunch: Minister of Industry
On Friday 1st December, BCCT organised a BCCT Half-Day Workshop on Build Your Way to Success with a support from Evolve Global Solutions Ltd, UK. Trainers include Afshan Baksh CEO and Lead Specialist, Louise Taylor Consultant and David Taylor Business Consultant from Evolve Global Solutions Ltd.
On Wednesday 6th December, BCCT organised a BCCT MultiChambers Lunch with the Minister of Industry, Dr.Uttama Savanayana speaking on developments and future plans for Thailand 4.0 and the Eastern Economic Corridor.
Participants were introduced to an innovative and exciting approach using a facilitation methodology created by the LEGO Group. Pictured in the middle Afshan Baksh (front) and Louise and David Taylor (second row).
Pictured from left GTCC President Markus Lorenzini, AMCHAM Director Tomwit Jarnson, BCCT Vice-Chairman Simon Landy, EABC President Stefan Teuchert, the Minister, BCCT Board of Director Kelvin Tan, TICON Industrial Connection CEO Virapan Pulges, Deputy Ambassador of Kingdom of the Netherlands Thomas van Leeuwen, BCCT Vice-Chairman Chris Thatcher, NTCC Executive Director Hans van den Born and AustCham Executive Director Brendan Cunningham.
BCCT Multi-Chambers Eastern Seaboard Networking Evening
BCCT One-Day Workshop: Accounting
BCCT, in collaboration with AMCHAM, AustCham, BeLuThai, CanCham, GTCC, NTCC, STCC & SATCC organised a Multi-Chambers Eastern Seaboard Christmas Networking Evening. Many thanks to Royal Varuna Yacht Club for hosting and also to our generous: Allied Pickfords, Wisetek Solutions, Regents International School Pattaya, Choice Group Asia, Hemaraj and Lucy Electric.
On Friday 22nd December BCCT, with a great support and sponsor from Mazars, held a BCCT Half-Day Thai language workshop on Accounting at The Bangkok Club. The seminar covered key concepts of Thai Financial Reporting Standards (‘TFRS’) for Non-Publicly Accountable Entities (‘NPAEs’) and also provide insight into the expected changes in 2018, with the issuance of TFRS for Small and Medium Enterprises (‘SMEs’).
Pictured from left: Pattaya Realty Mark Bowling, Jim Howard, BCCT Business Development Manager Jina Phenix, Royal Varuna Yacht Club GM Barry Osborne and BCCT Vice Chairman/Lucy Electric Carl Sellick.
Over 30 finance and accounting representatives from member companies attended the event.
Thank you to our sponsors. 50
The Link
Issue 1/2018
Chamber Events
BCCT T3 Business Networking
BCCT Board of Directors 2018
BCCT welcomed its members back to the first event of 2018 by networking in style at BCCT T3 Business Networking on Thursday 18 January at the newly opened Lancaster Bangkok. Our kind host, General Manager Martin Hurley, opened the Lancaster Bar for all guests to enjoy fantastic food and drinks throughout the evening. Special thanks to our generous sponsor, Shrewsbury International School Bangkok, for a great support as always.
On Thursday 25th January, BCCT held its Annual General Meeting and elected the 2018 Board of Directors.
Pictured from left, Martin Hurley, Shrewsbury International School Vice- Principal Steve Allen and BCCT Vice-Chairman Chris Thatcher.
Pictured from left (top row) are Nick Smart (Tesco Lotus), Viriya Chongphaisal (GlaxoSmithKline), Pinyapa (Aime) Pichaipalakorn (HLG), Billy Chomsakorn (British Airways), Colin Hastings (The BigChilli) and from left (seated) are Ali Adam (Arcadia), Vice Chairman David Cumming (Amari Watergate), Chairman Chris Thatcher (Anglo-Thai Legal), Vice Chairman Simon Matthews (ManpowerGroup) and Gareth Davies (Fluxus). Directors absent from the photo are Vice Chairman Carl Sellick (Lucy Electric), Stephen Frost (Bangkok International Associates) and Simon Landy (Colliers International).
BCCT Panel Discussion Luncheon
BCCT One-Day Workshop: Cross-Cultural Management
On 25 January, BCCT organised a BCCT Panel Discussion Luncheon on Thailand’s 2018 Economic and Political Situation at The Landmark Bangkok. Panel members were (from left): Tim Leelahaphan Economist at Standard Chartered Bank, Dr. Pavida Pananond Associate Professor at Thammasat University Business School and Voranai Vanijaka.
BCCT former Chairman Simon Matthews (far right) moderated the panel. Interesting updates and comments were exchanged with the audience to kick-start political and economic overview for 2018. Big thanks to our generous sponsors Hill Risk Consulting (Thailand), Standard Chartered Bank (Thailand) and Budget Car and Truck Rental (Thailand).
On Wednesday 30 January, BCCT organised a BCCT OneDay Workshop on Cross-Cultural Management sponsored and moderated by Mr Sukhavichai Dhanasundara (pictured standing), Honorary Advisor to the Board of BCCT as well as Chairman of the Management Development Group.
The workshop went successfully with important points on cross-cultural issues and challenges shared with participants as well as various styles of management and leadership to direct and motivate employees’ performances.
Thank you to our sponsors. The Link
Issue 1/2018
51
Chamber Events
BCCT Boardroom Briefing: Bangkok Property Market
BCCT Phuket Business Dinner
James Pitchon from CBRE Thailand (second from left) spoke about Bangkok Property Market Outlook 2018 in the BCCT Boardroom Briefing on Tuesday 30 January at British Business Centre. The presentation was very successful with interesting points and crucial issues on Bangkok property market situations shared and discussed throughout the session.
BCCT collaborated`with other Chambers to organise a Phuket Business Dinner on Thursday 1 February at Amari Phuket. Speakers from Thai Canal Association (TCA) Advisor Admiral Soopakorn Booranadiloak and International Director Pakdee Tanapura updated members on the current situation and future plans for Thailand’s Kra Isthmus Project. Big thanks to our great sponsors for making this a great event, Budget Car and Truck Rental Thailand, Thanyapura Health & Sports Resort Phuket, Royal Phuket Marina and The Phuket News.
Pictured from left, BCCT Director Ali Adam, James Pitchon, BCCT Chairman Chris Thatcher and BCCT Director Stephen Frost.
Pictured from left, The Phuket News Executive Editor Chris Husted, Budget Car and Truck Rental Thailand Manager Kothvaran Saetan, Thanyapura Health & Sports Resort representatives Porphanawit Panurat and Paolo Randone, Admiral Soopakorn Booranadiloak, Pakdee Tanapura, BCCT Chairman Chris Thatcher and The Phuket News General Manager Jason Beavan.
