UPDATE Q1/2019: The Rise of the Robots

1/2019 http://thailand.ahk.de

T H E M AG A Z I N E O F T H E G E R M A N - T H A I C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E

THE RISE OF THE ROBOTS Thailand promoting robots and automation for industry PREMIUM PARTNER 2019

Interview: Martin Wenzel, KUKA Robotics (Thailand/ASEAN)

GTCC Oktoberfest 2018

ANNUAL PARTNER 2019

Organiser:

26-27 October 2018 Shangri-la Hotel, Bangkok

The German-Thai Chamber of Commerce wishes to express our gratitude to the partners and sponsors of our event.

Partners:

Diamond:

Gold:

Silver:

In-kind Partners:

FROM THE EDITOR Dear readers, The global demand for industrial robots has accelerated considerably due to the ongoing trend towards automation and the technical improvements in industrial robots. Germany’s robot market generated a turnover of Euro 14.5 billion with 21,404 units sold in 2017, which was an increase of 7 per cent from the 20,074 units sold in 2016, according to the International Federation of Robotics (IFR).

Robotics is among the 10 targeted industries of “Thailand 4.0” policy promoted by the Thai government. Robot sales in Thailand rose by 28 per cent to 3,400 units in 2017, mostly in the automotive industry. German-Thai cooperation is one of the key factors driving the demand and supply of robotics and automation systems. The Sirindhorn International Thai-German Graduate School of Engineering (TGGS) has been collaborating with BMW Manufacturing Thailand since 2015 in developing industrial robots to be used at the BMW Manufacturing plant in Rayong. Another example is the Thai-German Institute (TGI), which has become a unit under the Ministry of Industry’s CoRE (Center of Robotics Excellence) to move Thai robotics and automation Industry forward.

Key industries driving the adoption of robots in Thailand, include automotive, electronics, semiconductors, food-processing and healthcare services. As Thailand is one of the most popular destinations for healthcare services, the market for medical robots and artificial intelligence (AI) is promising. For example, Bumrungrad International Hospital became the world’s first hospital to launch Watson for Oncology, an AI-based cancer treatment support tool, in 2015. It also developed its surgery-assisting robots and opened its Robotic Surgery Centre to enhance accuracy and precision. Production of locally-made service robots is flourishing as well. DINSOW, an elderly-care robot developed by the Thai company, CT Asia, is a successful locally-made robot that is well received in Japan and Europe.

The future demand in robots and AI will create new jobs and require Thai people with the new technical skills. Prime Minister Gen. Prayut Chan-o-cha also addressed the need of Thai vocational institutes to partner with German institutes to prepare and produce skilled labor in various areas including robotics, during his official visit to Germany from 27 to 28 November 2018. Therefore, GTCC’s German-Thai Dual Excellence Education (GTDEE) Programme is continuing its collaboration with German and Thai partners in enhancing Thailand’s human capital.

I trust you will enjoy an interesting and informative read. Happy New Year 2019!

Dr. Roland Wein

UPDATE is published quarterly by the German-Thai Chamber of Commerce and distributed free of charge to members and qualified non-members in Thailand and abroad.

Subscription is also available at an annual rate of US$75 (airmail). Payment can be made in cash or by cheque to the German-Thai Chamber of Commerce, 14Fl., AIA Sathorn Tower, 11/1 South Sathorn Rd., Bangkok 10120, Thailand. Tel.: +66 2 055 0600. Fax: +66 2 055 0601. info@gtcc.org.

Any opinions expressed in articles in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the views of the Chamber.

UPDATE welcomes story and photo contributions from members and non-members alike. Articles may be reproduced with acknowledgement, except for those taken from other sources.

Circulation per issue : 1,000

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief: Dr. Roland Wein Editor & Communications Director: Chadaphan Maliphan Advertising Director: Ganya Aparaks Design & Layout: Sorapol Liengboonlertchai Sub-Editor: Tony Oliver

CONTENTS

06

Thailand promoting robots and automation for industry

14 Interview: Martin Wenzel,

KUKA Robotics (Thailand/ASEAN)

21 APK 2018

24 Oktoberfest 2018

33 AdA International – Train the Trainer

THE RISE OF THE ROBOTS

GTDEE INSIGHT

08 Robotics in automation made easy with Siemens

30 International Vocational Curriculum Development

10 Preparing for industrial robots: The vital role of the education sector

12 Robots and Automation: Moving Thailand towards Society 5.0

17 Interview: Robotics market in Thailand CHAMBER ACTIVITIES 22 Site visit to Panyapiwat Institute of Management 22 Delegation to Euro Tier 2018 23 First Inter-Chamber Young Professionals Networking Night

28 GTCC Family Christmas Party 2018

Conference

34 Next chapter of the GTDEE Project BUSINESS BRIEFS 38 First electric passenger boat uses Torqeedo propulsion system

MEMBERS’ CORNER 39 New GTCC members

TRADE FAIRS 40 ISPO Munich 41 European Coatings Show 42 Hannover Messe 43 DMEA 2019 Berlin 44 bauma 2019 Munich

06 THE RISE OF THE ROBOTS

Thailand promoting robots and automation for industry Dr. Waldemar Duscha

Thailand’s industrial sector aims to become more productive and competitive by implementing robots and automation in production processes. Par tnerships with foreign companies are leading the way.

The new development strategy, “Thailand 4.0”, sets priority on speeding up industrial development to reach a higher growth path in the so-called “S-Cur ve Industries”.

Therefore, the Board of Investment (BOI) has identified 10 clusters consisting of five well-established industries with high export potential as well as five future high-tech industries. The second group also includes the “Robots and Automation” cluster. The regional focus is on the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) and is being promoted by substantial investment in infrastructure measures.

forecasts an increase to 5,000 units until 2020. Solution provider Uni Arc expects similar development with a growth of 15 to 20 per cent over 10 years, to reach an annual demand of more than 6,000 units mainly due to the S-Curve and new intelligent factories.

The state-owned Digital Economy Promotion Agency estimates that investment in robots will reach US$ 1.3 billion by the end of 2018, which is a clear lead over the other nine ASEAN member countries. Investment in robots and system integration combined are expected to total about US$ 1.8 billion in 2018.

South-East Asia invests in robots Investment in robots for industrial production (US$ million)

2642

2010

Thailand

1581 1315

Singapore

1126

Malaysia

887

The corresponding market development forecasts are exceeding the overall economic grow th o f abo u t 4 . 5 p e r ce n t . Th e International Federation of Robots estimates the sales volume in 2017 at 3,000 units and

UPDATE 1/2019

362 252 211 63 35

2017

439 301 246 74 39

2018

534 373 301 88 46

2019

680 480 396 120

2020

643 548 60

167

2021

Indonesia Viet Nam 82

Philippines

THE RISE OF THE ROBOTS 07

Focus on electronics and automotive engineering The leading Thai expor t industries owe their international competitiveness fully to au to m atio n . T h e au t o m ot i ve a n d t h e electronics industry, each with exports valued at US$ 27 billion each, together generate 11 percent of Thailand’s total expor t performance. Robots are already processing 25 per cent of the Japanese carmakers’ production. According to the Yaskawa Electric Corporation, one of the leading suppliers, this share is likely to increase significantly due to the new generation of hybrid and electric vehicles.

By now about 30 per cent of the domestic producers have implemented the use of robots, and this number is expected to rise to 50 per cent in the next five year s.

According to Thailand’s Minister of Industry, Mr. Uttama Savanayana, at least 30 companies in the Hemaraj Industrial Estate plan to increase their shor t-term investments in robotics and system integration. Significant transformations on a large scale have so far been realised primarily by large corporations such as Charoen Pokphand, PTT and the Siam Cement Group.

Thai start-ups are taking action in order to follow this development. For example, RST Robotics, only founded in 2016, already supplies small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) with robots for risky work such as welding, painting or warehousing, with the focus on car manufacturing. Facilitated by a US$ 6.2 billion robot development plan, the Government of Thailand has set a goal for its industrial companies to develop 50 robots and automation system prototypes by 2023.

“ By now about 30 per cent of the domestic producers have implemented the use of robots, and this number is expected to rise to 50 per cent in the next five years.” how from advanced neighbouring countries are at the top of the political agenda. Most recently, the Republic of Korea was won over for investment and market research with support of the ASEAN-Korea Centre and the Korea Institute for Robot Industr y Advancement. In the framework of this par tner ship, a delegation of 13 robot manufacturers, led by LG and Samsung, explored potential locations in the EEC. Up to now, the Republic of Korea's exposure in this field includes 39 projects totalling approximately US$ 100 million.

A s d e m a nd grows , the ins titutio nal infrastructure improves as well. The Thai Automation and Robotics Association suppor ts, for example, business matching between domestic SMEs and potential foreign partners. The Institute of Field Robotics at King Mongkut's University of Technology, Thonburi, is a pioneer in education in this field. The Thai-German Institute under the Ministr y of Industr y develops innovative technologies in its Manufacturing Automation and Robotic Centre.

Service robots win recognition Service robots for health and care of the elderly rank among the avant-garde of Thai

industry. As one of the pioneers, "Dinsow"

by CT Asia Robotics has quickly gained high esteem for diagnosing the most common chronic age-related symptoms. The target is an annual capacity of 400 units, with first expor ts going to countries such as Japan, Sweden and Germany. Fur ther successful examples of healthcare robots are Fhasai ( c h i l d t h e r a p y ) , S e n s i b l e Ta b ( a r m rehabilitation), B-Hive (pharmacy automation) and Bumbee (medical dispenser).

