The German-Thai Chamber of Commerce (GTCC) in Bangkok is a member of the German Chambers of Commerce Worldwide Network (AHK), with 150 locations in 93 countries. Since its establishment in Bangkok in 1962, the GTCC has maintained itself as a reliable intermediary between German and Thai businesses, thus contributing to the dynamism of the economic development in both countries.
In the course of 2023, GTCC put together about 232 events and activities (85 events of the Membership, Events and Communications Department, 13 events of the Corporate Services Department, 1 event of the Trade Fairs Department and 133 events of the GTDEE Department) that encouraged further development and interaction of the German-Thai business community within Thailand and abroad.
GTCC had successfully retained 552 active members in 2023. Among them, 477 members were in Thailand (including 6 honorary members), in addition to 75 members in Germany and other countries.
Various activities were organised exclusively for GTCC members such as site visits. The chamber also hosted “GTCC Members & Friends Phuket Activation Lunch” for the first time in 2023 to connect with GTCC members in Phuket, learning from them about their current activities and discussing potential collaboration together. “GTCC AFTERWORK” was launched in January 2023 as a new networking format for GTCC members and partners to get connected every month to strengthen their friendships and make new contacts from various industries.
GTCC continued utilising social media platforms such as facebook, LinkedIn, and twitter, to keep its members, business partners informed about events, activities and key changes in the business community. “GTCC INSIGHTS” and “GTCC’s member special promotions” newsletters present current activities of GTCC Members. A biweekly GTCC e-UPDATE newsletter and quarterly UPDATE e-magazine remain major channels to provide essential information about the business and industry sectors in Thailand. Our online membership directory offered relevant and up-to-date database with dedicated user account and password to access members’ profiles and contact details.
The Corporate Services Department supports the market entry process of clients to Thailand, Germany and ASEAN through its services offered: flexible and tailor-made to suite the individual needs of companies. Those services include market studies, market information, business research, business matchmaking, technical workshops, conferences, and the organisation of exclusive business delegations. In 2023, the digital adoption of various business formats and services continued creating value for our customers and also helped streamlining internal processes during the coronavirus pandemic. In order to support the export activities of German SMEs, the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action
(BMWK) as well as German Federal States offer various programs. The GTCC is actively involved in these programs: for example, German Energy Solutions Initiative (BMWK) and the Foreign Market Entry Programme (BMWK).
The Corporate Services Department plays a vital role supporting German companies from various industry backgrounds and from the service sector in gaining first-hand knowledge of the Thai market, thus paving the way for potential future business activities in Thailand as well as in the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC).
GTCC is the official representative of renowned German trade fair companies with international repute, which including Messe Berlin GmbH, Deutsche Messe AG, Messe München GmbH, NürnbergMesse GmbH, and Spielwarenmesse eG. 2023 marked the first year with a complete trade fair calendar since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic. Throughout all four quarters of the year, a minimum of 340 events are scheduled, including the resumption of many international industry fairs that had been paused for several years due to the pandemic. The trade fair industry is on a path of recovery, witnessing the return of both national and international participants to Germany as a preferred trade fair location.
GTDEE-Thai Dual Excellence Education (GTDEE), operated by GTCC, is the coordination and consultation office for the vocational certification level and higher vocational certification level based on German quality standard in the “Apprenticeship Programme”. Participating in the GTDEE apprenticeship programme, apprentices spend time around 30 per cent of the time at partner vocational colleges and around 70 per cent in partner companies. GTDEE also offers a service called Quality Assurance (QA) on Vocational Educational and Training for Thai vocational institutions. In addition, the GTDEE provides the service called “AdA International - Train the Trainer” (copyrights from DIHK, Germany) for trainers from various companies.
2023 marked GTDEE’s 10th anniversary. A celebratory event was organised on 3 July 2023 with the participation of partner companies and colleges. The GTDEE continued to implement “Mechatronics Vocational Training” under project-based learning at Eastern Technological College and Don Bosco Technological College foundation for basic training. The main objective of this measure is the development and implementation of the first steps of mechatronics vocational training oriented to German standards. GTDEE also carried out Industrial Meister examinations based on German standards in June 2023 in cooperation with KMUTNB and Pathumthani Brewery Co., Ltd.
GTCC recorded another eventful year in 2023 with about 232 events and activities. A selection of the highlights is listed below.
GTCC BUSINESS LUNCHEON: THAILAND ECONOMIC OUTLOOK 2023
About 100 participants joined the GTCC Business Luncheon “Thailand Economic Outlook 2023” on 2 March 2023 at the Sukhothai Hotel Bangkok. GTCC owed a debt of gratitude to our Keynote Speaker, Khun Narit Therdsteerasukdi, Secretary- General, Office of the Board of Investment (BOI) for sharing his insights on “Thailand 2023 and beyond: Toward an Innovative, Competitive and Inclusive New Economy”.
GTCC also would like to thank the panelists from GTCC member companies: Mr. Kanoksak Mokkamakkul, Executive Vice-President, Bangkok Bank Public Co., Ltd.; Mr. Alexander Donau, Regional Head, Asia-Pacific and Director of the Board for Leschaco (Thailand); Ms. Anlee Do, General Manager Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines and the Mekong Region, Lufthansa German Airlines; Mr. Jan Wittenstein, Head of Automotive Technologies Sales and Business Development SEA/P, Schaeffler Manufacturing (Thailand); and Mr. Tomasz Masur, Chief Executive Officer, Siemens Mobility; and our Moderator Dr. Timo Slawinski, Managing Director, Covestro (Thailand) for their kind contributions to the panel discussion.
GTCC hosted an open house event on 25 April 2023 and invited our members and neighbours to visit GTCC’s new office on the same floor at AIA Sathorn Tower. This gathering offered them an opportunity to get a close glimpse of the upgraded facilities. GTCC moved into this new office on 20 February 2023.
GTCC AFTERWORK is our new networking format for GTCC members, partners and friends to get connected every month to strengthen their friendships and make new contacts from various industries. The first GTCC AFTERWORK was organised at Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok on 19 January 2023. More than 100 guests were welcomed by GTCC President Mr. Michael Welser with his opening remarks. The event was supported by Event Partners Hampton Hotel & Residence Management and WHA Group; Beverage Partner Paulaner by Flow Inter; and Venue Partner Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok.
The first GTCC Business Women Networking event of 2023 took place on 14 March 2023 at the Bangkok Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit. Speaker Khun Kulthirath Pakawachkrilers, CEO and Co-founder at Thailand e-Business Center (TeC) and President of the Thai E-commerce Association (THECA) and Master of Ceremony Khun Mookfee Nantanapramoth, CEO and Founder of Chris & M Co., Ltd. had a fireside discussion on “DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality” with about 50 businesswomen. Thanks to all participants, in particular Event Partner Bumrungrad International Hospital, Beverage Partner Serenity Wines Asia and Venue Partner Bangkok Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit for their great support to the event.
GTCC Young Professionals Network Evening on “Managing cross-cultural operational teams to drive for sustainable growth” with Covestro Managing Director Dr. Timo Slawinski was organised on 20 July 2023. Thanks to Venue Partner Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok and Beverage Partner Flow Inter for the great support.
More than 30 GTCC members joined GTCC site visit on 23 November 2023 to Rhenus Thailand Warehouse, Bangna-Trad KM.19, exploring its advanced storage systems and high-quality inventory management and solutions. We appreciate the warm welcome by Mr. Timo Herbst, General Manager - Business Development; Mr. Mark Scheepers, Director of Warehousing Solutions Thailand; Khun Piyapong Pratumpitak, General Manager - Business Development CL; Khun Sunai Imhun, General Manager - Warehouse Operations; Khun Pakpoom Chaokaweepong, General Manager, Operations Excellence & Implementations SEAPAC; and the team.
About 40 HR professionals gathered at GTCC HR Briefing & Networking with a focus on “2023 Best Practices in C&B, ER, L&D and TA”, organised on 23 March 2023 at Le Meridien Bangkok. Thanks to our speakers Khun Ploytabtim Yeetho, Country HR Lead Thailand, Myanmar and Cambodia at Bayer Thailand; Khun Pachamon Panyosuk, Head of Human Resources Thailand and HR Business Partner Automotive Aftermarket, Southeast Asia at Schaeffler Manufacturing (Thailand) Co., Ltd.; Khun Suppawan Rattanapirom, Head of Business Services, Thailand & Vietnam at BASF (Thai) Limited; Khun Tikumporn Suewatanapong, Human Resources Lead at Robert Bosch Limited; and our moderator Mr. Tom Sorensen, Managing Director of Tom Sorensen Recruitment and NPAworldwide Co., Ltd. for sharing the insights into the topics.
