Magazine of the British Chamber of Commerce Thailand Issue 3 2016
GREAT Britain in Thailand Doors are opening for UK companies
Contents BCCT
Board of Directors 2016 CHAIRMAN Simon Matthews ManpowerGroup Thailand T: 02 2634 7273 matthews@manpower.th.com VICE CHAIRMEN Simon Landy Colliers International Thailand T: 02 656 7000 simon.landy@colliers.com Christopher Thatcher Anglo-Thai Legal Co., Ltd. T: 081 803 7377 christhatcher1@gmail.com
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DIRECTORS Ali Adam Arcadia (Thailand) Co., Ltd. T: 02 108 1822 ali@arcadia-engineering.com Mark Bowling Savills (Thailand) Limited T: 02 636 0300 MWBowling@savills.co.th Billy Chomsakorn British Airways PLC T: 001 80044 15906 billy.chomsakorn@ba.com Viriya (Boyd) Chongphaisal GlaxoSmithKline (Thailand) Limited T: 02 659 3000 viriya.x.chongphaisal@gsk.com
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John Christie Ek-Chai Distribution System Co., Ltd. T: 02 797 9000 john.christie@th.tesco.com David Cumming ONYX Hospitality Group (Amari Watergate Bangkok) T: 02 653 9000 david.cumming@amari.com Stephen Frost Bangkok International Associates Ltd T: 02 231 6201/6455 sfrost@bia.co.th Somporn Leelasestaporn BT Siam Ltd. T: 02 126 8006 somporn.leelasestaporn@bt.com Carl Sellick Lucy Electric (Thailand) Limited T: 033 684 333 Carl.Sellick@lucyelectric.com Kelvin Tan HSBC T: 02 614 4000 kelvin.tan@hsbc.co.th HONORARY TREASURER John Sim PKF Tax and Consulting Services (Thailand) Ltd. T: 02 108 1591-96 john.sim@pkf.com
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This Edition
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Best of British
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UK prepares for EU exit
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How to use the Patent Cooperation Treaty: Focusing on south east Asia
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Launch of Thai-UK business leadership council
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Education review for Thailand
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Trends in visits abroad by UK residents
Contents Issue 3/2016 The Link is published by the British Chamber of Commerce Thailand. Advertising enquiries: Greg Watkins Email: greg@bccthai.com Editor: Dale Lawrence Email: dalelawrence2008@gmail.com 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.
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Every Edition
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Member News: Taste of British success in Bangkok supermarket
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Executive Director’s Message
35 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
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Chairman’s Message
Chamber News: BCCT continues backing for SET Foundation
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Member News: JJ-Muntons opens new Eastern Seaboard plant
By the Numbers
57 Chamber events
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Comings and Goings
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Final Word
Chairman’s Message
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he chamber has been very busy organising events over the last few months with the highlight being the Thai-UK 2016 exhibition at BITEC that took place on 7 -10 September. There was more than 30 stands and added attractions such as a London Routemaster bus, two Jaguar E-Type sports cars and a display of Triumph motorcycles.
SIMON MATTHEWS Sustaining Partners
Sustaining Partners
The event was opened by H.E Mr Brain Davidson, British Ambassador to Thailand, who spent more than two hours visiting the stands. This four day event was well attended, generating positive media coverage, and we have received good feedback. I would like to thank all those that supported this event. The next major event in our busy calendar is the Thailand International Business Awards (TIBA). Aaron Heselhurst, BBC Business Presenter, will be the guest speaker at the Awards Dinner on Tuesday 29 November. This is a new event organised by the BCCT and The BigChilli magazine and is building upon the success of the 2014 Expat Entrepreneur Awards -- an initiative aimed at recognising Thailand’s most successful and dynamic business leaders and entrepreneurs. The inaugural TIBA features a range of categories to reflect the wide diversity of businesses operating in Thailand. For more information, please visit our web site or contact the Chamber directly. The inaugural meeting of the Thai-UK Business Leadership Council took place on 3 October. The meeting was opened by Khun Tevin Vongvanich, Thai Chairman of the Thai-UK Business Leadership Council and, from the UK, Mark Garnier who is Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for International Trade. At the time of writing I was planning to attend with Simon Landy to focus upon such items as ease of doing business from the SME point of view and the more egregious issues related to visas and work permits. We were also looking to discuss tourism and healthcare topics. I will, of course, keep members updated on how we are progressing with these important matters. We are also working on other channels to drive our advocacy programme and I encourage you to visit our website regularly to keep track of BCCT activities. I also encourage you and your colleagues to share with us your current challenges in doing business here. We may be able to assist you. I look forward to meeting you at the upcoming events.
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MORE THAN JUST FACTS & FIGURES MAZARS YOUR GLOBAL PARTNER
#TechnicalExcellence #Integrity #Responsibility #Independence #Stewardship www.mazars.co.th www.mazars.com Contacts: Rob Hurenkamp Managing Partner rob.hurenkamp@mazars.co.th Blake Dimsdale Audit Partner blake.dimsdale@mazars.co.th
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AUDIT I ACCOUNTING I ADVISORY I TAX I LAW
Executive Director’s Message
W
hat a difference three months makes! Brexit continues to have a profound effect on businesses in UK. One school of thought is that many British SMEs must now look beyond the more comfortable European markets to increase their exports. If this is the case, let us hope that some of these SMEs come to Thailand where there is a market for good quality British products and services in so many sectors.
GREG WATKINS Airline Partner
Supporting Partners
BCCT’s Business Services team remains ready to assist British companies, whatever their size. There is also the prospect of a bilateral trade and investment agreement between UK and Thailand. Formal negotiations and the subsequent signing of such an agreement can only take place after UK leaves the EU. However, BCCT hopes to place Thailand at the top of the British Government’s list by undertaking its own research into Thailand’s current trade agreements and by interviewing members and some Thai companies on market access issues. We will hand this research to the British Government. Thai-UK 2016 was a great success. If you missed it, you will have to wait another 10 years! Held from 7th to 10th September at BITEC, Thai-UK 2016 showcased Thai and UK partnerships in business and philanthropy and also celebrated BCCT’s 70th anniversary. Thirty of Britain’s most prominent and successful brands were displayed throughout the event. Thanks to our good friends Khun Jesada of Technik Museum, Khun Kisada of Reng Book Auto, Gary Biesty of South Asia Law and Richard Bell of Cornerstone, visitors to the show were able to take pictures next to an original number 94 London Routemaster bus, Series 1 and Series 3 E-Type Jaguars, a Rolls-Royce Corniche and an Austin Healey as well as the latest Jaguar model and displays presented by Land Rover, MG Cars. and Triumph motorcycles. Our very grateful thanks to all participants, the Bangkok Exhibition Services team and our own team members at BCCT. The BCCT International Business Awards organised with The BigChilli was formally launched on 22nd August. A reminder that nominations are very welcome come from any company or individual in the seven categories: Outstanding Company, Most innovative Company, Outstanding Small Company (i.e. 30 employees or less), Most Promising new business (i.e. 3 years old or less), Expat Entrepreneur, Thai Entrepreneur and Young Professional (i.e. 30 years old or younger). The deadline for nominations is Friday 14th October. Judges are looking at four main criteria: performance, creativity/innovation, contribution to the Thai economy and level of staff participation/involvement. Most importantly, though, is that all those nominated can present their case in no more than 500 words. Awards will be presented at a special dinner on Tuesday 29th November at the Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit Hotel, Bangkok. On my trips to UK with British Airways this year I have had window seats leaving Heathrow. From my seat I have been able to photograph two of BA’s most iconic aircraft. One represents the latest modern design for contemporary air travel. The other was designed about 50 years ago and was retired from service in 2003. Which do you think looks best?
W1.5”
H1.75”
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100% Yellow
11% Cyan
100% Magenta
65% Black
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COVER STORY
Best of British
Simon Matthews, Chairman of the British Chamber of Commerce Thailand (BCCT) and H.E. Brian Davidson, British Ambassador formally opened the Thai-UK 2016 exhibition at BITEC. From left: Justin Pau, Bangkok Exhibition Services; Paul March, Overseas Exhibition Services; H.E. Brian Davidson, British Ambassador; Simon Matthews, BCCT Chairman; and Greg Watkins, BCCT Executive Director.
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hai-UK 2016 was a 4-day celebration of Thai-UK friendship and successful business partnership that took place from 7th to 10th September at the Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Centre. Thai-UK 2016 also celebrated the 70th anniversary of the British Chamber of Commerce Thailand (BCCT). The show was kindly opened by H.E. British Ambassador Brian Davidson and was attended by Deputy
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Prime Minister H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn and Minister of Tourism & Sports H.E. Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul. Thai-UK 2016 is the third such celebration and the second collaboration with Bangkok Exhibition Services with co-location next to the established Food & Hotel exhibtion. The first took place in 1996 at the Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel and Amarin Plaza and coincided with the State
Visit of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II to Thailand. The second was the first collaboration with Bangkok Exhibition Services with co-location next to the well-established Food & Hotel exhibition at Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre in the heart of Bangkok. All the major British investors and brands in key sectors in Thailand were represented at more than 30 corporate booths in Thai-UK 2016.
COVER STORY
Classic British innovation and cutting edge design represented by a London Routemaster bus (background), 1966 Series 1 E-Type Jaguar (foreground), 1968 Austin Healey (left) and 1972 Rolls-Royce Corniche (centre) at Thai-UK 2016. Jaguar/Land Rover took pride of place at the entrance of Thai-UK 2016. Managing Director Charnchai Mahantakun (left) introduces the latest models to one of his key customers, H.E. British Ambassador Brian Davidson.
BCCT takes the bus. ‘Hold tight’ shouts BCCT Chairman Simon Matthews (2nd right) with from left Boyd Chongphaisal of GSK, Graham MacDonald of Macallan Insurance Brokers, BCCT Executive Director Greg Watkins and Heather Suksem of PCS/OCS.
Banking & Insurance - Standard Chartered Bank Thai www.standardchartered.co.th - HSBC www.hsbc.co.th - Prudential Life Assurance www.prudential.co.th Education - Brighton College Bangkok www.brightoncollegebangkok. com
- St Stephen’s International School www.sis.edu - Regents International School Pattaya www.regents-pattaya.co.th - British Council www.britishcouncil.or.th Retail - Tesco Lotus www.tescolotusthailand.com - Boots www.th.boots.com
John Christie CEO of Tesco Lotus (left) introduces H.E. British Ambassador Brian Davidson to the Tesco Finest product range at Thai-UK 2016. Tesco Lotus is UK’s largest investor and employer in Thailand with more than 50,000 full-time staff in over 1,700 stores across Thailand.
- PZ Cussons (Thailand) Limited www.pzcussons.com - Outdoor Innovation Co., Ltd. www.outdoor.co.th Automotive - Triumph Motorcycles www.triumphmotorcycles.co.th - Jaguar/Land Rover www.landrover.com http://jaguar.co.th - MG Cars www.mgcars.com/th/Home
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COVER STORY
Joanna Kearney, Director of Admissions & Marketing introduces Regents International School Pattaya to H.E. British Ambassador Brian Davidson (left) and British Chamber of Commerce Thailand Chairman Simon Matthews (right) at Thai-UK 2016
THAI%UK(2016( Durham Duplex ready for business at Thai-UK 2016. Transferring Shef-
field’s great tradition of blade manufacture to Thailand, Durham Duplex Boots(Retail((Thailand)(Ltd.(
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Kelvin Tan, Chief Executive Officer (2nd right) welcomes H.E. British Ambassador Brian Davidson to Thai-UK 2016. HSBC in Thailand initially opened for business in 1888 and was the first commercial bank in Thailand.
Food & Beverage - Flow Inter www.paulaner-thailand.com - Scottish Development International www.sdi.co.uk/trade/sectors/ food-and-drink - S.G. Far Eastern Ltd www.sgfareastern.co.th - Smiling Mad Dog www.smilingmaddog.com - Thai Beverage Public Company Limited www.thaibev.com 12
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(SEA) Limited’s factory was established in 2008 in the Free Zone of Amata City Industrial Estate, Rayong.
Boots Retail (Thailand) Ltd. was promoting its extensive range
Brighton(College(Bangkok of products at the THAI-UK 2016 exhibition.
Facilities Management - PCS Security and Facilities Services www.pcs.co.th
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Airline - British Airways www.ba.com
Manufacturing Pharmaceuticals - Chillington Tool - GlaxoSmithKline www.chillington.co.uk, www.gsk.com www.ralphmartindale.co.uk - Durham Duplex ( Legal www.durham-duplex.co.th ( - South Asia Law - The Chilling Tool (Thailand) Co., Ltd. www.southasia-law.com www.chillington.co.uk, British(Airways( www.ralphmartindale.co.uk
COVER STORY
The iconic London Routemaster bus caught the eye of most visitors, including Deputy Prime Minister General Tanasak Patimapragornand (centre) and Minister of Tourism & Sports Mrs. Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul (4th from left).
Austin Healey
Hotels & Clubs - The Landmark Bangkok www.landmarkbangkok.com - British Club www.britishclubbangkok.org - Fitness First www.fitnessfirst.co.th Construction Services - Chapman Taylor www.chapmantaylor.com, www.chapmantaylor.com/en/ offices/bangkok/en
Rolls Royce Corniche
- Cornerstone www.cornerstonemgmnt.com - Millstone Company Limited www.oceanstone-phuket.com Electric - Lucy Electric (Thailand) Ltd. www.lucyelectric.com/en Charity - British Community in Thailand Foundation for the Needy www.ploenchitfair.org
E-Type Jaguar 1970
In addition, there were some iconic British attractions: • A classic original London Routemaster bus from the Technik museum in Nakhon Pathom • A vintage Rolls-Royce Corniche and Austin Healey from Reng Boon Auto and two E-Type Jaguar cars from Gary Biesty and Richard Bell respectively • New cars from Jaguar/Land Rover and MG • Five new motorcycles from Triumph
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Soaps!&!Shower!Cream,!Ba Products,!Talcum!Powder,!D Liquids,!Refined!Glycerine!a Brighton!College!Bangkok!p Base.! British!education!program!a the!THAI=UK!2016!exhibition (
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COVER STORY Brighton(College(Bangkok
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Triumph(Motorcycles((Thailand)(Limited( Triump Prudential(Life(Assurance((Thailand)(PCL( Prudential!Thailand!was!at! ( are!a!10 ! exhibition!at!BITEC!providin present ( Newly-opened Brighton College Bangkok was promoting the many THAI=U check!and!consultancy.!!! benefits of a British educational programme. ( ( British(Airways( H.E.!British!Ambassador!Bria ( from!right!and!Khun!Billy!Ch Country!Commercial!Manag of!British!Airways!introduce British!Airways!products!at!T The classic London Routemaster bus from Jesada Technik Museum in Nakhon 2016.!! ( Pathom. The first Routemasters entered service with London Transport in
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Prudential Thailand was at THAI-UK 2016 exhibition at BITEC, providing free health check and consultancy.
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South!Asia!Law!Co.,!Ltd!was H.E. British Ambassador Brian ( ( support!THAI=UK!2016!exhi Davidson visited PCS Security ( BITEC!from!7th!=10th!Septe and OCS Facility Services Ltd. British(Club( H.E.!British!Ambassador!Bria at BITEC. OCS Smiling Mad Dog Security and Co., Ltd, a distributor Mr.!Ali!Adam!a!BCCT!directo Facility Services of beers and ciders, Ltd., is also known exhibited their products Hasting!were!visiting!British as( PCS. at Thai-UK 2016. ( UK!2016!exhibition!at!BITEC PZ(Cussons((Thailand)(Limited PZ!Cussons!(Thailand)!Limited!was!at!the! ( THAI=UK!2016!exhibition!displaying! 10th!September!2016.! Soaps!&!Shower!Cream,!Baby!&!Kids! ! There was a pictorial display, with At its inception there were 20 foundBusiness Awards with Big Chilli are Products,!Talcum!Powder,!Dishwashing! The!British!Club!Bangkok!is!a ing British members ! including sevdual language commentary, of: BCCT’s five major events this year. Liquids,!Refined!Glycerine!and!Soap! eral companies represented at Thai-Base.! members!Club!in!Bangkok!fo ! UK 2016. There are now more than BCCT would like to extend its thanks • the history of UK-Thai relations ( ! 1903.! 600 corporate members with close to in particular to: Bangkok Exhibition from the very first trade contact 3,000 representatives.! Just as the UK Services for their hard work and promore than 400 years ago kindly ! is an open trading economy, memberfessionalism in organising the show; donated by the British Embassy ( ship of the BCCT( is open to compathe Ministry of Foreign Affairs for graBangkok ! nies of all nationalities! and sizes. ciously permitting us to display photo• the 1996 State Visit( of HM Queen graphs of the Thai Royal Family; the Elizabeth II to Thailand Prudential(Life(Assurance((Thailand)(PCL( Prudential!Thailand!was!at!THAI=UK!2016! ! ! In 1996 BCCT organised 35 events. Lastexhibition!at!BITEC!providing!free!health! donors mentioned previously of the • BCCT’s 70 years history to date ! year a dedicated events team of three or-check!and!consultancy.!!! classic British vehicles old and new; all ! 30+ organisations that supported the Founded in 1946, BCCT is the oldest ganised more than 130 events. Thai-UK( ( Garden Party show through their participation; and and one of the largest foreign chambers 2016, The Life and Style to the BCCT office team for the many in Thailand. BCCT is also the oldest at the British Embassy,( Taste of Britain hours they spent at the show and comand largest British Chamber in Asia, in 2016 with Tops, the Annual Christmas ( terms of corporate membership. Luncheon and our new International municating with exhibitors.
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South(Asia(Law(Co.,(Ltd.(
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COVER STORY
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H.E.!British!Ambass from!right!and!Khun Country!Commercia of!British!Airways!in BCCT!chairman!Mr.!Simon!Mathews!left,! British!Airways!prod Mrs.!Carolyn!Tarrant,!H.E.!British! 2016.!! Ambassador!Brian!Davidson,!Gale!Bailey!
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British Ambassador Brian Davidson (centre right) visits the British Club exhibition stand. British(Community(in(Thailand(Foundation(for(the(Needy The British Club was founded in 1903.
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Billy Chomsakorn, British Airways’ Commercial Manager in Thailand, is ( pictured with UK Ambassador Brian Davidson.
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The Fitness First team inspire visitors to Thai-UK 2016 with an energetic routine in front of ( the London Routemaster bus.