Interested customers can be also found in branches such as the food industry, hotels, restaurants and entertainment. Thanks to digitalization and smartphones, e-commerce is rapidly growing, with its revenue set to treble by 2020 to US$ 4.2 billion, according to Euromonitor. The majority of stores in the wholesale and retail sector are already using automated solutions to reduce operating costs or to stabilise against labour shortage.

Contact details: Dr. Waldemar Duscha Representative in Thailand Germany Trade and Invest (GTAI) www.gtai.de/thailand www.gtai.de/asien-pazifik

Foreign investors highly welcome Attention among global players is rising. As early as 2017, the Bangkok Post reported that more than 30 companies had expressed their interest in investing in the ECC. Among them were well-known companies such as Panasonic, Universal Robot, OTC Daihen, ABB Robotics, Kuka Robotics, Yaskawa Motoman, True Robotics, Okura Yusoki, Gerenga Service, Nachi-Fujikoshi and Anca Manufacturing.

Importing technologies and acquiring know-

© CT ASIA ROBOTICS CO., LTD.

www.thailand.ahk.de

08 THE RISE OF THE ROBOTS

Robotics in automation made easy with Siemens technology Ittipol Pretesa

Digitalization changes everything. It changes everything in our daily lives – the way we read books, how we listen to music, how fast we can get news update from around the globe, and even the way we get to know our partners through the Internet these days.

Digitalization is also changing the way we do business and how we produce goods and services today.

The key to being able to innovate and remain competitive lies in taking advantage of the technology trends now transforming industry and shaping the Digital Enterprise.

Manufacturers and producers will have to rapidly adapt their operations to meet this fast-changing need or become obsolete.

Plant products and machines are becoming more and more networked in an integrated chain that is based on, and connected to the Internet.

Siemens, which has delivered new ideas and business models to clients for nearly 170 years, is ideally positioned to lead companies and organisations through the global economy’s current phase of digitalization.

Across Siemens’ business units, the company is rolling out new digital solutions that sync with global trends, such as the “Electrification of Everything” and automation.

UPDATE 1/2019

Smart factories with smarter, faster and cheaper robots and additive manufacturing processes are disrupting and transforming the manufacturing industry. In order to respond to this change, Siemens has developed state-of-the-art technologies to support the rise of automation and digitalization in different industries.

Automation and utilisation of robots are becoming significant in manufacturing industries.

Well-designed automation and drives technologies and innovative software enable greater productivity, flexibility, resource efficiency and shorter time to entering markets.

To demonstrate how industries can benefit from utilising automation to improve the business, the following is an excellent example.

THE RISE OF THE ROBOTS 09

Digitalise manufacturing – realise innovation Digital manufacturing solutions can help a manufacturer to digitalise manufacturing and the process of transforming innovative ideas and raw materials into real products. Siemens’ software called “Tecnomatix” is an example of a software solution that helps to achieve synchronisation between product engineering, manufacturing engineering, production and ser vice operations in order to maximise production efficiency and realise innovation.

Robotics and automation programming solutions enable work to be carried out both in data-managed and file-based environments for the development of robotic and automated production systems. These tools address multiple levels of robot simulation and workstation development, from singlerobot stations to complete production lines and zones.

Use of collaborative tools, communication and co-ordination among manufacturing disciplines is enhanced, enabling smar ter decision-making. This allows users to bring automation systems online much faster and with fewer errors.

“ Across all major industries, market pressures and structural costs are resulting in manufacturers having to introduce more automation and increased flexibility into their production facilities.”

Robotics in automation programming and simulation

development, from single-robot stations to complete production lines and zones. Using collaborative tools, communication and co-ordination among manufacturing disciplines can be enhanced, enabling smarter decisionmaking. This allows automation systems to be brought online much faster and with fewer errors.

Across all major industries, market pressures and str uctural costs are resulting in manufacturers having to introduce more automation and increased flexibility into their production facilities. Individual plants need to increase the number of products they can produce, exceeding their current quality targets and optimising their shop floor footprint. Manufacturers must rely, more than ever, on robotics and automation systems in order to gain flexibility for more complex manufacturing operations and to boost their production efficiency.

The software provides the tools necessary for the design and validation of manufacturing processes in a dynamic and highly visual environment where manufacturing engineers can author, reuse, validate and optimise manufacturing process sequences with realistic performance using fully kinematic 3D models. These solutions support a variety of robotic and automation processes, allowing for early validation of automation concepts vir tually as well as the simulation, offline programming and commissioning of complete production systems.

When the software for robotics and automation simulation solutions are applied, users can work both in data-managed and in file-based environments for the development of robotic and automated production systems. These tools address multiple levels of robot simulation and wor kstation

Plan, simulate and optimise robotic operation paths Another advantage of utilising robotics and automation simulation solutions includes the power to simulate complete manufacturing cells and systems. This allows users to design

and validate collision-free robotic paths and optimise their motion and cycle times, using both time-based and event-based simulation methods. Dedicated tools for various robotic applications, such as resistance spot-welding, arc welding, cutting, spraying and pick-andplace operations further enhance the ability to define the correct motion for the robots and automation in the systems.

Industrial robots are being used more and more in many industries, as they can perform increasingly complex tasks quickly and efficiently. Integrating robots into the automation environment seamlessly and easily allows full advantage to be taken of these benefits. It can help manufacturers and machine builders work faster, more easily and more flexibly — from design and machine concepts all the way to services.

Contact details: Ittipol Pretesa Digital Factory Technical Manager Siemens Ltd. Tel: +66 2 715 5002 IttipolPr@siemens.com www.siemens.com

www.thailand.ahk.de

10 THE RISE OF THE ROBOTS

Preparing for industrial robots: The vital role of the education sector Dr.-Ing. Chayakorn Netramai

The steady rise in the use of industrial robots requires the involvement of Thailand’s education sector in ensuring an adequate supply of graduates who are well-grounded in the related technological disciplines.

Qualified graduates need to be prepared for working with future technologies.

New demands for graduate skills Industrial robots fall within a technical domain that requires a multidisciplinary approach.

This means engineers in the field need to combine knowledge from more than one

discipline in order to design, develop and deploy the necessary solutions. These robots comprise integrated sub-systems that are usually highly customised and optimised, e.g., mechanical and electrical systems, sensor and actuator technologies, communication protocols as well as software systems.

Therefore , gr aduates who wor k with industrial robots are expected to have good overview and understanding of how different technologies work together as well as how to each element can be optimised in order to achieve the best final results.

Operating within “Industry 4.0” means that industrial robots are also working alongside other emerging technologies within the production ecosystem. Therefore, new sets of knowledge such as artificial intelligence, data science and communication technologies are gaining more and more importance for engineers who wish to be successful in this field.

A new way of educating future graduates Having a good aptitude in the technical aspect remains mandatory. However, working with industrial robotics also requires that

UPDATE 1/2019

graduates perform as a team and interact closely with different depar tments in a factory to develop solutions that work well in harmony with the entire process chain.

The so-called work integrated learning (WIL) system is a promising approach. It ensures the development of personal competencies and soft skills by providing the opportunity for students to train in the actual working environment and interact with the actual stakeholders under the guidance of professors and exper ts from the industry. With the WIL approach, students learn to work as individuals to gain problem-solving and critical thinking skills in order to develop useable and practical solutions while, at the same time, getting a real opportunity to sharpen their soft skills by collaborating with others in accomplishing a task as a team.

The other trend in the education domain is the “lifelong learning” approach. As technology keeps changing, we are inevitably required to learn new skills every now and then. When taking into account the ageing society, the involvement of industrial robots can be embraced with less fear. Instead of believing that robots will take jobs away from humans,

THE RISE OF THE ROBOTS 11

we can think of them as extensions that enable us to work better with less effort.

Participation of TGGS — an industryoriented research and educational institute

“ At TGGS, lecturers and researchers work closely with the industry in solving the latest R&D issues.”

The Sirindhorn International Thai-German Graduate School of Engineering (TGGS) is an international engineering graduate school within the King Mongkut's University of Technology North Bangkok. It was founded with strong support from the Governments of Thailand and Germany to provide engineering education, technology, innovation and business development in Thailand and South-East Asia. Its industr y-oriented engineering master’s and doctorate education concept combines teaching and research based on the successful model of RWTHAachen University, Germany, one of Europe’s leading technical universities.

At TGGS, lecturers and researchers work closely with the industry in solving the latest R&D issues. Students are integrated into research projects under the guidance of their lecturers and industrial experts. This industryoriented approach allows TGGS to closely interact with industry in order to produce graduates who are ideally suited for the demand of industry.

Research collaboration with BMW Manufacturing Thailand

in the prototype and the actual AGV fleet that were built together by the university research team and a group of vocational students at BMW Manufacturing Thailand.

The AGV fleet is now operating in the actual production line.

TGGS has been collaborating with BMW Manufacturing Thailand since 2015 in designing and developing industrial robots to be used at the BMW Manufacturing plant in Rayong, Thailand.

The outcome from this collaboration is a win-win situation. The locally-developed AGVs fit exactly into the requirements of the production process, while keeping the investment cost reasonably economical

The project began with a vision from BMW Manufacturing Thailand for using the Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV), a robot that automatically carries around heavy parts in the production line. The objective of this approach is to enhance the production process while maintaining a high degree of production flexibility. A tailor-made design of an AGV was developed by the university research team, based on the exact need of BMW Manufacturing Thailand. This resulted

when compared to imported solutions. The knowledge and exper ience gained are shared between the university research team and BMW Manufacturing Thailand, which promotes the sustainability of technology usage and development. Last but not least, this type of project helps in preparing new generations of graduates to be ready for dealing with industr y robots and future technologies. This will surely ensure the availability of valuable human resources for the industry in the future.