On Friday, 26 May 2023, GTCC organised the highly anticipated “GTCC Gala Night 2023”, which was returned after a four-year break. Approximately 250 esteemed guests as well as guests of honour German Ambassador H.E. Georg Schmidt and his spouse, Madame Yuet Lin Fong, graced us with their presence.
GTCC would like to express our appreciation to Gold Partners Lufthansa and Schaeffler Manufacturing; Silver Partners BMW Group, DACHSER, Ebner Stolz, Luther, Mazars in Thailand, Mercedes-Benz Thailand, Kärcher, and Rhenus Logistics; Beverage Partners Global Wines & More, and Paulaner by Flow Inter; In-kind Bumrungrad International Hospital and Maikhao Dream Villa Resort & Spa, Media Partners The BigChilli, FocusMedia Thailand and Prestige Thailand; and Venue Partner Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel.
GTCC Phuket Activation Lunch with members and friends made its debut on 29 June 2023 at the Double Tree by Hilton Phuket Banthai Resort, GTCC member since November 2022.
GTCC Executive Director Dr. Roland Wein and Head of Membership, Events & Communications Department, Ms. Jantarath Korbuakesorn connected and learned from the members in the Phuket area about their current activities. They discussed potential collaboration together.
GTCC organised one of the signature events “GTCC Oktoberfest 2023” on 20-21 October 2023. The Oktoberfest’s long-standing tradition of beer keg tapping was performed by German Ambassador Dr. Ernst Reichel, Governor of Bangkok Khun Chadchart Sittipunt, and GTCC President on the first day. For the second day, the Oktoberfest was opened by Mr. Hans-Ulrich Südbeck, Deputy Chief of Mission at the German Embassy Bangkok, together with GTCC President. Highlights of the GTCC Oktoberfest included a live Bavarian band “O’zapft” performing in the original atmosphere with wooden Festzelt-benches, a wide range of delicious German feasts, and the genuine Paulaner Oktoberfest Beer as well as an after-party with live DJs.
We appreciate the great support from Diamond Partners: B.Grimm and Schaeffler Manufacturing; Gold Partners: BMW Group Thailand, DACHSER, LUTHER, Munich RE; Silver Partners: BASF, Bosch, Leschaco, Isegrim-X, Litigoal, Thaivivat Insurance, and Wissen & Co; In-kind Partner: Bumrungrad International Hospital; Venue Partner: Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit and; Beverage Partner: Paulaner by Flow Inter.
On 14 March 2023, a Thai-German conference on “Solar PV and Grid-Integration” was organised to provide a platform for discussing cutting-edge solutions for solar PV and grid integration necessary for Thailand’s carbon neutrality 2050 goal, the projection for Thailand’s new Power Development Plan (PDP) well as most recent advancements and pilot projects in Germany and Thailand.
More than 100 participants at the conference learned from keynote speakers and experts in the field including Mr. Johannes Kerner (German Embassy Bangkok), Mr. Tawatchai Sumranwanich (EGAT), Mr. Sarat Prakobchat (EPPO). The event also featured panel discussions joined by representatives from ERC, MEA, PEA and TPVA to elaborate on topics such as the potential for solar PV in Thailand, grid integration challenges, and innovative solutions for grid integration. Participating German companies A.Eberle. GmbH & Co KG, Megger Germany GmbH, SMA Solar Technology AG and SolarNext AG showcased technology solutions.
The event was organised by GTCC in collaboration with the eclareon GmbH, as a further step to increase co-operation between Thai and German companies, and within the framework of the German Energy Solutions Initiative supported by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK). It was followed by a business-to-business matching on the following day.
GTCC successfully organised a delegation trip for German companies to Thailand between 12 and 15 June 2023 on the topic of “Waste Management & Recycling”. On the first day the delegation gained information on important topics such as market entry strategies, the utilisation of Euler Hermes ECA instruments, and a comprehensive analysis of Thailand’s political landscape and economic environment.
On June 13, a Thai-German conference on “Waste Management & Recycling” was held as part of the Market Entry Programme for SMEs, supported by the BMWK (Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action). With more than 100 participants, the event showcased advanced waste management and recycling technologies by renowned German companies, including Albert Hoffmann GmbH, Allweiler GmbH; PEINER SMAG GmbH; Zeppelin Systems GmbH; ERK Eckrohrkessel GmbH; TIETJEN Verfahrenstechnik GmbH, as well as Thai companies Global Power Synergy PLC (GPSC) and Wongpanit International Co., Ltd.
GTCC organised the fact-finding mission on “Energy storage solutions (including Hydrogen)” to Germany during 25-28 September 2023 for the delegation of 14 Thai companies and institutions. The mission took place within the German Energy Solutions Initiative, supported by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK). A kick-off conference on “Energy storage solutions” took place in Berlin at the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK) headquarters on September 25. After that, the Thai delegation visited 1) Enapter AG to explore Enapter’s Anion Exchange Membrane (AEM) electrolysers for green hydrogen production; 2) Tesvolt AG to gain first-hand experience in Lithium Battery Storage systems for industry, commerce and agriculture;
3) Enertrag SE with excursions to the hydrogen hybrid power plant Prenzlau, battery storage and substation Cremzow; 4) BAE Batterien GmbH (BAE) to gain insights into the company’s stationary and solar batteries;
5) Autarsys GmbH to learn about the energy storage for on- and off-grid applications; 6) EUREF Campus and EUREF energy plant by GASAG Solution Plus.
SEA CONFERENCE ON GREEN H2 & PTX
GTCC organised a conference on “Green H2 & PtX” on 5 October 2023 in cooperation with the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) within the framework of the H2-Uppp programme. It aims to ramp up the market for green hydrogen (GH2) and Power-to-X (PtX) applications in Thailand and the region under the support from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK).
Dr. Poonpat Leesombatpiboon (International Affairs Division, Ministry of Energy), and Mr. Johannes Kerner (German Embassy Bangkok) welcomed more than 180 attendants with their remarks. Keynote speech was delivered by Mr. Tarik El-Laboudy (BMWK) followed by insights of experts from the Energy Policy and Planning Office, MoEN; GIZ; and Det Norske Veritas. The participants also gained first-hand knowledge from discussions and presentations given by the industry’s key players from the PTT Pcl.; Industrial Gas Co., Ltd.; Siemens Energy Ltd; Siemens Mobility Limited; Energy Research and Development Institute; Chiang Mai University; Kasikornbank PCL; NOW GmbH; NEUMAN & ESSER Verwaltungs- u. Beteiligungsgesellschaft mbH; Agora; EGAT, MAN Energy Solutions Malaysia ES Sdn. Bhd; Norske Veritas; thyssenkrupp Industrial Solutions (Thailand) Ltd.; and Enapter Co., Ltd.
GTCC supported the German Embassy in Bangkok in organising the Thai-German “Climate Talk” on 7 December 2023 at the Eastin Grand Hotel Phayathai in Bangkok. The event started with welcoming remarks by H.E. Dr. Ernst Reichel, German Ambassador to Thailand, followed by a keynote speech by Dr. Kannika Thampanishvong from the Bank of Thailand.
With aims to contribute to ongoing debates on climate issues among the broad public in Thailand, the conference comprised an insightful panel discussion titled “Climate Talks - Perspectives on Climate Change,” followed by interactive workshop sessions on “Green Hydrogen”, “E-Mobility” and “Mitigation and adaptation of agriculture”. The topics were discussed by representatives from GIZ Thailand, EGAT, UN-ESCAP, Enapter, Bangkok Industrial Gas Co., Ltd., Move Forward Party, Asian Institute of Technology, Thailand Clean Air Network, Amata U., Nithi Foods Co., Ltd., Media Agency, Kasetsart University, Olam (Thailand), and Suan Lahu Co., Ltd.