GlaxoSmithKline((Thailand)(Limited( The Link
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The!BCC from!the Brian!Da GM!of!G Limited,!
Chartered!Bank!(Thai)!PCL!at!THAI=UK! 2016!exhibition.!(
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COVER STORY Thai(Beverage(Public(Company(Limited( The!BCCT!Executive!D British(Community(in(Thailand(Foundation(for(the(Needy ( Watkins!left,!BCCT!C ( Mathews,!Ms.!Cham ( Advisor!to!CEO,!H.E.! Thai(Beverage(Public(Company(Limited( The!BCCT!Executive!Director!Mr.!Greg! Durham%Duplex((South(East(Asia)(Ltd. ! Brian!Davidson!and!U Watkins!left,!BCCT!Chairman!Mr.!Simon! Mathews,!Ms.!Chamapan!Rangaratna! Marcus!Winsley!wer Advisor!to!CEO,!H.E.!British!Ambassador! Beverage!Public!Com Brian!Davidson!and!UKTI!Director!Mr.!
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right) Carolyn Tarrant, British Ambassador Brian Davidson, Gale Bailey, Khun Porkaew and Angela Stafford at the stand presented by the British Community in Thailand Foundation for the Needy. BCCT Executive Director Greg Watkins (left), BCCT Chairman Simon MatthewsBritish(Council (second left) and British Ambassador Brian Davidson (second from right) visit the Thai Beverage stand.
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The!No.1!Choice!for!Agricultural!Tools! around!the!world!for around!the!world!for!over!140!years!=! The!Chillington!Tool! The!Chillington!Tool!(Thailand)!Co.,!Ltd! celebrated!THAI=UK!2016!exhibition!at! celebrated!THAI=UK! BITEC!promoted!their!products!and! BITEC!promoted!the services.!
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Triumph Motorcycles (Thailand) Limited, a 100 percent UK company, displayed several new models at Thai-UK 2016.
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Flow Inter generously supported Thai-UK 2016 by providing complimentary beverages for visitors.
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COVER STORY
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BCCT Chairman Simon Matthews (left) is pictured with Ambassador Brian Davidson, Khun Viriya Chongpaisal - GM of GlaxoSmithKline in Thailand (centre) and Dr Thavirap Tantiwongse - the company’s Public Affairs Director (right). Also pictured is BCCT Executive Director Greg Watkins (second from right).
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UK prepares for EU exit By Paul Gambles
T
he problem with referenda is that, however complex the question may be, the answer is usually binary – a simple yes or no. Few questions are more complex than those relating to Britain’s membership of the EU. But in reducing this to a simple yes or no vote Britain, and the 52 percent who voted for ‘Brexit’, may have done itself, themselves, Europe and ultimately the rest of the world a huge favour. It’s impossible to deny that the campaigning by both Leavers AND Remainers ahead of June’s referendum on EU membership betrayed a staggering lack of knowledge on each side during the run-up. Worse still, in the days after the result, it became clear that Boris Johnson, Michael Gove and Nigel Farage had never expected to win and therefore had no action plan in place. Equally David Cameron’s pro-remain cabinet had no contingencies in place for such an event, except to leave it to someone else to sort out the mess. It may have been this insouciant widespread belief that a ‘Remain’ outcome would prevail that encouraged the ‘Brexiteers’ to make claims they assumed they wouldn’t be held to – such as claiming that the UK spends £350 million a week on EU membership. The Leave campaign later admitted even if that part had been true, then upon taking over 18
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the reins of state, they wouldn’t ever have simply redirected those funds back into the NHS as they had previously pledged. Equally flawed were many central tenets of the ‘Remainers’ campaign. It’s errant nonsense to claim that the EU has played any role whatsoever in the peace that has largely prevailed in Europe since 1945. Post-WWII Europe was a place totally devoid of appetite for war, following two devastating conflicts. On top of which, the full extent of the new capability for global destruction had been evidenced at Hiroshima and Nagasaki and the emergence of NATO led to the effective disarmament of the major non-nuclear European powers (with the exception of the UK and France).
In fact, it’s more likely to be the case that the existence of the EU could give rise to a major conflict. British foreign policy throughout most of the 19th century hinged on maintaining a balance in Europe, aware that the emergence of a single dominant power would be more likely to result in further global conflict of the kind that emerged during the Napoleonic wars. Unfortunately the EU’s spiritual predecessor, the Zollverein (customs union) of the 19th century began as a loose trading bloc of Germanic states in 1818 but ultimately led to the formation of a German nation with powerful territorial ambitions. There are chilling echoes between the absorption of the smaller states during the nineteenth century and the
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l$improvement$in$the$global$economy?$Once$global$conditions$were$less$favourable$ n$2001,$the$EU12$rate$soon$dropped$and$the$1988$Cecchini$Report’s$predictions$were$ f.4$$ these decision-making processes in the same way that nineteenth century Prussia dominated the Zollverein. This is no co-incidence. When the EU’s predecessor, the ECSC was formed, it was hailed as being the heir to the Zollverein . This time would, however, be different, because we had all lived through the experiences of two world wars and we wouldn’t go too far because we would all know when to stop. $
The time to stop would be when one $ nation was becoming too powerWorse$still,$in$reaction$to$the$GFC$and$the$consequent$crises,$the$ECB$has$persisted$with$a$ ful. In the Zollverein, this is widely policy$of$austerity$(harming$the$real$economy)$and$zero/negative$interest$rates$and$ Source:#IMF# regarded as being the point where quantitative$easing$(boosting$asset$prices).$The$result$of$this$has$been$disastrous,$with$public$ Economic policymaking has clearly transfer of sovereignty that has taken the second largest state, the historic sector$services$and$wages$being$significantly$reduced,$while$debtJdeflation$threatens$to$kick$in.$$ been conducted for the benefit of place by economic means under the Kingdom of Bavaria, could no longer auspices of the EU from peripheral the Eurozone’s largest member to do anything to stop Prussian militaEconomic$policymaking$has$clearly$been$conducted$for$the$benefit$of$the$Eurozone’s$largest$ $EU$hasn’t$been$a$positive$driver$for$aggregate$growth$but$what$it$has$done$is$ member states to an ever more powthe detriment of the others. What’s rism emerging as the defining force member$to$the$detriment$of$the$others.$What’s$more$Germany’s$control$over$the$EuroZone$ erful modern German state. more Germany’s control over the of the new German state. ntrate$that$growth$within$the$EU$core$at$the$expense$of$peripheral$members$of$the$ purse$strings$has$enabled$it$to$dominate$other$aspects$of$EU$policy$making.$This$move$towards$ EuroZone purse strings has enabled a$federal$Europe$has$gradually$eroded$the$power$of$the$smaller$states.$ currency.$If$we$compare$the$Eurozone’s$economic$performance$with$other$economies,$ The argument that the EU is good it to dominate other aspects of EU Within the EU, we have now reached for trade and business seems spupolicy making. This move towards a The$erosion$of$sovereign$power$tends$to$be$an$issue$that$goes$unnoticed$until$it$reaches$a$ a similar point. Since the introduche$introduction$of$the$single$currency,$it’s$quite$clear$that$it$is$below$par$in$terms$of$ rious: The average GDP change in federal Europe has gradually eroded tion of the Euro, the UK has ceased critical$point,$when$it$can$give$rise$to$massive$potential$for$geoJpolitical$conflict.$Structurally$ h$(see$chart).$$ the then 12 EU member states imthe power of the smaller states. to be a full and effective member, the$EU$is$especially$susceptible$to$this:$Although$80$percent$of$EU$laws$are$passed$through$a$ proved quickly after the Single Marexcluded from economic decisionsystem$similar$to$a$national$parliament,$interJgovernmental$agreements$dictate$major$policy$ ket opened in January 1993. But The erosion of sovereign power tends making and even from much of the decisions$such$as$EU$membership,$foreign$policy$and$bailouts.$Due$to$its$economic$clout,$ how much can we put this down to to be an issue that goes unnoticed accompanying discussion and deGermany$has$come$to$dominate$these$decisionJmaking$processes$in$the$same$way$that$ the abolition of tariffs, as opposed to until it reaches a critical point, when bate. In a sense the UK exited the EU nineteenth$century$Prussia$dominated$the$Zollverein.# overall improvement in the global it can give rise to massive potential when it decided not to adopt the sineconomy? Once global conditions for geo-political conflict. Structurgle currency but its exit has been exThis$is$no$coJincidence.$When$the$EU’s$predecessor,$the$ECSC$was$formed,$it$was$hailed$as$ 5 were less favourable again in 2001, ally the EU is especially susceptible tremely protracted. The recent referbeing$the$heir$to$the$Zollverein .$This$time$would,$however,$be$different,$because$we$had$all$ the EU12 rate soon dropped and the to this: Although 80 percent of EU endum was more a ratification than lived$through$the$experiences$of$two$world$wars$and$we$wouldn’t$go$too$far$because$we$ 1988 Cecchini Report’s predictions laws are passed through a system a change but in doing so it presents a would$all$know$when$to$stop.$$ were way off. similar to a national parliament, challenge to the gradual diminution inter-governmental agreements dicThe$time$to$stop$would$be$when$one$nation$was$becoming$too$powerful.$In$the$Zollverein,$this$ of all other EU members relative to So the EU hasn’t been a positive tate major policy decisions such as the strongest member. In that sense, is$widely$regarded$as$being$the$point$where$the$second$largest$state,$the$historic$Kingdom$of$ driver for aggregate growth but EU membership, foreign policy and the UK decision to exit now may be a Bavaria,$could$no$longer$do$anything$to$stop$Prussian$militarism$emerging$as$the$defining$force$ what it has done is concentrate that bailouts. Due to its economic clout, wake-up call to all EU member states of$the$new$German$state.$ growth within the EU core at the exGermany has come to dominate to take action to prevent further conWit pense of peripheral members of the single currency. If we compare the hin$ Eurozone’s economic performance the$ with other economies, since the inEU,$ troduction of the single currency, we$ it’s quite clear that it is below par in hav terms of growth (see chart). e$ no Worse still, in reaction to the GFC w$ and the consequent crises, the ECB rea has persisted with a policy of aus$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ che terity (harming the real economy) d$a$ /aei.pitt.edu/3813/1/3813.pdf$ and zero/negative interest rates and simi quantitative easing (boosting asset lar$ prices). The result of this has been disastrous, with public sector servicpoi es and wages being significantly rent.$ duced, while debt-deflation threatSinc $ ens to kick in. e$ Source:#IMF# the$ $
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$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ 5
$The$Zollverein$by$W$O$Henderson,$ISBN$0714613223,$F$Cass$
solidation of power and wealth away from the European periphery to the core, before it becomes too late. This will have drastic consequences. The main positive of Brexit is that it could be a step – albeit a tiny one – on the long and almost certainly painful road towards peaceful European and global normalisation that would ultimately result in a far more sustainable, less imbalanced, stronger global economy.
ognition or admission of this would lead to an almighty Minsky Moment - in other words the greatest economic re-adjustment of our lifetimes, akin to the Great Depression. Unemployment levels would spike, social unrest would increase and European bank failures would become the norm. Contagion would spread globally.
We should however be aware of just how uncomfortable in the extreme the path to get there will be from where we now stand.
Whilst this sounds terrifying (it is) this would ultimately cure the extreme indebtedness afflicting the UK, Europe and most of the global economy. The benefits would accrue to economies, including Germany and China – the places which will suffer the most in the medium term.
Other EU member states are now questioning their continued membership. There is a strong possibility of an exodus leading to the break-up of the European Union. The EU is constructed on foundations of extreme indebtedness that can never be repaid. This is true of private debt in practically every major economy. The rec-
Sadly this is how all such extreme bubbles in history have ended but extending and pretending makes matters ultimately worse not better – just look at Japan’s lost decades. It’s clear that politicians, especially European politicians, don’t appear to have the wherewithal to tackle these issues in the current politi-
cal landscape but the end of the EU should make this unpleasant but necessary exercise in cleaning house inevitable. Hopefully without the outbreak of World War III. So after all the flag-waving and anthem-singing, recriminations and finger pointing, we could actually get a positive result from Brexit.
Paul Gambles is co-founder of MBMG Group – an advisory firm that assists expatriates and locals in south east Asia. Tel: +66 2665 2536 e-mail: info@mbmg-group.com Linkedin: MBMG Group Twitter: @MBMGIntl Facebook: /MBMGGroup
Property experts react to BREXIT vote Phanom Kanjanathiemthao, Managing Director, Knight Frank Thailand
pound, as in 2009, could lead to an uptick of interest by Asian investors, who, over the last few months have adopted a wait-and-see approach to the referendum – and will now see their buying power increase significantly.
Residential market “This is an opportunity for the new investor who interested in investing in London or UK. The buyer will benefit from: (1) the devaluation of Sterling currency, which is 12 to 13 percent lower now; and (2) a possible price decrease or greater bargaining power for purchases. Of course, today’s price trend has not shown a great reducing in prices. Our advice is “wait and see”. The shortterm trend will be much clearer within the next 3 to 6 months. For long term trends, the London residential market is still strong demand due to its under supply situation. London still remains a prime centre for international education, a sought after tourist destination and a safe and vibrant city to live in”. Commercial Market “As commercial property shall be subjected to business operations and the economy, the commercial property market seems to have negative impact from the Brexit vote. However, it is still early to say as it remains to be seen how the negotiations and agreement between the UK and EU to be settle, which will happen next year. However, at this moment, the market has leaned toward a negative outlook for commercial property. This is a good time and opportunity for the investor to start studying potential properties and the market, to shorten the time when decide to move forward”. It should be noted that hotel market will be enjoyed a high number
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Nicholas Holt
“Chinese, Singaporean and Hong Kong investors especially, looking at both residential and commercial properties – most likely in London – will be monitoring the market carefully and looking for opportunities to potentially increase their exposure over the coming weeks and months.”
of tourist due to the devaluation of Sterling.
Grainne Gilmore, Head of Knight Frank UK Residential Research
Nicholas Holt, Head of Research, Knight Frank Asia Pacific
UK residential
Asian investors “The UK has long been a destination for Asian real estate investors, with the attraction of the strong liquidity, stable governance, transparency and clear title, meaning that investors from China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand have all invested in bricks-and-mortar in the country. “With the decision to exit the European Union, for existing Asian property owners, the fall in the pound will impact the repatriation of any income returns, as well as the gains on any disposal. Although there is likely to be more volatility in the market, ultimately most investors are looking to the long term – so will continue to hold their assets, in the hope that any short-term instability will eventually subside when more clarity of the UK’s role in Europe is determined. “The decision, however, could also present a buying opportunity, as the significant drop in the value of the
“The UK vote in favour of Brexit has the potential to make a relatively swift impact on the housing market. The scale of this effect, especially in the medium to long-term, will depend on the outcome of negotiations on the UK’s exit. “In the short-term, consumer confidence is likely to be knocked by the continued uncertainty, especially with regards to trade. This may weigh on activity in the market, especially those making discretionary purchases, which could result in a slip in transaction volumes, and prices. However, uncertainty could also result in a further dampening of homes coming onto the market, and this lack of supply will provide a floor under prices. “In the longer term, any increase in inflation could trigger base rate rises, which would again translate into higher mortgage rates. This scenario would be more challenging for those on variable rate deals. If house prices are also declining, this will put the most pressure on highly leveraged borrowers.”
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NEWS FROM THE IPR SME HELP DESK
How to use the Patent Cooperation Treaty:
Focusing on south east Asia What is the PCT? The Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) is a multilateral treaty that was established in Washington in 1970 and is administered by the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO). The treaty makes it possible to obtain simultaneous patent protection for an invention in each PCT Contracting State by filing an international patent application. An application may be filed by a national citizen or a resident of a PCT Contracting State. All European countries, as well as China, are contracting parties to the PCT and in South-East Asia, all nations except for Cambodia and Myanmar are contracting parties. Filing an international PCT application automatically includes all countries bound by the PCT. The application has the same effect in each country as if a national patent application had been filed with the national patent office. Therefore if an SME wishes to enter into several different South-East Asian markets, it would be time –efficient to file an international PCT application rather than preparing several different applications for individual countries. The benefits of PCT There are a number of advantages of applying for PCT: 1. applicants have up to 18 months to reflect on the benefits of seeking protection in foreign countries, ap24
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point local patent agents in each foreign country, prepare the necessary translations and pay national fees; 2. applicants can rest assured that if their international application is in the form prescribed by the PCT, it cannot be rejected on formal grounds by any designated office during the national evaluation phase; 3. Using the international search report and the written opinion, applicants can gauge a reasonable idea of the chances of their invention being patented; 4. applicants have the opportunity, during the optional international preliminary examination, to amend the international application and thus put it in order before it is processed by various patent offices; 5. examination requirements by patent offices are significantly reduced thanks to the international search report, the written opinion and, where applicable, the international preliminary report on patentability which are shared with designated offices together with the international application; 6. because the application is published with an international search report, third parties are in a better position to formulate a wellfounded opinion about the potential patentability of the claimed invention; 7. for applicants, international publication puts their application on a global platform, which can provide an effective means of advertising and looking for potential licensees.