Contact details: Dr.-Ing. Chayakorn Netramai Lecturer/researcher at Software Systems Engineering (SSE) The Sirindhorn International Thai-German Graduate School of Engineering (TGGS) King Mongkut's University of Technology North Bangkok Tel: +66 2 555 2000 ext. 2911 Fax: +66 2 555 2937 chayakorn.n@tggs.kmutnb.ac.th http://tggs.kmutnb.ac.th

www.thailand.ahk.de

12 THE RISE OF THE ROBOTS

Robots and automation: Moving Thailand towards Society 5.0 Assoc. Prof. Dr. Paritud Bhandhubanyong and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pisit Charnkeitkong Thailand and Thai society are being transformed into the daunting future of the so-called ageing society, as the second Asian country following Japan to experience this situation. Manpower in the major economic sectors such as agriculture, industr y and services is decreasing relatively rapidly. On the other hand, there is a strong global trend towards solving and mitigating climate change, which has to be done in parallel with the adaptation of human society.

During the opening ceremony of the fourth Innovation for Cool Earth Forum (ICEF) in Tokyo in October 2017, Japan’s Pr ime Minister Shinzo Abe proposed the idea of “Society 5.0�, a human-centric (a stable, wealthy and sustainable) society for the Japan ageing population. This could be the future model of Thailand in the next decade. The most impor tant question is how to foster the human resources needed to support Society 5.0?

The solution: Robots and automation Robots and automation coupled with ar tificial intelligence systems will be the most appropriate solution for achieving Thailand 4.0 and Society 5.0. On 29 August 2017, the Center of Robotics Excellence

UPDATE 1/2019

(CoRE) was created to act as the principal mechanism for the development of the robotics and automation industry in Thailand.

The Thai-German Institute (TGI) will lead the effort with strong support from various universities as well as private and public organizations.

in the next five years; (c) achieve a 30 per cent reduction in robots and automation imports amounting to a saving of Baht 80 billion; and (d) become a robot and automation exporter by 2026.

The CoRE objectives are to: (a) create a 50 per cent increase in Thai industrial productivity; (b) increase domestic investment in robotics and automation to Baht 200 billion

To support the plan for the economic and social development of Thailand 4.0 and to support the objectives of CoRE as one of its members, in academic year 2017, the Faculty

Creating professionals by professionals

THE RISE OF THE ROBOTS 13

“ In academic year 2017, the Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Panyapiwat Institute of Management (PIM) has established the Department of Robotic and Automation Engineering (RAE) in parallel with an investment of Baht 50 million in the set-up of the Innovation Center for Robotic and Automation Systems (iCRAS).”

a preparatory facility for their internships and future careers. The laboratory consists of five small units, which will be used for learning, experimenting, and testing industrial robot systems.

Automation Systems Laboratory This laborator y is for studying industrial automatic manufacturing systems. It has simulation models of robotic arms and sensors for materials in a variety of shapes and sizes.

Cyber physical Systems Laboratory This high-performance computer laboratory uses a combination of information and manufacturing technology for creating a smart factory and increasing productivity under Industrial 4.0. of Engineering and Technology, Panyapiwat Institute of Management (PIM) has established the Department of Robotic and Automation Engineering (RAE) in parallel with an investment of Baht 50 million in the set-up of the Innovation Center for Robotic and Automation Systems (iCRAS). Together, the Department and the Center have organised a work-based education system corresponding to the philosophy of “create professionals by professionals”.

RAE program is designed to focus on high demand areas, e.g., Robot Gripper Design, Automation System and Robotic in manufacturing and Software Development for Robotic and Automation Engineering. At present, there are 75 students enrolled in this program.

First-year students will practice skills of communication, discipline, loyalty, and understandings of actual working environment through 3-month internships in 7-Eleven convenient stores.

Second-year students will take a 6-month internship period, while the third- and fourth-year students will do 9-month internships through the final 3 months of their third year and the first half of their fourth year, respectively. They will gain practical experiences in the field of robotics and automations from leading industrial firms such as CPALL, CPF, TRUE and their partners in Thailand and abroad where most of them will be employed after graduation. The long internship period is aimed at producing “ready-to-work” graduates. In the next 5 years, nearly 200 RAE students are expected to enter the workforce.

Innovation Center for Robotic and Automation Systems

Co-creation space This is a 50 sq.m. co-working space for innovative tasks that support modern life-style needs. It is suitable for start-up businesses and is fully equipped with the necessary tools and equipment for innovative work.

Rapid prototyping and CAD Laboratory T he Co mp ute r-A id e d -De s ign ( C AD) Laboratory has a computer numerical control system, laser cutters, 3-D Printers etc. for establishing a high-efficiency prototyping system.

The Department of Robotic and Automation Engineering of PIM is ready to act as prime mover for fostering qualified, well-trained human resources to suppor t Thailand’s Society 5.0 goal in the near future.

Set up to strengthen the theoretical and laboratory studies of RAE students, iCRAS will act as

Contact details: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Paritud Bhandhubanyong Acting Dean, Faculty of Logistics and Transportation Management Panyapiwat Institute of Management Tel: +66 2 855 0998 paritudbha@pim.ac.th www.pim.ac.th

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pisit Charnkeitkong Dean, Faculty of Engineering and Technology Panyapiwat Institute of Management Tel: +66 2 855 0339 pisitcha@pim.ac.th

www.thailand.ahk.de

14 INTERVIEW

Next major technical leap: Wide use of artificial intelligence and highly-advanced collaborative robots Martin Wenzel, Chief Executive Officer, KUKA Robotics (Thailand/ASEAN) Apart from digitization, the next big technological advance is predicted to be the combination of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics in various industrial sectors such as manufacturing, food, healthcare, e-commerce and financial technology, which will transform our way of life. Currently, many robotics companies are already operating in response to the global market demand for such technology.

The German-Thai Chamber of Commerce (GTCC) is very pleased to present the following intuitive interview with Mr. Martin Wenzel, Chief Executive Officer of KUKA Robotics (Thailand/ASEAN). KUKA AG is one of the world’s leading suppliers of intelligent automation solutions. Its products and services range from the individual components to fully-automated systems. Mr. Wenzel shared with GTCC the story of KUKA and his ideas for accelerating and expanding the robotics sector in Thailand.

Please share with us the background of the industrial robotics market in Thailand and how KUKA entered the Thai market.

Industrial robots in Thailand are not new.

Initially, the robotics market in this country was mainly served by Japanese companies, often related to Automotive industry. KUKA first became involved in projects with major carmakers in Thailand in 2010, then officially

UPDATE 1/2019

entered the Thai market through a new subsidiary in 2016 with a much broader approach. In addition, KUKA oper ates business that cover suppliers to automotive companies as well as other industries that have a demand for robotics.

A strong driver for current demand in automation and robotics is the Thailand 4.0 initiative, which was launched in March 2017.

This is due to several factors including the ageing population, a lack of qualified personnel, increased labour costs and an increase in the production of high-tech and high-quality products.

Thailand, as a country with a strong focus on manufacturing, realised its need to adapt production processes in order to stay competitive by producing high-volume, competitive price products. But the best way to develop and compete is also to produce highly specialised low-volume, high-value products, to be highly responsive to the requirements of customers, which is only feasible with flexible automation.

Another reason for the growth of the Thai robotics market is the technical advancement of products, which have increasingly involved the use of high-end applications. In the past, industries used to mass-produce commodities such as in the Japanese automotive sector that produces hundreds of thousands of identical cars. However, the German car

INTERVIEW 15

“ In general, we are working with system partners to offer complete projects, in which robots are components and offer complete projects only to selected large scale customer projects. We work together with about 30-40 system partners/integrators in Thailand.� industry manufactures vehicles with a very high level of variation, which is only possible in a cost efficive and high quality way by running automated processes. The more variety and customer responsiveness one wants to offer the more high end automation is needed . Currently a trend is to use more human collaborative robots to assist higher skilled staff in previously only manual performed tasks, side by side with humans without having to be placed behind security fencing, but taking over tasks with precision and without human effort, but in collabroration with humans. There is a strong market need in Thailand for those robots.

Therefore, KUKA entered the Thai market with a Robotics subsidiary at the right time to participate in the Thailand 4.0 initiative.

Currently, KUKA gained respectable market share , despite the fact that Japanese automation and robotics companies still occupy the biggest market share in Thailand.

KUKA is a leader (in Thailand) in the field of highly advanced collaborative robots in relation to weight, safety/sensor technique, precision requirements.

On the other hand, demand in Thailand for mobile robots that make the over all production system more flexible is relatively weak if compared to those in countries such as Taiwan, SouthKorea and Singapore.

Another division of KUKA group is Swisslog group with regional HQ in Malaysia, which offers solutions for fully automated warehouse solution and integration (mainly in consumer goods industry) Our KUKA Automotive Division is a line builder with experiences in Thailand for American OEM (or iginal equipment manufacturer) car producer before, but is not so active in Thailand yet, because CBU (Completely built up) production is by Japanese manufacturers with own line builders.

KUKA Thailand and Division Automotive are oberserving the markets of European players and Thai suppliers to help in their increasing automation needs, to have a higher (more advanced) automation level. Some European companies move from importing car kits (CKD or completely knocked down) to

produce more locally and increase local content, we support them with robot based automation.

How many customers does KUKA have in Thailand?

It is not possible to tell what the exact number is, since many customers had already impor ted KUKA robots and automation systems impor ted from Europe or used robot impor ter s. Also those are our customers because we provide maintenance services. The number of new customers is probably around 150, but steadily growing since three years ago.

In general, we are working with system partners to offer complete projects, in which robots are components and offer complete projects only to selected large scale customer projects. We work together with about 30-40 system par tners/integrators in Thailand.

Vocational and private colleges are also important KUKA partners and customers as they use robots in their laboratories, but their training makes more technical experts in KUKA products.