From 20 to 29 January 2023, the Royal Thai Embassy in Berlin organised a Thai Pavilion “Thailand: BioCircular-Green Marktplatz” at the 87th Internationale Grüne Woche (IGW) at Messe Berlin to strengthen the capabilities of Thai entrepreneurs in food and agricultural sectors. According to Bio-Circular-Green Economy (BCG) policy, the Embassy promoted Thai products that meet the environmental standards of the European Union and created opportunities and networks to expand the market and demonstrate the use of technology in agriculture in a way that protects the environment. H.E. Mr. Nadhavathna Krishnamra, Ambassador of Thailand to Berlin, presided over the opening of the Thai Pavilion on 20 January 2023. There were demonstrations of cooking, Thai dancing, carving, Thai massage, as well as stalls from royal project organisations such as Phufa, Pat Pat by Chaipattana Foundation, Doi Tung, and Royal Project Foundation that focused on promoting food products and local handicrafts that are environmentally friendly. The Marketing Organisation for Farmers brought good quality fruits that passed EU standards to be distributed at the event. There were also spa and beauty products from Thai entrepreneurs that produced from local natural ingredients of Thailand such as coconut, kaffir lime, and various herbs.
IGW is the leading international trade fair for food, agriculture and horticulture. Exhibitors from all over the world present an extensive range of products on ten event days. In addition, IGW gives current social issues such as climate protection, circular economy, resource conservation and sustainable land use a stage.
The “EMO Hannover 2023 World Tour” in Bangkok on 13 February 2023. The press conference brought together a diverse range of industry leaders, experts, and enthusiasts to delve into the cutting-edge advancements in the production sector. Taking place at the prestigious Eastin Grand Hotel Sathorn, the event commenced with an exclusive interview conducted by GTCC with esteemed speakers Dr. Wilfried Schäfer, Executive Director of German Machine Tool Builders’ Association (VDW) and Mr. Hartwig von Saß, Press and Public Relations at Deutsche Messe AG.
After Mr. Marius Mehner, GTCC Deputy Executive Director, warmly welcomed all the guests and speakers, the two speakers shared with the audience their insightful statements on the latest industry news and developments. This was followed by a statement from past exhibitor Ms. Chantaravimol Kaewmee, Marketing Manager at Fultech Technology, who provided valuable insights into the industry. The event concluded with a thought-provoking Q&A session and networking lunch, providing attendees with ample opportunities to expand their knowledge and connect with like-minded individuals.
GTCC as the official representative of NürnbergMesse GmbH in Thailand, joined BIOFACH, World’s Leading Trade Fair for Organic Food, and VIVANESS, International Trade Fair for Natural and Organic Personal Care, which have opened their doors once again in Nuremberg.
From February 14th to 17th, 2023, international representatives of the organic food and natural and organic cosmetics sector from the entire supply chain gathered to showcase the latest innovations, exciting new ideas, and a diverse range of products. With a total of 2,765 exhibitors from 95 countries, this event promises to be a vibrant mix of ideas and a great opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals. 26 Thai exhibitors are showcasing their exceptional organic products to the international market once again, almost as many as in the previous year amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
GTCC would like to express our sincere gratitude to the Department of International Trade Promotion, Ministry of Commerce (DITP), Department of Foreign Trade (DFT), and the Thai Organic Trade Association for their unwavering support and successful collaboration, making the Thailand Pavilions possible again this year.
iba is the world’s leading trade fair for bakery, confectionery and snacks that offers a unique platform where the latest trends and innovations in the industry are presented. It provides the trade fair audiences with a unique cross-section of the entire trade from raw materials manufacturers and packaging technology to traditional crafts and digitalisation.
iba brings together all the products and technologies that are relevant to bakers and confectioners of all sizes, decision-makers from the bakery and confectionery industries and food retailers. The range of topics includes raw materials, ingredients and frozen bakery products through production and packaging technology, process optimisation and information technology to complete interior design of bakeries, pastry shops or cafés.
iba is held every three years to invite the world’s bakers to gather at the Fairground Munich. Around 57,000 trade visitors from 150 countries came to iba 2023 in five days from 22 - 26 October to discover the latest trends from around the world and met 1,073 exhibitors from 46 countries in 10 halls. The halls were grouped according to topic, thus creating a good overview of what is on offer and the best possible orientation on site.
The iba.TOPICS consisted of the usual product range and the newly introduced focus topics. These were food trends, artisan bakery, health and sustainability as well as digitalisation, complete solutions and quality management. These topics highlighted the most important trends in the industry, combining supply and demand and looking towards the future.
GTCC celebrated the 10-year anniversary of the German-Thai Dual Excellence Education (GTDEE) project on 4 July 2023 at the SO/Bangkok with GTDEE partners which include companies and colleges as well as the German Embassy in Bangkok represented by Ms. Regina Kimpel, Second Secretary of the Economic and Commercial Section. GTCC would like to express heartfelt gratitude to all the partners who have contributed to GTDEE’s success. Also, a round of applause is given to Mr. Markus Hoffmann, GTDEE Project Director, and Dr. Kamonsak Suradom, GTDEE Senior Manager, for their dedication and commitment.
The GTDEE project was launched in 2013 by the GTCC and German International Cooperation (GIZ), in co-operation with founding companies B. Grimm, BMW Thailand Company Limited and Robert Bosch Thailand. The main objective was to introduce practices from Germany’s vocational education system and to produce skilled workforce with flexible qualifications.
An AHK Regional Meeting Asia-Pacific took place on 28 September 2023 at Eastin Grand Hotel Bangkok, sharing experiences on dual vocational education and training, AdA International (Train the Trainer) Industrial Meister training and development as well as DIHKAHK training courses. The meeting was moderated by Mr. Tobias Bolle from DIHK and participated by experts from AHK in the ASIA Pacific in the field of DVET, TVET and Educator Development.
On 25 July 2023, GTCC organised a handover ceremony of Industrial Meister Certificates in Mechatronics (Pilot Programme) at the GTCC office, following the completion of the Industrial Meister in Mechatronics final examination during 20 to 23 June 2023. Congratulations to the successful in-company trainers of the Pathumthani Apprenticeship Programme.
GTDEE/GTCC organised the PAL Final Examination Part 1 for the BMW Service Apprentice Program batch 2021 on 23-26 January 2023 at the BMW Group Thailand Training Center, Pathumthani Province. The examination was held in accordance with German dual vocational education and training (VET) abroad (level A) standards. The Independent Examiner Committee, made up of experts from the Automotive Engineering Department, the College of Industrial Technology, King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok (KMUTNB), GTCC and independent experts ensured a fair and accurate assessment for all apprentices.
The general tasks that are the responsibility of the Executive Director’s office include:
• General management of the Chamber;
• Initiating a digitalisation process for our members, customers and internally;
• Maintaining close co-ordination with the GTCC Board of Directors;
• Representing the GTCC at functions and conferences, delivering speeches and making presentations;
• Engagement with DIHK;
• Arranging and coordinating GTCC, membership affairs, media events, trade delegations and visiting German companies, and trade fair representation (together with the relevant managers);
• Finance/personnel;
• Liaising with government authorities in Germany and Thailand;
• Liaising with Business Associations/Chambers of Industry and Commerce in Germany, Thailand and Asia Pacific and the German Embassy Bangkok and other embassies
Working closely with the GTCC President, during 2023 the Executive Director organised eight Board meetings to discuss the initiatives and directions of the Chamber. The Board meetings took place on the following dates:
The German Chambers of Commerce and Industry in Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand and the delegations in Myanmar and Vietnam established the German Chamber ASEAN Business Council (GCABC) in order to provide a dialogue platform, strengthen regional co-operation, and support regional trade and investment.
The GCABC provides mechanisms to:
• Enable ASEAN policymakers to identify bottlenecks of strategic importance for the implementation of the AEC Blueprint, including economic policies influencing ASEAN’s trade and investment climate;
• Exchange information between businesses and Chambers with the objective of improving the institutional representation and, ultimately, institutional support from Chambers to businesses;
• Formulate joint positions on issues concerning ASEAN trade and investment, in order to enable companies to adjust their business rationale to current policy thinking of ASEAN key stakeholders as well as expected changes in ASEAN’s trade and investment climate.
The Executive Director attended monthly online meetings between the Executive Directors in ASEAN.
The Executive Director and Deputy Executive Director presented the ASEAN market and its growth potential at the following events to German companies interested in expanding to ASEAN:
• ASEAN Forum at Hannover Fair, 18 April
• NRW ASEAN Summit in Gelsenkirchen, 20 April
• ASEAN Consultation Day at IHK Hannover, 12 May
• Asian-Pacific Forum Bayern in Nuernberg, 26 July
• Foreign Trade Day NRW 2023 in Duesseldorf, 21 September
• International Consultation Day Baden-Württemberg in Stuttgart, 20 November
• International Consultation Day Frankfurt am Main, 22 November
• Trade & Connect at IHK München, 23 November
In 2023, the Executive Director participated in more than 200 meetings with member companies and counterparts of various business communities to discuss joint initiatives and exchange views.