BCCT/British Embassy Briefing
Young Professionals Networking
BCCT organised a BCCT/British Embassy Breakfast Briefing at The Ambassador’s Residence, British Embassy on Wednesday 7th February. British Ambassador H.E. Brian Davidson updated BCCT members on current economic and political situations as well as plans for the relocation of the embassy. Thank you to our generous sponsor of the event Wellington College International School Bangkok.
A fantastic evening was spent at BCCT Young Professionals Networking on Thursday 8th February at The Ambassador’s Residence, British Embassy. Young professionals networked in a beautiful ambience of the Residence. Big thanks to our generous drink sponsor – Mini Bar Services Thailand and four event sponsors Prem Tinsulanonda International School Chiang Mai (PTIS), Edge Worldwide Logistics (EWL), Jamie’s Italian Siam Discovery and Garden International Schools Thailand (GIS).
Pictured from left, Wellington College Master Christopher Nicholls, H.E. Brian Davidson and Wellington College Chairman Dr. Darika Lathapipat.
Pictured from left, British Embassy’s Commercial Counselor and Director of Trade and Investment in Thailand Richard Porter, GIS Principal David Figes, PTIS Marketing Team Leader Nuj Nirunvichaya, British Ambassador H.E. Brian Davidson, Director of External Relations Linda Buck, EWL Head of Global Business Development Leighton Gobbett and Jamie’s Italian General Manager Sarah Smith.
Thank you to our sponsors. 52
The Link
Issue 1/2018
Chamber Events
BCCT T3 Business Networking
BCCT Eastern Seaboard Briefing
BCCT welcomed members to BCCT T3 Business Networking on 15th February. Royal Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers General Manager, Michael Schlueter kindly opened the Riverside Grill Restaurant, beautifully located on the river front, for guests to enjoy exquisite grill menu and drinks. Big thanks to our host Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers and our generous event sponsor Shrewsbury International School Bangkok.
On Friday 16 February, BCCT organised BCCT Eastern Seaboard Briefing on 2018 Global Outlook: Thailand prior to the networking session. Tim Leelahaphan, Economist at Standard Charted Bank (Thailand) discussed three nonconsensus views on Thailand covering the GDP growth trend, Bank of Thailand’s policy changes and Thai Baht currency impact on import/export industry.
Pictured from left Shrewsbury International School Bangkok Principal Amanda Dennison, BCCT Vice-Chairman Simon Matthews, Michael Schlueter and BCCT Chairman Chris Thatcher.
From left, Tim Leelahaphan and BCCT Chairman Chris Thatcher.
BCCT Multi-Chambers ESB Business Networking
BCCT Half-Day Workshop: SpeakPro TeleSales Skills
On Friday 16 February, BCCT organised a BCCT MultiChambers Eastern Seaboard Business Networking kindly hosted by Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya. Guests enjoyed great food and drinks in an exotic ambience of the Resort. Big thanks to our generous sponsors Securitas, Budget Car and Truck Rental Thailand, Insee Ecocycle and Garden International School (GIS) Eastern Seaboard.
BCCT organised a BCCT Half-Day Workshop on SpeakPro TeleSales Skills on Tuesday 20 February. Corporate Trainer & Presentation Coach at SpeakPro Training Pachara Billy Yongjiranon (pictured standing) introduced participants to essential tips and skills to manage clients through effective telesales communication.
Pictured from left, Securitas Business Development Manager Nick Wall, GIS Eastern Seaboard Head of Primary Matt Walsh, GIS Eastern Seaboard Head of Secondary Chris Share, BCCT Vice-Chairman Simon Matthews, Budget Car Sales Manager Apissara Chompoowong, Insee Ecocycle CEO Vincent Aloysius and Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya Resident Manager Jari Nielsen.
The workshop was well attended by BCCT members.
Thank you to our sponsors. The Link
Issue 1/2018
53
Comings and Goings The British Chamber of Commerce Thailand welcomes the following new members:
Adknowledge Asia Pacific Pte Ltd. 120 Robinson Road, #05-01, Singapore 068913 Tel: +65 6692 6700 Email: info@adparlor.asia Website: www.adparlor.asia
Chamber Representatives Mr. Suppakit Limboonsong - Country Director, Thailand Mr. Paul Phenix - Director of Ad Operations, Biddable Background Adknowledge Asia is a full suite digital marketing agency with tech at the core. Our solution has been tailored to provide brands with digital consultancy and guidance on what the right digital investments look like which we link directly to consumer engagement, platform investment and business goals. We offer an end to end solution which starts with consultancy and strategy, we then build in research and insights to understand the consumer. With this information, we build out a media plan and execute using our proprietary technology. Singapore Regional HQ: 120 Robinson Road, #05-01, Singapore, 068913. Tel: +65 66926700 Thailand (Bangkok): 1-7 Zuellig House, 7th Floor Silom Road, Silom, Bangrak Bangkok 10500 Thailand Tel: +66 2636 0720 AML Global Limited 1/F Airport World Trade Centre, 1 Sky Plaza Road, Hong Kong International Airport, Hong Kong Email: dew@amlglobal.net
54
The Link
Issue 1/2018
Chamber Representatives Mr. Christopher Harbourne - Director Ms. Rumrada Suppadit - Company Secretary
bine niche expertise in branding, marketing, and digital platforms, to devise creative, multi-dimensional, solutions for both online and offline approaches.
Background AML Global is an independent aviation fuel agent committed to providing a worldwide fuel management service.
The company was built from the ground up with core values selectively chosen to place strong emphasis on being a true leader in getting clients ahead: Creative Minds – Strategic Thinking – Expert Skills are what we believe at Bangkok Elite Marketing sets us aside from other agencies and enables us to offer effective marketing strategies.
Bangkok Elite Marketing Co., Ltd. AIA Sathorn Tower 11/1 Floor 7, Unit 706, South Sathorn Road, Yannawa, Sathorn, Bangkok 10120 Tel: +66 (0)2 2851267 Email: hello@bangkokelitemarketing.com Website: www.bangkokelitemarketing.com
Chamber Representatives Mr. Stephen Longworth - Co-Founder & Sales Director Ms. Anchisa Sirilapasphuwakul - Co-Founder & Managing Director Background Bangkok Elite Marketing (BEM) is a fullservice marketing agency that puts your business first. Our outstanding professionals cover all aspects of marketing and branding. With a shared love of providing innovations and solutions to businesses of all sizes, our dynamic team is here to take your business to the next level. Established in 2011 BEM has grown from humble beginnings with its three cofounders to an agency that over the last 7 years has now got 25 full time employees, 5 departments, worked with 35 well known brands and over 170+ projects. Our work ranges from the simple to the extraordinary. In every case we are driven to generate maximum value and impact, and pride ourselves in our ability to com-
BlueStar AMG Unit 732-733, 7th Floor, KYMS Building, 555 Wuding Road, Shanghai 200040 Tel: +86 21 3251 7270 Website: www.bluestar-amg.com Chamber Representatives Mr. Chris Ryan - Senoir Financial Planner
BudgetBusinessTravel.com Unit 2949, 388 Exchange Tower Wattana, Bangkok 10110 Tel: + 66 9944 12901 Email: steve.harrop@ budgetbusinesstravel.com Website: www.budgetbusinesstravel.com
Chamber Representatives Mr. Steve Harrop - Director Background www.BudgetBusinessTravel.com is an online booking platform for flights and accommodation designed to meet the needs of the independent traveler and corporate bodies. Wherever you’re going, BBT puts more than 900 airlines and
170,000 hotels just a few clicks away at highly competitive prices. Instant guaranteed confirmations at the time of booking.
projects for small businesses or to national and international projects for governments and larger corporate clients.