Ultimately, the PCT brings the world within reach, omits the major costs associated with international patent protection, provides a strong medium for making patenting decisions and is used by the world’s major corporations, research institutions and universities. How to apply? The PCT application procedure consists of two phases – the ‘international phase’ and the ‘national phase’. The international phase consists of the applicant filing an international patent application either with the national patent office of the contracting state to the PCT or with the International Bureau of WIPO in Geneva. The national phase follows the international phase and this involves the applicant communicating with the national patent offices of the countries in which they wish to be granted a patent. How to apply: the international phase Any resident or national of the Contracting States to the PCT can file an international patent application with the national patent office of the respective Contracting State. Any international application must contain the following elements: • application request form (Form PCT/RO/101) in printed version, downloadable from www.wipo. int/pct/en/forms/ • description of the invention
NEWS FROM THE IPR SME HELP DESK
• claim or claims, defining the matter for which the protection is sought • one or more drawings (where drawings are necessary for the understanding of the invention) • abstract consisting of a summary of the disclosure as contained in the description, the claims and any drawings • application fees If the international application is filed in a language other than Arabic, Chinese, English, French, German, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Russian or Spanish, a translation to one of these official languages needs to be provided. To ensure careful preparation of the international application and smooth processing, the WIPO recommends that applicants employ a professional patent attorney or patent agent, who can help with the filing and make sure that the application is filled out accurately. An agent can be appointed by requesting the agent in the specific section of the application form or by providing a separate ‘power of attorney’ document. All international applications are subject to three types of fees – transmittal fees fixed by the receiving patent office, search fees fixed by the respective International Searching Authority, and international filing fees fixed by WIPO. The WIPO fixed fee is 1330 Swiss franc, plus 15 Swiss francs for each sheet of the international application in excess of 30 sheets. All fees can be paid together
at the national patent office, where the international application is filed. International application process After filing the application, the international application is checked by the receiving Office to determine whether it meets the requirements prescribed by the PCT regarding language, form and content. This procedure is formal in nature and does not go into the substance of the invention. In this stage, the receiving Office would allow for corrections to be made to the application, so that it can meet the formal requirements. Once the application meets all formal requirements, it is given an application number and an international filing date. Thereafter, the receiving Office sends the documents to the International Bureau and to the International Searching Authority. In case the receiving Office has not transferred the documents, the International Bureau will notify the applicant and the applicant can then ask the receiving Office to provide the record copy to the applicant, so that the applicant can take it to the International Bureau. Upon receiving the relevant documents, the International Searching Authority will carry out an international search with the aim of determining whether the claimed invention is new, whether it involves an inventive step and whether it was made available to the public prior to the international filing date. After
3 months from receiving the documents, the International Searching Authority will issue an international search report and a written opinion, which establishes whether the invention appears to be novel, involves an inventive step and is industrially applicable. The applicant then has 19 months from the priority date (if there has been no priority claim, then priority date is the international filing date) to file an application for a supplementary international search. A supplementary international search is carried out by an International Authority other than the Authority that carried out the first search. Supplementary international search is recommended as it reduces the risk of new prior art being cited in the national phase. The increasing diversity of prior art in different languages and different technical fields means that the Authority carrying out the main international search is not always capable of discovering all of the relevant prior art. Requesting one or more supplementary international searches expands both the linguistic and technical scope of the search. It may also be possible to have the supplementary search carried out in a country where the SME is likely to enter the national phase later on. Supplementary International search requests must be filed with the International Bureau either in English or in French and there are two additional fees, 200 Swiss francs each, for handling the search. The supplementary search shall be The Link
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NEWS FROM THE IPR SME HELP DESK
carried out within 28 months from the priority date. Regardless of whether a supplementary search has been requested, the International Bureau will publish an international search report 18 months after the priority date. On the same date the international application is published, the bibliographic data, the title of the invention, the abstract and a characteristic drawing (if any) of each published international application are made available on PATENTSCOPE. However, if the International Searching Authority’s feedback is negative and/ or the applicant decides not to register for a patent after all, the application could be withdrawn before the expiry of the 18 months period, and then no search report will be published. Otherwise, this time period can be used for preparing all necessary documents for the national phase of the PCT application. National phase of the PCT application After the international phase, the applicant must complete the national phase, by approaching the state authority in which it wishes to be granted protection under. Applicants should bear in mind that they will not receive any notifications inviting them to start the national phase. Normally, the applicant needs to enter the national phase within 30 months after the priority date. However, some designated Offices (the national patent office of your
destination country) may limit the time to 20 months from the priority date. All South-East Asian countries part of the PCT set the time limit at 30 months. Indonesia and Philippines allow for an extension of 1 month, provided that a late entry fee is paid. China allows for an extension of 2 months and Singapore allows for an extension of 18 months, provided that a late entry fee is paid. When entering the national phase, the applicant must pay the national processing of the application depending on the respective Office, which in South-East Asia varies between EUR 30 and EUR 130. In some countries the applicant is requested to provide translations of the international application. In most South-East Asian countries no translation is required, if the application was filed in English. The only exemptions are Thailand, Indonesia and Vietnam, which require a translation of all the documents into their respective languages. The international application is forwarded to the designated Offices by the International Bureau upon the request of the respective Office after the international application and search report have been published. Applicants should also keep in mind that some countries require the applicant to be represented by an agent when entering into the national phase, if the applicants are not residents of that country. This is a requirement for most of the SouthEast Asian countries, except for
Singapore and Brunei Darussalam, where an applicant does not have to be represented by an agent if they have a business address in the country. Even though, no new application forms will be required in the national phase, some countries nevertheless have special requirements. For example, Indonesia requires the international application to be presented before its patent office in 3 translated and notarized copies. Further specific requirements could be found in WIPO’s Patent Treaty Guide, available on WIPO’s website: http://www. wipo.int/pct/en/appguide/index.jsp. Based on the international search report, each designated office decides whether they want to grant patent rights to the applicant’s invention. In the national phase, the designated offices will carry out their own substantive search. The PCT leaves each state free to determine their own conditions of patentability. This is particularly relevant for the definition of ‘prior art’. However, since the requirements of prior art, as defined in the PCT, are generally as strict as, or stricter than, those defined in any national law, the chances of experiencing any unpleasant surprises, such as uncited prior art references being raised are reduced. The national phase then ends either with the designated office granting or rejecting the patent. Helika Jurgenson Project Executive 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/.
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BRIGHTON COLLEGE BANGKOK
Britain’s top school is now in Bangkok. Sister of Brighton College, ranked number one of all 9,000 co-educational schools in the UK, Brighton College Bangkok offers its exceptional and innovative curriculum to pupils between two and 18 years of age. Please contact our Admissions Team to organise a visit and find out more.
+66 (0)2 136 7898 admissions@brightoncollegebangkok.com brightoncollegebangkok.com instagram.com/brightoncollegebangkok @BrightonBangkok Krungthep Kreetha 15/1, Srinakarin-Rama 9, Bangkok
Inspiration | Innovation | Excellence The Link
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Sowing the seeds for change By Andy Skowronski
T
oday’s rapid change is providing anxiety and resistance. It is generating a greater and more rapid innovation. Disruptive innovators include the online taxi service Uber, and Airbnb – a room letting website which had already serviced over 40 million guests by the end of 2015. MOOC’s offer of university-level courses without the need to complete an entire programme of studies is democratising Ivy League education. Netflix, an on-line digital service employing 2000 people worldwide and renting cloud computing space from Amazon, has taken over from Blockbuster – an organisation that 10 years ago had 9000 shops and 83,000 employees. The sharing economy providers such as Uber and Task Rabbit mean people who don’t want to work regular hours can now do so. Companies are constantly reinventing themselves to avoid the fate of AOL, Nokia and Kodak - to name but a few. For organisations seeking to change,
you cannot set out your stall for future change if you haven’t properly identified where you are today. You have to ‘Define your Reality’. This is a mixture of an organisation’s bright spots; what drains an organisation in terms of its people and systems, and areas that need addressing such as the risks and bottlenecks. ‘Only once we have ‘Defined our Reality’ are we able to sow the seeds of future change. Having established our baseline, we can set out our vision of where we want to take the organisation. This has to be carefully thought through and communicated. The scariest fact is that, even within committed organisations, nearly 70 percent of all change management efforts fail. The list of reasons why are numerous. Some of the more common ones reasons for failure are a lack of clear purpose; the purpose is poorly communicated through the organization; the right people have not been assigned to specific tasks, and groups are working in silos or protecting their turf (sound familiar?).
For change to work, you need to win both the hearts and minds. Tools that help to guide the change process, visibility, track progress helps with the minds, as people can see where they’re going. Concepts appeal to our emotional side and reaffirms our commitment to change. The two working hand in hand will eventually transform the culture of an organisation. You cannot talk people into accepting the future if they haven’t been there’. A solution will only work if people know about it and help to develop and improve it.
Andy Skowronski is Managing Director at ANC Associates. M: +44 (0)7590485060 O: +44 (0)191 3843438 E: askowronski@ancassociates.com
Bangkok office rents remain stable
T
he latest quarterly report from Edmund Tie & Company states that some 107,596 square metres (sq.m.) of office space is under construction in the city with total office supply remaining at 1.8 million sq.m.
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Office occupancy levels in the Central Business District were 90 percent in Q2 2016, up marginally on Q1.
adding 1,216 units to the city’s inventory. Average monthly retail rents held firm at THB 2,630 per sq.m.
Seven new condominium projects were launched during the quarter,
More details at: www.etcthailand.co.th.
Nurturing Curiosity in Foundation Stage
“Children are naturally curious and have a built-in desire to learn first-hand about the world around them.� John Holt, How Children Learn
At Bangkok Patana School we present our youngest learners with an environment that nurtures their natural curiosity and encourages the children to build upon it and grow into fully engaged learners throughout their lives. To find out how our approach to learning and outstanding teaching staff can help your child nourish their sense of wonder and grow to their full potential, please contact us at admissions@patana.ac.th www.patana.ac.th | +66 (0) 2785 2200 | 643 Lasalle Road, Bangna, Bangkok (BTS Bangna) The Link
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Bangkok Patana is an IB World School accredited by CIS and NEASC
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Launch of ThaiUK business leadership council T
he UK Prime Minister’s Trade Envoy to Thailand, Mark Garnier MP, and the Thai Prime Minister’s Special Envoy, Mr Virasakdi Futrakul, announced on 12 July that they had invited senior business leaders from Thai and British companies to come together as the Thai-UK Business Leadership Council. The two envoys made the announcement at a launch event at Lancaster House, London, in the presence of Thai Deputy Minister for Commerce Suwit Maesincee, and leading Thai and British company executives. The purpose of the Council would be to look for creative ways to encourage Thai and British businesses to build new and innovative partnerships, as well as encourage the governments of both countries to foster trade and investment in both markets. Working to an agenda set by business, not government, the Council would embrace, and work on behalf, of all businesses. Mr Garnier and Mr Virasakdi said that the response from business from both countries has already been very positive. They looked forward to the inaugural meeting of the Council in the autumn of 2016. Speaking at the event, Mark Garnier MP said: “There is a natural fit between the commercial and economic goals of Thailand and the UK. Thai companies are looking for technology and investment opportunities in areas where the UK offer is truly world-class. UK companies are eager to build new partnerships both in 30
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Formation of the new Leadership Council was ratified at a signing ceremony in London.
Thailand, and with Thai companies in third countries. This underlines why now is the right time to launch this business leadership council”. Mr Virasakdi said: “For our two Kingdoms, “Trade leads the flag”, our economic cooperation precedes and strengthens our diplomatic relations throughout history and we hope that it will continue so as we head into the fifth century of Friendship. With the support of Thailand-UK Business Leadership Council, the value of our trade and investment could be expanded greatly. Thailand pledges its full support for the Council.” Lending enthusiastic commitment to the initiative on the side of Thai business, Mr Tevin Vongvanich, President and CEO of oil and gas giant, PTT, said: “Close collaboration between the members will enable
the identification of factors to enable trade and investment flows in both directions to be increased, perhaps through improvements in policies and regulations, which will result in great economic development and benefit on a bilateral basis, with potentially regional and global positive ramifications.” And reciprocating the commitment from the side of British business, Chairman of Rolls Royce’s International Advisory Council, the Rt Hon Lord Charles Powell of Bayswater, said: “Such initiatives can take the relationship between countries, in particular from a business perspective, to a new level. Rolls Royce, like other UK companies, are committed to building long-term partnerships in Thailand and South-East Asia more broadly. Now is the right time to lay the groundwork for the future.”
Education review for Thailand U
said, “The results of the review have encouraged policy-makers and all stakeholders to reconsider issues related to the Thai education system, especially those relating to efficiency in education and how the Thai government can best provide students with quality education, the best teachers, coherent curriculum, and how we can most effectively harness ICT to reduce education inequality in the country.”
NESCO and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) have joined forces for first time to offer country-specific education policy advice in Thailand. Representatives from UNESCO and the OECD joined Dr Kamol Rodklai, Deputy Minister of Education and Secretary-General of the Office of the Education Council and other highlevel officials and stakeholders for a one-day seminar in Bangkok. The review follows months of desk research, field visits and interviews with stakeholders and was finalised at the request of the Office of the Education Council of Thailand. It is the first time that the OECD and UNESCO have joined forces to provide concerted education policy advice to a country.
ment, teachers and school leaders, and information and communication technology in education and was described by UNESCO Director Gwang-Jo Kim as a ‘significant milestone in UNESCO’s longstanding cooperation with Thailand and our shared commitment in advancing quality education’.
It covered four policy domains, namely curriculum, student assess-
Education Council Deputy SecretaryGeneral Watanaporn Rangubtook
The review recommends establishing effective, efficient and transparent curriculum review and revision processes, led by experts and informed by research and data; developing common student performance standards to guide assessments at all levels of the education system; establishing minimum criteria for entry into teacher preparation in consultation with pre-service programme providers, and prioritising investment in ICT infrastructure and connectivity in remote areas to ensure equity of access.
New chief at IATA A
lexandre de Juniac has taken the reins as Director General and CEO of the International Air Transport Association (IATA). He succeeds Tony Tyler who has announced his retirement. “IATA plays a critical role in facilitating safe, efficient and sustainable global air transport. Tony Tyler has raised the bar through his achievements over the last five years. With the guidance of our Board and the support of our membership, my aim is to ensure that IATA continues to deliver the value that our members
and partners rely upon,” said Mr. de Juniac.He emphasised the need for industry stakeholders, especially governments, to recognise the value that aviation creates. “The numbers are clear. Air transport supports an impressive 63 million jobs and some US$ 2.7 trillion in economic activity. Aviation changes our world for the better and, as the industry’s global advocate, my mission is to rally our partners to ensure that nothing impedes the business of freedom,” added Alexandre de Juniac.
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Thailand on track for new record tourist arrivals T he Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), with the unanimous agreement of some of the biggest players in the kingdom’s tourism industry, has expressed confidence that the growth momentum, recorded over the first nine months of the year is set to continue into the final quarter of 2016.
This means that Thailand will exceed this year’s targets for visitor numbers and looks set to generate over 2.58 trillion Baht (US$73.7 billion) from the tourism sector - up 14 per cent over 2015. TAT Governor Yuthasak Supasorn told a media briefing that the positive outlook was based on the strong confidence that both tourists and the world’s most respected organisa-
dustry players in times of calm and crisis and sending the message that tourist safety and security is always our priority. In addition, our strong and innovative marketing activities play a huge role in telling the world that Thailand is the perfect destination for a holiday, whether you’re seeking sun, scenery, spas, sports or adventure,” said Governor Yuthasak.
TAT Governor Yuthasak Supasorn
tions, such as, the World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) and the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), have in Thailand as a safe and enjoyable destination. “This faith in the country is a result of TAT’s tireless efforts in constantly communicating with visitors and in-
The TAT’s statement of confidence was shared by representatives from the Tourism Council of Thailand, Thai Hotels Association, the Association of Thai Travel Agents and Kasikorn Research Centre. Their independent statistics confirmed growth in the first nine months of 2016 with several contributing factors indicating that this positive trend is set to continue in the final quarter of the year.
Trends in visits abroad by UK residents U K residents made 65.7 million visits abroad in 2015 – an increase of 9.4 percent compared to 2014. The estimated spend by UK travellers is 3.5 billion. The number of nights spent abroad also increased, up 10.7 percent to 682 million nights. The number of visits abroad for holidays grew (up 9.4%) as did visits abroad to friends or family and for business (up 11.0% and 5.8% respectively). Spending on holidays, visits to friends and business increased by 7.6%, 2.9% and 30.2% respectively. Spain continued to be the top destination for UK residents visiting
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abroad, accounting for 13 million visits, a 6.1 percent increase on 2014
and accounting for 19.8 percent of the total number of visits abroad.
Possible turbulence ahead for international airlines I ATA is reporting solid growth for its members in the first half of 2016 but notes that the upward trend has slowed.
The global passenger market grew solidly in H1 2016, broadly in line with its 10-year average rate, but upward momentum has weakened in the face of moderate economic growth and terrorism impacts. Industry-wide revenue passenger kilometres (RPKs) grew by six percent year-on-year in the first half of 2016 – slightly ahead of the 5.9 percent increase seen in the same period in 2015.
However, analysts at IATA note ongoing signs that passenger growth is shifting down a gear. The loss of momentum can be attributed partly to the ongoing and cumulative impacts of recent high-profile terrorist attacks that have weighed heavily upon international European traffic in particular.
Uncertainty following the ‘Brexit’ vote in the UK is also expected to hit European airlines and markets in the coming months. International traffic flown by Asia Pacific airlines grew by 8.2 percent year-
on-year in June but most of this growth relates to the strong upward trend in seasonally-adjusted traffic seen in the final months of 2015 and into 2016.
The upward trend has since flattened with June passenger volumes barely higher than in February - a possible sign of Asian passengers being put off by terrorism in Europe. Passenger traffic on the EuropeAsia route fell by 2.6 percent yearon-year in May and it has been the weakest performing major route so far in 2016.
Sweet business for Thailand’s MICE market T hailand’s MICE continues to thrive with more than 150 events scheduled to take place before 31 December 2016. The Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau is reporting that the country has landed a series of major events including Pro-Health 2016 in Phuket, Cosmetic Asia, Cosmex and the 10th International Petroleum Technology Conference in Bangkok.
Other signature events scheduled to take place in Thailand include the Grand Metalex 2016 and Motor Expo 2016. Thailand is also the host country for the 29th Congress of International Society of Sugar Cane Technologists from 5 to 8 December. TCEB has also issued a statement reassuring business travellers that safety is its highest priority. TCEB
is encouraging business travellers to ‘obtain information from various sources to get a balanced understanding about the reality on the ground in Thailand, so that
they can plan their business trips accordingly’. For more information visit www. tceb.or.th.
Visa launches airport companion Visa’s new airport companion offers their card holders an ‘improved airport experience’ with privileges and discounts for amenities and services. The app sources availability and special offers for lounges, restaurants, spas, retail, limousines and meet & greet services. The platform includes in-app payment, card verification, smart recommendations and push notifications. Visa has signed a three-year exclusive partnership with DragonPass, a lounge provider with worldwide cover.