The Chamber organised staff outing from 20 to 23 December at Renaissance Pattaya Resort & Spa, during that all staff joined team building activities.
GTCC had successfully retained 552 active members in 2023. Among them, 477 members were in Thailand (including 6 honorary members), in addition to 75 members in Germany and other countries.
The number of new members in 2023 was 60. Among them, 50 had their establishments or resided in Thailand and 10 were from Germany and other countries. In terms of representatives, 30 of them were represented by Germans, 16 were represented by Thais, and 14 were represented by other nationalities. New members were introduced to GTCC via various chamber services such as business delegations, events, and member referrals.
Among 60 new members in 2023, 30% were the subsidiaries of German companies, 10% were German nationals, and the rest were a mix of MNCs and Thai companies. The regular networking format for Bangkok was introduced in January to provide a platform for members to consistently grow their professional networks. In June, the Phuket outreach program kicked off with existing members and contacts for the first time aiming to explore the possibility of creating a tailored-made German-speaking community event in the area.
Our monthly e-newsletter, “GTCC INSIGHTS”, shared GTCC members’ updated information on key activities among the members. “GTCC’s member special promotions” continued to be popular among members in hospitality and healthcare sectors. Members from other sectors had started to adopt it as an alternative to promote their events, corporate news to the community as well. During festive seasons, GTCC especially featured member festive promotions on the newsletter.
GTCC’s Membership, Events and Communications Department successfully organised/co-organised eighty-five events in 2023 as summarised below:
• Eighty-three physical events
• Two virtual events
In 2023, the Chamber organised eighty-three physical events in various forms including, business luncheon, site visit and community networking.
Secretary General, Office of the Board of Investment (BOI)
Dr. Timo Slawinski
Managing Director, Covestro (Thailand) Co., Ltd.
Mr. Tomasz Mazur
CEO, Siemens Mobility Thailand
Mr. Kanoksak Mokkamakkul
Executive Vice President, Head of Metropolitan Commercial Banking at Bangkok Bank Public Co., Ltd.
Ms. Anlee Do
General Manager, Lufthansa Group
Mr. Alexander Donau
Regional Head Asia Pacific, Leschaco Service Ltd.
Mr. Jan Wittenstein
Director Sales & Business Development Automotive Technologies, Southeast Asia, Schaeffler Manufacturing (Thailand) Co., Ltd.
Briefing & Seminar
9 March
GTCC AFTERWORK Briefing with L&P: “What
Mr. Till Morstadt Executives in Thailand need to know about Managing Director of Lorenz & Partners Co., Ltd. International Tax Developments - An Overview on the Impact of BEPS, Pillar 2 and Minimum Tax on Investments and Investment Incentives in Thailand”
28 April
GTCC Multi-Chamber Eastern Seaboard Briefing
Mr. Tim Burger with Rhenus “The future of sustainability and Managing Director at Rhenus Logistics Co., Ltd. talent strategy trends in the supply chain
Mr. Klaus Hofmann industry”
Vice President/General Manager at Safran Cabin Cargo
Mr. Richard Jackson
Managing Director at Jackson Grant Recruitment Co., Ltd.
Mr. Santosh Poojari
President Automotive Technologies Southeast Asia at Schaeffler Manufacturing (Thailand) Co., Ltd.
Mr. Timo Herbst
General Manager Business Development at Rhenus Logistics Co., Ltd.
8 June
GTCC AFTERWORK Briefing with Luther
Mr. Fabian Lorenz
“Update on employment & HR matters” Partner at Luther.
Ms. Arunrat Rattanaarun
Attorney-at-Law & Senior Associate at Luther Corporate Services Limited / Luther Law Firm Limited
13 July GTCC AFTERWORK Briefing with Mazars
Mr. Martin Liebenow “Updates on Tax & BOI matters”
Tax Director of Mazars (Thailand) Ltd.
Ms. Kodchakorn Kum-iem
Director - Legal of Mazars (Thailand) Ltd.
10 August
14 September
22 September
11 October
9 November
Ms. Anlee Do
General Manager TH-VN-PH Mekong Region at Lufthansa Group
Dr. Wanviput Sanphasitvong
Mr. Martin Liebenow
Tax Director of Mazars (Thailand) Ltd.
Ms. Kodchakorn Kum-iem
Director - Legal of Mazars (Thailand) Ltd.
Mr. Awirut Imoun
Internal Medicine and Cardiology Specialist at Samitivej Sukhumvit
21 November
GTCC Exclusive Briefing & Networking with STR: Mr. Jesper Palmqvist “Hospitality Industry Trends and Outlook in Senior Director of STR Asia Pacific Thailand and APAC”
28 November SAP Seminar: “Carbon Border Adjustment
Mr. David Coldrey Mechanisms (CBAM)’s Impact on Thailand’s Sustainability Lead, at SAP, Southeast Asia Global Competitiveness and Economy Growth”
Ms. Jeeranee Jarungautai
Climate Action for Sustainability Leader at Charoen Pokphand Foods Public Co., Ltd.
Dr. Nuth Kulwongwit
Senior Officer - Investment Promotion Division, at Office of the Board of Investment (BOI)
Mr. Anothai Boonyavinaikul
Industry Business Director and CSR Ambassador Thailand of SAP Indochina
Mr. Thachatat Kuvarakul
Head of Climate Academy at The Creagy Company Limited
Mr. Austin Menyasz
Vice President and Head of Government Affairs, Southeast Asia at SAP
Ms. Nareerat Panmanee
Executive Director, Strategy and International Cooperation of Department of Climate Change, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment
Ms. Varunee Ratchatapattanakul
Senior Director, Government Affairs of SAP Southeast Asia
Mr. Pornvit Sila-On
Deputy Director-General, Department of International Trade Promotion at Ministry of Commerce
HR Briefing
Date Topics
23 March
GTCC HR Briefing & Networking on 2023 Best
Speakers/panelists
Ms. Ploytabtim Yeetho Practices in C&B, ER, L&D and TA
Country HR Lead Thailand, Myanmar and Cambodia at Bayer Thailand
Ms. Pachamon Panyosuk
Head of Human Resources Thailand and HR Business Partner Automotive Aftermarket, Southeast Asia at Schaeffler Manufacturing (Thailand) Co., Ltd.
Ms. Suppawan Rattanapirom
Head of Business Services, Thailand & Vietnam at BASF (Thai) Limited
Ms. Tikumporn Suewatanapong
Human Resources Lead at Robert Bosch Limited
WORKSHOP
23-24 February DIHK/AHK Regional Workshop Kimpton Maa-Lai
30-31 August AHK Finance Regional Workshop Eastin Grand Hotel Sathorn
COMMUNITY EVENTS
Young Professionals Date
27 April GTCC Young Professionals Network Evening with OOZOU Four Points by Sheraton Bangkok “Bootstrapping a Tech Company in Thailand” Sukhumvit
20 July GTCC Young Professionals Network Evening with Covestro Kimpton Maa-Lai “Managing cross-cultural operational teams to drive for sustainable growth”
3 November GTCC Young Professionals Network Evening “Sport Day” Topgolf Megacity
Business Women Networking
14 March GTCC Business Women Networking “DigitALL: Innovation Bangkok Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit and technology for gender equality”, perspective of female leaders in Thailand
14 June GTCC Business Women Networking Open x Indorama Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit Ventures “DEI in Practice”
5 October GTCC Business Women Networking “How mental health Sindhorn Midtown Hotel Bangkokand wellbeing effect or support women in leadership?” A Vignette Collection Hotel
NETWORKING PLATFORMS
Signature Networking
27
15
16
26
21
In 2023, GTCC organised two virtual events to discuss and share important information on various industry-driven topics such as tax, diversity and healthcare.
Dates Topics Hosts
14 November GTCC Webinar with Mazars Mr. Martin Liebenow “NEW tax rules on foreign income” Tax Director of Mazars (Thailand) Ltd.