We understand that travel arrangements can change frequently and often at the last minute, our user-friendly booking system instantly assigns you a dedicated personal assistant who can assist you anytime, day or night. Whether you’re traveling for business or for pleasure, looking for economy flights and bargain guesthouses, or first-class seats and luxury hotels, just register an account with us and we’ll take you exactly where you need to be.
Our skills and experience are rooted in the UK and international education, training and professional development sectors, working directly with colleges and universities as well as with ministerial agencies and departments.
international exhibitions, conferences and special events. GAT is focused in the creation and development of high profile B2B and G2G exhibitions in Thailand and the ASEAN region, setting up the unique platform for industrial professionals and partners to showcase their up-to-date products and innovative services particularly in sectors such as Energy; Technology; Telecommunications; etc.
Our work has been recognised for creating excellence and deep impact in skills development and bringing about improved performance. Our approach follows three simple steps: Innovate Minds, Create Change, Transform Futures
Through exhibitions and conferences, GAT continuously assists and supports local and international companies to successfully promote their brands to a highlevel target audience facilitating revenuedriven conversations worldwide.
Cathcart Associates Asia Recruitment President Tower 6th Floor 973 Ploenchit Rd., Lumpini Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 Tel: ++66 2 038 5878 Email: nick.macdougall@ cathcartassociates.com Website: th.cathcartassociates.com Chamber Representatives Mr. Nicholas Hugh George Macdougall - Director Ms. Prairie Punsoni - Commercial Director
We have delivered projects in: UK, India, Ireland, Italy, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Morocco, Netherlands, Oman, South Africa, Spain Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Thailand, Tunisia, UAE, Vietnam.
With the productive experiences in project management and global network gained from various meetings, conventions and trade exhibitions shaped by real life practices over a decade, GAT is composed of a dedicated professional team acknowledged by the Thai and international clients from governments, associations, non-profit organizations and private companies.
Evolve Global Solutions Ltd Alscot Estate, Atherstone Hill Stratford Upon Avon, Warwickshire CV37 8NF Tel: +44 7496 548382 Email: info@evolve-global.uk Website: www.evolve-global.uk
Chamber Representatives Ms. Afshan Baksh - CEO/Lead Speciaist Background Evolve Global Solutions Ltd. provides training and consultancy services across a number of sectors and industries in the UK and internationally. Our products and services range from training and development for individuals to larger scale
Firstkind Limited Hawk House, Peregrine Business Park Gomm Road, High Wycombe, Bucks HP13 7DL Chamber Representatives Ms. Reka Angerman - Marketing Communications Manager
GAT International Co.,Ltd. 24th Floor, Chamnan Phenjati Business Centre, Rama IX Road, Huai Khwang District, Bangkok 10310 Tel: +66 (0) 2643 0744 Fax: +66 (0) 2643 0780 Email: secretariat@seta.asia Website: www.seta.asia
Halewood International Thailand B6 Dera Mansions, 23 Sukhumvit 18, Klongtoey Nua, Wattana Bangkok 10110 Tel: + 66 63 646 2470 Website: www.halewood-int.com
Chamber Representatives Mr. Richard Huck - Managing Director
Chamber Representatives Mr. Napapadol Sukkasem - Sales Director
Background Halewood International Thailand is a Bangkok based drinks importer. It is a subsidiary of Halewood Wines & Spirits, the UK’s largest independent alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks manufacturer.
Background GAT International Co., Ltd. is a leading international MICE organizer (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions/Conferences and Events) in Thailand. GAT offers total solutions and extensive services for
Halewood is a medium sized company in comparison to some competitors but it continues to “fly the flag” for the UK drinks industry internationally with operations also in China, Romania, Ireland, and South Africa. The company exports
The Link
Issue 1/2018
55
to over 95 markets including significant volumes in North America and Australia. The company’s portfolio of craft products includes Whitley Neill Gin, Liverpool Gin & Vodka, The Pogues Irish whiskey, Crabbie’s Ginger Beer, and Lamb & Watt premium tonics. Halewood Wines & Spirits has also recently made several acquisitions including the purchase of major stakes in West Cork Distillers in Eire, the City of London Distillery, and two UK craft breweries, Hawkshead and Sadlers. The new Aber Falls Distillery in North Wales begins operations in 2017, and planning conclusion is being reached to build the John Crabbie’s Distillery in Scotland.