In ASEAN, other interesting KUKA markets are Vietnam and Indonesia. Vietnam is currently making rapid progress with huge investments in manufacturing and automation in a ver y early stage. However, Vietnam has yet a very large and cost efficient work force, which keeps the return of investment

What products is KUKA already marketing in Thailand and the region, and which ones are in great demand?

It depends on the industry. The Thai electronic industry mainly demands small, light robots for quick and precise output. In the case of the consumer market, larger palletizing robots or medium-sized handling robots are needed.

In the automotive Industry, companies have welding robots since a long time, but seek other automation opportunities. The human collaborative robot of KUKA is often marketed in Thailand to companies with high end activities, such as research and development (R&D), or robots used with medical devices. Some hospital in Thailand use KUKA robots for CT-Scan and X-ray, sold by big medical suppliers.

www.thailand.ahk.de

16 INTERVIEW

in automation in Vietnam less attractive than Thailand. The statistic of IFR shows that the Vietnamese robot market in 2017 was bigger than Thailand. But we suspect that the number of robots reported in Vietnam come from Korea for mainly Korean electronic producers, who invested in northern Vietnam in manufacturing their electronic goods. The rest of the market is smaller but rapidly growing, I would expect Vietnam to catch up with Thailand in terms of market size in 3-5 years.

What are the main factors leading to the accelerating use of industrial robots in Thailand?

In additio n to th o s e f a ct or s a l re a d y mentioned, global technology is a key driver of automation and the rise in the use of industrial robots. Countries will always adopt technology that is feasible, available and economical to use. There are four aspects that require government support: (a) active support for the technological advancement in initiatives such as Industry 4.0; (b) funding — the Government should promote automated production processes through tax incentives; (c) encouragement of academic and vocational education, since robotics is a complex field that requires IT integration on several layers; and (d) good English language ability.

Do Thai workers understand and have sufficient competence needed to support the utilization of industrial robots? Does Thailand need to reform the educational system to stay competitive and be wellprepared for the future?

Thailand has very capable, also sometimes English-speaking candidates, but these candidates are difficult to find and the salary compared to South East Asia or even East Asia is high, due to bottleneck in qualification and language. Some universities in Thailand have excellent education programmes in the field of robotics, but the number is still too limited to cope with future demand. At the level of vocational education, there are not enough sufficiently skilled personnel. The education system needs to be reformed in order to reach the necessary level of critical and analytical thinking. Thai universities will have to shift towards practical-orientated education. Actually, critical thinking should

UPDATE 1/2019

start in the primary and secondary schools.

In what way could the Government of Thailand successfully boost the new S-curve industries development, especially in the area of advanced robotics?

Thailand needs to encourage its local engineers and entrepreneurs. The general ability level of Thai engineers is really good, with good skills to reproduce solutions. But the solutions sometimes lack long-term orientation, sustainability and real innovation.

But Thailand has already some selected very advanced system integrators to bring technology used in other countries to Thailand With local engineering the country could bring standardised components from countries, e.g., Germany; the engineering aspects can then be undertaken in Thailand by local engineers, including those with expertise in automation. The production of robots does not necessarily have to take place in Thailand, because one market is too small for that The political framework must be designed to encourage innovation and new products as well as contribute to the evolution of industries. English competency is also a key driver, especially for S-curve industries and their development, because global know-how exchange is a key factor. Good knowledge of IT and programming would also be very supportive, because digitalization is blending engineering and IT. If the objective is to become a highly innovative country or high income country, yo u h ave to inve nt yo ur own ve r y

competetitive products/services . Take South Korea as an example. The four biggest enterprises (Samsung, Hyundai, LG and Lotte) contribute a large share to the GDP of the national economy and are the key drivers.

The success of those enterprises is the result of a mix of family-run businesses and strongly supported by the Government. The national investment in innovation is mainly funded by those companies. So they act as leading educational and R&D institutions. This is a very different approach to the German one, where numerous small and medium-sized enterprises, often world market leaders in family ownership are the economy’s key drivers rather than having only a few huge leading conglomerates. Thailand needs to choose a model — either one that triggers SME innovations with potential to globally or regionally lead in products and services, or suppor t the biggest enterprises to create innovative products, which are value added and very competitive to the world.

Which areas of everyday life will feel the greatest impact from the use of robots?

Manufacturing and logistics, by far. But I also encourage people to obser ve the main changes in the service, medical and hospitality industry including restaurants Robots will also be used on a large-scale for home use (household) or for care of the elderly, like the Thai healthcare robot “Dinsow”, which has been exported to Japan. They could help to compensate for a massive lack of human nursing staff in aging societies.

Interviewed by Chadaphan Maliphan and Julian Weinburger, GTCC Team

INTERVIEW 17

Robotics market in Thailand

Varin Rodphothong, Vice President of Manufacturing Automation and Robotics Center, Thai-German Institute GTCC recently had the opportunity for an interesting discussion about the future of the robotics market in Thailand with Mr. Varin Rodphothong, Vice President of Manufacturing Automation and Robotics Center, Thai-German Institute (TGI). TGI is a unit operating under the CoRE (Center of Robotics Excellence), which is established by the Ministry of Industry. Its duties include: certifying entrepreneurs in the robotics and automation Industry; developing a commercial prototype; training personnel for the robotics and automation industry; exploring and transferring technology; and developing and supporting robotics and automation entrepreneurs.

What is the future trend in the robotics market in Thailand?

In Thailand, robots are mostly used in the business sector, automotive industry, and the production of rubber and plastic electronic components/metals. The automotive industry has the highest growth rate of robotics utilisation.

What types of robots are used in Thai business sector and what is the humanrobots ratio?

Most of the robots in Thailand are industrial and ar ticulated robots. The propor tion of robots per humans in the Thai manufacturing industry is about 60-70 per 10,000 workers What is the value and growth rate of Thailand's robotics imports and current global import rankings?

Thailand was ranked as the world’s tenth or eleventh robotics impor ter in 2018.

Robotics are specialising in industrial robots.

As far as ser vice robots are concerned, successful local companies include TA Robot, Hiveground, ROBAST Autonomous Surface Vehicles, Zeabus AUV, Flare Stack Inspection Drone , and Tiger Shar k II Type 3 UAV. However, Thailand does not export industrial robotics. We export a few service robots to Japan and Europe.

Which country is the market leader in the robotics field in Thailand?

In Thailand, Japanese robots hold a market share of 60%-70%, followed by robots from Europe (20-25%) and China (5%).

Is there any possibility that robots will replace humans completely?

On average, robot density has increased from about 50 robots per 10,000 humans during the past two years to about 70 to 10,000 today. The highest density is about 650 robots per 10,000 workers. However, there will not

“ In Thailand, Japanese robots hold a market share of 60%-70%, followed by robots from Europe (20-25%) and China (5%).”

The value of impor ted robots for the manufacturing industr y (excluding other components) is approximately Baht 7,500 million.

What other successful local robotics companies are active in Thailand, apart from the Thai service robot “Dinsow” created by CT Asia Robotics Co., Ltd.?

UNiCAl, RST robotic, IWELDBOT and Yushi

be total labour replacement in Thailand because wages are still low when compared with the price of technology investment. The payback period is long and that discourages the change to using robots instead of human labour. Current investment in robotics in Thailand is mainly aimed at business survival.

Robots can substitute for workers where there are high turnover rates. They are used in manufacturing processes that affect quality and create waste, and in which there is clear

distinction between the performances of man and robot.

What challenges face the robotics industry under "Thailand 4.0"?

There are some difficulties in the designing and development of robotics and automation.

The research and development (R&D) as well as the design and development (D&D) processes are costly and risky, especially in the agro-processing industry. The long-time payback period makes R&D/D&D in this area unattractive.

Challenges include the lack of knowledge and technology transfers to Thai entrepreneurs, as most robotics and automation companies are foreign and are users of high-level and high-cost technology. In contrast, local users are not confident in locally-made robotics and automation products. Opportunities for Thai entrepreneurs to access investment capital as well as robotics and automation technology are still limited. There is also a lack quality labour, controllers and experts for ensuring efficient use of robotics/automation, while the number of system integrators in Thailand is not sufficient.

Interviewed by GTCC Team

www.thailand.ahk.de

18 CHAMBER ACTIVITIES

Eastern Seaboard seminar with L&P GTCC hosted a seminar on permanent establishment risks in Thailand at the Mytt Beach Hotel in Pattaya in collaboration with Lorenz & Partners (L&P) on 21 September.

Mr. Till Morstadt, L&P Equity Partner, shared his expertise on "How to reduce permanent establishment risks in Thailand and the region" with the seminar's participants.

Joint Chambers Eastern Seaboard Networking In corporation with other bilateral chambers of commerce, the GTCC welcomed more than 160 guests at a Joint Chambers Eastern Seaboard Networking event at the Mytt Beach Hotel in Pattaya. The GTCC thanks its event partners EventBank, Mercedes-Benz, Mytt Beach Hotel Pattaya, Symbior Solar and Umicore for their generous support.

UPDATE 1/2019

CHAMBER ACTIVITIES 19

GTCC Business Women Networking

About 36 business women participated in the GTCC Business Women Networking event at the Le Méridien Bangkok hotel on 27 September, during which they discussed "How to Promote Ourselves" with special guest Ms. Cindy Bishop. A famous model, actress and social activist, Ms. Bishop explained that women must find their strengths and utilise social media channels for their selfpromotion. The event was moderated by Ms. Anja Heck, Khun Piyakanit Yen-Ura and Asst. Prof. Dr. Monpilai Narasingha.