15 June LGBTQ+ Health Webinar on “Embracing Dr. Bentawich Surasartpisal
Diversity: Navigating LGBTQ+ Identities LGBTQ+ Medicine, Sexual Medicine, and Clinical and Supportive Healthcare” Sexology at Bumrungrad International Hospital
H.E. Remco van Wijngaarden Ambassador of the Netherlands to Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos
In 2023, GTCC UPDATE e-magazine featured major trends in various industries, especially in Thailand. It contained several sections: a special focus; Chamber activities; GTDEE Insight; Business Briefs; Members’ Corner; and Trade Fairs. The themes of the magazine during 2023 were Tourism and Hospitality; Green Hydrogen and Alternative Energy; Data Centres and Cloud Services; and Beauty and Cosmetics Industry.
Our Membership Directory is fully available on GTCC Website. With a user account and password, members can get access to information on members’ profiles and contact details in order to facilitate business interaction among the members of the German and Thai business communities. Chamber members can still put their company logo at their company profile, in order to enhance corporate brand and visibility.
GTCC e-UPDATE is a bi-weekly e-newsletter which summarises the latest information on GTCC events and updates on Thailand’s economic development, industry sectors, investment, green technology, ASEAN growth and prospects, bilateral business relations as well as the major activities of GTCC members. It is provided to more than three thousand subscribers, mainly comprising executives of German and Thai companies operating in Thailand, trade/academic institutions, embassies, other foreign chambers of commerce in Thailand as well as counterparts in Germany.
GTCC website was regularly updated to provide members, partners and customers important information on the chamber’s activities and interesting news.
GTCC INSIGHTS, a monthly member-exclusive newsletter, was introduced to GTCC community since March 2022, to provide important updates on new members and new member representatives including their key activities every 1st Wednesday of the month. GTCC members promotions, another e-newsletter issued by the Chamber, continued to be the platform that support the hospitalities industry members in promoting their products, services and activities. Almost 3,000 GTCC members and friends receive member promotions e-newsletter every 2nd & 4th Wednesday.
Apart from the GTCC website, members and friends of the German-Thai business community are able to stay connected and receive daily updates on GTCC services and events through Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter. Join today on German-Thai Chamber of Commerce.
The Chamber offers valuable advertising alternatives in its digital materials which allow companies the flexibility and benefit of reaching out to specific target groups. GTCC advertisement channels in 2023 included:
• GTCC UPDATE e-Magazine;
• GTCC website (flash logo/banner);
• GTCC Membership Directory (logo);
• GTCC newsletter (banner in e-UPDATE);
• Electronic direct mail (e-blast);
• Social media (Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter).
GTCC continued using the branding terms of German Chambers of Commerce Abroad (AHK), which were suggested by the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK). The hashtags #AHKThailand #PartnerForSuccess, #PartnerWorldwide, and #PartnerInThailand as well as #PartnerForDVET have been utilised in various GTCC communication platforms such as corporate banners, business cards, website, UPDATE magazine, and social media channels.
In 2023, the GTCC Corporate Services Department organised various target group-specific projects, business delegations, events and workshops that were aimed at fostering bilateral trade relations between Thailand and Germany.
In addition, consulting days and related activities with local Chambers of Commerce and Industry in Germany (IHKs) and leading associations (e.g., BME1, VDW2, etc.) were supported. Moreover, the department processed more than 1,000 business and trade requests / appointments in 2023.
The portfolio of activities in 2023 included (but was not limited to) projects supported by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) and the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection (BMUV), private sector businesses, government/federal state agencies, industry associations and authorities as well as 13 content-driven events (see the next page). In 2023, GTCC organised selected business missions to Thailand, as well as business missions for Thai decision-makers to Germany.
In cooperation with the GIZ (German Corporation for International Cooperation), the GTCC continued in 2023 to actively drive the International Hydrogen Ramp up Programme (H2-Uppp). H2-Uppp promotes green H2/PtX projects in developing and emerging countries and is financed by the BMWK.
1 Bundesverband Materialwirtschaft, Einkauf und Logistik e.V. (BME)
2 German Machine Tool Builders’ Association (VDW)
On December 07, the German Embassy Bangkok supported by the GTCC, organised the Thai-German Conference “Climate Talk” in Bangkok with around 200 participants. The conference contributed to ongoing debates on climate issues by covering a wide range of topics including Green Hydrogen (Clean and climate-friendly energy solution), E-Mobility (The Road to Zero Emissions), and Agriculture (Mitigation and Adaptation).
SELECTED HIGHLIGHTS 2023
February 2023
March 2023
April 2023
May 2023
May 2023
June 2023
September 2023
October 2023
October 2023
November 2023
November 2023
EMO Hannover 2023 press conference EMO is the world’s leading event for the in Bangkok with VDW metalworking industry
Business delegation and technology Part of the German Energy Solutions Initiative conference on supported by BMWK “Solar PV and Grid-integration”
GTCC Business & Study Trip to Germany Organised by GTCC, the delegation visited on the topic of HANNOVER MESSE 2023 and leading “Electromobility – driver of the future” companies in Germany (Volkswagen, Porsche, BMW & Schaeffler AG)
GTCC & BME organised B2B- matchmaking Part of the Market Entry Programme between German buyers and Thai suppliers supported by BMWK
ASEAN-Conference in Hannover Organised by IHK Hannover (Hannover Chamber of Commerce and Industry)
Business delegation of German companies Part of the Market Entry Programme on the topic of “Waste & Recycling” supported by BMWK to Thailand
Fact-finding mission on the topic of Part of the German Energy Solutions Initiative “Energy Storage Solutions supported by BMWK (including Hydrogen)” to Germany
H2-Uppp SEA Conference on Green H2 & PtX Event organised within the framework of H2-Uppp
Study Trip to Germany on the topic of Part of the Thai-German Energy Dialogue “German EV Ecosystem”
Consulting days in Germany IHK Frankfurt am Main (Frankfurt am Main (November 20, 22 & 23) organised by Chamber of Commerce and Industry); local IHKs in various cities IHK Region Stuttgart (CCI Stuttgart Region); IHK für München und Oberbayern (Chamber of Commerce and Industry for Munich and Upper Bavaria)
NRW goes South East Asia: Delegation trip of several companies from Thailand & Vietnam North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) to Thailand. Driven by NRW.Global Business GmbH, the federal state-owned foreign trade promotion agency, Cologne Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IHK Köln), IHK Mittlerer Niederrhein and GTCC
Date
November 2023
December 2023
Project/Activity Details
H2-Workshop in Berlin Partners: BMUV, NOW GmbH, Chambers for Greentech (DIHK Service GmbH), ZUG
Climate Talk Bangkok
The German Embassy Bangkok supported by the GTCC, organised the Thai-German Conference “Climate Talk” in Bangkok
In 2023, the Corporate Services Department supported Thai and German companies in establishing business contacts by offering and providing its market entry services. Within the scope of this service, the department identified and selected potential business partners in line with clients’ requirements.
Team members of the Corporate Services Department actively supported and undertook the following activities:
• Numerous meetings (online and offline) with company representatives from various industry sectors for business advisory and service purposes regarding Thailand and Germany as strategic business locations and hubs.
• Supporting activities of the German Chamber ASEAN Business Council (GCABC)
• Organising (online) events hosted by the GTCC.
• Organising (online) seminars and support (virtual) trade fair activities.
2023 marked the first year with a complete trade fair calendar since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic. Throughout all four quarters of the year, a minimum of 340 events are scheduled, including the resumption of many international industry fairs that had been paused for several years due to the pandemic. The trade fair industry is on a path of recovery, witnessing the return of both national and international participants to Germany as a preferred trade fair location.
While 2023 is anticipated to be a year of recovery, it is acknowledged that pre-pandemic attendance figures have not yet been fully restored. Nevertheless, there is a positive upward trend overall. The restoration of international business travel is notable, particularly with an increasing influx from Asia. Despite ongoing economic uncertainties and global political shifts, trade fair participation remains a compelling component of the marketing model. GTCC organised one event in Thailand for the “EMO Hannover 2023 World Tour” on 13 February 2023.
Looking ahead to 2024, previously postponed fairs are expected to return to a familiar rhythm. It will be more visible than ever how both exhibitors and visitors adapt to rapid changes and new challenges, such as the impact of artificial intelligence and virtual reality on physical trade fair appearances. As technological possibilities continue to evolve, exhibiting and organising companies are urged to better understand changing customer needs and strategically
incorporate new tools and technologies. Addressing these aspects, alongside the ongoing challenges of staff shortages, will undoubtedly test companies and influence their market position. Companies demonstrating commitment to sustainability and social responsibility are increasingly appealing in the modern era.
Despite the inherent challenges and uncertainties, the GTCC remains steadfast in supporting Thai companies. This involves providing current information on travel restrictions and participation conditions for German trade fairs. Collaborative efforts with representing German trade fair organisations, including Deutsche Messe AG, Messe Berlin GmbH, Messe München GmbH, NürnbergMesse GmbH, and Spielwarenmesse eG, are aimed at promoting both physical and digital trade fairs.
Credit: Association of the German Trade Fair Industry (AUMA)
Date Trade Fair Organiser / Co-organiser
12-15 January
DOMOTEX
Deutsche Messe AG
13-15 January opti Messe München GmbH
20-29 January
31 January – 3 February
1-5 February
10-12 February
14-17 February
International Green Week Berlin Messe Berlin GmbH
bauma CONEXPO INDIA Messe München GmbH
Spielwarenmesse® Spielwarenmesse eG
ISPO Beijing Messe München GmbH
BIOFACH / VIVANESS NürnbergMesse GmbH
22-26 February f.re.e Messe München GmbH
24-27 February
28 February – 1 March
2 – 5 March
7-9 March
14-16 March
28-30 March
17 -21 April
INHORGENTA MUNICH Messe München GmbH
Enforce Tec NürnbergMesse GmbH
IWA OutdoorClassics NürnbergMesse GmbH
ITB Berlin Messe Berlin GmbH
embedded world NürnbergMesse GmbH
European Coatings Show NürnbergMesse GmbH
HANNOVER MESSE
Deutsche Messe AG
17-22 April BAU Messe München GmbH
19-21 April
IE expo China Messe München GmbH
25-27 April DMEA Messe Berlin GmbH
26-28 April ITB India Messe Berlin GmbH
27-28 April
9-11 May
analytica Anacon India and India Lab Expo Mumbai Messe München GmbH
LABVOLUTION
9-12 May transport logistic / air cargo Europe
4-6 June
OutDoor by ISPO
Deutsche Messe AG
Messe München GmbH
Messe München GmbH
Date
Trade Fair Organiser / Co-organiser
21-22 June FeuerTrutz NürnbergMesse GmbH
27-30 June
LASER World of PHOTONICS Messe München GmbH
27-30 June automatica Messe München GmbH
30 June – 2 July
ISPO Shanghai Messe München GmbH
4-6 July digitalBAU Messe München GmbH
3-6 August
BAU China Messe München GmbH
1-5 September IFA Messe Berlin GmbH
5-10 September IAA Mobility Messe München GmbH
12-14 September ITB China Messe Berlin GmbH
14-17 September BIOFACH India NürnbergMesse India Pvt. Ltd.
18-23 September EMO Hannover Deutsche Messe AG
19-21 September BIOFACH China NürnbergMesse China Co. Ltd.
21-23 September BIOFACH America New Hope Network, NürnbergMesse GmbH
26-28 September POWTECH NürnbergMesse GmbH
4-6 October EXPO REAL Messe München GmbH
4-6 October drink technology India Messe München GmbH
5-8 October SPIEL ESSEN Spielwarenmesse eG
6-8 October INTERSCHUTZ Deutsche Messe AG
10-12 October it-sa NürnbergMesse GmbH
11-13 October Insights-X Spielwarenmesse eG
17-19 October
IFAT India Messe München GmbH
22-26 October iba Messe München GmbH
24-25 October
European Heat Pump Summit NürnbergMesse GmbH
25-27 October ITB ASIA Messe Berlin GmbH
25-27 October
25-27 October
TRAVEL TECH ASIA Messe Berlin GmbH
MICE SHOW ASIA Messe Berlin GmbH
12-18 November AGRITECHNICA Deutsche Messe AG
14-17 November productronica Messe München GmbH
19-21 November
28-30 November
28-30 November
BIOFACH Saudi Arabia NürnbergMesse GmbH
ISPO Munich Messe München GmbH
BrauBeviale NürnbergMesse GmbH
7 PARTNER COMPANIES
9 PARTNER EDUCATION INSTITUTES
In 2023, the German-Thai Dual Excellence Education (GTDEE) Programme organised about 133 events and visits together with all partner organisations. The activities throughout the year were aimed at establishing the German Dual Vocational Education Standard, both in companies and in colleges. This year also marked GTDEE’s 10th anniversary. GTCC organised the celebratory event on 3 July 2023 and bid a farewell to Mr. Markus Hoffmann, GTDEE Project Director, who returned to Germany for his future endeavors in September 2023.
137 APPRENTICES
SELECTED HIGHLIGHTS 2023
Date
3 January Online meeting with Pathumthani Brewery Apprentice Programme batch 2021 on PAL final examination Part 2 preparation.
3 January Online meeting with Examiners Board on examination preparation for Robert Bosch Automotive Technologies Thailand Apprentices batch 2022.
3 January Online meeting with Examiners Board in automotive mechatronics on PAL final examination part 1 preparation for apprentices batch 2021 and batch 2022.
4 January Meeting with Examiner Board and examinees from Robert Bosch Automotive Technologies Thailand Limited on results of final examination in production techniques.
6 January Meeting with teams of Knowledge Management Department of Boonrawd Brewery Co., Ltd. and Faculty of Engineering, RMUTL on Chiangmai Beverage Apprenticeship Programme batch 2024.
10 January Meeting on PAL final examination part 1 in electronics and guideline for apprentices from Pathumthani Brewery Apprenticeship Programme batch 2021.
10 January Pre-selection for Pathumthani Brewery Apprenticeship Programme batch 2023 at Don Bosco College.
9, 11, 12 January PAL final examination part 1 in automotive mechatronics (practical and theoretical) for Mercedes-Benz Apprenticeship Programme batch 2021 at Mercedes-Benz Training Centre.
16 January Preparation of PAL final examination part 1 in automotive mechatronics at BMW Group Thailand Training Center.
16 January Preparation of PAL final examination part 1 in electronics at Pathumthani Brewery Co., Ltd.
17-18 January PAL final examination part 1 in electronics at Pathumthani Brewery Co., Ltd.
19 January Coaching teachers on learning concept in electrical parts at Don Bosco College.
23-27 January Organising PAL final examination part 1 in automotive mechatronics (theoretical and practical) for BMW Service Apprentice Programme batch 2021 at BMW Training Center.
31 January
Meeting with Thai-German Pre-Engineering School on cooperation in VET with Construction Training Center NRW (BFW).
31 January Meeting with Faculty of Technical Education, KMUTNB on cooperation in VET with BFW.
1 February Meeting with Don Bosco Technological on cooperation in VET with BFW.
2 February Evaluation of PAL final examination part 1 (for all apprentices in automotive mechatronics batch 2021) at CIT, KMUTNB.
3 February Roundtable meeting on vocational education and training organised by BFW.
7 February Pre-selection for automotive apprentices batch 2023 from two companies at E.Tech.
7 February Preparation of final examination pin mechatronics for apprentices batch 2021 at E.Tech.
8 February Meeting with VPHR of Bangkokcable on cooperation planning with GTDEE and GTDEE/ GTCC service agreement.
9 February Pre-selection for MB Apprenticeship Programme batch 2023 at Samutprakarn Technical College.
13 February Pre-selection for MB Apprenticeship Programme batch 2023 at Lopburi Technical College.
14 February
Meeting with TU Dortmund and KMUTNB on cooperation in a VET programme at KMUTNB.
Date
Project/activities
14 February Pre-selection for BMW Service Apprentice Programme batch 2023 at Chitralada Vocational School.
16 February Pre-selection for BMW Service Apprentice Programme batch 2023 at Banphai Industrial Community Education College, Khonkaen.
20 February Pre-selection for BMW Service Apprentice Programme batch 2023 at Bangkaewfa Industrial and Community Education College, Nakhon Pathom.
21 February Meeting with RMUTI Khonkaen team on Mechatronics textbook and shared experiences on project-based learning at RMUTI
21 February Meeting with teams of Khonkaen Technical College and Nakornrachasrima Technical College on Mechatronics textbook.
22 February Monitoring the BMW Service Apprentice Programme at BMW Amorn Prestige Rungsit.
22 February Meeting with the BMW Training Center team on apprenticeship development strategic planning.
22 February Supporting the delegation from the Ministry of Economic and Climate Action (BMWK) to visit BMW Barcelona Motor Vibhavadi on BMW Service Apprentice Programme in cooperation with GTDEE.
24 February Monitoring the practical training for Pathumthani Brewery Apprenticeship Programme batch 2021 at Pathumthani Co., Ltd.
27 February Meeting with Singburi Technical College on mechatronics development under project-based learning at GTCC.
28 February Meeting with MBCC International Training Manager on apprenticeship development planning at MBCC.
28 February
1 March
1 March
13 March
15 March
16 March
23 March
27-30 March
3-5 April
Meeting with Skills Development Institute Area 1 Samutprakarn team on AdA International Training.
Meeting with Thai-German Pre-Engineering School team on EUROPA textbook for GTDEE.
Meeting with KMUTNB team on Industrial Meister in mechatronics development examination.
Online meeting with Dr. Kitcha Chaithanu, RMUTL on mechatronics in a 5-year VET programme.
Meeting with pre-engineering school team on the sales of Mechatronics textbook and meeting with KMUTNB team on preparing a manual for developing Industrial Meister Programme.
GTCC final examination part 2 in mechatronics for students batch 2021 at E.Tech.
Preparation of PAL final examination part 2 for BMW Service Apprentice Programme batch 2021 at BMW Training Center, Pathumthani.
PAL final examination part 2 in automotive mechatronics for BMW Service Apprentice Programme batch 2021 at BMW Group Thailand Training Center.
Translation and review of Industrial Meister examination paper
7 April Meeting with Pathumthani Brewery Co., and KMUTNB teams on documentation preparation for Industrial Meister examination.
18-19 April
Meeting on a comparison of Thai curriculum in automotive for a 5-year programme of Bangkaewfa Industrial and Community Education College with Kfz-Mechatroniker in German standard
21 April Meeting with Pathumthani Brewery on Meister examination process with 4 trainers and Knowledge Management Manager.
23 April
Online intensive course for BMW Service Apprentice Programme batch 2021.
SELECTED HIGHLIGHTS 2023
Date
25 April
Projects/activities
Meeting with KMUTNB Industrial Meister Committee on the progress of quality manual for Meister Training and Development and GTDEE planning to organise Industrial Meister examination.
27 April PAL final examination part 2 (theoretical) in automotive mechatronics for BMW Service Apprentice Programme batch 2021 at BMW Group Thailand Training Center.
28 April Online meeting with DIHK on AHKs Regional Meeting Asia Pacific 2023 planning and Industrial Meister training and development in mechatronics for a pilot programme in Thailand.
3 May
Evaluation and theoretical assessment for BMW Service Apprentice Programme batch 2021 at CIT, KMUTNB.
5 May Intensive course on preparation of GTCC final examination in mechanical production techniques and measurement for Robert Bosch Apprenticeship Programme batch 2021.
6 May Meeting with team of Faculty of Engineering, KMUTNB on cooperation with GTDEE on 120-hour AdA International Training, planned in 2024 for DVET at Boonrawd, Chiang Mai.
9-10 May GTCC final examination in mechatronics and production techniques for Robert Bosch Technologies Thailand Apprenticeship Programme batch 2021 at KMUTNB Rayong.
15 May Preparation of examination and guideline for MB Apprenticeship Programme batch 2021 at MBCC.
17 May Sharing knowledge with TVET educators from SPAIN at Don Bosco Technological College.
22-25 May PAL final examination part 2 (practical and theoretical) in automotive mechatronics for MB Apprenticeship Programme batch 2021 at Mercedes-Benz Training Centre.
25 May Meeting with Bangkokcable team on cooperation with GTDEE for planning and service agreement in their mechatronics apprenticeship batch 2024.
30 May Evaluation/ theoretical assessment for MB Apprenticeship Programme batch 2021 at CIT, KMUTNB.
30 May Meeting with KMUTNB Industrial Meister Committee on results of the comparison between Thai and German curricula, progress of a quality manual for Meister training and development and updates on Industrial Meister examination presented by GTDEE at KMUTNB.
31 May Meeting with Dean of Faculty of Technical Education, KMUTNB on technical teacher training and development.
6 June GTDEE orientation for mechatronics students batch 2023 at E.Tech.
7 June Co-working with experts from KMUTNB on intensive training for Industrial Meister examination at Pathumthani Brewery.
8 June Monitoring training for BMW Service Apprentice batch 2022 and batch 2023 at a BMW’s dealer, Rama 2.
8 June Meeting with E.Tech students in mechatronics batch 2023 on project-based learning.
12, 16 June Online meeting on intensive training for 4 trainers who had registered to Industrial Meister in mechatronics examination.
14 June Workshop on “Automation control system” for trainers who had registered to Industrial Meister in mechatronics examination.
20-23 June Examination for Industrial Meister in mechatronics, organized at KMUTNB.
27 June
28 June
Meeting with Don Bosco management team, CEO of Rhein-Köster and his team.
Meeting with E.Tech management team, CEO of Rhein-Köster and his Team.
Date
28 June
Project/activities
Meeting with CEO of Rhein-Köster and his team and President of Institute of Vocational Education Bangkok at OVEC Ramintra.
29 June Meeting with GTDEE Vocational Education Committee at GTCC.
30 June Visiting Faculty of Engineering, KMUTNB and Thai-German Pre-Engineering School with CEO of Rhein-Köster and his team to explore engineering production.
3 July Online meeting with DIHK on qualified skills workers programme.
3 July Celebration of GTDEE’s 10 years anniversary at So Bangkok.
11 July
Meeting with Examiners Board in electronics at KMUTNB.
12 July Monitoring practical training for BMW Service Apprentice Programme with teachers, 3 Dealers.
19-20 July Workshop on building competencies with GAP analysis and critical thinking development for MB Apprenticeship batch 2022 at MBCC.
20 July Online meeting with BIBB, BMBF, DLR and German Embassy on a round table meeting to be held on 27 September 2023.
23 July
Meeting with colleges partners of BMW Service Apprentices Programme on content adaptation for automotive mechatronics at Don Bosco Technological College.
25 July Handover of Industrial Meister in mechatronics certificates at GTCC.
26 July Workshop on quality control concept for Robert Bosch Automotive Apprenticeship Programme batch 2023 at Thai-Austrian Technical College.
11 August
15 August
15 August
Meeting with Pathunthani Brewery team on AHK Asia Pacific network’s visit on 29 September 2023.
Meeting with Banphai Industrial and Community Education College team at Don Bosco on preparation for a workshop to be held on 3 October 2023.
Online meeting with Don Bosco on TVET teachers from Timor-Leste’s visit to BMW Group Thailand Training Center on 23 August 2023.
23 August Joining handover ceremony of mechatronics certificates at E.Tech.
23 August Meeting with Service Manager of BMW Europa Motor Rama 2 on body and paints technician training and development.
24 August Sharing experiences with TVET teachers from Timo-Lester at Mechatronics Department, Don Bosco Technological College.
25 August
Meeting with BMW Barcelona Motor Vibhavadi team on preparation for AHK ASIA Pacific’s visit to the company on 29 September 2023.
27 August Joining a conference on field concept learning of how to implement Thai vocational education organised by the College of Industrial, KMUTNB.
29 August Joining the Industrial Meister ceremony at Singha Museum, Boonrawd Brewery Co., Ltd.,
1 September Handover of certificates in production techniques for graduates of Robert Bosch (Amatacity) at GTCC.
1 September Meeting with DIHK on preparation of AHK Asia Pacific network meeting.
8 September Meeting with pedagogical experts from KMUTNB on mechatronics curriculum guideline.
Date
Projects/activities
11 September Pre-selection by aptitude test for applicants to Robert Bosch Students Programme batch 2023 (Amatacity Plant).
11 September Meeting with Boonrawd Brewery Co., Ltd. and Faculty of Engineering, RMUTL on Chiangmai Beverage Apprenticeship Programme batch 2024.
12 September Online Vocational Education Committee meeting by online and election of new Chairman.
19 September Meeting with Don Bosco and Bangkokcable on project-based learning cooperation in mechatronics batch 2024.
22 September Meeting with BMW Barcelona Motor Vibhavadi team on preparation for AHK ASIA Pacific network’s visit on 29 September 2023.
25 September Meeting with Boonrawd Brewery team and Dean of Faculty of Engineering, RMUTL on apprenticeship development at Chiangmai Beverage Co., Ltd., at TVET Dortmund International Conference, Eastin Grand Hotel Bangkok.
26 September AHK Asia Pacific Network meeting on VET at Eastin Grand Bangkok Hotel.
27 September AHK Asia Pacific Network roundtable on VET and DVET at German Embassy Bangkok.
28 September AHK Asia Pacific Network meeting on DVET organised by DIHK at Eastin Grand Bangkok Hotel.
29 September Visit of AHK Asia Pacific Networkat Pathumthani Brewery Co., Ltd. with a focus on experiences sharing on DVET programme.
29 September Visit of AHK Asia Pacific Network at BMW Barcelona Motor Group, Vibhavadi Branch with a focus on experiences sharing on training of apprentices from BMW Service Apprentice Programme.
2 October Online meeting with team of Faculty of Engineering, Kasetsart University on exchanging knowledge of DVET programme.
4 October Meeting with DIHK, Berlin on the certification processes.
5 October Meeting with Department of Mechatronics, Thai-Austrian Technical College on competencies and gap analysis for RB Apprenticeship Programme batch 2023.
6 October Meeting with Faculty of Engineering, RMUTL and Boonrawd Brewery Co., Ltd. on AdA International (Train the Trainer) planning for 120 hrs.
9 October Meeting with pedagogical experts of Faculty of Technical Education, KMUTNB on AdA international (Train the Trainer) preparation.
10 October Meeting with teachers from automotive department, GTDEE Colleges partner on Update information from knowledge gap analysis and planning to organise an online/ onsite training course.
17-20 October Online workshop of AdA International (Train the Trainer) chapter 1 & 2 organised for Chiangmai Beverage Co., Ltd.
18 October Joining handover ceremony of DIHK-AHK Certificates for MB Apprenticeship Programme batch 2021 at Mercedes-Benz Training Centre.
19 October Workshop for BMW Service Apprentice batch 2022 at Eastern Technological College.
24-26 October AdA International (Train the trainer) organised for Chiangmai Beverage team, RMUTL and Welding Institute of Thailand at Chiangmai Beverage.
Date
Project/activities
30 October to Online meeting to monitor AdA homework assigned to 8 participants 2 November
6-9 November AdA International (Train the trainer) at Chiangmai Beverage Co., Ltd.
13 November Preparation of PAL Final Exam Part 1 in automotive mechatronics at BMW Group Thailand Training Center.
16 November Workshop on critical thinking organised for E.Tech mechatronics students batch 2023 at Smart Building, E.Tech.
20 November Coaching on mechatronics preparation for DVET in 2024 at Don Bosco Technological College.
21 November Workshop on critical thinking and electrical protective equipment organised for Robert Bosch Automotive Technologies Thailand Apprenticeship Programme batch 2023 at Thai-Austrian Technical College.
22 November Workshop on precision measurement for Pathumthani Apprenticeship Programme batch 2023 at PTB Training.
28 November to PAL Final Examination Part 1 organised for BMW Service Apprentice Programme batch 2022. 1 December
6 December Workshop on vehicle technology with a focus on hybrid car technology for MB Apprenticeship Programme batch 2022 at MBCC.
6 December Pre-selection by Aptitude test for Bangkokcable Mechatronics Apprenticeship Programme batch 2024 at Don Bosco Technological College.
7 December Workshop on systematic thinking for Pathumthani Apprenticeship Programme batch 2023 at PTB Training room.
12 December Workshop on vehicle technology with a focus on hybrid car technology for MB Apprenticeship Programme batch 2022 at Mercedes-Benz Training Centre.
13 December Online meeting with KM, Boonrawd Brewery and RMUTL on recruitment process for apprentice in mechatronics batch 2024 at Chiangmai Beverage.
18 December
26 December
Meeting with KMUTNB on Industrial Meister training batch 2024.
Meeting with Education Department of AHK Vietnam on a VEC manual.
26 December Meeting with Banphai Industrial and Community Education College on results of PAL examination part 1 and recommendation on knowledge gap analysis.
28 December Meeting with Master Trainer and HR specialist team, BMW Group Thailand Training Center on competencies of gap analysis from PAL final examination part 1.
German-Thai Dual Excellence Education (GTDEE) is a training programme of the German-Thai Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GTCC) in which trainees work with a practical focus in companies and also attend Technical colleges. The college addresses theoretical linked to practical tasks relating to the profession and teaches general education subjects such as communication techniques, English for professional, mathematic and social study.
From the start, the aim was to implement a sustainable training structure in line with the German Model. Learning content from the German general training plan and the framework curriculum has been adapted within the context of the Thai Dual Vocational Education and Training (DVET) structure. The GTDEE/ GTCC identified Thai training content which was equivalent to the German training framework. This has resulted in demand driven of the company for DVET programme follow the German training regulation and include its qualifications.
These activities are related to the progress of the sustainability of dual vocational education and training development in Thailand. Since education is a continuous development process, GTDEE will continue to work on refining dual vocational education and training standards in Thailand, with the goal of sustainability in order to support vocational education in Thailand towards becoming the hub in ASEAN as follows:
1. GTDEE Vocation Education Committee meeting twice a year in March and October 2024.
2. Industrial 4.0 training programme in cooperation with KMUTNB.
3. EV technology curriculum and training planning to develop EV apprenticeship programme.
4. Final Examination in Mechatronics Level B for 15 students from E.Tech under project-based learning.
5. Mechatronics technician co- certification between GTCC and Thailand Professional. Qualification Institute (Public Organization) in May 2024.
6. PAL final examination Par t 2 for automotive mechatronics (batch 2022) level A = 41 apprentices, Level B = 8 apprentices.
7. PAL Final Examination Part 1 in industrial mechanics level A = 9 apprentices.
8. Final examination in mechatronics level C = 6 Apprentices.
9. PAL final Examination Par t 1 for Automotive Mechatronics (batch 2023) Level A = 41 apprentices.
10. AdA International (Train the Trainer)
10.1 For technical teachers training course in cooperation with KMUTNB.
10.2 For in-company trainer training and development.
11. Implement mechatronics under 5-year project-based learning programme at Don Bosco Technological College Bangkok.
12. Training on the following topics
12.1 Critical thinking/ systematics thinking concept.
12.2 Quality control concept.
12.3 Electrical measurement and safety regulation.
12.4 PAL final examination guideline.
12.5 Mathematics for technicians.
13. Pre-selection of apprentices as below :
13.1 BMW Ser vice Apprentice Program batch 2024.
13.2 Robert Bosch Technologies Thailand Apprenticeship Programme batch 2024 (Hemaraj Plant).
13.3 Mechatronics student at E.Tech.
13.4 Chiangmai Beverage Apprenticeship Programme batch 2024.
13.5 Bangkokcable Mechatronics Apprenticeship Programmme batch 2024.
14. Mechatronics book contribution to:
14.1 Vocational colleges in Thailand.
14.2 Company partners.
14.3 University.
15. Industrial Meister in mechatronics training and development batch 2024.
16. Teacher workshop on Basic of EV Car concept under cooperate with BMW Service Apprentice Program.
17. Handover Certificate in Mechatronics at GTCC.
German-Thai Chamber of Commerce Office hours: Mon–Fri, 08:30–17:30 hrs.
Unit 1403, 14Fl., AIA Sathorn Tower
11/1 South Sathorn Road, Yannawa, Sathorn, Tel: +66 2 055 0600
Fax: +66 2 055 0601 Bangkok 10120, Thailand info@gtcc.org www.thailand.ahk.de
MANAGEMENT
Tel: +66 2 055 0600 gtcc@gtcc.org
PERSONAL ASSISTANT TO EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Tel: +66 2 055 0612 aomphan@gtcc.org
FINANCE
Tel: +66 2 055 0652 natwatra@gtcc.org
ADMINISTRATION
Tel: +66 2 055 0600 info@gtcc.org
MEMBERSHIP, EVENTS & COMMUNICATIONS
• Membership enquiry
Tel: +66 2 055 0625 membership@gtcc.org
• Events & marketing opportunity enquiry
Tel: +66 2 055 0622 communications@gtcc.org
• PR & publications enquiry
Tel: +66 2 055 0623 communications@gtcc.org
CORPORATE SERVICES
Tel: +66 2 055 0630 services@gtcc.org
GERMAN-THAI DUAL EXCELLENCE EDUCATION (GTDEE)
Tel: +66 2 055 0672 gtdee@gtcc.org
AIA Sathorn Tower | 14Fl. | Unit 1403 | 11/1 | South Sathorn Road
Yannawa | Sathorn | Bangkok 10120 | Thailand
Tel: +66 2 055 0620 | Fax: +66 2 055 0601
www.thailand.ahk.de
German-Thai Chamber of Commerce