Hebridean Smokehouse Ltd Clachan, Isle of North Uist, Scotland, HS6 5HD Tel: +44 1876 580 209 Fax: +44 1876 580 323 Email: sales@hebrideansmokehouse.com Website: www.hebrideansmokehouse.com
Chamber Representatives Mr. Christopher West - General Manager Mr. John Hocking - Sales Manager Background Hebridean Smokehouse is a familyowned smokehouse located on the remote Isle of North Uist, part of the Outer Hebridean Archipelago west of the Scottish mainland. The business has been operating from this location since 1983 when it was a very small two-handed enterprise supplying fish to the local population. In 2000 the business was taken over by the present owner, Fergus Granville, and a modern food production facility was built on the same site. This development enabled the business to steadily expand operations and today Hebridean Smokehouse operates in retail, food service and the mail-order sectors. Hebridean Smokehouse holds an enviable position in the UK market as a producer of premium quality smoked
56
The Link
Issue 1/2018
salmon and shellfish products and sells to high-end retailers including Fortnum and Mason, John Lewis Partnership foodhalls and Waitrose Supermarkets. Internationally they have worked with the COOP group in Switzerland, Mitsukoshi Isetan and Hankyu in Japan and are regularly featured at altitude in First and Business Class on British Airways, Emirates Airlines and Quantas Airlines out of major UK airports with their partners Alpha LSG. HKU Business School, The University of Hong Kong Room 104, Block B, Cyberport 4, 100 Cyberport Road, Hong Kong Tel: + 852 3962 1262 Email: asia@emba-global.com Website: www.emba-global.com/asia/ Chamber Representatives Mr. Dave Evers - Director of Admissions EMBA-Global Asia - Columbia, LBS, HKU Mr. Boris Kwan
Holiday Inn & Suites Rayong City Centre 554/5 Sukhumvit Road, Noen Pra, Muang Rayong, Rayong 21000 Tel: +66 3897 8789 Fax: +66 3897 8787 Email: hisrayong.rsvn@ihg.com Website: www.holidayinn.com/rayong
Chamber Representatives Mr. Ian Pirodon - General Manager Ms. Caroline Shen - Director of Sales & Marketing Background Holiday Inn & Suites Rayong City Centre is situated along Sukhumvit Road, the stylish hotel is just over 30 minutes from U-Tapao Rayong Pattaya International Airport and adjacent to the Passione Shopping Destination along Sukhumvit main road. Easily accessible via major roads for a smooth transit to the city centre. Strategi-
cally located close to some of Thailand’s major industrial parks and seaports, it offers 64 longer-stay suites in addition to its 224 well-appointed guest rooms. Holiday Inn & Suites Rayong City Centre caters to business travellers working at or near industrial areas such as the Eastern Seaboard Industrial Park or Map Ta Phut Industrial Park. Nestled in the heart of Rayong – the gateway to island destination Koh Samet, leisure guests will also enjoy the hotel’s convenient proximity to the province’s national parks, premium seafood, branded shops and stunning beaches. All 288 rooms in the 30-storey hotel have been designed to be spacious and wellequipped with everything guests need for both a relaxing stay and a productive business trip. Guests can stay connected at all times with high-speed internet access in the rooms and throughout the building and host meetings or conferences in one of the nine versatile meeting rooms and ballrooms in the hotel. For some quality downtime, the hotel’s rooftop and dining at ELEMENTI ensures panoramic views over the beautiful coast of Rayong. Guests can also take a dip in an infinity pool or spend some time at the fitness centre or executive lounge to rejuvenate. Just a stone’s throw away is Passione Shopping Mall, a one-stop shopping destination with an extensive directory of retail, dining and entertainment options. To find out more about the hotel, please visit the hotel’s website at www.holidayinn.com/rayong
Human Inc Sdn Bhd 1-1, d7 sentul east, Jalan Sentul Kuala Lumpur 51000 Malaysia Tel: +60 15 4848 0007 Email: ak@humaninc.co Website: www.humaninc.co
Chamber Representatives Mr. Christoffer Erichsen - CEO Mr. Ammar Khairi - Head of Client Solutions
Background Chris has over 20 years of experience in the fields of innovation, learning and facilitation of change. He is a highly soughtafter international keynote speaker, facilitates innovation labs for large organisations and runs 4 core modules: Design Thinking, Agile Projects, Cx4 Innovation Strategy, and Creative Leadership. As senior process consultant Christoffer has led and delivered large change management and innovation projects in the Europe & South East Asia. He has integrated his years of experience, unique frameworks and simple tools into a consulting practice that focuses on supporting individuals, networks and organisations in discovering their potential to create new value through innovation and change. Chris is a certified coach, GrowthWheel Business Advisor and Master Trainer. His list of global clients includes: UNDP, Singapore Airlines, FedEx, Citi APAC, Malaysian Ministries, Maxis, DELL, The World Bank, AirAsia, Sime Darby, UAE’s Smart Dubai Government and Emarat Takaful. Christoffer advises the UN on innovation, consults for business leaders, mentors startups and invests in social enterprises. During his career, he has received a range of awards; the CSR Leadership and Excellence Award at the World CSR Congress in 2013.
Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit GRANDE ASSET HOTELS AND PROPERTY PCL., Unit 3203 - 4, 32nd Floor Exchange Tower, 388 Sukhumvit Rd. Klongtoey, Bangkok 10110 Tel: +66 2204 9900 Fax: +66 2204 9998 Email: chayanant.raschaphat@hyatt.com Website: www.bangkoksukhumvit. regency.hyatt.com
Chamber Representatives Mr. Sammy Carolus - General Manager
Background Expected to open in Q3, 2018, Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit will be the first Hyatt Regency brand hotel in Bangkok, joining another 3 Hyatt hotels in the city. Designed by renowned Thai architecture firm OBA, the new 273-room hotel including 21 suites, will form part of a mixed-use development that also includes retail and the well-established Hyde residential apartments. Facilities will include a Thai restaurant, lobby lounge bar, Regency Club Lounge, swimming pool, fitness centre, and more than 1,000m² of meeting space, including a ballroom, event venues and the Sky Garden with a full range of services and facilities tailored to serve the needs of business and leisure travellers as well as meeting planners. Centrally situated at Sukhumvit Road Soi 13 with direct sky bridge access to BTS Sky Train Nana Station, and in close proximity to the Asoke station of the Bangkok Transit System, the hotel will offer efficient access and visibility, connecting guests with ease to key points of interest in the city and the airport.
Inchcape (Thailand) Co., Ltd. 4332 Rama IV Road, Phrakanong Klongtoey, Bangkok 10110 Tel: +66 2 666 7500 Fax: +66 2 713 6770 Email: sales@jaguarlandroverthailand.com (Sales), customerservice@land Website: https://www.jaguar.co.th/, https://www.landrover.co.th/
Chamber Representatives Mr. Charnchai Mahantakhun - Managing Director Khun Waew Soongsawang - Senior Marketing Manager
Intertek Testing Services (Thailand) Ltd. 1285/5 Prachachuen Road Wong Sawang, Bangsue, Bangkok 10800 Tel: +66 2837-2999 Fax: +66 2837-2897 Email: web.iao-th@intertek.com Website: www.intertek.com/ www.intertek.co.th
Chamber Representatives Mr. Anucha Leelertsakulwong - Country Managing Director Ms. Rungnapa Sombunsukho - General Manager Background ASSURANCE: Enabling you to identify and mitigate the intrinsic risk in your operations, supply chains and business processes. Some of services are System Certification Services (ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO TS 16949, OHSAS 18001,etc.),Corporate Social Responsibility (WRAP, SMETA, BSCI, ICS, etc.), TESTING: Evaluating how your products and services meet and exceed quality, safety, sustainability and performance standards. Products covering are automotive, chemical, home appliances, food, toys & baby products, jewelry, cosmetic, furniture, packaging, petroleum, textile & garment, etc. INSPECTION: Validating the specifications, value and safety of your raw materials, products and assets. Our services cover Agricultural Cargo, Electrical Products, Food, Textile & Garment, Toys & Baby Products, Jewelry, housewares, etc. CERTIFICATION: Formally confirming that your products and services meet all trusted external and internal standards. We provide Product Safety, Quality, and Performance Certification Marks e.g. CE Mark, ETL Mark, GS Mark, S Mark, Warnock Hersey Mark, etc.
Background Inchcape (Thailand) Co., Ltd. the only exclusive authorized distributor of Jaguar Land Rover in Thailand.