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CHAMBER NEWS
Chamber statement on EU referendum result O
n Thursday 23rd June the British public voted to leave the European Union. BCCT has refrained from making public comment in the immediate aftermath of this historic decision. We have taken this time to consult widely and allow a little clarity to form. In these four short weeks the political landscape in the UK has changed markedly with a new Prime Minister, Theresa May, and the creation of two new government departments - International Trade and Exiting the European Union. For now, the UK remains a full member of the EU and is entitled to all its benefits and subject to all its obligations. Goods and services will still trade freely across borders. In a speech to the British Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong on Wednesday 6th July, Lord Price CVO, UK Minister of State for Trade and Investment stated: “We will need to negotiate a new deal with the EU. I want us to maintain as close a relationship as possible on trade with our European partners. We will also look to secure Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries around the world. These negotiations will be wide ranging: including sector requirements from agriculture to financial services as well as regulatory issues such as customs, competition, and procurement”. BCCT Chairman Simon Matthews notes “The UK economic outlook is positive. Much of the initial postreferendum media coverage focused on the challenges that Brexit may present. However, I want to focus on the opportunities. Take the current value of the pound. It’s comparatively low position will help UK exports to Thailand and attract more investment into the UK from companies 34
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here. Services such as education in the UK will become more competitive. For BCCT members based in Thailand there will certainly be challenges where they rely directly on the pound but most of those who don’t will see little change in the way that they operate.On new trade agreements with countries such as Thailand, the UK will eventually be able to sign these without going through the Brussels bureaucracy.” The UK and Thailand have been trading partners for more than 400 years. UK exports to Thailand are around £2 billion per annum and Thai exports to the UK are around £3 billion per annum. UK remains a major investor in Thailand and Thai investment in the UK has increased markedly in recent years. Greg Watkins, BCCT Executive Director and a board director of British Chambers of Commerce in UK, adds “UK and Thailand already have a strong bilateral relationship. Brexit will allow our two kingdoms to work together and significantly increase the value of our bilateral trade and invest-
ment. BCCT looks forward to playing a key role in representing members’ interests in this process”. At the launch of the Thai-UK Business Leadership Council in London on 12th July, the UK Prime Minister’s Trade Envoy to Thailand, Mark Garnier MP noted “There is a natural fit between the commercial and economic goals of Thailand and the UK. Thai companies are looking for technology and investment opportunities in areas where the UK offer is truly world-class. UK companies are eager to build new partnerships both in Thailand, and with Thai companies in third countries”. The purpose of the Council is to identify creative ways to encourage Thai and British businesses to build new and innovative partnerships, as well as encourage the governments of both countries to foster trade and investment in both markets. BCCT members are welcome to feedback any thoughts and concerns on how Brexit will impact their businesses in Thailand by emailing – greg@bccthai.com.
CHAMBER NEWS
BCCT continues backing for SET Foundation T
he SET Foundation has held its second series of five English camps at schools in Nakhon Sawan attracting 590 students. As in 2015 the camps were generously sponsored by the British Chamber of Commerce Bangkok with a grant of THB 100,000. The BCCT donated an additional THB 60,000 for the purchase of books for the Kiriwong Novice School library. SET’s primary aim is to award long-term scholarships to needy students and the Foundation does not usually have the income to sponsor other activities. SET Foundation Director Peter Robinson, in his report to the BCCT, stated that ‘without the Chamber’s generosity, neither the camps nor the purchase of books would have been possible. The five one-day camps were held at Kiriwong Novice School; two innercity municipal schools (Tor 3 and Tor 4), at Nakhon Sawan Vocational College, and at Nakhon Sawan Mahachula University. The aim of the camps is not to teach English but rather to give students the confidence to speak the language, using vocabulary they already know. That lack of speaking confidence is a major problem amongst Thai youngsters. Some have a remarkably good grasp of English but are shy of making mistakes in front of their classmates or teachers. Rather than risk ‘losing face’, many would rather not speak at all. A successful English camp relies greatly on creating a relaxed, informal and fun mood from the out-
set. The most successful camps are those held off campus but they may involve the hire of a hall or resort and transport costs so they require a larger budget than the foundation has available. With a more limited budget, SET camps are often held on the school campus on a Saturday but, even if they are held on a school day, the attending students do not have to wear school uniform. Expenditure for camps held at high schools may include a special ‘English Camp’ t-shirt, which makes the event different from a normal school day and helps to create a more relaxed and informal atmosphere. Volunteers The success of any camp also relies very much on the confidence, energy and organisational skills of the volunteers who run them. In that, SET is lucky. Although the foundation no
longer sponsors British volunteers in Project Trust’s Thailand programme it is still usually able to gain their help in running camps. In the August 2015-August 2016 ‘volunteer season’ there were 22 Project Trust volunteers in Thailand, including four based in Nakhon Sawan. For the Kiriwong Novice School camp, all 22 volunteers took part, with some travelling long distances from other provinces.
For more details about the fantastic work undertaken by the SET Foundation with financial support from the BCCT, please contact Peter Robinson at: SET_ THAI@hotmail.com or visit: www.thaistudentcharity.org. To contact the Students’ Education Trust in the UK, email: SET_ UK@btinternet.com.
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CHAMBER NEWS
Giving back to the British community By Jeremy King
A
s a long term resident of Asia, with extensive stints in Hong Kong and Thailand, my wife hailing from the Philippines and two children at Bangkok Patana I consider Asia, especially Thailand, to be my home. However, I often think of Britain with my happy childhood in Durham and Perthshire and with key family members still living in Edinburgh and Durham. I like to think we bring part of what is good about Britain to these distant shores. The British, Australian, Canadian and New Zealand community in Bangkok is quite tightly knit with Embassy and Chambers of Commerce functions, Rotary clubs, the British Club and international schools bringing us together. Overall, most of us can be thankful for a standard of living rarely enjoyed in our home country. In Thailand there are 600 members of the British Chamber of Commerce, There are approximately 50,000 British nationals resident in Thailand, of which over 10,000 are living in Thailand on retirement visas. In 2015 there were over one million British arrivals, the majority of them tourists with whom we have relatively little interaction. It came as some surprise to me, whilst attending an Embassy consular briefing by Layla Slatter last year, just how much good work their office does. Apart from processing 7,646 notarisations for the resident community in 2015, the team also handled over 1,400 assistance cases including 334 deaths, 46 missing persons, 259 hos36
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The British Embassy grounds in Wireless Road, Bangkok.
pitalisations and, unfortunately, 161 cases of arrest. Ms. Layla, then went on to mention a number of examples of cases which had somehow “fallen through the cracks” of normal process. Cases where British subjects became stranded in Thailand with no financial lifeline to access urgently needed medical care, or lacked the price of a ticket home, or were even desperate for a basic meal after being pickpocketed. Hard to imagine amongst BCCT members, but who knows, it could happen to any of us (and probably did when we were students !). The Embassy helps in a number of ways, firstly in terms of immediate assistance, from an emergency relief fund, which survives entirely
on charitable donations, and generally dishes out between Baht 1,0005,000 to the most urgent cases, and did so for 37 cases in 2015. The next level, are cases where the person is just a bit short of funds for a ticket home, or in unfortunate cases where someone dies, but relatives lack the funds to arrange transportation; in these cases the Embassy lends money against a “promise to repay”, but there is an internal policy limit per individual. Thirdly, are the more financially demanding cases where patients cannot afford their medical bills, but often have reserves back in Britain that they cannot access. Again the Embassy may lend with a promise to repay, but because the amount is
CHAMBER NEWS larger the approval process may take longer, which exacerbates the financial burden. Having taken all this on board, I decided I would like to help, and the thought occurred to me that other BCCT members might like to contribute too. As a result, we have established The British Community Charitable Fund (BCCF) which is administered by the British Embassy. The Embassy offered to have representatives from the British community to participate in the decisionmaking, but we felt it would be better to rely on their judgement. Instead, the Embassy will produce a quarterly report, with a simple tally of inflows and outflows, and real life examples of beneficiaries. So far this year, the BCCF has received Baht 100,000 in donations, and given out THB 36,430 in emergency relief since March 2016, spread across 4 cases. The BCCF would look to fill any gap up to Baht 50,000 per case where the Embassy has reached its “promise to pay” limit for repatriation or medical cases. A reasonable estimate of money needed to fully fund the program is about Baht 1 million, much of which would be more like a revolving facility: effectively making loans to recipients which would generally be repaid at a later date. So the annual inflow needed might be Baht 1 million the first year, but would then be about Baht 500,000 per annum thereafter. In conclusion, there is an opportunity to share your good fortune, in a small way, to assist your stranded or distressed countrymen return home, after a sojourn gone wrong. The Embassy will issue receipts and recognize larger donations in the form of embossed certificates. If you would like to learn more about this program, please email Jem at the British Embassy, Ms. Jem Wild Jem.Wild2@fco.gov.uk or myself at jk@skfm.com.
Congratulations to The Bangkok Angels football team for maintaining its superiority in the ‘super senior’ category by winning the 2016 Bangkok Masters Over 55s trophy. The team eased through the group format before producing a fine performance in the final to beat the Coffin Dodgers 1-0. Thanks to sponsor Cornerstone.
Update your profile now BCCT is now working on the 2017 Members Handbook and Directory with a targeted publication date of December 2016. One of the benefits of BCCT membership is a complimentary half-page company profile in the Annual Members Handbook and Directory. The Chamber asks all members to review their current profiles and update if necessary online at: www.bccthai.com. Use your login (membership number) and password. Information from your online profile will be downloaded by the publisher for inclusion in the print version of the Members Handbook and Directory. Please keep all text to within 300-350 words. The Chamber only includes half page profiles of member companies that have paid 2016 membership dues. For a copy of your 2016 membership invoice, please email: finance@bccthai.com. The BCCT Handbook and Directory is an invaluable source of data for advertisers and members, offering a wealth of information including updated contact details of all members. It is distributed to BCCT members and to many influential organisations in Thailand and throughout the region including business, cultural and political associations. The Handbook is also sent to British and European organisations – commercial, NGO and governmental.
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TIBA awards recognises business success T
he Thailand International Business Awards (TIBA) is a new event organised by the British Chamber of Commerce Thailand (BCCT) and The BigChilli. We are building on the success of the 2014 Expat Entrepreneur Awards to launch a new initiative aimed at recognising Thailand’s most successful and dynamic business and entrepreneurs. The inaugural TIBA features a range of categories to reflect the wide diversity of businesses operating in Thailand. It does not focus on a specific sector or nationality. All nationalities 1. Categories (7)
Corporate • Most Innovative Company: as businesses successfully evolve they create innovative ways to develop their product or service. Judges will look for evidence of proven innovation in processes, productivity and performance that has led to success • Outstanding Small Company (30 employees maximum): Judges are seeking evidence of strong business growth, implementation of innovative business strategies and market leadership in its sector • Most promising new business (less than 3 years old): new businesses are key to the advancement of the Thai economy. Judges will look for development of concepts into a professional business plan and subsequent success • Outstanding Company: judges will look for strong performance in its sector, evidence of ingenuity, impact of initiatives through measurable results and long term plans and initiatives Individual • Expat Entrepreneur (sponsored by The BigChilli): open to expatriates who own a business in Thailand. Judges will look for originality of business concept (how innovative is the business), job creation (how many people does the business employ); growth potential (domestically and overseas), and impact of the business in the 38
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of company and individual are welcome to enter whether they are nominated or self-nominated. Nominations are open to any company registered in Thailand regardless of size or affiliations. It is an opportunity to recognise and celebrate outstanding achievements across all sectors in the business community in Thailand. “Awards exist in order to acknowledge excellence in performance, process and creativity, to compare against peers, to highlight best practice and to reward supporting staff. BCCT aims to make this a meaningful and marketplace • Thai Entrepreneur: Thailand has some excellent business talent. Judges are looking for examples of Thai nationals who have taken an initial concept through development stages and achieved success in Thailand and, if appropriate, overseas • Young Professional (less than 30 years old): young professionals are instrumental in the success of a business. Their unconventional ideas and dedicated approach to learning and development make them a force for business growth. Judges will look for outstanding performance and clear career progress • Special one-off ‘Social Impact’ award by organising committee for company or individual for philanthropic/charity work 2. Eligibility • Nominated (with the approval/agreement of the nominee) or self-nominated • Corporate: Thailand-registered company with all necessary licences (corporate) or • Individual: employee of a Thailand-registered company with a work permit in the case of a non-Thai national • Companies and individuals may compete in more than one category 3. Nominee Profiles (provided by the nominated company or individual) • 500 words (no images) maximum covering: - Clear explanation of overall business
successful awards competition. We will start small, embrace what goes well and learn from what doesn’t, and build this into an initiative that engages more and more companies and entrepreneurs,” explains BCCT Executive Director Greg Watkins. By participating in TIBA you will raise your profile, grow your networks and develop new commercial opportunities. Simply select a category or categories, produce a maximum of 500 words in English to present your profile focusing on the four criteria below, and email to jintana@ bccthai.com. Nominations close on Friday 14th October 2016.
- Performance - Creativity/Innovation - Contribution to the Thai economy - Level of staff participation/involvement
4. Sponsorship Sponsorship is offered for six categories. The BigChilli is sponsoring the Expat Entrepreneur category. The fee per category is THB 50,000. The benefits of sponsorship are: • Complimentary table of 10 at the TIBA Dinner on Tuesday 29th November • Logo, company name and website address present in all booking e-mail circulars sent to 2,800+ member and 4,500+ non-member contacts • Branding of specific category e.g. The Most Innovative Company category sponsored by ‘company x’ including verbal thanks by MC at the dinner • Identified with logo as a corporate sponsor on the dinner menu • Corporate logo on large projection screens to be displayed during the event • Preferred seating should the sponsor wish to purchase additional tickets • Option to erect one standard roll-up banner in the pre-lunch reception area • Option to provide small corporate gifts to be placed on each table • Recognition with corporate logo in BCCT publications post-event
Nominees so far...
THE
&
Richard Bell, Cornerstone
Tim Beaumont, The Beaumont Partnership
Eddie Evans, X-treme Sports Gear
proudly announce THE
Thailand International Business Awards 2016 Graham Murrell, Risk Protection
Nicolas Vivin, VIVIN
Matthew Harrison, Civil Master International
Benjamin Leiner, NYC-Thai BD
Daniel Fraser, Smiling Albino
BUILDING on the success of the Expat Entrepreneur Awards 2014, the BigChilli Commerce Thailand (BCCT) to Carsten Fischer,is joining forces with the British Chamber DennisofHarte, Thailand’s VaVa Pipes launch a new initiative aimed at recognising Tuk Tuk Factor y most successful and dynamic businesses and entrepreneurs.
Fred Tibbitts, Fred Tibbitts & Associates
Julian Olds, DMC
Bob Coombes, Food Glorious Food
The inaugural Thailand International Business Awards will feature a range of categories to reflect the wide diversity of businesses operating in this country. These will include one category specifically designed for small and medium enterprises under the banner ‘Expat Entrepreneurs.’
Michael Cluzel, Eatigo
Nominations will be open to any company registered in Thailand regardless of size or affiliations. David Armstrong, Maeping Mango Riverside Resort A team of independent judges will review the nominations and select the winners in each of the categories.
Ido Berger, Tea & Fruits
This prestigious event will culminate in an Awards Gala Dinner mid-2016. Raise your company’s profile, build contacts, create new business opportunities and tell the world about your achievements through the Thailand International Business Awards 2016. Patricia Frost, Bô Interiors
Tony Taylor, T.I.N. Trading
Nominate your company or send us your nomination. thebigchillimagazine@gmail.com
Paul Greenhalgh, Trepax Innovation
MEMBER NEWS
Chinese arrivals drive booming APAC tourism T
he new CBRE Research Hotel Megatrends report analyses the two megatrends reshaping the regional hospitality industry: increasing numbers of Chinese tourists and the growth of shared accommodation. The report also provides recommendations for hotel operators on how best to respond to these trends. The Asia Pacific tourism sector has been booming in recent years, supported by a growing middle-class and rising household incomes that now enable more people to take holidays overseas - providing a significant opportunity for the hotels sector. Intra-regional tourism is forecast to grow by 286.3 million trips by 2020 and will remain the key demand driver as people are most likely to travel within the same region for their first overseas trip. International tourist arrivals to the region have also been growing steadily. United Nations World Tourism Organization figures show that the region welcomed 279.2 million international tourist arrivals in 2015 and is predicted to increase to 355 million in 2020. However, despite the increase of tourist arrivals in recent years, hotel performance has been losing momentum. This mismatch between tourism growth and hotel performance is partially due to the struggling traditional full service hotel segment, which has found it challenging to maintain its price premium amid high fixed costs. In addition, revenue among hotels in this segment have been negatively impacted by weaker demand for meeting and convention
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facilities from multinationals, who remain very cost sensitive. Chinese tourists provide significant opportunity for hotel sector Much of the growth seen in the region’s tourism is being driven by China. The total number of Chinese outbound tourists rose by 10 percent year-on-year to 128 million in 2015, while spending grew by 26 percent over the same period to reach US$292 billion. China is expected to continue to lead growth, with around 134 million intra-regional trips forecast to be taken by mainland Chinese by 2020. In 2015, China ranked in the top three tourism source markets for ten out of 12 major countries in the region. Chinese arrivals to Japan doubled on a year-on-year basis in 2015, thanks to the rapid depreciation of the yen and more accommodative visa policies. Elsewhere, Thailand, which remains the top destination for Chinese outbound tourists (excluding Hong Kong), recorded 71.7 percent year-on-year growth in Chinese arrivals in 2015. However, according to research by the Financial Times, Chinese tourists generally spend the largest portion of their budget on shopping and just a small portion on accommodation. “In H1 2016, Chinese arrivals have continued to be Thailand’s largest feeder market making up 30 percent of tourist arrivals to Thailand, and accounted for 38 percent of total arrivals to Phuket. Hotel performance in both cities has continued to be driven mainly by strong Chinese arrivals with record high occupancy the
first half of the year,” said James Pitchon, Head of Research & Consulting, CBRE Thailand. “China will continue to lead growth in outbound travel and spending. While previously Chinese tourists may have seemed reluctant to spend big on accommodation, there are signs that they are beginning to take a greater interest in hotel quality and service, and result in the greater appreciation of and spending on accommodation. This is a significant opportunity, but hoteliers need to ensure they provide a service offering that meets the requirements of this increasingly important demographic,” observed Robert McIntosh, Executive Director at CBRE Hotels, Asia Pacific. Research indicates that Chinese tourists are not overly price sensitive towards accommodation. A 2013 survey found that only 10 percent of respondents selected price as their most important consideration when selecting a place to stay on an overseas trip. “Chinese tourists are most concerned about the comfort, star rating and facilities offered by hotels, along with the hotel’s reputation and recommendations by friends and family or from travel sites. Cultural and language barriers, such as Mandarin speaking staff, signs and literature was also seen as important and Chinese travellers are increasingly demanding that hotels provide them with tailored services that better fit their culture, while helping them to overcome the language barrier,” added Robert McIntosh. While the increase in Chinese out-
The main competitive advantage of Airbnb is the lower price. In most Asia Pacific markets, Airbnb’s ADR (average daily rate) is lower than in traditional hotels, with the price gap over 200 percent in six markets. Aside from offering lower prices, properties MEMBER NEWS on Airbnb often come with free amenities such as a washing machine and kitchen, which traditional hotels rarely offer. Price difference between hotels and Airbnb
Price Difference Between Hotels and Airbnb
Aside from offering lower prices, properties on Airbnb often come with free amenities such as a washing machine and kitchen, which traditional hotels rarely offer. “Short-term rentals are increasingly used as a substitute for hotel rooms. At the same time, the growth of shared accommodation is posing a major challenge to the traditional hotel industry. The ability to offer consumers lower prices and a unique experience in often unconventional accommodation is prompting traditional hotel operators to rethink their operating models,” said Miss Ada Choi, Senior Director of Research, CBRE Asia Pacific.