GTCC Young Professionals Network Evening

GTCC organised this year’s third networking event of the GTCC Young Professionals (GTCC YP) on the "Future of the digital world, and the right marketing strategy” at Spaces, Chamchuri Square, Bangkok on 10 October. Keynote speaker, Mr. Parin Sonpracha, Chief Executive and Co-founder of Nasket Retail Co., Ltd., provided a first-hand insight on the future of the digital world and shared his success story of changing his career from an online executive to a successful tech entrepreneur.

www.thailand.ahk.de

20 CHAMBER ACTIVITIES

GTCC seminar with THAC

GTCC, in co-operation with the Thailand Arbitration Center (THAC), organised a seminar on "An introduction to dispute resolution mechanisms for business — arbitration, mediation, litigation" on 16 October at the THAC Office. Thanks are due to Ms. Litsan Chong, counsel for the Thailand Arbitration Center, and Mr. Patrick Dahm, legal expert at Samuel Seow Law Corporation, for discussing an overview of dispute resolution mechanisms being used globally.

Breakfast Talk with Respondek on Thailand’s FBA GTCC, in collaboration with the German law firm Respondek & Fan Ltd. (RF), organised a Joint Chambers Breakfast Talk on “Compliance: What restrictions foreign investors in Thailand have to observe under the Thai Foreign Business Act (FBA)” on 1 November at Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel. The speaker was Managing Partner of Respondek & Fan Ltd., Dr. Andreas Respondek, LL.M.

UPDATE 1/2019

CHAMBER ACTIVITIES 21

APK 2018 The GTCC President, Board Members, member s and the Executive Director par ticipated in the 16th Asia-Pacific Conference of German Business (APK 2018), which was held from 1 to 3 November 2018 at the Ritz-Carlton Jakarta Hotel, Indonesia.

On 2 November at the Breakfast Session on ASEAN, GTCC Executive Director Dr. Roland Wein gave a presentation on Thailand's Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) development and the countr y’s position as the automotive hub that is striving for e-mobility. The next APK will take place in 2020 in Tokyo, Japan.

Breakfast Talk with Rödl & Partner: "New transfer pricing regulations in Thailand" GTCC organised a Breakfast Talk on "New transfer pricing regulations in Thailand" in collaboration with Rödl & Partner Ltd. on 8 November 2018 at the Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit Hotel. Recently, Thailand introduced new legislation to further regulate Transfer Pricing. The new rules will apply to accounting periods starting on (or after) 1 January 2019.

Companies should make themselves familiar with the new requirements in order to avoid any future problems. Speaker Mr. Jonas Bley, Rödl & Par tner Head of Transfer Pricing Team in South-East Asia, and Mr. Olarn Vasinchayangkoon, Senior Associate in the firm’s Bangkok office, provided an overview of the key features and the most important changes in the regulations that companies will have to take into account under the new legal framework.

www.thailand.ahk.de

22 CHAMBER ACTIVITIES

Delegation to Euro Tier 2018 GTCC organised a business delegation trip to Germany on the livestock. The delegation, comprising 22 participants, visited EuroTier and leading German animal feed and farming companies, Dr. Eckel Animal Nutrition GmbH & Co. KG, WEDA Dammann & Westerkamp GmbH, GEA Westfalia Separator Group GmbH and a biogas power plant. In addition, the delegation had an opportunity to meet with representatives of the German Federal Ministry for Food and Agriculture (BMEL) in Bonn.

Site visit to Panyapiwat Institute of Management Twenty GTCC members joined a GTCC site visit to Thailand’s Panyapiwat Institute of Management (PIM) on 20 November.

Established in 2007 and supported by CP All Plc, PIM has been offering accredited bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral programmes that include Thai and international courses. The Institute operates as a corporate university and follows a learning concept called “Work-based Education”, under which students are offered practical training in CP ALL's business alliances that suppor t this apprenticeship co-operation programme. PIM’s laboratories and facilities have also been developed to serve the practical experiences in related programmes, such as the Food and Bakery Lab, Hospitality Lab and iCRAS (Innovation Center for Robotics and Automation Systems).

UPDATE 1/2019

CHAMBER ACTIVITIES 23

Tri-nations Stammtisch Bangkok

GTCC hosted its last Stammtisch Bangkok of 2018 and extended an invitation to Advantage Austria and the members of the Swiss-Thai Chamber of Commerce on 20 November.

Participants in the tri-nation event took the opportunity to meet guests of honour German Ambassador-Designate H.E. Georg Schmidt, Swiss Ambassador H.E. Ivo Sieber and Austrian Ambassador H.E. Dr. Eva Hager.

First Inter-Chamber Young Professionals Networking Night GTCC and GTCC Young Professionals (GTCC YP), in co-operation with other bilateral Chambers of Commerce in Thailand hosted an Inter-Chamber Young Professionals Networking Night 2018 on 30 November at The Westin Grande Sukhumvit Bangkok.

The event, which was organised by GTCC, A MCHA M, BCCT and FT CC Young Professionals, provided participants with an excellent opportunity to meet and network with hundreds of young professionals from all over Bangkok.

www.thailand.ahk.de

24 CHAMBER ACTIVITIES

GTCC Oktoberfest 2018: The Authentic German Experience The Chamber welcomed about 1,700 guests at the GTCC Oktoberfest 2018 on 26-27 October 2018 at the Shangri-La Hotel.

Ambassador-Designate of Ger many to Thailand, H.E. Georg Schmidt, kindly tapped the first keg on October 26, calling out “O'zapft is!” (it’s tapped!), while Chargé d’ Affaires a.i. of the Embassy of Germany in Thailand, Mr. Jan Scheer tapped the first keg on October 27. The pleasure of the guests made the ambiance of Oktoberfest even more amazing. They enjoyed the lively entertainment provided by AnTon and the Funny Guys, the festive German feast, the genuine Paulaner Oktoberfest Bier and games.

The GTCC would like to express its sincere gratitude to par tners Shangri-La Hotel Bangkok and Paulaner, and the sponsors: [Diamond] Häfele; [Gold] BASF, BMW, Kuehne + Nagel, SCHÜCO, and Thaivivat Insurance; [Silver] B. Grimm, Lenk Frozen Food, Robinson Clubs, Schaeffler Thailand and Umicore. Thanks are also due to the four in-kind sponsors, Lufthansa German Air lines, Rober t Bosch, Ramada Plaza Bangkok Menam River side hotel, and Samitivej Hospital, for their great support in making our Oktoberfest very successful.

UPDATE 1/2019

CHAMBER ACTIVITIES 25

www.thailand.ahk.de

26 CHAMBER ACTIVITIES

UPDATE 1/2019

CHAMBER ACTIVITIES 27

www.thailand.ahk.de

28 CHAMBER ACTIVITIES

GTCC Family Christmas Party 2018 GTCC organised our Family Christmas Party 2018 on 14 December at St. Regis Bangkok, welcoming H.E. German Ambassador Georg Schmidt and Madam Yuet Lin Fong Schmidt, GTCC members, their families and friends of the German-Thai Chamber of Commerce. The participants enjoyed a delicious buffet dinner and drinks — including freshly-made Glühwein — as well as children’s activities, live music, and a lucky draw in a casual and family-friendly ambience. Santa Claus also joined the party and brought special gifts for the children.

The event would not have been possible without great support from the following partners and sponsors: [Event Partners] Paulaner by Flow Inter, and St. Regis Bangkok Hotel. [Santa Claus Sponsors] Klapsons by Raimon Land, Ninive Games Co., Ltd.; and Royal Caribbean International. [Snowman Sponsor] Blumenthal Richter & Sumet; [Sugar Cane Sponsor] B.Grimm Joint Venture Holding Co.,Ltd; [In-Kind Sponsors] Thai-German Meat Product Co., Ltd., Centara Grand at Central World, Majorette Thailand Co., Ltd., Asian Tigers Mobility, Staedtler (Thailand) Ltd., Kiidu Thailand Co, Ltd. and RIS School - Swiss Section.

UPDATE 1/2019

CHAMBER ACTIVITIES 29

www.thailand.ahk.de

30 GTDEE INSIGHT

International Vocational Curriculum Development Conference On 1 August 2018, the Executive Director of the German-Thai Chamber of Commerce (GTCC), Dr. Roland Wein, German-Thai Dual Excellence Education (GTDEE) Project Director, Mr. Markus Hoffmann and GTDEE Project Senior Manager, Dr. Kamonsak Suradom visited the Ministry of Education to participate in the “International Vocational Education Development Conference” on invitation by Minister of Education Teerakiat Jaroensettasin, M.D. The American Chamber of Commerce, British Chamber of Commerce, Australian-Thai Chamber of Commerce and Korea-Thai Chamber of Commerce were also invited to the conference. Furthermore, Dr. Wein was nominated to be a member of the International Vocational Curriculum Development Committee in order to advise on developing the Thai vocational education curriculum to be more international and suited to the needs of the commercial and industrial sectors.

Thai-German Technical and Vocational Education and Training Forum On 3 August 2018 Dr. Roland Wein, Mr. Markus Hoffmann, Dr. Kamonsak Suradom and GTDEE Project Manager Mr. Panuwat Jaitham were invited by Ministry of Foreign Affairs to par ticipate in the Thai-German Technical and Vocational Education and Training Forum on “Upgrading Professional Standards and Integration of Pr ivate Stakeholders”. Held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the conference included special discussions on - upgrading Occupational Standards and Professional Qualifications, - VET transition: Integration of Vocational Schools and Private Stakeholders, and the - role and participation of the private sector in dual vocational education and training for Thailand 4.0.