The Link
Issue 1/2018
57
platform software development services, implementation and integration, as well as technical consulting. Jardine Matheson (Thailand) Ltd. 31st Floor, Building B, The 9th Towers, 33/4 Rama 9 Road Huay Khwang, Bangkok 10310 Tel: +66 (0) 2626-5744 Fax: +66 (0) 2626 5740 Email: subhak@jardines.co.th Website: www.jardines.com
Chamber Representatives Mr. Subhak Siwaraksa - Country Chairman Thailand Background Jardine Matheson is a diversified Asianbased group with unsurpassed experience in the region, having been founded in China in 1832. We comprise a broad portfolio of market-leading businesses, which represent a combination of cash generating activities and long-term property assets and are closely aligned to the increasingly prosperous consumers of the region.
Lanna Softworks Company, Ltd. 50/5-9 Huay Kaew Road, T. Chang Puek, A. Muang, Chiang Mai 50300 Tel: + 2 0385288, 53 223348 Fax: + 53 223349 Email: contact@lannasoftworks.com Website: www.lannasoftworks.com
Bangkok Office Glas Haus Building, Level P (Penthouse) Unit P01, 1 Sukhumvit 25 Sukhumvit Road, North Klongtoey Wattana, Bangkok 10110 Morphy Richards Mexborough, South Yorkshire S64 8AJ Chamber Representatives Mr. Adam Pearce - International Account manager
Phoenix Media Partners Co., LTD AIA Sathorn Tower, Floor 7 11/1 South Sathorn Road Yannawa, Sathorn, Bangkok 10120 Tel: +66 2 038 5400 Email: info@phoenixmedia.co.th Website: www.phoenixmedia.co.th
Chamber Representatives Mr. Robert Wee - Managing Director Background Phoenix Media is a Digital Marketing Agency based in the heart of Bangkok. We are data-driven professionals who can ensure that your marketing budget is spent where it will give you a return on investment through performance or branding campaigns.
Chamber Representatives Mr. Surachej Navanich - Vice President of Sales Ms. Nan Htwe Phyu - Marketing Manager
Our core services include: Search Advertising, Display & Social Media Advertising, Remarketing/Retargeting, Data Analysis/ Conversion Tracking and Search Engine Optimisation.
Background Lanna Softworks was formed in 2005 in Chiang Mai, Thailand, to provide technical and human solutions for clients around the world. We pride ourselves in providing high quality, competitively priced, multi-
With years of experience with both high value and startup companies, we have the right strategy for everyone regardless of budget. We provide our clients with tailored and transparent online campaign strategies in line with their business goals and objectives.
58
The Link
Issue 1/2018
We target your ad budget towards the right audience, in the right place at the right time a perfect recipe for success. With tailored audiences and remarketing lists generated from your site or app visitors, we ensure the right price is paid for your adverts with minimal waste and great results. Our experienced staff ensure that online traffic is correctly tracked and high value and top funnel actions are attributed to the right source ensuring that ad campaigns are continuously optimised for unrivalled performance. With the ability to provide a full digital marketing service package, influencer marketing and some traditional marketing we are a stand out agency that can cover all your modern marketing needs. Precision Chain Limited Clee Road, Dudley, West Midlands DY2 0YG Tel: +44 1384 455455 Email: nick.landon@precision-chains.com Chamber Representatives Mr. Nick Landon - Managing Director
Prem Tinsulanonda International School 234 Moo 3, T. Huay-sai, A. Mae Rim, Chiang Mai 50180 Tel: +66 53-301-500 Fax: +66 53-301-507 Email: admissions@ptis.ac.th Website: www.ptis.ac.th
Chamber Representatives Ms. Linda Buck - Director of External Relations Background Located on its lush 100-acre campus set in the foothills north of the ancient and historic city of Chiang Mai, Thailand, Prem is a leading co-educational boarding and day International Baccalaureate (IB) World School. Since its inception in 2001, the school is dedicated to academic excel-
lence and providing multiple pathways for our students. At Prem, students from all over the world receive a rigorous international education that provides them with the global competencies required for a future of increasing cross-cultural interdependence, rapid technological change and critical environmental challenges.
Richmont’s (International) Co., Ltd 18th Floor, Asia Centre Building 173/19 South Sathorn Road Thungmahamek Sathorn, Bangkok 10120 Tel: +66 2 670 8288 Fax: +66 2 670 8998 Email: tim@richmonts.com Website: www.richmonts.com
Chamber Representatives Mr. Tim Skevington - Managing Director Background With a history stretching back more than 15 years in Bangkok, Richmont’s has an enviable track record as a specialist in the luxury residential market, and in international property investment. Richmont’s is the exclusive affiliate of Christie’s International Real Estate in Bangkok. Working with 141 affiliates across 1,200 offices in 46 countries, the entire network employs 32,000 high-end sales people. We focus entirely on luxury residential real estate. With more than US$120 billion of residential real estate sales in 2016, Christie’s International Real Estate affiliates hold numerous records for top property sales worldwide. Richmont’s is ideally placed to attract the most active and affluent local and overseas buyers, and benefits from ties to the world’s leading art business and its global real estate network. Tailored for real estate priced at US$1 million and above, our finely tuned suite of programs provide a world-class showcase for distinguished homes.
RLAB Sports 20-22 Wenlock Road, London N1 7GU Tel: ++66 95-681-2162 Email: pstephenson@rlabsports.com Website: rlabsports.com
Chamber Representatives Mr. Peter Stephenson - Managing Consultant for Asia & Africa Background We are a boutique marketing and events agency with rich expertise,working with brands and rights holders to unearth,structure and develop successful commercial partnerships
Roffey Park Institute Forest Road, Horsham, West Sussex RH12 4TB
Chamber Representatives Mr. Alex Swarbrick - Regional Director, Asia Pacific Mr. Michael Jenkins - Chief Executive
Royal Varuna Yacht Club 286, Moo 12, Pratamnak Road, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150 Tel: +66 38-250-116 Fax: +66 38-250-115 Email: generalmanager@varuna.org Website: www.varuna.org
Chamber Representatives Mr. Mark Hamill-Stewart - Commodore Mr. Christopher Dando - Vice Commodore
Background The premier sailing club and centre of sailing in Thailand, The Royal Varuna Yacht Club (RVYC) is located in a secluded cove between Pattaya and Jomtien and is less than a two hours drive from Bangkok. Visit the family oriented club for sailors of all abilities, from the uninitiated to serious racers. We offer a year-round sailing program with cruising and racing. Great facilities include a stunning clubhouse, restaurant, swimming pool, junior clubhouse, boat storage and accommodation. An ideal place to give your children some freedom in safe surroundings. Rental boats (Laser, Hobie, Optimist, RS Quba and RS Vision) for racing and leisure are available to members and guests. The club offers sailing classes for adults, as well as an extensive sailing program for children during the holidays plus supervised sailing for kids on the weekends.