“The growth of shared accommodation does pose a longer-term challenge for the hotel industry, especially during peak seasons, and this trend has prompted hotel operators to review their operational models. bound tourists rentals will driveare demand for Other active includefor Home“Short-term increasingly used as players a substitute hotel rooms. the same hotel chains Several Atmulti-brand accommodation, the rise of shared Away, FlipKey, Rommorama and nahave responded time, the growth of shared accommodation is posing a major challenge to the by expanding their accommodation poses a major chaltional level operators such as Tujia in portfolios to the affordable segment traditional hotel industry. The ability to offer consumers lower prices and a unique lenge for the traditional hotel indusChina and Homie in Singapore. with younger travellers in mind.” experience often unconventional accommodation is prompting traditional hotel try. Advances inin technology have made itoperators possible forto hosts to offer rooms or Themodels,” main competitive advantage of “These hotels haveofutilized innovarethink their operating said Miss Ada Choi, Senior Director apartments for short-term rental via Airbnb is the lower price. In most tions such as mobile check-in serResearch, CBRE Asia Pacific. online platforms. Airbnb is the market Asia Pacific markets, Airbnb’s ADR vices and more open spaces and comleader, covering more than 191 coun(average daily rate) is lower than in mon areas for guests to socialise with tries and offering more than two miltraditional hotels, with the price gap each other, all at a lower price point,” lion rooms or apartments for rent. over 200 percent in six markets. added Robert McIntosh.
Top marks for students at Harrow
S
tudents at Harrow International School Bangkok have delivered the strongest set of results in the history of the school. More than half of all ‘A’ levels and two thirds of all IGCSEs sat by pupils resulted in A* or A grades.
A delighted Head Master Mick Farley said, “Our results compare well with some of the very best schools in the world and demonstrates that Harrow Bangkok, as the original British independent school overseas, has matured into a world class institution.” The Link
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MEMBER NEWS
IT challenges for hotels in Thailand T
Only 10 percent were not confident in their digital strategy and these hotels were not part of global chains.
he first Thailand hotel industry report by Grant Thornton in Thailand indicates that 89 percent see technology and digital strategies as important, whilst a significant percentage of hoteliers have a digital strategy linked to the overall business plan. Although 91 percent have confidence in their IT security and privacy, nearly half agree that it is a big concern and hampers further investment. There is also reluctance due to whether or not a fair RoI can be achieved and how staff capabilities will measure up to the new technology. This could mean that hotels need to invest more in their resources or risk missing out on prime growth opportunities. In addition to this, digital strategies and business plans should be aligned in order to support growth. Andrew McBean, Partner at Grant Thornton and expert in technology, media and telecommunications, said, “The power of technology is phenomenal. There are many new trends available for us to consider, especially in social media. Hotels need to make sure their social media and digital strategy are strongly linked with their business strategy. “They need to fully integrate their digital strategy and technological improvements into their overall strategic plan. And hotels need to invest effectively in technology in order to not only attract more customers but to personalise guest experiences.” Debrah Pascoe, Senior Vice President of Commercial at Onyx Hospitality
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Andrew McBean
Group, added, “Technology enables people to connect and share their experiences. It is a great tool to create inspiration. However, technology changes rapidly. It used to be that just having a website was enough, but OTAs are a big contributor of online business. “Onyx is continuously evolving their digital strategy in order to engage customers, expand our reach to new and untapped markets, and showcase our product in an engaging and compelling manner. We also use it to personalise our service and inspire repeat business. The use of technology as a business behaviour continues to develop and it’s important to Onyx to explore new trends and respond to evolving needs in order to align our strategy to these needs,” she said. Results also show that investment in technology and digital strategy for budgets up to the end of 2016 is still growing among most Thailand properties with 73 percent investing more in 2016 than they did in 2015.
Many were worried about achieving a fair return on their technology investment, with two in three sharing this opinion. Other concerns included staff having the skills to utilise the technology being introduced. Fifty one percent voiced this as a concern with another 48 percent worried about guest privacy and confidentiality. A mix of slow response times for investment from owners and a fear that the chosen technology would become outdated or more expensive once implemented were of concern. Michael Marshall, Chief Commercial Officer at Minor Hotel Group, commented, “If used correctly, social media will drive revenue. It has also become a big search engine so hotels need to ensure they are maximising all of these platforms. It’s a very easy tool to use and it’s very cost effective, which can be a big concern when digital strategies are being considered. New technologies are appearing every day, just look at Airbnb and how quickly that grew and continues to grow. Voice recognition is also becoming a more valuable tool. We need to be working with all this new technology rather than ignoring it.” The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is aiming for 12 percent growth in tourism revenue, bringing it to 2.89 trillion baht in 2017. This is in part due to the economic recovery but also the effective cooperation among tourism-related agencies and private operators.
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Hoteliers who can deliver great guest experiences by balancing technology and human touch should see a very positive ROI. Added value to improve on guest retention should be as much a part of the digital offering as the opportunity to increase sales within the property. The modern guest will likely leverage technology to accomplish things that don’t require interaction with staff or require them to stand in a line. The challenge will be retaining the personal touch with guests, and developing a more meaningful relationship, whilst enabling them to stay connected with the hotel during their stay and use technology to make their lives easier. Aline Massart, Regional Director of Digital Marketing for Accor Hotels, commented, “Hotels started out creating a product and brand but sites like Airbnb allow people to experience a dream by playing to their emotions. Hoteliers need to shift from the product and brand thought process to be more about the customer concept and be at each step of the customer journey.
portant part for their digital strategy, the investment cost to ensure all parties have confidence is very high, but there really is no other choice. However, outsourcing should be considered if it reduces costs and improves efficiencies so that hotels can focus on their core-business and to help save money for future investments.” About survey The Grant Thornton hotel industry survey is an annual survey that pro-
vides insight into the use of technology and digital strategy in the hotel industry in Thailand. The survey was conducted during April and May 2016 and taken by chief executive officers, managing directors, general managers or other senior executives within 4 and 5 star hotels in Thailand. The final number of completed surveys covered 66 properties in Thailand. The questions related to guest demographics and occupancy rates based on performance throughout the year 2015.
About Grant Thornton in Thailand Grant Thornton is well recognised by the business community as one of the leading professional service firms in Thailand. We were established in 1991 and has enjoyed growth and success ever since. We have over 200 professional staff providing services in advisory, assurance, executive recruitment, Japanese business practice, outsourcing and tax consulting, helping clients achieve their objectives in a broad range of industries. With our international reach, depth and expertise combined with the personal attention, added value and relationship-based approach of our distinctive firm, we are the leading service provider for growth-based organisations. To learn more about our firm, please visit our website www.grantthornton.co.th. For further information, please contact: Suriya Samritchindakun, Marketing Manager, Grant Thornton T. +66 2 205 8142 E. suriya.samritchindakun@th.gt.com
“Only 20 percent of people will mention the hotel name on social media but by using digital tools, such as Local Measure, to tap into that other 80 percent, hoteliers can create emotion and personalise a customers stay making them feel valued and recognised.” Andrew McBean concluded, “Hotels need to fully integrate their digital strategy and technological improvements into their overall strategic plan. We all have a lot of information about our customers now but the key is having the technology to support the use of that information.” “Privacy and cyber security is another big issue hotelier need to keep at the forefront of their minds when they make decisions to be part of the digital world. As this is a critical issue and im-
Brighton College Bangkok’s full academic team arrived into the city in early August in preparation for the start of the first term on 8 September. Twenty-two Pre-Prep teachers, selected from over 3,000 applicants, plus Teaching and Learning Assistants, were welcomed to Brighton College Bangkok by Headmaster David Tongue.
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MEMBER NEWS
DTZ Thailand rebrands as Edmund Tie I n conjunction with DTZ Singapore’s re-launch as Edmund Tie & Company (SEA) Pte Ltd in July 2016 its subsidiary company – formerly known as DTZ Debenham Tie Leung (Thailand) Co, Ltd – has also re-launched as Edmund Tie & Company (Thailand) Company Ltd.
The switch follows the parent company’s acquisition of Cushman & Wakefield’s majority shareholding in the firm, including its subsidiaries and affiliates across south east Asia. Group chairman Edmund Tie said, “The origins of our company go back to 1995 when we created one of the first local property consulting companies owned and led by Asian leadership talent, insight and experience
to compete on par with the international property firms.
“We became part of a global enterprise through an alliance with C Y Leung & Company in north Asia and DTZ Debenham Thorpe in Europe. Today, if you look across Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand’s commercial and residential skyline, you will find our positive imprint in the success of our clients.” Edmund Tie & Company (Thailand) Company Ltd – will continue to offer a comprehensive suite of real estate services including valuations, research and consulting, occupier services, development and marketing consultancy, investment advisory, commercial and retail agency,
residential agency covering sales and leasing, and international project marketing. Heng Hua Thong, managing director designate of Thailand operations, said, “The change of name will not affect existing businesses with clients in any way. Our dynamic team of real estate professionals, guided by a leadership team with some of the most credentialed experience in Asia, will continue to render industryleading expertise to our clients, at all times upholding their best interests.” Negotiations are ongoing with several major international real estate services firms that, if successful, will give Edmund Tie & Company a global reach.
HSBC sees scope for ASEAN trade boost W
ith world exports growing at their most sluggish pace since the 2008 financial crisis and economic growth sputtering the efforts of ASEAN nations could help to reinvigorate trade. That’s the expert view of Jayant Rikhye, Asia Pacific Head of Strategy and International Markets at HSBC. Leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations held talks in Laos to negotiate the terms of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, a proposed free trade agreement (FTA) between ASEAN’s 10 member states and the six nations with which ASEAN has FTAs: Aus44
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tralia, China, India, Japan, South Korea and New Zealand.
“The trade-liberalising potential of the AEC has already begun to deliver tangible benefits in ASEAN by making it easier to do business across a network of trade corridors that bring people, capital and ambition together,” said Jayant Rikhye. “Any progress that can be made by ASEAN towards forging the free trade agreement envisaged by the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership could further spur business activity and drive prosperity in the region.”
MEMBER NEWS
Standard Chartered’s new CEO for Thailand S tandard Chartered Bank has appointed Khun Plakorn Wanglee (pictured right) as CEO, Standard Chartered Bank (Thailand) PCL and Representative Offices. His appointment took effect from 1 September. Khun Plakorn will be based in Bangkok, reporting to Ajay Kanwal, Regional Chief Executive Officer, ASEAN and South Asia. He replaces Lyn Kok who was appointed President and CEO in July 2010.
Khun Plakorn has 23 years of professional experience in the banking and finance industry, with extensive knowledge of mergers and acqui-
sitions, debt, equity and markets transactions for Thai and international corporations as well as financial institutions.
Ajay Kanwal, Regional CEO, ASEAN and South Asia, Standard Chartered Bank, said, “We have a long history spanning more than 120 years in Thailand which acts as a regional business hub serving the Greater Mekong region. We will focus on further enhancing the value that we deliver to our clients by driving trade and investment in the region and supporting them as they expand across ASEAN and beyond.”
Proms night returns to Shrewsbury School S hrewsbury International School hosts its 10th annual Last Night of the Proms event on Thursday 27th October, promising another evening of top quality entertainment and hospitality.
Celebrating 120 years of British Proms heritage and more than a decade of exceptional music-making at Shrewsbury, the musical programme combines contemporary classics from stage and screen alongside traditional Proms favourites. Hosted in the school’s main auditorium the concert features performances from Shrewsbury’s senior choirs and symphony orchestra under the baton of Director of Mu-
sic, Ken Haggarty and returning guest conductor John Moore from Shrewsbury School in England. The event starts at 5:45 pm with pre-concert drinks, followed by a buffet dinner. As always there will be a post-concert fireworks display.
For tickets, please email: tickets@ shrewsbury.ac.th or call 02 675 1888 ext. 1108 / 1113. For more information and to view clips from the 2015 concert, visit: http://bit.ly/LNOP2016
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MEMBER NEWS
Colab offers city centre workspaces C olab offers co-sharing workspaces to small companies and individuals looking to find a city centre base at an affordable price. Located 50 metres from Saladaeng BTS Station, a whole floor of dedicated co-sharing workspaces is available for periods from one day to one year. For companies situated outside Bangkok, Colab is the ideal location to set up a representative office with numerous meeting rooms, casual and dedicated spaces, workers and clients alike are able to discuss matters in privacy and comfort. Designed for freelancers, small businesses and start-ups, Colab offers an open floor plan that encourages collaboration and comfort - providing the perfect opportunity for individuals and small companies to
have a firm base from which to work efficiently. Accompanying the fully equipped meeting rooms and free Wi-Fi, a café counter offers coffee and other light refreshments.
Mrs. Auraratana Jutimitta (pictured centre), Senior Executive VP for Retail Banking, Standard Chartered Bank (Thai) Plc, announces the Bank’s readiness to offer a PromptPay service. Standard Chartered clients may now link their saving accounts with a citizen ID or mobile phone number through Standard Chartered branches, internet banking and ATM outlets. All transfer fees will be waived until 30 June 2017 for registrations made prior to 31 October 2016.
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As a social enterprise, Colab donates 20 percent of profits to The Beaumont Ruam Pattana School in Chaiyaphum province. The school offers free education to underprivileged children.
Standard Chartered Bank (Thai) hosted a seminar ‘H2 Economic Outlook’, presenting the latest economic research data to its clients. Mrs Lyn Kok (2nd from right), President and CEO Thailand and Representative Offices, presided over the opening ceremony and delivered welcoming remarks to participants. The Bank’s team of economists was led by Usara Wilaipich (2nd from left) Senior Economist, Edward Lee (left), Head of Asean Economic Research and Robert Minikin (right), Head of Asia FX Strategy. (See page 45 for news of a new CEO at Standard Chartered).
MEMBER NEWS
JLL reports growth in hotel investment transactions A
sia Pacific hotel investment volumes in the first half of this year climbed 13.2 percent to US$3.8 billion compared to the same period last year as yields recovered to pre-global financial crisis levels. That’s according to a new report published by real estate consultancy JLL.
JLL’s latest Asia Pacific Hotel Investment Highlights report states that during the first six months of this year a total of 14,025 keys traded across the Asia Pacific region, compared to the 10,976 keys achieved over the same period a year ago. JLL recorded 59 transactions in 11 countries.
Japan led with US$2.1 billion, followed by Australia (US$278 million), China (US$252.6 million), Vietnam (US$237.6 million), Taiwan (US$217.6 million) and Thailand (US$138.3 million).
The top 10 single-asset transactions in H1 2016 amounted collectively to almost US$1.7 billion. Japan lent considerable weight to the rankings, representing five out of the top 10 deals transacted during the period. Overall, domestic investors in the region dominated capital flows, accounting for 80 percent of all deals above US$5 million.
Mike Batchelor, Managing Director for JLL’s Hotels & Hospitality Group Asia Pacific, said, “There remains a weight of capital chasing quality real estate assets. Whilst the investment environment is expected to be dominated by Japan for the remainder of 2016, deal flow should remain robust supported by stronger buying activity in Thailand, Vietnam, Korea and Myanmar. “Following Brexit, the weaker British Pound may impact outbound travel from the UK, however, Chinese travellers remain a key contributor to tourism in this part of the world,” he added.
Ramada Plaza team helps local communities T he annual ‘Ting Kra Jard’ Chinese ceremony of giving alms to communities located in the vicinity of the Ramada Plaza Bangkok Menam Riverside was held on 20 August. ‘Ting Kra Jard’ translates as ‘Throwing the Basket Ceremony’ and has been performed every year since the hotel opened in 1986.
This year the hotel donated 1,200 packs of rice and dry food items to nine local communities. The ceremony was attended by representatives from the Bangkolam district, Wat Phraya Krai police station and members of the House of Representatives who assisted the hotel’s management and staff in the distribution of items to those in need.
“Giving back to our local communities is an important part of our Corporate Social Responsibility pro-
gramme,’ explained hotel General Manager Klaus Sennik.
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MEMBER NEWS
JJ-Muntons opens new Eastern Seaboard plant J
oint venture JJ-Muntons has been celebrating the official opening of its new manufacturing facility located in the IEAT Free Zone Area at Hemaraj Chonburi Industrial Estate.
In the presence of some 200 guests including Alan Ridealgh, Managing Director of Muntons PLC in the UK, prayers and blessing were performed by nine Thai Buddhist monks. This was followed by a traditional Thai blessing dance and drumming show and the official ribbon cutting ceremony. JJ-Muntons (Thailand) is a joint venture between Muntons UK, a leading malted ingredients manufacturer, and Jebsen & Jessen Ingredients – a leading distributor
of nutrition and life science ingredients in south east Asia. The venture’s US$17.5 million facility has a capacity of 7,000 tonnes per year. The plant at Hemaraj Chonburi
Students in Grade 10 of the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme at KIS International School are undertaking personal projects. The pupils set goals for themselves and then document their journeys as they seek to achieve these objectives. We regret the error in Issue 2 where this photograph was allied inadvertently to another news story.
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Industrial Estate is manufacturing malted food ingredients to fulfill the growing needs of the premium food and beverages processing sector across the region.
Kenny Rogers is welcomed by Dusit Thani Bangkok General Manager Sukanya Janchoo. The legendary singer was performing in Bangkok as part of his final world tour. Rogers, 78, has chalked up countless hit records in a career lasting nearly 60 years. He released his first single in 1958. Married five times, he received the Willie Nelson Life Achievement Award in 2013 from the Country Music Association.
MEMBER NEWS
Thailand ranks 38th in real estate transparency index T hailand is ranked 38th out of 109 markets in the latest Global Real Estate Transparency Index 2016 published by property consultancy firm JLL.
Transparency across Thailand’s real estate markets has continuously improved over the last decade, thanks to increased access and availability of market data, improved enforcement of planning and land use regulations and the maturing of domestic investors and investment platforms such as Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs). The Index measures transparency by looking at factors including data
availability, governance, transaction processes, and the regulatory and legal environment.
The scores in the Index range between one and five – with one representing the highest level of transparency. Thailand’s real estate transparency score was 2.65 in 2016, a marked improvement from 3.4 recorded in the 2006 edition. Mrs. Suphin Mechuchep, Managing Director of JLL, says, “Continued improvement in real estate transparency is good news for Thailand as it should help increase the country’s overall competitiveness. Higher
transparency levels in other markets correlate directly to investment volumes and translate to lower risk exposure to owners, investors and occupiers when making decisions around real estate investment, sales, acquisitions and leasing.” Mr. Andrew Gulbrandson, Head of Research and Consulting at JLL Thailand, says “Greater availability of market data has proven to be a major contributor to improvement in transparency in Thailand’s real estate market. The growth of listed companies and real estate investment vehicles has also had a further positive impact on improving financial disclosures.”
Top ranking for Chatrium Riverside hotel T he Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok is ranked fourth in the Hotels.com ‘Top 10 Loved by Guests’ awards for luxury properties worldwide. This is an annual awards programme where the hotel guests are the judges. It recognizes hotels that have achieved the best average review rating, determined by over 20 million genuine and trusted reviews from guests of the hotels. Hotels.com is one of the world’s leading websites for hotel bookings and lists over 325,000 properties in nearly 19,000 locations.
Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok’s General Manager Patrick Manthe said, “Receiving this award is a real honour coming as it does from the thousands
of satisfied guests. It is a testament to the effort of my entire team; which strives endlessly to provide our valued
visitors with a stay that surpasses their expectations and leaves them with some truly wonderful memories.”
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MEMBER NEWS
Seal of approval for new Shrewsbury Principal T he Board of Governors at Shrewsbury International School Bangkok has appointed Christopher Seal as Principal with effect from August 2017.
He is currently Deputy Head (Pastoral) at Millfield School in Somerset. His appointment coincides with news that current Principal Stephen Holroyd is to become Chief Executive Officer of Shrewsbury International (Asia). This company has extensive responsibilities for all of Shrewsbury’s international schools in south east Asia. Christopher Seal, 43, is married with two children. His previous assignments include posts at Trent College and the Licensed Victuallers’ School in Ascot. He
joined the senior management team at Millfield in 2011. He has a BA in English, Physical Education and Sports Science from Loughborough University and a PGCE in Physical Education and History from the same university. He has enjoyed a distinguished sporting career playing Minor Counties Cricket for Suffolk between 1997 and 2005.
He said, “I am honoured to be appointed to succeed Stephen Holroyd as Principal of Shrewsbury International School Bangkok and build upon the outstanding period of growth and development experienced by the school in the past thirteen years. It will be a privilege to lead the Shrewsbury Riverside community in what will be another exciting chapter for this excellent
Christopher Seal
school. I look forward to working with talented and committed staff, supportive and aspirational parents, and especially shaping the futures of bright and engaging young people.”
Siam City Cement Public Company Limited (SCCC) has received the ‘Outstanding Environment Social and Good Corporate Governance (ESG)’ award for 2016 from Thaipat Institute, the Thai Rural Reconstruction Movement under the patronage of H.M. King Bhumibol. Thaipat Institute encourages international sustainable development and the criteria assessed by the judges included the company’s Annual Report and Sustainable Development Report. There were 621 listed companies that participated in this programme.
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Stephen Holroyd observed, “I am delighted that the Shrewsbury International School Board of Governors has appointed Christopher Seal. He clearly has both the track record and the empathy for young people to make a real success of this job. It has been a pleasure to have got to know Chris and his wife Sam over the last few months and so many people at Millfield, one of the UK’s truly outstanding and innovative schools, speak very highly of his professionalism, dedication and readiness. We look forward to welcoming the whole family to Bangkok.”
MEMBER NEWS
JLL takes tiller on Phuket marina sale P roperty specialists JLL is acting as exclusive advisors on the impending sale of the Royal Phuket Marina – the award-winning mixed-use development project that comprises luxury residential units, a waterfront promenade with restaurants and bars and the island’s largest conference and exhibition facility with high-end retail and office space. JLL has been chairman Gulu ‘expressions of that was set to 2016.
advising company Lalvani during the interest campaign’ close in September
Aaron Desange, Executive Vice President, Investment Sales Asia at JLL, said, “The property offers a number of opportunities including the development of hotels, additional residential units and entertainment facilities such as a water park. The offering also has the potential for Board of Investment (BOI) privileges that allow for 100 percent foreign ownership.”
With a total land area of approximately 200 rai (320,000 square metres), just one third has been developed so far. An ambitious and innovative Master Plan has been created that would create one of the most desirable resort destinations in Thailand. Mike Batchelor, Managing Director, Investment Sales Asia at JLL com-
mented: “The Phuket hospitality market continues to be a focus of investors globally and we are anticipating very strong interest in this asset, particularly given the significant future development angle that it offers. Rarely does such a large land holding with extensive master planning come to market in such a prominent location and sought after investment destination.”
ACES high for Dusit in Dubai
D
usit Hotels and Resorts has signed a Management Agreement with ACES Property Development to operate DusitPrincess ACES Dubai, a new hotel apartment project within the Jumeirah Village Circle. This will be Dusit Hotels and Resorts’ sixth property in the Middle East. Strategically located overlooking
the Dubai Marina Skyline, and offering easy access to the new Al Makhtoum International Airport, the Palm Jumeirah and shopping malls the DusitPrincess ACES Dubai will offer over 250 spacious apartments, ranging from studios to three-bedroomed penthouses. Amenities will include a spa, restaurants, gym, sauna and pool with an open-air café.
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MEMBER NEWS
Charting new course for Thai business leaders T o cater for the needs of Thai business operators searching for new opportunities and to increase access to new markets Standard Chartered Bank (Thai), in cooperation with the Board of Investment (BOI), the Thai Chamber of Commerce, Board of Trade of Thailand (TCC) and the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), hosted a trade seminar ‘The South Asia Connection: Insight, Challenge and Opportunity’.
The event featured a panel discussion and presentations from local and international experts on the economy, opportunities on trade and investment, tax regulations and laws in south Asian markets.
Pictured (left to right) are: Bilal Khan, Senior Economist, Pakistan, Standard Chartered Bank; Usara Wilaipich, Senior Economist - Thailand, Standard Chartered; Mingphan Chayavichitsilp, co-Chairman of the Committee on south Asia, Middle East and Africa - Board of Trade; Ashok Upadhya, Deputy Secretary General - FTI; Lyn Kok; Chokedee Kaewsang; Audsitti Sroithong, Assistant Director of Thai Overseas Investment Promotion Division - Board of Investment of Thailand and Ashish Sharma, Senior Executive Vice President - Commercial Banking at Standard Chartered.
Miss Lyn Kok, President and CEO - Standard Chartered Bank (Thai) and Representative Offices presided
over the opening ceremony. Khun Chokedee Kaewsang (3rd from right), Deputy Secretary General - Thailand
Board of Investment, delivered the keynote speech. The event was held at the Dusit Thani Bangkok.
Condo prices buck market trend in Bangkok R esearch published by Knight Frank Thailand has revealed that the Thai economic climate is starting to have an effect on the upper-end of the real estate market in Bangkok. The company states that developers are now slowing down the launches of new flagship projects with no activity on much of the prime land acquired by developers. The demand side risks, such as lowered consumer confidence and mild deflation, have contributed to reducing unit take-up numbers. It is also possible that the high-end condo52
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minium market is not exempt from speculative activities as we are seeing many yet-to-be-completed units listed in the resale market, the research paper states.
of 2016. For super prime units, the prices jumped from THB 303,250 per square metre at the end of 2015 to THB 319,095 per square metre at the end of June 2016.
However, the Super Prime and Prime Bangkok condominium market is still outperforming the overall Bangkok condominium market and is far from being over-supplied.
In the same period, the selling price of prime condos increased from THB 226,350 per square metre in 2015 to THB 242,313 per square metre. With more yet-to-be-announced prime projects in the pipeline the company is forecasting that average selling prices will continue to rise despite the market showing signs of slowing down in 2016.
Prices of newly launched high-end projects increases relatively sharply compared to lower-end Bangkok condominiums in the first six months
MEMBER NEWS
Taste of British success in Bangkok supermarket D uring the month of August new grocery products have launched in selected Big C stores as part of the retailer’s Taste of the UK Event’.
Among the new entries into the Thai retailer are brands like Batchelors Cup A Soup in number of flavours (Tomato, Cream of asparagus, Chicken, Minestrone etc.) and Loyd Grossman cooking sauces (Tomato and Basil, Tomato and Chilli, Korma and Tikka to name but a few). Loyd Grossman is the original Master Chef presenter. His passion for food and high quality ingredients resulted in a launch of a range of premium cooking sauces in 1995 in the UK. Loyd Grossman sauces span many different cuisines from Italian to In-
dian and Mexican and are the number 1 premium cooking sauces brand in the UK. Look for a selection of these products in Big C stores in Bangkok on Rajdamri Road, Rama 4 and at Chang Wattana Big C Extra
in the imported foods section. Alternatively, products are available to purchase online as well via http:// www.bigc.co.th/ in the Import Product area.
Working for a better riverside environment M anagement and staff at the Ramada Plaza Bangkok Menam Riverside hotel, led by General Manager Klaus Sennik, joined hands with 12 students from Bangkok University for the ‘Clean up Bangkok River’ campaign on Friday 16 September. The students were accompanied by Miss Madeleine Rechnagel, a lecturer at Bangkok University. The campaign reflects the hotel’s ongoing commitment to preserve the environment along the banks of the Chao Phraya River and is an integral part of the Wyndham Green global
sustainability programme. This programme seeks to enhance the lives of hotel guests and staff by maintaining and improving the environment, by
supporting global and local communities, and by developing sustainable programmes that deliver real economic benefits. The Link
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Dataconsult
Chamber Events
By the Numbers
Brexit, where the UK has a breathing spare of two years after formally announcing the pull-out, so also Thailand will experience at least a year of political limbo before the shouting starts again. It might be longer, some say a lot longer, depending on a variety of critical events which might intervene. Economy off the boil
Chris Bruton Director, Dataconsult Ltd.
B
rexit and the Thailand Constitutional Referendum indicate that we live in a changing world. If an issue is important enough to be the subject of a referendum, then don’t hold one. The results may be too close to indicate a decisive mandate, but the referendum itself will be used by victors as an excuse to implement “the will of the people”, irrespective of what the people really think (if they think anything at all). In the case of the UK Brexit referendum, a very marginal majority, equivalent to a minority of total eligible voters, determined “the will of the people”. What the outcome for those people may be, whether for the UK or Continental Europe remains to be seen. But if the dire consequences expressed ahead of the vote by most analysts become reality, Britain will no longer merit the term “Great” and may hardly be a “United Kingdom” at all.
There are those that claim that Thailand’s economy booms or busts without help or hindrance from politicians. That would be an excuse for not having any politicians, a frequent occurrence in Thailand’s coup-laden history. However the continuous chopping and changing of administrations, and therefore of policy (or lack of any of it) has hardly helped to generate a dynamic economic environment. In particular, infrastructure development and education policy have seriously suffered. These are two of Thailand’s most acute shortcomings today. Thailand’s macro-economic data and ratings, as reflected in the latest Heritage Foundation Economic Freedom Report score well, although predictably behind Singapore, Malaysia and Brunei among ASEAN countries. In terms of inward foreign investment stocks, according to UNCTAD statis-
GDP (at current prices: Bht bn) GDP per capita (Bht p.a.) GDP (at current prices: US$ bn)
Following on the Constitution, a series of bomb attacks took place in parts of the Upper South which strongly supported the Constitution. These bomb attacks have been blamed on the Lower South (Pattani, Yala, Narathivas) which strongly rejected the Constitution.
Growth rate (Volume, %) Import volume of goods & services (%) Import Value of goods (US$ bn) Growth rate (%) Growth rate (Volume, %) Trade balance (US$ bn) Current account balance (US$ bn)
No election is likely in the next twelve months, since enabling laws have yet to be passed. Therefore, as in the case of The Link
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Overall, the economy is not performing spectacularly, with GDP growth likely to marginally exceed 2015 levels, but hovering in the 3.0 per cent level or slightly above. Exports continue to slip while the main engine of growth, tourism, may suffer a jolt from the terrorist bombings of major tourism sites such as Phuket and Hua Hin. Other locations such as Pattaya and Chiang Mai have not been affected (or, at least, not just yet), and may be located a bit off track if the perpetrators are from the deep South. Bombs are never popular with tourists, and a few more blasts will be all it takes to drive holiday traffic elsewhere. Politics and economics shudder in consort, but Thailand trundles on. While the only booms we experience derive from bombs, modestly good performance will be sustained.
Economic Projection for 2016
In the case of Thailand, with a majority to accept the Constitution exceeding 60 per cent, the outcome might be regarded as a little more consensual, except that most voters appeared not to have actually read the Constitutional draft about which they were supposed to be voting. Debate prior to the referendum was also suppressed, so there was little risk of anyone actually understanding what the Constitution is all about, or of warning others of possible consequences if adopted.
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tics, Thailand rates behind Singapore, and Indonesia, but ahead of other ASEAN countries. But in terms of new-foreign investment inflows, Thailand’s record has begun to slip, falling behind not only Singapore and Indonesia, but also Vietnam and Malaysia. In 2016, new investment performance risks even more disquieting levels.
GDP per capita (USD p.a.)
Actual Data 2014 2015 13,132.2 13,533.6 195,995.2 201,284.9 404.3 395.1
Projection 15 August 2016 14,034.3 208,055.2 395.3
6,033.6
5,876.5
5,860.7
GDP Growth (%) Investment (%) Private (%) Public (%) Private Consumption (%)
0.8 -2.4 -1.0 -7.3 0.6
2.8 4.7 -2.0 29.8 2.1
3.0-3.5 3.3 1.5 10.0 2.7
Public Consumption (%) Export volume of goods & services (%)
2.1 0.2
2.2 0.2
3.9 2.5
224.8
212.1
208.0
-0.3 0.7 -5.3 200.2 -8.5 -6.9 24.6 15.4
-5.6 -3.4 -0.4 177.5 -11.3 -0.6 34.6 31.6
-1.9 -0.9 -1.3 166.7 -6.1 -2.6 41.3 38.6
Current account to GDP (%)
3.8
8.0
9.8
Inflation (%) CPI
1.9
-0.9
0.1-0.6
Export value of goods (US$ bn) Growth rate (%)
Source: Office of National Economic and Social Development Board, Aug 15, 2016
Macro - Economic Rating
Score : 100 = perfect
Singapore Malaysia Brunei Thailand Philippines Indonesia Cambodia India Vietnam China Laos
87.8 71.5 67.3 63.9 63.1 59.4 57.9 56.2 54 52 49.8
90 55 30 40 30 30 25 55 15 20 15
Freedom from Corruption 84 52 60 38 38 34 21 38 31 36 25
Myanmar
48.7
10
21
Country
Overall Score
Property Rights
91.2 85 87 81.1 79 83.4 90.5 77.1 79.3 69.7 86.1
Government Spending 90.1 74.3 57.3 82.2 89.6 89 87.4 78.1 75.1 74.3 73.8
86.6
75.3
Fiscal Freedom
Business Freedom
Labor Freedom
Monetary Freedom
Trade Freedom
95 91.4 71.3 76.3 63 54 32.3 47.6 58.3 54.2 55.9
90.7 71.5 90.2 62.5 57.1 49.3 62.5 47.8 62.6 62 57.6
81.8 84.5 76.8 70.9 77.7 74.3 78.1 72.8 70.6 70.6 71.3
90 81.4 85.2 77.6 76.4 80.4 72.2 71 83 72.8 58.6
Investment Freedom 85 60 65 50 60 40 60 35 25 30 35
32.6
76.8
70
74.2
20
Financial Freedom 80 60 50 60 60 60 50 40 40 30 20 20
Source: The Heritage Foundation: 2016
2016 Macro-Economic Data
Singapore Malaysia Brunei Thailand Philippines Indonesia Cambodia India Vietnam China Laos
87.8 71.5 67.3 63.9 63.1 59.4 57.9 56.2 54 52 49.8
0 4.3 2.4 6.2 4.3 2.3 8.9 7 3.5 3.6 13.2
20 25 0 35 32 30 20 30.9 35 45 24
17 25 20 20 30 25 20 32.4 22 25 24
5.5 30.3 0.4 68.7 99.4 251.5 15.3 1259.7 90.6 1367.8 6.9
452.7 746.1 30.2 985.5 692.2 2676.1 50 7375.9 510.7 17617.3 34.4
82762 24654 73233 14354 6962 10641 3263 5855 5635 12880 4987
3 2 3.8 0.9 7.1 6.2 0.4 3.6 2.3 4.7 1.4
1 3.1 -0.2 1.9 4.2 6.4 3.9 6 4.1 2 4.1
FDI Inflow (Millions) 67523 10799.2 567.9 12565.7 6200.5 22579.6 1730.4 34416.8 9200 128500 720.8
Myanmar
48.7
2.9
20
30
51.4
242
4706
3.3
5.9
946.2
Country
Overall Score
Tariff Rates %
Income Tax Rate %
Corporate Tax Rate %
Population (Millions)
GDP (Billions)
GDP Per Capita US$
Unemployment Rate %
Inflation %
13.8 15.8 30 16.2 13.3 11.8 12.4 16.7 18.9 19.4 15.3
Govt. Expenditure % GDP 18.2 29.3 37.7 24.3 18.6 19.1 20.5 27 28.8 29.3 29.6
6.1
28.7
Tax Burden % GDP
Source: The Heritage Foundation: 2016
Foreign Direct Investment Inflows / Outflows 2010 - 2015 Country SE Asia total Brunei Cambodia Indonesia Laos Malaysia Myanmar Philippines Singapore Thailand Timor-Leste Vietnam
(Million US Dollars)
FDI inflows
FDI outflows
2010 110,572 481 1,342 13,771 279 9,060 6,669 1,298 55,076 14,568 29
2012 116,391 865 1,835 19,138 294 9,239 497 2,449 57,150 16,517 39
2013 128,689 776 1,872 18,817 427 12,115 584 2,430 66,067 16,652 50
2014 124,792 568 1,720 21,866 721 10,877 946 6,813 68,496 3,537 49
2015 125,732 173 1,701 15,508 1,220 11,121 2,824 5,234 65,262 10,845 43
2010 61,110 -84 21 2,664 -1 13,399 616 35,407 8,162 26
2012 54,726 283 36 5,422 17,143 1,692 18,341 10,597 13
2013 78,802 859 46 6,647 1 14,107 3,647 39,592 11,934 13
2014 75,331 382 43 7,077 2 16,369 6,754 39,131 4,409 13
2015 66,681 508 47 6,250 1 9,899 5,602 35,485 7,776 13
8,000
8,368
8,900
9,200
11,800
900
1,200
1,956
1,150
1,100
Source: UNCTAD, World Investment Report 2016
Foreign Direct Investment Stocks: inward and outward ( 2010, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015) Southeast Asia Country SE Asia total Brunei Cambodia Indonesia Laos Malaysia Myanmar Philippines Singapore Thailand Timor-Leste Vietnam
FDI inflows
(Million US Dollars)
FDI outflows
2010 1,144,153 4,140 6,162 160,735 1,888 101,620 14,507 25,896 632,760 139,286 155
2012 1,319,479 13,302 8,413 205,656 2,483 132,400 11,910 31,027 682,396 159,125 237
2013 1,553,205 14,212 9,399 230,344 2,779 144,705 14,171 32,547 837,652 185,463 230
2014 1,687,452 6,219 13,035 253,082 3,630 133,767 17,652 57,093 912,355 199,311 316
2015 1,704,891 6,061 14,739 224,843 4,850 117,644 20,476 59,303 978,411 175,442 332
2010 601,067 543 340 6,672 12 96,964 6,710 766,129 21,369 94
2012 596,075 699 423 11,627 9 120,396 8,953 401,426 52,561 -
2013 720,413 134 465 16,070 14 133,996 13,191 497,880 58,610 83
2014 845,669 134 484 24,052 135,685 35,603 576,396 65,769 86
2015 913,349 2645 531 30,171 16 136,892 41,100 625,259 68,058 86
57,004
72,530
81,702
90,991
102,791
2,234
-
-
7,490
8,590
Source: UNCTAD, World Investment Report 2016
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Chamber Events
BCCT One-Day Workshop tackles business growth
BCCT Third Thursday Networking Evening
The Consultancy Academy facilitated BCCT One-Day workshop on Business Growth Catalyst at the British Business Centre on Monday 13 June. This workshop equipped attendees with the tools needed to analyse the growth opportunities in their respective businesses.