UPDATE 1/2019

GTDEE INSIGHT 31

PAL Examination 2018 meeting

On 9 August 2018 GTDEE member s Mr. Markus Hoffmann, Dr. Kamonsak Suradom and Mr. Katiphot Kanoknorrasade, together with Mr. Paul Koelker, German expert from KMUTNB, par ticipated in a meeting on preparations for the Interim PAL Examination

2018 with the teachers from Don Bosco Techonological College, Eastern Technological College and Samut Prokarn Technical College as well as of Mercedes-Benz (Thailand) Co., Ltd. Training Manager, Mr. Prawit Muang-Im and training officers at Mercedes-Benz

Competence Centre, Bang Na Trad, Km. 19.

The examination will be on automotive mechatronics for apprentices Batch 2017.

Fur thermore, the GTDEE team members and the teachers met with the apprentices.

Three-party meeting On 10 August 2018 GTDEE project members Dr. Kamonsak Suradom, Mr. Panuwat Jaitham, Mr. Katiphot Kanoknorrasade and Project Assistant Ms. Apinya Amporn had a meeting with BMW (Thailand) Qualification and Training Manager Mr. Wichit Tangwongcheunsuk, Senior Trainer Mr. Kriskorn Kraichinda and Senior Trainer Mr. Natthapong Lorpisanchai together with Head of the Auto-Mechanics Depar tment of Don Bosco Technological College, Mr. Phibul Chaowpetch at the GTCC office. The topics discussed included - Thailand National Science and Technology Exhibition Fair 2018, the - PAL Interim Examination 2018 in automotive mechatronics for apprentices Batch 2017 and the - results of the pre-test for BMW Service apprentices Batch 2017.

www.thailand.ahk.de

32 GTDEE INSIGHT

National Science and Technology Fair 2018

The GTDEE Project staff was invited by the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany to participate in the German Pavilion at the National Science and Technology Fair 2018.

GTDEE co-operated with BMW (Thailand) Co., Ltd., which is one of the GTDEE’ founders, in displaying the company’s newest innovation, the BMW C Evolution electric mid-sized scooter, at the German Pavilion. The fair was held at Impact Muang Thong Thani from 16 to 26 August 2018.

After Prime Minister General Prayuth Chan-o-cha opened the fair on 17 August 2018, he visited the German Pavilion and was warmly welcomed by: Deputy Head of Mission and Head of Economic Affairs of the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany to Thailand, Mr. Jan Scheer; President of German-Thai Chamber of Commerce , Mr. Markus Lorenzini; BMW (Thailand) Co., Ltd. Qualification and Training Manager, Mr. Wichit Tangwongcheunsuk, Motorrad

GTDEE orientation On 4 September 2018, GTDEE Project Manager Mr. Panuwat Jaitham together with BMW (Thailand) Co., Ltd. Senior Trainer Mr. Natthapong Lor pisanchai, and the teachers from Chitralada Vocational School, organized a GTDEE orientation session for the BMW apprentices Batch 2018 at Chitralada Vocational School.

UPDATE 1/2019

Q ualific atio n and Tr aining Ma na g er, Mr. Kriengsak Senaworaprasit and Senior Trainer Mr. Nutthapong Lorpisanchai; and GTDEE Project Senior Manager, Dr. Kamonsak Suradom. Furthermore, the Prime Minister the examined the BMW C Evolution scooter.

He also showed great interest in other BMW products.

GTDEE INSIGHT 33

AdA International – Train the Trainer GTDEE organized the “AdA International Train the Trainer” conference for GTDEE company partners and college partners from 10 to 27 September 2018 at King Mongkut’s University of Technology Nor th Bangkok (KMUTNB). The 16 par ticipants included representatives from Mercedes-Benz (Thailand) Co., Ltd., BMW Group, Robert Bosch Automotive Technologies (Thailand) Co., Ltd. (HmjP), Pathumthani Brewery Co., Ltd., and Grohe Siam Limited, as well as representatives from Eastern Technological College (E.Tech) and Chitralada Vocational School.

On 20 September 2018 Mr. Markus Hoffmann led GTDEE team members Dr. Kamonsak Suradom, Mr. Panuwat Jaitham, Mr. Katiphot Kanoknorrasade, Ms. Apinya Amporn and Mr. Simon Bachhofer and the 16 “AdA International - Train the Trainer” graduates in a visit to the Wangnoi Beverage Co., Ltd. in Ayutthaya. They were warmly welcomed by Wangnoi Beverage’s Human Resources Manager Mr. Uthai Jaiaim and the company’s management team. They also visited the Singha drinking water production units.

The group then visited the Thai-German Pre-Engineering School, King Mongkut’s University of Technology Nor th Bangkok.

Asst.Prof.Dr. Saowakhon Khunnawut, Director of Thai-German Pre-Engineering School took the group to visit the students in the practical and theoretical mechanics, carpentry, electrics and welding classes.

On 28 September GTCC organized the “AdA International – Train the Trainer” certificate presentation ceremony and the best practice sharing of qualified trainers forum at the Goethe Auditorium. The 16 graduates, from the educational and industrial sector, attended the three-week, 120-hourlong training course and have been instructed on methods for teaching apprentices according to German standards. They received their certificates from GTDEE Executive Director Dr. Roland Wein and afterwards participated in a panel discussion.

Chargé d’Affaires a.i. of the German Embassy in Bangkok, Mr. Jan Scheer, joined the event.

www.thailand.ahk.de

34 GTDEE INSIGHT

Next chapter of the GTDEE Project What at first sounds like an unlikely approach has already proven to be very efficient for many years. In around 30 countries, the ExperTS Programme advises local, German

and European companies on development policy issues in the following four priority areas: (a) sustainable economic development; (b) energy and the environment; (c) digitalization and start-ups; and (d) vocational education and training.

In September, GTDEE Project Director Markus Hoffmann started as ExperTS in his current field of work in Thailand developing solutions for vocational education and training of skilled personnel in cooperation with industry.

Mr. Markus Hoffmann (second from left), an expert on development co-operation working at the German-Thai Chamber of Commerce (GTCC).

As the Project Director of GTCC’s Dual Vocational Education programme for more than three years, he has been successfully carrying out for the additional duty assigned to him.

Since its initiation in 2013, GTDEE together with its 10 partner companies and six partner colleges, has been able to supply the Thai industrial sector with over more than 400 apprentices in nine professions.

As ‘Integrated Experts’, the specialists of the ExperTS Programme are placed by the Centre for International Migration and Development (CIM). They are employed by the local AHKs, and receive a salary subsidy fro m the Ex p e rT S P ro gr amm e . The p ro gr amme is imp le me nte d by t he Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH in cooperation with the German Chambers of Commerce Abroad (AHKs) and the Delegations of German Industry and Commerce.

Worddidac Asia 2018 The GTCC was pleased to be a partner at the German Pavilion at Worlddidac Asia 2018, held from 10 to 12 October 2018 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, Bangkok. During the event, the Chamber presented the GTDEE apprenticeship programme, services and successes. GTDEE Project Director Mr. Markus Hoffmann was also invited to speak at the “Greening TVET/ TVET for Sustainable Development” session on 11 October 2018.

Worlddidac Asia is an exclusive forum for the education industry in East and South-East Asia and is the largest event of its type in the region. Leading German companies from the education industry have participated in the show at alternating venues since it was launched in 2005. The 2018 programme focused on “Education in the times of change” – as Asian education leadership and communities give priority to preparing their students for the new world that is evolving amid fast-changing societies, the introduction of borderless frontiers and the emerging new industrial revolution, Industry 4.0.

GTDEE members Mr. Markus Hoffmann, Dr. Kamonsak Suradom and Ms. Apinya

UPDATE 1/2019

Amporn warmly welcomed Mr. Karl-Heinrich Helmut Ewald Herbert Adam, Third Secretary (Economic and Commercial) of the German Embassy in Bangkok, during his visit to the GTDEE booth.

GTDEE INSIGHT 35

Philippines delegation On 25 October 2018 the Philippines delegation of the K to 12 Plus Project, together with its partners in the Philippines visited the GTCC, where they were warmly welcomed by the GTDEE team members.

They received information about the GTDEE Project from GTDEE Project Director Mr. Markus Hoffmann.

The K to 12 PLUS Project is a multistakeholder initiative that is supported by the German Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). The project is aimed at assisting the ongoing education and training reform programme by the Government of the Philippines.

36 SPECIAL REPORT

Dual Vocational Education and Training Centre designed by KMUTT At the School of Architecture and Design (SoA+D) of King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT), it is customary to bring the professional world a little closer to students of the fourth-year studio courses. This is usually done by inviting interesting and interested people, companies or institutions to participate in joint design projects. Typically, this engagement is wellreceived, as participants are able to engage with motivated students in working on concepts related to their own professional career s. This collabor ation offer s the participants creative ideas for semi-realistic design tasks, which they are allowed to use for marketing purposes and public showcasing.

With suppor t from the German-Thai Dual Excellence Education (GTDEE) initiative of the German-Thai Chamber of Commerce (GTCC), students of the fourth-year design studio developed design projects related to ‘Dual Vocational Education’ from January to M ay 2 0 1 8 . T h e aim w a s t o p rop o s e architectural designs for a regional GTDEE education and training centre that is capable of effectively managing and expanding the education programme. With the expected growth of participating partner companies as well as the current nationwide proliferation of companies joining the programme, the design of such could allow consolidation and active involvement of GTDEE partners in ensuring proper training. This would combine theoretical education with hands-on business education to create knowledgeable , professionally trained students for future employment.

A significant part of this design task was to clearly address the vital role of a dual vocational education programme in Thailand.

Emphasizing industrial advancement through the recent "Thailand 4.0" campaign requires th e c o n tinu o u s d e ve l op m e n t a n d strengthening of its practical education programmes. This can be done, for example, by making them more attractive via the offering of learning and training, or by challenging trainees with independent study opportunities that allow for self-driven career development.