The Continent Hotel Bangkok 413, Sukhumvit Road Klongtey Nua, Bangkok 10110 Tel: +66 2686-7000 Fax: +66 2686-7007 Email: gm@thecontinenthotel.com Website: www.thecontinenthotel.com
Chamber Representatives Mr. Jay Jhingran - General Manager Ms. Issarin Khattiya - Director of Sales Background The Continent Hotel, Bangkok – a 39 storey lifestyle and boutique glass tower in the heart of Bangkok. Located directly at Asoke, with adjacent BTS and MRT connectivity, this 5 Star facility is a full serviced Hotel. Well-appointed guestrooms with top to bottom glass windows offer expansive views of the city skyline. Diverse Dining and private dining venues range from a roof top modern Thai Restaurant and Bar ( Bangkok Heightz, 39th Floor), an Italian inspired restaurant offering a la carte and unique free flow dining options (Medinii, 35th Floor), a speak easy lounge on the 38th Floor ( Axis & Spin), a pool bar with Happy Hours on demand ( H2O, 37th Floor). The top floors The Link
Issue 1/2018
59
turn into co-working spaces during the day and the conference room offers natural light, is pillar less and also offers sweeping views of the city skyline. Preferred rates and benefits for BCCT members and partners. Visit www.thecontinenthotel.com
Wellington College International Bangkok Krungthep Kreetha Road (km 3) Saphan Soong District, Bangkok 10240 Tel: +66 2-087-8888 Email: info@wellington.in.th Website: info@wellingtoncollege.in.th
Chamber Representatives Mr. Christopher Nicholls - Headmaster Mr. Prinya Ruenprapan - Director of Admissions and Marketing Background Wellington College International School Bangkok is an international school teaching English National Curriculum to students from Pre-Nursery to Year 13 (co-ed age 2-18) according to the standards and traditions of Wellington College, Berkshire, UK. WCIB International Co., Limited is the franchise owner of Wellington College for the Greater Mekong Subregion. The first school under development is Wellington College International Bangkok, which will open its doors in August 2018 for Pre-Nursery to Year 6 (age 2-11). Resignations & Cancellations 1. ARC Pacific Siam Ltd. 2. Aziam Burson-Marsteller Co., Ltd. 3. Bliston Suwan Park View 4. Blue Mango Publishing Co., Ltd. 5. BREW – Beers & Ciders 6. Cascade Club Ltd.-Head Office 7. Chao Group Limited 8. Comfort Education Ltd. 9. CPM Asia Sales & Marketing Group 10. Creatus Corporation Ltd. 11. De La Rue (Thailand) Limited 12. Denla British School Bangkok 13. Dunnhumby Thailand 14. Golden Foods Siam Ltd. 15. Grande Centre Point Hotel Ratchadamri 60
The Link
Issue 1/2018
16. Highfield Equity Co. Ltd. 17. Holman Fenwick Willan Singapore 18. IDG Security 19. Infinity Marketing Solutions 20. JAC International Recruitment Ltd. 21. Kingdom Property Co., Ltd. 22. Laong Bistro & Boutique Limited 23. Loc Laem Chabang Co., Ltd. 24. New Cambridge Institute (Thailand) 25. OGAS Solutions (Thailand) Co., Ltd. 26. Options 360 UK Ltd 27. PacRim Leadership Center Co., Ltd. 28. Rail Professional (South East Asia) Limited 29. Reed Institute 30. Sak Lifestyle Co., Ltd. 31. Samui Villas & Homes Co., Ltd. 32. Siam Inter Auction Co., Ltd. 33. SLM Real Estate Co., Ltd. 34. SO Sofitel Hua Hin 35. Soho Hospitality 36. Soneva Kiri Resort & Residences 37. Thai AirAsia Company Limited 38. Thai AirAsia Company Limited 39. The Village International Limited 40. Ulrick & Short Ltd 41. Univentures Public Company Limited 42. Vriens & Partners 43. W Bangkok Change of company name 1. Hello Soda Asia Company Ltd change to Sapio Asia Comapny Limited 2. Digital Monopoly (Thailand) Co., Ltd. change to Digital Monopoly (Asia) Co., Ltd. 3. LF Asia (Thailand) Limited change to DCH Auriga (Thailand) Limited 4. Siam Winery Commercial Co., Ltd. change to Inspyration Siam Company Limited Change of company representative 1. British Club Bangkok from Ms. Thanyaphon Worapan to Mr. Mattew Carley 2. Colliers International Thailand from Mr. Sunchai Kooakachai to Mr. Ratchaphum Jongpakdee 3. Compass Skyview Hotel from Ms. Jacqui Cuthbertson to Ms. Thitima Puttan 4. Dream Hotel Bangkok from Mr. Mathieu Lacabanne to Mr. Matthieu Reynaud 5. EVA Airways Bangkok from Mr. Lin Nan-yang to Mr. Chen, Yu-Hou 6. Four Points By Sheraton Bangkok Sukhumvit 15 from Mr. Peter Nicholas Lucas to Mr. Carl Nicholas Volschenk
7. Inspyration Siam Company Limited from Mr. Boonyarat Ngampatipatpong to Mr. Yeen Chalermvongsenee 8. LF Asia (Thailand) Limited from Mr. Bruce Hemmingsen to Dr. Nara Decharin 9. Michelin Siam Co Ltd. from Mr. Nocholas Walker to Mr. Jean-Claude Arnaud 10. Radisson Blu Plaza Bangkok from Mr. Peter John Feran to Mrs. Deborah Haines 11. Regents International School Pattaya from Mr. Iain Blaikie to Ms. Sarah Osborne-James 12. Regus Centre (Thailand) Ltd from Mr. Benjamin Roger Hughes to Ms. Noelle Coak 13. Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit from Mr. William Haandrikman to Mr. Oliver Schnatz 14. The St. Regis Bangkok from Mr. Krister Svensson to Mr. Klaus Christandl Change of company address 1. Aviation Service Asia (Thailand) Ltd 199, Column Tower, 19th Floor Ratchadapisek Road, Klongtoey Bangkok 10110 2. British Airways PLC 18th Floor, Charn Issara Tower 1, 942/114 Rama IV Road., Suriyawongse, Bangrak Bangkok 10500 3. DHL Global Forwarding (Thailand) Ltd. 9 G Tower North Wing 25th - 26th Floor, Rama 9 Road, Khwaeng Huaykwang, Khet Huaykwang Bangkok 10310 4. EVA Airways Bangkok 725 Metropolis Building, Room No. 1700, 17th Fl., Sukhumvit Rd. Klongton Nua, Bangkok 10110 5. Kerzner International APT 612, Saleh Bin Lahej 341 Al Barsha 1 Dubai, United Arab Emirate 6. Lyreco (Thailand) Co., Ltd. Bhiraj Tower at BITEC, Unit 16011608, 16th Floor, 4345 Sukhumwit Road, Bangna, Bangkok 10260 7. Rugby School Thailand 188/1 Moo 1, Khao Mai Kaew, Bang Lamung, Chonburi 20150 8. The Agent (Property Expert) Co., Ltd Unit 1/1007-1008, 2525 FYI Center Building 1, 10th Floor, Rama 4 Road, Klongtoei, Bangkok 10110 9. The Cabin Addiction Services Group 296/1 Moo 3, Tambon Huay Sai, Amphur Mae Rim, Chiang Mai 50180 10. Veritas Partners 52588 Maria Lane, Scappoose Oregon 97056 USA
Update of Company information
Amara Bangkok
Bangkok Elite Marketing Co., Ltd.