Over 100 guests attended BCCT Third Thursday Networking Evening at Four Points by Sheraton, Sukhumvit 15, on Thursday 16 June. Pictured from left are Chris Thatcher (BCCT Events Group Chairman) and Peter Lucas (Four Points by Sheraton Bangkok).
BCCT Vice Chairman visit to Minister of Education
Update on visas and work permits at Phuket Business Dinner
BCCT were invited to share thoughts about the development of Vocational Education with the Minister of Education, General Dapong Ratanasuwan. Also present were representatives from BCCT members Tesco Lotus and IVBE (International Vocational and Business Education). The BCCT expressed willingness to engage in discussions with OVEC about ways that members may be able to support the Ministry in developing thinking about how vocational education could be improved.
On Thursday 23 June, BCCT in association with FTCC, GTCC and NTCC hosted the Phuket Business Dinner at Amari Phuket. Stephen Frost (pictured), Director at Bangkok International Associates & BCCT Board of Director and Chairman of BCCT Legal & Taxation Group, addressed the topic of “An Update on Visas and Work Permits�. This event was kindly sponsored by KIS Phuket, Regus and Class Act Media.
Pictured from left: Jina Phenix (BCCT Business Development Manager); Chris Thatcher (BCCT Vice Chairman); General Dapong Ratanasuwan (Minister of Education); Chaipreuk Sereerak (Office of Vocational Education Commission); Hugh Vanijprabha (Rolls Royce)
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Chamber Events
BCCT Boardroom Briefing looks at employment law in Thailand
Multi Chambers/Grant Thornton Evening Presentation
BCCT Boardroom Briefing on “Employment Law” was held at the British Business Centre on Tuesday 28 June. Pictured from left are Picharn Sukparangsee (Bangkok Global Law Office), Stephen Frost (BCCT Legal & Taxation Group Chairman) and Teerakarn Noichiaum (Bangkok International Associates).
BCCT in collaboration with the American, Australian, Canadian, Irish, Netherlands, Singapore, South African and Swiss Chambers of Commerce hosted the Multi Chambers/ Grant Thornton Evening Presentation on “Grant Thornton Thailand Hotel Survey and Panel Event: Technology & Digital Strategies in the Hotel Industry” on Thursday 30 June at Bangkok Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit.
Pictured from left: David Cumming (BCCT Travel & Tourism Chairman); Debrah Pascoe (Onyx Hospitality Group); Michael Marshall (Minor Hotel Group); Aline Massart (Accor); Andrew McBean (Grant Thornton)
BCCT Factory Visit to Triumph Motorcycles
BCCT Half-Day Workshop on presentation skills
Triumph Motorcycles (Thailand) hosted BCCT members at its factory tour on Thursday 7 July at Amata Nakorn Industrial Estate (Chonburi). Members enjoyed a presentation about Triumph Motorcycles, toured the assembly line and had any questions answered by Triumph’s representatives.
Pachara (Billy) Yongjiranon (pictured standing), Corporate Trainer & Presentation Coach at SpeakPro Training, facilitated BCCT Half-Day Workshop on “SpeakPro Presentation Skills”. Attended by more than 20 participants, this workshop was held on Friday 8 July at Dream Hotel Bangkok.
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Chamber Events
BCCT/RICS Boardroom Briefing on leasehold reform
BCCT Third Thursday Networking Evening
On Wednesday 13 July, BCCT in collaboration with RICS held a Boardroom Briefing on Leasehold Reform discussing the pros and cons from a property practitioner’s and lawyer’s viewpoint. Pictured from left: moderator Ian Hamilton (Colliers International Thailand), speakers Christopher Osborne (Watson Farley & Williams) and Simon Landy (Colliers International Thailand).
On Thursday 21 July, Oriental Residence Bangkok kindly hosted the BCCT T3 Networking Evening. Over 150 guests enjoyed food and drinks. Pictured from left are Sukamal Mondal (Oriental Residence Bangkok) and Lloyd Wilson (Berkeley International School).
BCCT/AMCHAM Boardroom Briefing
Multi Chambers Travel & Tourism Panel Discussion
BCCT in collaboration with AMCHAM held a briefing on “Corruption and Bribery” on Tuesday 26 July at the BBC. Speakers from left: Michael Ramirez (Tilleke & Gibbins); Fergus Evans (Clifford Chance), and Douglas Mancill (PriceSanond) covered a wide range of issues with emphasis on an overview of Anti-corruption Law and their effect on enforcement.
Tuesday 16 August BCCT Travel & Tourism Committee organised a multi chambers panel discussion on topic ‘A changing landscape for accommodation – how does the AirBnB model fit with the Thai market?’ The event was a success with over 90 people in attendance. Speakers from left: Dennis Hemsin (Bangkok International Associates); Stefan Wolf (ONYX Hospitality) and Simon Landy (Colliers International Thailand).
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Comings and Goings The British Chamber of Commerce Thailand welcomes the following new members:
Adelphi Digital Consulting Group 267/1 Sukhumvit 31 North Klongton Wattana, Bangkok 10110 Tel: +66 662 1499 Email: info@adelphidigital.co.th Website: www.adelphidigital.co.th
Representatives: Mr. Sam Wong - Deputy Managing Director Ms. Kate Manning - Group Commercial Manager Background: From inception to present day, Adelphi Digital’s vision has always been to deliver business success for our clients on all digital channels. Adelphi Digital opened in Thailand in September 2015. Headquartered in Singapore and employing over 150 digital professionals across the region including offices in Singapore, and four offices in Australia, Thailand is our 6th office. We work with corporate and consumer brands, arts, charity and government clients across AsiaPac including China, Hong Kong, Indonesia and Malaysia as well as our country locations. Adelphi Digital’s mission is to do away with the legacy thinking of the past. Our management team was creating nimble multi-disciplinary teams before anyone knew to call it agile, and we focus on how people experience technology. We’re experts when it comes to bridging the gap between strategic, design, and technical thinking.
BREW – Beers & Ciders 251/1 Soi Thonglor 13 Sukhumvit 55, Klongton-Nua Wattana, Bangkok 10110 Tel: +66 21852366, 23922165 Fax: +66 21852370 Email: brewbkk@gmail.com Website: www.brewbkk.com Representatives: Mr. Chris Foo - Owner Background: Foo Visions Co., Ltd. was setup in Bangkok, Thailand in 2011 with the aim to educate and get Thailand to drink great beers & ciders from around the globe. Under our Brand names BREW – Beers & Ciders and The Beer Cap we have now got 4 outlets in Thailand and have built quite a name for ourselves with the most extensive menu in Asia. Although our main customer base is local, expatriates and tourists alike come to visit our venues to experience the world of beers and ciders.
BMI Research Senator House 83 Queen Victoria Street London EC4V 4AB Email: Jennie.Beebee@bmiresearch. com Website: www.bmiresearch.com
Representatives: Ms. Soniya Dugar - Head of Sales APAC Mr. Jonathan Rogerson - Head of Sales | ASEAN Background: The world is interconnected and complex. Understanding and simplifying it is difficult. At BMI Research, that challenge is what inspires us. Through
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‘Total Analysis,’ our unique, reflexive approach linking macroeconomic, industry and financial market analysis, BMI Research helps clients gain unparalleled insight across 24 industries and 200 global markets. For more than 30 years, our forecasts, data and analyses have been used by multinationals, governments and financial institutions to guide critical strategic, tactical and investment decisions. Clients include a majority of Global Fortune 500 companies. With offices in London, New York, Singapore, Hong Kong, Dubai and South Africa, BMI Research is part of Fitch Group, which is majority owned by Hearst.
Comfort Education Ltd. 20-22 Wenlock Road Greater London, N1 7GU Tel: +44 2083966414 Fax: +44 2083966283 Email: adam@comforteducation.com Website: www.comforteducation.com Representatives: Mr. Adam Black - Recruitment Manager (Teacher Recruitment & Training) Mr. Dikedi Okadigwe - Director Background: Comfort Education Ltd is based in the United Kingdom. We specialize in providing British, Irish, US, Canadian, Australian, New Zealand & South African trained teachers to nurseries, primary, secondary school, colleges, Universities & companies both in the United Kingdom & abroad. We currently supply teachers in the UK, South East Asia & the Middle East. Most of our teachers are native English teachers. A significant number of our teachers have already taught in SE Asia & the Middle East. Comfort Education does not only supply English language teachers with TEFL, ESL, CELTA or Business English qualifications. Indeed we have Post Gradate teachers of all disciplines including those with Postgraduate Diplomas in Education (PGCE) and MEd. Companies can benefit from hiring our Business English teachers. We also supply Head teachers and other teachers in School Senior Leadership roles.
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Compass Skyview Hotel Royal Estate Management Company Limited 27,29 3rd Floor, Burapha Rd., Wangburaphaphirom Pranakorn, Bangkok 10200 Tel: +66 20111111 Fax: +66 20111199 Email: sales@compassskyviewhotel.com Website: www.compassskyviewhotel.com
Domnern Somkiat & 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
Representatives: Mr. Apiwatt Kongsoowan - Partner/ Managing Director
dwp The Dusit Thani Building, Level 11 946 Rama IV Road, Silom Bangkok 10500 Tel: +66 2267-3939 Fax: +66 2267-3949 Email: tracy.s@dwp.com Website: www.dwp.com
Representatives: Mr. Vladimiros Alidis - Regional General Manager-Asia Mr. Jan Kovacs - Operations Manager
The hotel is located next to Emporium Shopping Centre and just a few steps from Phrom Phong BTS Station and The EmQuartier Shopping Complex. Dedicated Club Rooms and the SkyView Lounge provide for “a hotel within a hotel” experience. Featuring a pillarless Grand Ballroom with complete natural light, several breakout rooms, the hotel caters very well to Conferences, Meetings and Events such as Gala Dinners and Weddings. The hotel also features an outdoor Swimming Pool and a carefully laid out Fitness Centre. DNB Pharma Ltd. 7 Galveston Grove Fenton, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire ST4 3PE Tel: +44 (0)1782333155 Email: dave@dnbpharma.com Website: www.dnbpharma.co.uk Representatives: Mr. David Brookes - Managing Director
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Representatives: Mr. Guillaume Kohen - Director, Business Development – SE Asia, India & Australia
Euro-Center (Thailand) Co., Ltd. 318 Evergreen Place, Fl. 10 Phayathai Road, Ratchathevi Bangkok 10400 Tel: +66 26963626-7 Fax: +66 26963628 Email: Bangkok@euro-center.com Website: https://euro-center.com/
Representatives: Ms. Wilawan Brenig - Director of Sales and Marketing Ms. Amita Wongwai - Assistant Director of Sales – Corporate Background: The Compass SkyView Hotel, a high-rise hotel located on Bangkok’s renowned Sukhumvit Soi 24 will over 285 stylish guest rooms, club?oors and spacious Suites for both short and extended stays.
e2v Unit A, 23/F, @Convoy No. 169 Electric Road, North Point Tel: + 65 9273 5132 Website: www.e2v.com
Representatives: Mr. Brenton Justin Maureillo - CEO Mr. Scott Whittaker - Executive Director Background: Established in 1994 in Bangkok Thailand, dwp (design worldwide partnership), is a multi-award winning integrated design company. With over 450 professionals servicing clients from our offices in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, India, China and Australia. dwp portfolio includes Lifestyle: residential, retail, hospitality; Community: architecture, museums, education, health; and Work: workplace, banking and finance.
Background: Established since 1989 in Bangkok as a 24/7 Assistance & Claims center servicing Expatriates, Travellers ad Tourists in Thailand and 19 other countries in SE Asia. We handle around 24,000 cases annually and are a part of a world-wide unique local & regional service center network, which was founded over 40 years ago in Europe.
Four Points By Sheraton Bangkok Sukhumvit 15 4 Sukhumvit 15 Sukhumvit Road, Klongtoey-Nua Wattana, Bangkok 10110 Tel: +66 2309-3000 Fax: +66 2309-3103 Website: www.fourpoints.com/ bangkoksukhumvit15
also intended to instil an appreciation of the values of cooperation, tolerance, respect, caring and community spirit. Representatives: Mr. Peter Nicholas Lucas - General Manager Ms. Duangjai Kaewprajam - Director of Sales and Marketing Background: Four Points by Sheraton, with 150 properties in 24 countries, offers the self-sufficient traveler style and comfort – all at an honest value. All hotels feature free high-speed Internet access, complimentary bottled water, and a great beer at the end of a long day courtesy of the brand’s signature Best Brews® program. Four Points by Sheraton hotels are located in easy-toreach areas – close to major airports, suburban centers, urban hot spots and resort and vacation destinations. Four Points by Sheraton Bangkok is the first Four Points by Sheraton in Thailand, located along Sukhumvit Road, set amid a central hub in Bangkok renowned for its great shopping and lively nightlife. The hotel is also conveniently within walking distance of the Asok Bangkok sky train station and near Silom and Sathorn Road business districts. The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Room 2011, MBA Office Lee Shau Kee Business Building Clear Water Bay, Kowloon Tel: + (852) 23588044 Email: desmondtam@ust.hk Representatives: Ms. Grace Liang - Head, MBA & Executive Education Development, China
iCamp Thailand 94 Udomsuk Road, Kwang Nongbon Khet Pravet, Bangkok 10250 Tel: +66 23995400 Fax: +66 23995416 Email: info@icampthailand.com Website: www.icampthailand.com
Representatives: Mr. Joseph De Petro - CEO Ms. Dominique Perry - Managing Director Background: Launched in 2016, iCamp Thailand is a unique, American-style residential camp – the first of its kind in the Asia Pacific region. iCamp Thailand offers summer and holiday camps to children who are looking for something exciting, challenging and character enhancing to do during the short and long holidays. We also offer customised activities for school residentials and can accommodate up to 200 students and 30 teachers / counsellors. The emphasis is on fun learning environment, and activities are varied and enriching – from arts and crafts, dance, circus, theatre to sports, music and education. The educational programme include activities to support learning and educational challenges such as language-based difficulties, dyslexia, English as an Additional Language, and struggles with Maths, among others. iCamp Thailand offers one to threeweeks programme catering to children between 8 and 16 years old throughout the year, with the scheduled camps matching school breaks in Thailand, Hong Kong, Singapore, southeast Asia and the region. We also offer corporate retreat and team building activities for adults. iCamp is set across 84 rai of natural beauty in the stunning province of Kanchanaburi, Thailand, which serves as the perfect backdrop for iCamp’s stimulating blend of activities. The camp is multicultural and fully inclusive. Children will be safe, happy and fully engaged in a whole range of sporting, musical and educational activities. By maintaining stimulating and healthy routines, participation in the iCamp programme will ensure that the transition from school to holiday and back to school again is both smooth and fulfilling. The camp provides opportunities for acquiring new skills and knowledge, boosting confidence and self–esteem and to building social bonds between peers. Activities are
iCamp is fully equipped with on-site water park, basketball, tennis, volley ball courts, football pitch, small classrooms/meeting rooms and an auditorium for performances. Catering, laundry and air-conditioned accommodation are included in our facilities.
International Child Protection Advisors (ICPA) Ltd 4 Calder Court, Amy Johnson Way, Blackpool FYA 2 RH Tel: +44 (0) 7836697397 Email: info@icpa.co.uk Website: www.icpa.co.uk
Representatives: Mr. Tim Gerrish OBE – Founder Background: ICPA is committed to meeting the specific child protection and safeguarding needs of the International Schools and organisations that we work with around the world, helping them to manage the risks and maintain the highest standards.
Jet Airways (India) Ltd. 8/15-16 Cathay House 4th Floor, North Sathorn Road Silom, Bangrak Bangkok 10500 Tel: +66 2696-8980 Fax: +66 2696-8955 Email: bkkreservations@jetairways. com Website: www.jetairways.com
Representatives: Mr. Anindam Choudhury - Country Manager- Thailand & Indo China Ms. Busarin Sae Pung - Sales Manager
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Mr. Lee Chew Liang - CEO & Founder, Connols Group Tel: 29006900-5 Email: mikelcl@connols.co.th He provides leadership for positioning the company at the forefront of the industry. His ultimate duty is to set all the directions. Develop a strategic plan to advance the company’s mission and objectives and to promote revenue, profitability and growth as an organization. Mr. Lee Chew Liang (Michael Lee) has over 35 years of experience in the field of Micro-Contamination Control, HVAC System, M&E System, Cleanroom Design and built experience. During his years in the industry, he carried out project work across ASEAN countries (Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand) and China, Australia, and India). He was a former Project Manager of ACMA in Singapore. Companies which Mr. Michael Lee associated work with are Seagate Technology International (Singapore, Malaysia, China & Thailand) IBM, WD, Maxtor, Hitachi, MMI Precision (Thailand) Ltd., WD, Belton, JCY etc. Mr. Michael Lee holds various Professional Licenses such as: • Degree in Business Administration (BBA) from Australia • Diploma in Marketing from Singapore Polytechnic • Diploma in Marketing from Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIMUK) • Diploma in Industrial Engineering from Singapore Polytechnic • Diploma in Mechanical Engineering from Singapore Polytechnic • Diploma in Industrial Engineering from Institution of Industrial Managers, UK • Certificate in Building Science from Singapore University • Certificate in Industrial Automation from Singapore Polytechnic Mr. Michael Lee has a global responsibility for strategy, product marketing, sales, services, and support of solutions for Connols Group Management.
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With his 35 years of experienced in Engineering and Construction & Technology and Services Firm , it has been numerous projects in the field of turnkey constructions, civil and structural engineering, industrial , plant, and Cleanroom building in different parts of Thailand. With Mr. Lee’s long and depth experience in strategic planning and execution, He becomes one of the specialists in the Construction and Cleanroom Industry.
Omni International Consultants Company Ltd 20th Floor, 75/34 Ocean Tower 2, Sukhumvit Soi 19, Bangkok 10110 Tel: +66 26616349 Fax: +66 26616239 Email: vikki@omni-interconsult.com Website: www.omni-interconsult.com
Representatives: Ms. Vikki MacQueen - Accounts Director Mr. James MacQueen - CEO Background: Omni International Consultants is a specialist recruitment organization supplying personnel to the Manufacturing, Engineering, Construction & Oil/Gas industry on an exclusive and highly confidential basis. We are a global HR consultancy founded in 2000 with our Head Office located in Bangkok, Thailand and liaison offices located in Rayong, UK, Dubai, Saudi Arabia, India and Australia. We already serve a wide network of satisfied clients in different industries spread all across the globe. Our globally experienced team has in-depth knowledge of the issues facing cross-cultural, multi-racial teams of all sizes which makes our recruitment services customized and solution focused.
Some of our satisfied Clients: • Siam Cement Group (SCG) • Babcock Power • Linde Group • Aurecon • CUEL • Samsung • Phelps Dodge International (General Cable) • Global Architecture (Permasteelisa) • Siemens • Christiani & Nielsen One Sport & Media Management 195 Empire Tower 18th Floor, Unit 1812 South Sathorn Road, Yannawa Sathorn, Bangkok 10120 Tel: +66 26700930 Fax: +66 26595794 Email: kevin@onesportmedia.com Website: www.onesportmedia.com
Representatives: Mr. Kevin Tarrant - CEO Mr. Mark Easton - CFO Background: One Sport Media Management is a Bangkok-based business principally involved in the running of holiday sports camps at International Schools in Southeast Asia. The camps are innovative with the company employing professional coaches, often current or former sporting celebrities, and where the emphasis is ultimately on the children having as much fun as possible. This year we have booked ex-England footballers John Barnes and Terry Butcher, as well as GB Olympic swimming finalist James Goddard. TV presenter and sports commentator Rachel Downie will be working with children in the classroom on sports writing and building up their confidence in public speaking. The camps promote a fun, healthier lifestyle to children with the aim of also improving their self-esteem through sports participation in a structured way within a safe environment. In addition, the camps also gently introduce valuable life skills with an eye on developing communication.
Portsmouth Aviation Ltd. Airport Service Road Portsmouth, Hampshire PO3 5PF Tel: +44 (0) 2392-621724 Fax: +44 (0) 7557740 844 Email: a-bowles@portav.com Website: www.portav.com Representatives: Mr. Andy Bowles - Supply Chain Manager Products or Services: Complete Water Purification solutions The system can be used for the treatment of drinking water or treatment of waste water. It is designed to be fitted in network or non-network locations. UNIQUE WATER PURIFICATION PROCESS The process at the heart of our system is a patented Water filtration and treatment process that uses a unique disinfection (ESOL) Electrolysed solution. The disinfectant (ESOL) Electrolysed solution qualities, Treat water to be microbiologically safe to drink with no detectable presence of coliforms including bacteria, viruses and pathogens; Destroying legionella, salmonella, cryptosporidium, E-coli, faecal streptococci and many other harmful germs. Its sterilising effect also ensures that the system’s filters and equipment remain clean and free from biofilm, meaning less maintenance and longer storage life for treated water. Membrane water treatment plants are prone to organic fouling. This means they must be cleaned on a regular basis using harmful acids which are dangerous to the environment. The waste water has to be removed from the plant and disposed of using Specialist methods. Using our disinfection means that the cleaning process backflush of the membranes can return to the water source with no environmental damage. Our system produces this proprietary cleaning Solution (ESOL) Electrolysed solution on demand; which is also used for primary disinfection. This solution is formed using natural products. It is highly efficient and cost effective. The result is an environmentally acceptable Stand-alone water treatment system.
In addition we offer a CRS (Capacitive Recovery System) (TDS Total Dissolved Solids) treating water to dissolve ions, leaving the water pure, this reduces and removes levels of ammonium, iron, manganese, zinc and other metal and impurities. Salience Consulting Mazaya Business Avenue AA1, Unit 2407, JLT Dubai Tel: + 971 44380 7041 Website: www.salience.ae Representatives: Khun Phil Thompson - Business Development Director, Asia Background: Salience Consulting is an established telecom management consultancy, market insight and professional services organization focused on telecom regulators, operators, investors, and government ministries for strategic, regulatory and technology excellence. Our resolute industry focus has cemented Salience as the go-to advisor and on-ground implementer of telecommunications knowhow. Our company is made up of senior management consultants with practical telecom experience having worked for major operators such British telecom, AT&T and regional operators that include Telekom Malaysia, Indosat, True Corporation, Corus, Etisalat and MTN. The rich telecom background is also complemented by successful consulting careers in companies such as BT Teleconsult, PA Consulting and PwC. Our senior consultants typically hold between 15 to 40 years’ international experience, meaning our customers benefit from seasoned, pragmatic leaders in their respective domains.
Siam City Cement Public Company Limited Column Tower, 7th - 12th Fl. 199 Ratchadapisek Road Klomgtoey, Klongtoey Bangkok 10110 Tel: +66 27977000 Fax: +66 27977001-2 Website: www.siamcitycement.com
Representatives: Dr. Vincent Aloysius - CEO of Insee Ecocycle Ms. Bhornpradhana Pramukchai - Media and PR Division Manager Background: The company was first established on May 16, 1969 as Siam City Cement Public Company Limited, and proudly became a listed company in the Stock Exchange of Thailand in 1977. The company owns three cement plants with six kilns in Kang Koi District, Saraburi Province and currently offers three major types of cement products; ‘Mixed cement’, ‘Portland cement’, and ‘Masonry Cement’ with the production capacity of approximately 14.8 million tons per year solely in Thailand. SCCC recently expands its business into Asia region namely Cambodia, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.
SO Sofitel Hua Hin 115 Moo 7, Tambol Bangkao Cha Am, Petchburi 76120 Tel: +66 32709555 Fax: +66 32473190 Email: H9649@sofitel.com Website: www.sofitel.com/9649
Representatives: Mr. Pablo Barruti - General Manager Mr. Waichue Solasachinda - Cluster Director of Marketing and Communications Background: SO Sofitel Hua Hin is an artistic adventure though the Evolution of Life, designed by award winning architects, designers and enhanced with signature fashion designer, Polpat Asavaphrapa. The journey unfolds at the moment of arrival at the geometrical landscaped courtyard and progresses with every step, through the open-air lobby and the interwoven maze of
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open courtyards and private pathways filled with hidden art and animal figures waiting to be discovered. Situated beachside with a 2-hour drive from Bangkok, the resort has 77 rooms and pool villas split into two distinct styles: SO Arty and SO nature. Surprising wine and dine experiences awaits at the contemporary Thai restaurant White Oven, the playful beach club Beach Society and the rooftop bar HI-SO, while well-being experiences are offered at SoSPA and SoFIT. Meeting spaces range from So Ballroom to beachside event lawns for tailored moments. SO Sofitel Hua Hin brings the pulse to one of Thailand’s most popular beach destinations, a playful yet luxurious resort to have fun and contemplate over design and art, an Imaginative Escape waiting to be explored. Metal Tiger Exploration Company Limited 75/32 Richmond Office Building 12 Floor, Sukhumvit Road Soi Sukhumvit 26, Klong Tan Klong Toei, Bangkok 10110 Representatives: Mr. Geoff Stephen McIntyre - Managing Director International Vocational and Business Education Co. Ltd. 590 Pracha Uthit Rd. Huai Khwang, Bangkok 10310 Tel: +66 22744407 Website: www.ricbkk.com Representatives: Mr. Nitinan Dutta - Managing Director Mr. Gareth Knight - Director Resignations & Cancellations 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
Be And Become Co., Ltd. BG Asia Pacific Pte Limited Checkinn 99 Cliff Premiums Designing Leaders, LLC DEWA PHUKET Doubletree By Hilton Sukhumvit Bangkok 8. Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business 9. Ensign Media 10. Jools Bar & Restaurant
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11. Mitre Sports International 12. Oat Services Ltd. 13. Optimus Oil and Gas Engineering Ltd. 14. Orchid Diamond Polishing Works Ltd. 15. PFS International Consultants Co., Ltd. 16. PricewaterhouseCoopers Consulting (Thailand) Ltd. 17. Proventus UK Ltd 18. Ricoh (Thailand) Limited 19. Study Group (UK) Ltd. 20. Vana Nava Hua Hin Water Jungle 21. William Grant & sons (Singapore) Pte Ltd. 22. World Institute for Action Learning (Thailand) Ltd. Change of company representatives 1. Budget Car and Truck Rental changed from Mr. Vanchai Tangpanichdee to Ms. Pimpatt Talalak 2. Emirates changed from Mr. Virasakdi Vongkositkul to Mr. Jirasasak Tingsuk 3. Gaysorn Land Asset Management Co., Ltd. Changed from Mr. Edward Michael Barrow to Mr. Thomas William Patrick Andrews 4. Hotel Indigo Bangkok Wireless Road from Mr. Thanawat Bumpensanti to Mr. Surasak Chantaroton 5. Loc Laem Chabang Co., Ltd., changed from Mr. Donald Ross to Mr. Chatchai Arunrat 6. Siam Premier International Law Office Limited from Mr. Daniel Greif to Mr. Chatchavej Chitvarakorn 7. Staedtler (Thailand) Ltd. Changed from Mr. Rolf-Dieter Daniel to Mr. Markus Handfest Change of company name 1. Budget Car and Truck Rental changed from Mr. Vanchai Tangpanichdee to Ms. Pimpatt Talalak 2. Hotel Indigo Bangkok Wireless Road from Mr. Thanawat Bumpensanti to Mr. Surasak Chantaroton 3. Loc Laem Chabang Co., Ltd., changed from Mr. Donald Ross to Mr. Chatchai Arunrat 4. MBMG Group changed to MBMG Investment Advisory Co Limited 5. Property Care Services (Thailand) Ltd. changed to PCS Security And Facility Services Limited 6. Siam Premier International Law
Office Limited from Mr. Daniel Greif to Mr. Chatchavej Chitvarakorn 7. Towers Watson (Thailand) Limited changed to Willis Towers Watson Thailand Change of company address 1. Administration Outsourcing Co., Ltd. 16th Floor, Maneeya Center Building 518/5 Ploenchai Road, Lumpini, Pathumwan Bangkok 10330 2. BEUMER Group (Thailand) Co., Ltd. Dr. Gerhard Link Building, 14th Floor 5, Krungthepkreetha Road Huamark, Bangkapi Bangkok 10240 3. Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Jaiyos Co., Ltd. Rajanakarn Bldg., 25th – 26th, 28th Floor 3 South Sathorn Road Yannawa, Sathorn Bangkok 10120 4. Mr. Ian Cunningham 15 Sukhumvit Residences 12/377, 18th Floor Sukhumvit Soi 15 North Klongtoey, Wattana Bangkok 10110 5. Kluber Lubrication (Thailand) Co., Ltd. 5 Dr. Gerhard Link Building 12th Floor, Soi Krungthepkreetha 4, Krungthepkreetha Road, Huamark, Bangkapi Bangkok 10240 6. Prudential Life Assurance (Thailand) Public Company Limited 9/9 @Sathorn Building, 20st - 27th Fl., South Sathorn Rd., Yannawa, Sathorn Bangkok 10120 7. Stonehead International Trading Co., Ltd. 550 Moo 7, Hin Lek Fai, Hua Hin Prachuab Khirikhan 77110 8. Veritas Enterprises Ltd. Unit 155-9-5 Blk 155 Menara Duta 1 Jalan Dutamas Raya, Segambut Kuala Lumpur 51200 MALAYSIA 9. Wunderman 989 Siam Piwat tower Nuilding, 19th Floor, Unit B1 Rama 1 Road, Pathumwan Bangkok 10330
Britain in South East Asia (BiSEA) Fax: 603-2163-1781 Email: britcham@bmcc.org.my Website: www.bmcc.org.my Chairman: Andrew Sill General Manager: Nik Tasha Nik Kamaruddin CAMBODIA British Chamber of Commerce in Cambodia British Chamber of Commerce, Cambodia (BritCham) Office: British Embassy, #27-29 Street 75, Phnom Penh, Cambodia Tel: 855-1232-3121 E-mail: executivedirector@ britchamcambodia.org Website: www.britchamcambodia.org Chairman: David Tibbott Executive Director: Olivia Widen
INDONESIA British Chamber of Commerce in Indonesia Wisma Metropolitan 1, 15th Floor, Jl. Jend, Sudirman Kav 29-31 Jakarta, Indonesia 12920 Tel: 62-21-522-9453 Fax: 62-21-527-9135 Email: chriswren@britcham.or.id Website: www.britcham.or.id Chairman: Adrian Short Executive Director: Chris Wren
MALAYSIA British Malaysian Chamber of Commerce E04C1, 4th Floor East Block Wisma Selangor Dredging 142-B Jalan Ampang 50450 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Tel: 603-2163-1784 /1786
MYANMAR British Chamber of Commerce Myanmar Hintha Business Centre Floor 3, 608 Merchant Street (corner of Merchant & 31st) Pabedan Township Yangon, Myanmar Email: stephanie@ britishchambermyanmar.com President: Peter Beynon FCA Executive Director: Stephanie Ashmore
PHILIPPINES British Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines c/o The British Embassy Manila 120 Upper McKinley Road McKinley hill, Taguig City 1634 Metro Manila, Philippines Tel: 632-858-2255/858-2372/ 858-2373 Fax: 632-858-2390 Email: chairman@bccphil.com Website: www.bccphil.com Chairman: Chris Nelson
SINGAPORE British Chamber of Commerce in Singapore 138 Cecil Street, #11-01 Cecil Court Singapore 069538 Tel: 65-6222-3552 Fax: 65-6222-3556 Email: info@britcham.org.sg Website: www.britcham.org.sg President: Mr. Bicky Bhangu Executive Director: Brigitte Holtschneider
THAILAND British Chamber of Commerce Thailand (BCCT) 7th Floor, 208 Wireless Rd., Lumpini Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 Tel: 66-2651-5350-3 Fax: 66-2651-5354 Email: greg@bccthai.com Website: www.bccthai.com Chairman: Simon Matthews 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 Hanoi 193B Ba Trien, Hai Ba Trung District Hanoi, Vietnam Tel: 84 4 6674 0945 Chairman: Kenneth M Atkinson Executive Director: Adair The LinkErikIssue 3/2016 67
FINAL WORD
Tickets please By Dale Lawrence
D
ay trips from school to London in the 1960s involved, almost inevitably, a ride on a London Routemaster bus. These double decker buses, designed by London Transport and built at the AEC Works in Southall, plied the streets of London from 1956 until their enforced retirement in 2005. The sight of commuters chasing, usually in vain, a 73 bus along Oxford Street always added enjoyment to any visit to the heart of London’s shopping district. Such a sight today would undoubtedly spark apoplectic reactions amongst Britain’s officious health and safety operatives. The Routemaster featured an innovative design, using lightweight aluminium and techniques developed in aircraft production during World War II. The buses also featured independent front suspension, power steering, a fully automatic gearbox and power-hydraulic braking. The Routemaster outlasted several of its replacement types in London. Most commuters liked the open platform that allowed boarding and alighting away from stops. The Routemaster also prompted a popular TV series ‘On the Buses’
A scene from the popular TV sitcom On the Buses
starring Reg Varney as bus driver Stan Butler and Stephen Lewis as Cyril ‘Blakey’ Blake. Blakey’s cry ‘I hate you, Butler’ will live long in the memory. The appearance of a London Routemaster at the recent Thai-UK trade exhibition in Bangkok was a popular attraction for expats, local visitors and dignitaries including Thailand’s Deputy PM Deputy PM General Ta-
nasak Patimapragorn and Minister of Tourism & Sports Mrs. Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul. Despite the enforced retirement of the Routemaster from service with London Transport this classic British design enjoys iconic status throughout the world and currently serves two heritage routes in central London.
Prescription for excess spending
I
t’s enough to give any UK government Health Minister a headache. Government figures have revealed that the NHS spent (or should it be wasted) a staggering £87 million last year on paracetamol prescribed by Britain’s
GPs. In surgeries across the country General Practitioners were writing nearly 23 million prescriptions for paracetamol at a cost of nearly four quid per patient. Meanwhile, chemist shops and su-
permarkets are happy to dispense their own brands for a fraction of the price – without a prescription. Some GPs are now seeing common sense and saving taxpayers’ money by prescribing painkillers for minor ailments. Not before time.
The views and opinions expressed on this page by Editor Dale Lawrence are entirely personal and do not reflect official BCCT policy. 68
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