UPDATE 1/2019

The final presentation at KMUTT’s Knowledge Exchange Centre: Front row (left to right): Ms. Budsakorn Charoenporn, Ms.. Tamonwan Horsuwan, Ms. Sirilak Prongpanyasakul, Ms. Thanchanok Thammakulangkul.

Back row, from left: Mr. Markus Hoffmann. Mr. Natthan Sateinsagpong, Dr. Martin Schoch, Ms. Suttahathai Niyomwas, Dr. Kamsonak Suradom and Mr. Wisawachit Sansuk.

Facilities, such as the education/training hubs discussed here, must not only ensure that students acquire a certification for entering into a professional career, but must also act as truly inspiring institutions, where young people have the opportunity to keep up with industrial developments, experience cross-disciplinary approaches and have the chance to exchange ideas wherever and whenever possible. Any architectural design solution offered by the students is required to demonstrate such thinking – in other words, envisioning a place where trainees are able to develop such a positive thinking attitude, a place capable of creating possibilities for ongoing career development and actively shaping their personal future.

Alongside the provided task description and functional requirements, SoA+D lecture sessions introduced the existing Thai and German vocational education systems as well as the adaptation of the ‘dual’ vocational education by GTDEE. SoA+D students also met with the programme representatives of the GTDEE initiative, Dr. Kamsonak Suradom and Mr. Markus Hoffmann, to debate issues related to the implementation of the vocational education system in Thailand. Further, the project involved field trips and interviews, case studies of existing relevant architectural designs as well as the study of the existing situation via online sources (official websites and social media forums).

As part of their final design presentation, students were required to provide an architectural design that included all necessary information to adequately describe the proposed solution using architectural drawings and visualizations. Students were required to provide detailed studies of specific building design features via simulations and physical models, including a daylight study of designed teaching and training rooms, a study of structural components and design and a comprehensive investigation of the façade design of the building.

The final projects were presented to Dr. Suradom and Mr. Hoffmann, who both gave valuable insights into the current GTDEE initiative and who evaluated the presentations. The design solutions were well received. They demonstrated a wide variety of possible architectural solutions, showcasing how GTDEE is able to expand its education programme with its current collaboration and support by additional sources, such as private education intuitions, that are willing to specialize in the dual vocational education programme, and partner organizations that are willing to invest in long-term engagements.

SPECIAL REPORT 37

Three of the notable design projects are briefly described below.

response regarding the way their effor ts might be viewed in the professional world.

1. A regional education/training hub for agriculturally-related professions in Khon Kaen province (figure 1).

This report is written by Dr. Martin Schoch, School of Architecture and Design, King Mongkut’s University of Technology Bangkhuntien.

Located close to an existing factory of a GTDEE partner, the centre will offer classrooms, laboratories and workshop facilities. Located within rural village surroundings, the site will allow students to find short-term living opportunities, while also enabling them to establish co-operative relationships with the predominantly farming-oriented neighbourhood and interact with the local industry partner. In addition to the existing professions of agricultural mechanic and laboratory assistant, additional professions such as accounting and logistics management would be taught. The friendly appearance and material selection of the design will emphasize the willingness to co-operate with its neighbours.

2. Design of an education hub aimed at extending the established facility in order to provide a dual vocational education for trainees at nearby companies (figure 2).

Figure 1. Final architectural design by Ms. Tamonwan Horsuwan.

Allocated next to the Thai-German Institute in Chonburi, the aim is to provide synergy between the existing facility and its industrial machiner y and equipment, together with its know-how. The institutional appearance of the new building will strengthen efforts to achieve the goal of providing a wide theoretical knowledge base.

GTDEE par tner companies will provide a variety of classrooms, laboratories and workshops for extended education, training and seminar oppor tunities, together with the services of the existing institute.

3.The proposed design of a regional education hub in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) area that will offer dual vocational education related to the mechanical, electrical and automotive fields (figure 3).

Figure 2. Final architectural design by Mr. Natthan Sateinsagpong.

The proposed site is within commuting distance to the existing related industry and will be linked to an existing technical college.

One impor tant par t of the design is the distinctive look of the training centre, which clearly distinguishes the hub building from a common conventional school-like appearance. The modern, campuslooking design aims to evoke pride and strengthen the confidence of the trainees in choosing the dual vocational training programme.

The SoA+D students considered the co-operation provided in preparing their design projects to have been a success, and they appreciated the suppor t given by GTCC members as well as the possibility to visit some of the GTDEE par tner facilities. They not only enjoyed preparing their designs and presenting their skills to an audience outside the classroom, but also appreciated the opportunity to participate in discussions concerning the direct

Figure 3. The final architectural design by Ms. Budsakorn Charoenporn.

Further examples of the design work are currently displayed on the SoA+D website at http://soad.kmutt.ac.th/work/.

www.thailand.ahk.de

38 BUSINESS BRIEFS

First electric passenger boat uses Torqeedo propulsion system Prime Minister of Thailand General Prayut Chan-o-cha presided over the launch of Bangkok's first electric passenger boat on 5 October at the Hua Lamphong metro, rail and canal junction. The promotion of the use of electric boats is part of the Government's initiative to make Bangkok a cleaner “smart” city. Also participating in the event were Energy Ministry Permanent Secretary, Mr. Kulit Sombatsiri, Economic and Commercial Counsellor of the German Embassy in Bangkok, Dr. Alexander Raubold, GTCC Executive Director Dr. Roland Wein, who congratulated GTCC member Torqeedo GMBH on the success.

Operated by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration's enterprise, Krungthep Thanakom Co. Ltd., in par tnership with MariArt Shipyard Thailand, the boat features

the latest electric propulsion system from Torqeedo GMBH Germany. The introduction of the first electric boat, which is regarded as one of the key solutions to ending noise and odour pollution on Bangkok’s waterways, will ser ve customers along the Phadung Krung Kasem canal.

Founded in 2005 in Starnberg, Germany, Torqeedo stands for clean, sustainable mobility on water. The company manufactures innovative electric and hybrid propulsion systems from 1 to 160 HP. The company manufactures innovative electric and hybrid propulsion systems from 1 to 160 HP.

VNU Exhibitions appoints new Managing Director, Asia-Pacific International event organizer Jaarbeurs/VNU Exhibitions announced the appointment of Mr. Heiko M. Stutzinger as its new Managing Director for the Asia-Pacific region. With more than a decade of experience in senior management positions in trade show business and management consulting, Mr. Heiko is an expert on the development of new business areas, strategic growth as well as restructuring and turnaround management. He has an excellent track record of intercultural leadership, operations experience and corporate management, and most recently he was Deputy General Manager of Messe Düsseldorf Shanghai as well as Deputy Managing Director of Messe Düsseldorf China, based in Shanghai. He holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration from EBS University and is active as Guest Professor at the Shanghai University of International Business and Economics (SUIBE).

Rembrandt Hotel & Suites Bangkok welcomes new General Manager The Rembrandt Hotel & Suites Bangkok announced the appointment of Mr. Christian Bernkopf as its General Manager. Mr. Bernkopf, who is a German national, has had more than two decades of exceptional hotel management experience spanning Asia, Middle East and Europe. He has held senior management positions with major hotel groups such as Hyatt Hotels, Centara Hotels & Resorts, Minor Hotels Group and Pullman Hotels. Most recently, he was the General Manager of the Pullman Danang Beach Resort.

UPDATE 1/2019

MEMBERS’ CORNER 39

New GTCC members up to 31 December 2018

German-Thai Chamber of Commerce warnmly welcomes 9 new members Archetype Construction Consultants (Thailand) Co., Ltd. Mr. Xavier Pinchart Managing Director Mr. Martin Dilly Senior Business Development Manager martin.dilly@archetype-group.com www.archetype-group.com Architectural and engineering activities; technical testing and analysis (project and construction management)

Hapag-Lloyd (Thailand) Ltd. Mr. Nils Guenther Meier Managing Director Khun Nakanyakorn Chhatrasen Sales Director www.hapag-lloyd.com Water transport

Boonma Moving & Storage Co., Ltd.

Radisson blu Plaza Hotel Bangkok

Khun Tiddy S. Teerawit Executive Director Ms. Jean C. Valendez Relocation Consultant- Export/Domestic Move Department boonma@boonma.com www.boonma.com Land Transport | Water Transport | Air Transport

Mrs. Deborah Haines General Manager Khun Noppawan Sihuatone Sales.bangkok.blu@radison.com www.radisson.com/en/plazahotel-bangkok Accommodation | Food and beverage service activities | Office administrative, office support and other business support activities

Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Jaiyos Advisory Co., Ltd.

Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit

Khun Chayalaak Chutima Director, Transfer Pricing Mr. Stuart Simons Partner, Tax and Legal cchutima@deloitte.com www.deloitte.com Legal and accounting activities | Activities of head offices; management consultancy activities

Mr. Oliver Schnatz Cluster General Manager H5213@sofitel.com www.sofitel-bangkok-sukhumvit.com Accommodation | Food and beverage service activities | Office administrative, office support and other business support activities

Festival Holiday Co., Ltd.

Tang John Son Ltd., Part.

Khun Komsan Prasomsri CEO festivalholiday799@gmail.com www.festivalholiday.co.th Travel agency | tour operator and other reservation service and related activities

Khun Tatana Chanacharoenchaikul Managing Director tatana@tangjohnson.com www.tjstool.com Wholesale and retail trade and repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles

Grande Asset Hotels & Property Public Limited Company Khun Pheeraphon Nonthasoot Executive vice President pheeraphon.n@grandeasset.com www.grandeasset.com Real estate activities

www.thailand.ahk.de

40 TRADE FAIRS

ISPO Munich – world’s largest multi-segment trade fair for the sports business 3-6 February 2019, Munich

ISPO Munich has consistently strengthened its leading position. With more than 2,800 exhibitors and approximately 85,000 trade visitors from 120 countries, ISPO Munich is the most successful multi-segment trade fair in the sports sector. This makes the event one of the most important meeting places for international sports business professionals, driving innovation and hosting exciting events.

ISPO Munich has been bringing sports and business together for over 45 years. Since its inaugural year in 1970, ISPO Munich has accompanied and suppor ted the spor ts sector, which is currently undergoing a major transition. Digitization and globalization have revolutionised sport, and by extension sports business too. Anything is possible. Sports are changing and diversifying, just like customers’ usage behaviour.

UPDATE 1/2019

ISPO Munich will take place at the Messe München Exhibition Grounds from 3 to 6 Februar y 2019. With its optimized hall concept and two new halls, ISPO Munich 2019 will respond to developments in the spor ts business. The eight newly-defined segments are geared towards scientific studies as well as feedback from exhibitors and trade visitors. They provide an optimal overview of the sports sector and offer the exhibiting companies the best possible presentation of their brand messages. This includes: Snowsports: A whole world of winter sports Outdoor : Four halls for climbing, hiking, water sports, and more Health & Fitness: Find out all about the halls Urban: New area for sportswear & street sports

Teamsports: Trends in football, basketball and more Vision: The world of premium sportswear Trends, innovation and industry services: Technology and brands of tomorrow Manufacturers and Suppliers: Sourcing and Textrends From digital start-ups to giant sporting goods manufacturers, from climbing to yoga, and from snow cannons to darts, ISPO Munich shows the entire spectrum of the sports business in 18 exhibition halls. In order to provide dealers, experts, and professionals with an optimal overview, the fair provides “focus areas” within the eight segments. This means, for example, that an extensive focus area within the outdoor segment is devoted to watersports (including kayaking, surfing, SUP and diving, among others).

More details on ISPO Munich are available at https://www.ispo.com/en/munich. For further information, please contact GTCC’s official representative for Messe München GmbH in Thailand, Ms. Patamapor n Wasuwat, by tel: +66 2 055 0641 or by e-mail at muenchen@gtcc.org.

TRADE FAIRS 41

European Coatings Show: the international world of paint and coatings 19-21 March 2019, Nuremberg

Since its premiere under the name of “Farbe und Lack” in 1991, the European Coatings Show has developed into today’s biggest and most important event in the world for the coatings industry. The event set new records in 2017 with 1,135 exhibitors, representing a 10.84% growth r ate . The ver y lar ge international share of 68% for exhibitors and 64% for visitors also emphasizes the importance of the European Coatings Show as the world’s leading exhibition for paint and coatings.

Aesthetic, sustainable, functional, processproof. The demands placed on paint and coatings are growing all the time. Decisionmakers and thought-leaders in the coatings industry face great challenges. The European Coatings Show gives them the opportunity to meet with innovation leaders and discuss the latest developments in pigments, additives, adhesive and raw materials, intermediates for construction chemicals as well as laboratory and production equipment, testing and measuring equipment, application and environmental protection and safety work.

The products and services shown at the European Coatings Show include application

information on paints, coatings, adhesives and sealants for the following industries: automotive, shipbuilding, aviation, processing, electrical industr y, industrial machinery, construction, furniture, printing, oil, gas and petrochemicals, wind power and other types of renewable energy production, plastics and packaging, among others.

The next biennial European Coatings Show will be held from 19 to 21 March 2019 in Nuremberg. It is a must event for anyone wanting to keep up-to-date on new developments in the industry all over the world.

For more information and exhibitor/visitor inquiries please contact GTCC’s official representative for NürnbergMesse, Mr. Nupat Khusribanchong at tel: +66 2 055 0600 or by e-mail at nuernberg@gtcc.org.

www.thailand.ahk.de

42 TRADE FAIRS

HANNOVER MESSE: a world of solutions for smart factories 1-5 April 2019, Hannover

Smar t sensors, intelligent drives, modular production, automated logistics systems and holistic solutions for intelligent manufacturing — HANNOVER MESSE has it all. From 1 to 5 April, the world's leading trade fair for industrial technology will open its gates under the theme "Integrated Industry – Industrial Intelligence".

The theme reflects the organizer’s desire to show how the close integration of automation, power transmission and fluid power and software and IT can supercharge industrial production. At HANNOVER MESSE 2019, this pivotal confluence of technologies will be clustered at Integrated Automation, Motion & Drives (IAMD) — a mega-show spanning 14 exhibition halls.

In 2019, the integration, digitization and interconnection of industrial technologies will transform the world's manufacturing industries more than ever before . In recognition of this, the IAMD show will feature the full range of products and solutions for the factor y of the future, including factory and process automation systems, industrial IT, robotics, smart drives, and intelligent hydraulics and pneumatics systems.

UPDATE 1/2019

All of the exhibits will share one unifying theme: "Industrial Intelligence", which is also the official lead theme for HANNOVER MESSE 2019. Ar tificial intelligence and machine learning are helping to eliminate production downtime, boost efficiency, and ensure the seamless integration and operation of all the different parts that make up smart factories.

GTCC, Germany’s the official representative of Deutsche Messe AG in Thailand, cordially invites you to join its four th HANNOVER MESSE delegation Trip on the theme of “Smart Automotive Factory” from 30 March to 7 April 2019. To register for the delegation or to request additional information, please contact the Chamber at tel: +66 2 055 0643, or by e-mail at services@gtcc.org.

TRADE FAIRS 43

conhIT turns into DMEA: A transition from industry to digital health care 9-11 April 2019, Berlin

Af ter 1 1 year s , c o n h IT – C on n e ct i n g Healthcare IT – Europe’s leading health IT event for decision-makers in the health industry, health-care policymaking and science, is to receive a new name – DMEA. The new title reflects a major evolution in the strategy and content of the conhIT trade fair and congress concept.

DMEA will take place at the Berlin Exhibition Grounds from 9 to 11 April 2019. It will mirror the entire digital supply chain, including every process along the way. Step by step, it will expand into a platform representing every digital field of interest to all players in the health-care system, both now and in the future.

DMEA will target decision-makers in every health-care sector – hospital managers, IT super visors, doctors, nurses, health-care policymakers, and exper ts in science and research. As an integrated event that combines a trade fair, congress, and academy and networking events, it gives participants an opportunity to learn about the latest digital health-care developments and products, establish industry contacts and gain high-level qualifications.

In order for DMEA to remain attractive to regular exhibitors, newcomers and trade visitor s alike , and with digital change progressing at such a pace, the German Association of Health IT Vendors (bvitg), the event’s organiser, is putting together a new concept for the organisation and content of DMEA with its partners. The partners are the German Medical Informatics Professional Association (BVMI), the German Association for Medical Informatics, Biometr y and Epidemiology (GMDS), the German Association of Hospital IT Managers (KH-IT) and the Chief Information Officers of University Hospitals (CIO-UK). The successful partnership with associations representing software product users and scientific organisations is set to continue even more closely. The event will remain at its current venue and continue to be organised by the trusted partner, Messe Berlin.

The digital transformation is having an increasing impact on the nursing sector, resident practitioners and hospital doctors as well as companies looking to enter the health-care sector with innovative products and services. A wide range of events at DMEA will address these audiences in even more individual ways. At the same time, sufficient attention will be given to topical subjects such as artificial intelligence and block chains as well as to congress and networking events that will promote a discourse within the industry. All kinds of innovative events for newcomers will round off DMEA. More information on related products, topics, events and industry trends can be found at https://www.dmea.de/en/. For further information, please contact GTCC’s official representative for Messe Berlin GmbH in Thailand, Ms. Patamaporn Wasuwat, by tel: +66 2 055 0641 or by e-mail at berlin@gtcc.org.

www.thailand.ahk.de

44 TRADE FAIRS

bauma 2019: More exhibitors, more visitors, more opportunities 8-14 April 2019, Munich

As the wor ld's leading tr ade fair for construction machinery, building materials, mining machines, construction vehicles and equipment, bauma is where international key players meet. This is where significant new developments are presented. This is where suppliers and solutions come together perfectly.

The thirty-second bauma trade fair will take place in Munich from 8 to 14 April 2019.

Messe München is already able to announce a new record number of exhibitors: More than 3,500 exhibitors from 55 countries will be there — almost 100 more than in 2016.

Expanded to 18 halls, the exhibition will feature an indoor space of 200,000 square metres. The total bauma area will therefore span more than 614,000 square metres. The most important changes at a glance are the largest segment, construction machines and attachments, is being expanded from four to five halls as well as with an additional area outdoors, directly adjacent to the hall complex.

UPDATE 1/2019

The four exhibition segments at bauma are: All around construction sites Mining, extraction and processing of raw materials Production of building materials Components and service suppliers For the first time, visitors to Hall B0 will be able to experience the industr y vir tually, thanks to virtual and augmented reality. This is made possible through a combination of images, sound or sensor feedback, such as wind.

Another new feature comprises the bauma PLUS models that bring more exhibitors to the fair. With bauma PLUS ONSITE exhibitors can present their company on a compact area, while bauma PLUS MOVE is a flexible co-working area where visitors can meet exhibitors.

The increasing demand for mining equipment will also be reflected at bauma 2019. The show brings together the key players from the mining and construction industries, and

presents all relevant technologies and trends of the steel and coal industry.

The entire spectrum of the mining sector: Machines for extraction of raw materials and for mining Handling of raw materials Mineral processing technology (including coke oven equipment) More details on bauma are available at https://www.bauma.de/index-2.html. For further information, please contact GTCC’s official representative for Messe München GmbH in Thailand, Ms. Patamaporn Wasuwat, by tel: +66 2 055 0641 or by e-mail at muenchen@gtcc.org.