180/1 Surawong Road Sipraya, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500 Tel: +66 2021 8888 Fax: +66 2021 8891 Email: sales.bangkok@amarahotels.com Website: www.amarahotels.com
AIA Sathorn Tower 11/1 Floor 7, Unit 706, South Sathorn Road Yannawa, Sathorn, Bangkok 10120 Tel: +66 (0)2 2851267 Email: hello@bangkokelitemarketing.com Website: www.bangkokelitemarketing.com
Chamber Representatives
Chamber Representatives
A
B
A
B
A - Mr. Viranat Silananda - General Manager B - Mr. Patrick Eger - Director of Sales
A - Mr. Stephen Longworth - Co-Founder & Sales Director B - Ms. Anchisa Sirilapasphuwakul - Co-Founder & Managing Director
Background
Background
Products or Services
Established in 2011 BEM has grown from humble beginnings with its three co-founders to an agency that over the last 7 years has now got 25 full time employees, 5 departments, worked with 35 well known brands and over 170+ projects.
Amara Bangkok is the first Amara Property outside Singapore, equipped with a host of facilities and services to meet the needs of time-strapped business travellers striving to look and feel their best for business meets, or individual leisure travellers planning to unravel the mystic of Bangkok, taste the myriad flavours of Thai cuisine or simply have fun shopping in a city thronged with malls and traditional markets.
250 rooms including Suite Tanjong Pagar:column-free grand ballroom Suranwong 1&2:two meeting rooms with glass wall facade 24 - hour sky gym Rooftop infinity sky-high pool Jacuzzis for Club Cabana Room guests Element:all-day dining restaurant with indoor and al fresco dining area AkaAza:rooftop bar with live DJ music and creative drinks The Bar:featuring selection of cocktails at lobby Barista Cafe:serves up a fine selection of coffee The Mini Bar Boutique Air-con tuk tuk service BCCT Member Company Since 2015
Bangkok Elite Marketing (BEM) is a full-service marketing agency that puts your business first. Our outstanding professionals cover all aspects of marketing and branding. With a shared love of providing innovations and solutions to businesses of all sizes, our dynamic team is here to take your business to the next level.
Our work ranges from the simple to the extraordinary. In every case we are driven to generate maximum value and impact, and pride ourselves in our ability to combine niche expertise in branding, marketing, and digital platforms, to devise creative, multi-dimensional, solutions for both online and offline approaches. The company was built from the ground up with core values selectively chosen to place strong emphasis on being a true leader in getting clients ahead: Creative Minds - Strategic Thinking - Expert Skills are what we believe at Bangkok Elite Marketing sets us aside from other agencies and enables us to offer effective marketing strategies.
Products or Services
Branding – Win over hearts and minds with well-defined brands crafted to look and feel superior to the competition. Content - Express yourself in vivid engaging content that will interest, entertain, and inform those you most want to reach. Promotion - Let’s focus on making the most of your investment with the right strategy to bring direct increases in market share and growth both online and offline. Digital - With the whole world battling for market share, ensure you lead and others follow by making electronic platforms your strongest ally. BCCT Member Company Since 2017
The Link
Issue 1/2018
61
Domnern Somgiat & Boonma Law Office Ltd 719 Si Phraya Road, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500 Tel: +66 26391955 Fax: +66 26391956 Email: mail@dsb.co.th Website: www.dsb.co.th
Chamber Representative
InterContinental Bangkok 973 Phloen Chit Road, Lumpini Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 Tel: +66 (0) 2656-0444 Fax: +66 (0) 2656-0555 Email: intercon@ihgbangkok.com Website: www.intercontinental.com/icbangkok
Chamber Representatives
A
A
A - Mr. Apiwatt Kongsoowan - Partner/ Managing Director
A - Mr. Thomas Schmelter - Director of Operations - IHG Thailand & Indochina B - Mr. Gregory Preslier - Area Director of Sales & Marketing, IHG-Thailand
Background
Established in 1947, Domnern Somgiat & Boonma is a specialized intellectual property law firm in Thailand located in the heart of Bangkok. It has six partners consisting of five attorneys-at-law admitted to the Thai Bar, namely Rutorn Nopakun, Chakrapat Mongkolsit, Apiwatt Kongsoowan, Napisit Benjakuljirat (formerly Somporn Liampaw) and Nathapong Tongkaew and a patent attorney with both legal and technical backgrounds, Prabjote Busdee. It has 131 full-time members (including the partners) and 50 outside experts from various technical fields with whom it consult on technical issues. About 23% of trademark applications and 50% of patent applications filed in Thailand by foreign companies are handled by the firm. The firm also extensively handles trademark and patent prosecution and enforcement cases in foreign countries through local associates. BCCT Member Company Since 2016
B
Background
InterContinental Bangkok is a luxurious 5-star hotel located in the heart of Ratchaprasong, Bangkok’s thriving shopping and business district. Business and leisure travellers at the renowned hotel enjoy gracious service, spacious rooms and suites, fine dining restaurants, and outstanding facilities for personalized meetings and events.
Products or Services
InterContinental Bangkok offers 381 guest rooms, including Club InterContinental rooms and suites. Diners can enjoy fabulous restaurants and bars including the Fireplace Grill and Bar, Italian Kitchen by Theo Randall, all day dining at Espresso, authentic Cantonese cuisine at Summer Palace, pastries and snacks at The Deli, Balcony Lounge and Humidor cigar bar. The hotel has one of the largest hotel banqueting, meeting and convention facilities in the city. There is also a tranquil spa and a well equipped health club. Guests enjoy the convenience of the BTS Chidlom Skytrain station, located directly in front of the hotel and providing easy access to the city’s many attractions.
Affiliates
InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG)
Ownership
President Hotel and Tower Company Limited
Senior Management
Mr.Thomas Schmelter,Director of Operations, IHG-Thailand&Indochina. Mr.Gregory Preslier,Area Dir of Sales& Marketing-Thailand. Mr.Mark Bannon, Dir of F&B
Board of Directors
Ms. Sasima Srivikorn, Chairman of the Board, President Hotel & Tower Co., Ltd BCCT Member Company Since 1986
62
The Link
Issue 1/2018
The St. Regis Bangkok 159 Rajadamri Road, Lumpini Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 Tel: +66 2207-7777 Fax: +66 2207-7738 Email: stregis.bangkok@stregis.com Website: stregisbangkok.com
Chamber Representative
A A - Mr. Klaus Christandl - General Manager
Background
The St. Regis Bangkok opened in April 2011 on the prestigious Rajadamri Road in the heart of the city. Featuring 228 guestrooms including 51 suites, the St. Regis Bangkok offers luxury amenities, services and incomparable dining options. With 1,515 square meters of meeting space equipped with the latest technology, large and small business or social groups may be graciously accommodated at any given time. Each venue can be transformed into unique themes for every occasion and all meeting rooms command spectacular views with floor to ceiling windows.
Products or Services - - - - - - - - -
177 guest rooms and 51 suites. 53 private residences. Signature St. Regis Butler Service. Epicurean experiences at VIU-International Grill restaurant, Jojo Italian restaurant, Decanter wine bar, The Drawing Room, The St. Regis Bar, The Lounge and Pool Bar. Outdoor swimming pool. Elemis Spa. Well-appointed Exercise Room. Ballroom and meeting spaces with floor to ceiling windows. Direct link to Rajadamri BTS station.
For more information please visit www.stregis.com/bangkok
Affiliates
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide Inc.
Senior Management
Mr. Klaus Christandl, General Manager BCCT Member Company Since 2011
The Link
Issue 1/2018
63
FINAL WORD
Chequered bored By Dale Lawrence
L
ooking forward to the new F1 season? Neither am I. For far too long it’s been a boring procession from the green lights to the chequered flag, with only the pre-race ‘grid girls’ providing muchneeded glamour and excitement.
into her grid girl gear for several seasons with Jordan Racing, said, “I think this is a good thing. It’s a sign that we’re heading in a really positive direction. I had a great time and I made some good money out of it. I had fun but really, looking back, essentially all I was there for was decoration.”
No more. Liberty Media, the new owners of F1, have declared that the appearance of these young ladies on the starting grid ‘is at odds with modern-day societal norms’. The decision disappointed former F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone but Swindonborn Melinda Messenger, backed the
Melinda Messenger, pictured above left
move. Speaking to Channel 5 TV Melinda, who squeezed carefully
Sticking with Swindon, I recall many years ago that the town’s football club introduced half-time cheerleaders to entertain supporters. By the time the teams kicked off for the second half we were demanding the return of the local brass band.
Flakey decision My recent visit to Blightly coincided with the arrival of the ‘beast from the east’, a weather system that dumped snow across most of the country. It brought the usual chaos on roads, railways and at airports. But any thoughts of snowball fights in the playground at the Jo Richardson Community School in Dagenham were scuppered by Headteacher Ges
Smith, fearing litigation from aggrieved parents if little Johnny or Susie suffered injury. He also stated that children arriving at school in wet clothes would not be fit to begin their studies. Mr Smith, predictably, was lampooned mercilessly by journalists and in social media channels.
Geoff Barton, General Secretary of the Association of School and College leaders, responded, “Playing with snowballs is a part of childhood. I always thought it was a great opportunity for children who don’t see that much snow to have fun. It gives them a chance to experience what lots of us remember from our own childhoods.” No so, apparently, in Dagenham.
Satisfaction guaranteed I’ll be back in Britain this June for the Rolling Stones tour. Roofs will be raised at sports stadiums across the country, including Murrayfield, Twickenham and Old Trafford, as the world’s best rock ‘n roll band gives satisfaction to hundreds of thousands of loyal fans with songs from a catalogue that dates back to the early sixties. Keith Richards, right, says that the best is yet to come. Could this be The Last Time? I don’t know………….. The views and opinions expressed on this page by Editor Dale Lawrence are entirely personal and do not reflect official BCCT policy. 64
The Link
Issue 1/2018
Britain in South East Asia (BiSEA) Tel: +60 3 2163 1784 Fax: +60 3 2163 1781 Email: info@bmcc.org.my Website: www.bmcc.org.my Chairman: Andrew Sill Executive Director: Aurelia Silva CAMBODIA British Chamber of Commerce in Cambodia British Embassy Phnom Penh 27-29 Street 75, Sangkat Srah Chak, Khan Daun Penh Phnom Penh 12201 Cambodia Tel: +855 (0) 12-323-121 Email: info@britchamcambodia.org Website: www.britchamcambodia.org Chairman: Trevor Sworn Executive Director: Ritchie Munro
INDONESIA British Chamber of Commerce in Indonesia Wisma Metropolitan I F/15, Jln. Jend. Sudirman Kav. 29 - 31, Jakarta 12920 Tel: +62 21 5229453 Fax: +62 21 5279135 Email: busdev@britcham.or.id Website: http://www.britcham.or.id Chairman: Ainsley Manm Executive Director: Chris Wren
MALAYSIA British Malaysian Chamber Of Commerce (BMCC) Lot E04C1, 4th Floor, East Block Wisma Selangor Dredging 142-B Jalan Ampang 50450 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
SINGAPORE British Chamber of Commerce Singapore 39 Robinson Road, #11-03 Robinson Point, Singapore 068911 Tel: + 65 6222-3552 Fax: + 65 6222-3556 Email: Info@britcham.org.sg Website: http://www.britcham.org.sg President: Bicky Bhangu MYANMAR British Chamber of Commerce Myanmar 4th Floor, 192, Bo Myat Htun St. (Middle Block) Pazundaung Township Yangon, Myanmar Email: info@britishchambermyanmar.com Website: http:// www.britishchambermyanmar.com President: Peter Beynon FCA Project Director (OBNi): Chloe Taylor
PHILIPPINES British Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines BCCP Business Centre 8F W Fifth Avenue Building 5th Avenue corner 32nd Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig 1634, Metro Manila, Philippines Tel: +63 2 556 5232 Fax: +63 2 519 6889 Email: info@britcham.org.ph Website: www.britcham.org.ph Chairman: Chris Nelson
THAILAND British Chamber of Commerce Thailand (BCCT) 7th Floor, 208 Wireless Road Lumpini, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 Tel: 66-2651-5350-3 Fax: 66-2651-5354 Email: greg@bccthai.com Website: www.bccthai.com Chairman: Chris Thatcher Executive Director: Greg Watkins
VIETNAM British Business Group Vietnam Ho Chi Minh City, G/F 25 Le Duan Blvd. District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam Tel: +84 (8) 3829 8430 Fax: +84 (8) 3822 5172 Email: info@bbgv.org Website: www.bbgv.org Executive Director: Peter Rimmer Chairman: Kenneth M Atkinson Hanoi, 193B Ba Trieu, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi, Vietnam Tel: +84 (4) 3633 0244
Wherever your business goes, your bank should be there. Expanding into new markets is easier when your bank is there ready and waiting. We operate across 54 countries and territories, so wherever you’re headed, you’ll have the full support of your Relationship Manager. Visit www.business.hsbc.co.th
Together we thrive Issued by The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited