UPDATE Q3/2017: ASEAN DIGITAL REVOLUTION

German-Thai Chamber of Commerce Gala Night 2017 The German-Thai Chamber of Commerce team wishes to extend its sincere gratitude to all distinguished sponsors and supporters of GTCC Gala Night 2017 under the theme "Celebrating under the Stars" marking GTCC 55th Anniversary.

This prestigious night would not have been possible and successful without you!

We look forward to your continued support in the near future.

The GTCC Team

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FROM THE EDITOR Dear readers, Digital technology is one of the 10 new S-Curve focused industries for investment as part of the “Thailand 4.0” development plan. The overall concept refers to the entire digitalization of the economy, leading to greater efficiency and value-added products and services. Following Thailand’s first National Digital Economy Master Plan (2016-2020), the newly established Ministry of Digital Economy and Society strives to encourage all sectors to utilise digital technology to drive the country’s economy and society within five years. The Government is also aiming to position Thailand as a digital infrastructure hub in the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) by 2020.

According to the Bangkok Post, Southeast Asia's emerging economies are continuing to attract manufacturers and service providers eager to tap into the region’s combined population of 630 million and a growing middle class. An increasing number of investments in recent years have focused on the digital sector. With 252 million active internet users, based on the analysis of “We Are Social” data, ASEAN is becoming an attractive market for businesses looking to capitalise on the opportunities that a digital platform presents.

Therefore, in this issue of UPDATE magazine the German-Thai Chamber of Commerce (GTCC) is proud to present the theme of “ASEAN Digital Revolution”, detailing digital infrastructure developments in Thailand and some relevant aspects in ASEAN. Thailand’s digital economy, digital landscape, big data, new business model of digitalization and e-commerce are discussed in this issue’s feature articles written by contributors from Germany Trade & Invest, Heroleads, Thaivivat Insurance, the Thailand Board of Investment and ecommerceIQ. Also covered in this issue is the GTCC Gala Night 2017, “Celebrating under the Stars”, which was organised on 26 May 2017 at the Shangri-La Hotel, Bangkok. The event proved to be a huge success, with 410 guests and the presence of H.E. Apiradi Tatraporn, Minister of Commerce of the Royal Thai Government, and H.E. Peter Prügel, German Ambassador to Thailand. On behalf of GTCC, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to GTCC members, guests and friends for their great support for the event and congratulating the GTCC 55th Anniversary that marked the Chamber’s significant contribution to the successful development of German-Thai economic relations.

I trust you will enjoy an interesting and informative read.

Best regards,

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, Empire Tower, 1 South Sathorn Rd., Bangkok 10120, Thailand. Tel.: +66 2 670 0600. Fax: +66 2 670 0601. E-mail address: 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 : 2,000

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

Organiser:

SAVE THE DATE Thursday 9 November 2017 (The Prelude) Friday 10 November 2017 18:30 - 01:00 hrs., Conrad Bangkok Partners and Sponsors:

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CONTENTS

06

Thailand Strengthens its Digital Economy

08

Big Data: The Secret to Winning in Business

21

Happy Pet Comes to Thailand

ASEAN DIGITAL REVOLUTION 10 What will Thailand's E-commerce Market Look Like in Five Years?

35

28

GTCC Gala Night 2017

AHK-ASIAN Experience Exchange Conference

27 Industries 4.0 in Thailand 4.0

GTDEE INSIGHT

12 Digitalization Vital to Survival of Insurance

34 International Final Examination Mercedes Benz

14 Thailand on Track to Transition into a Digital

39 Final Examination for Agricultural Mechanics

16 Thailand: Digital Landscape

MEMBERS’ CORNER

companies Economy

BUSINESS BRIEFS 18 Lohmann Holds the Grand Opening of Factory 18 TGM Launches an Innovative Production Plant 19 Bosch Rexroth Opens a Centre in Amata City 20 Qiagen Sets up Its First Office in Thailand CHAMBER ACTIVITIES 24 GTCC Open House Day 26 Freedom Dialogue: Germany – Thailand 4.0

(Thailand) Co., Ltd.

42 GTCC New Members

TRADE FAIRS 46 47 48 49 50

IFA KIDS INDIA 2017 BIOFACH INDIA AGRITECHNICA 2017 ISPO MUNICH

06 ASEAN DIGITAL REVOLUTION

THAILAND STRENGTHENS ITS DIGITAL ECONOMY Dr. Waldemar Duscha

Thailand is aiming to accelerate development of the digital transformation of its economy and society. Specific incentives to invest will foster the expansion of several IT branches, including software, data centre, the Internet of Things (IoT) and cloud services. A new Ministry of Digital Economy will implement an expanded focus on digital market forces. The growing response from foreign investors was highlighted in 2016 by a total of 180 projects with a value of US$ 50 million.

As the 10 most important business clusters in the long-term growth strategy are anchored in the formula "Thailand 4.0", the overall concept refers to the entire digitization, grounded on greater efficiency and value-added. The basic principles of digital progress have also been defined in the "National Digital Economy Master Plan 2016-2020", with the main emphasis on infrastructure, education and other support measures. Elementary technological components are rooted in branches such as robotic technology, the IoT, artificial intelligence, cyber security and embedded systems.

The future concept is being enhanced regionally by the vision of a digital gateway or digital infrastructure hub for the ASEAN Economic Community, as it has been officially publicized and anticipated by several international corporations. For example, the partnership between IBM and the Thai telecommunications company, True, may be pioneering the foundation of a development centre for innovations and digital platforms. The concept corresponds to the establishment of International Headquarters (IHQ) and International Trading Centres (ITC) in Bangkok, supported by Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI).

UPDATE 3/2017

INVESTMENT INCENTIVES FOR SELECTED SECTORS Digital technology is one of the 10 selected clusters of the new so-called S-Curve Strategy aimed at creating a higher growth path.

Therefore, BOI selected six industry branches as being eligible for multi-year corporation tax exemptions and other benefits, i.e., Software (embedded software, enterprise software and digital software), Cloud Services, Data Centres, a Software Park, Movie Town as well as Motion Picture Production and Services. The northern province of Chiang Mai and the southern holiday island of Phuket represent the favourite locations for the two pilot projects of five smart cities.

The attention of foreign companies is likely to increase strongly in the long term. In 2016, BOI registered 908 foreign applications for direct investment, including the 180 projects for digital economy that account for almost one-fifth of the total projects and which have an investment value of US$ 50 million and a total value of US$ 8.5 billion. Although the 180 projects are rather small, having an average investment value of US$ 280,000, the number is double the 90 project applications listed in 2015 with an investment value of US$ 30 million.

However, big companies are also among the newcomers, such as Supernap International from Nevada and Houston Technology Center as well as Digital Port Asia and Internet Initiative from Japan; the latter are participating in a joint venture with TCCC Technology (Thailand).

ASEAN DIGITAL REVOLUTION 07

“The attention of foreign companies is likely to increase strongly in the long term. In 2016, BOI registered 908 foreign applications for direct investment, including the 180 projects for digital economy that account for almost one-fifth of the total projects...”

Supernap has built the largest data storage capacity in the Hemaraj Industrial Estate (Chonburi), with a capacity of more than 6,000 server racks. Potential candidates for cloud services must generally be established in at least two data centres in Thailand and also certified according to ISO/IEC 27001 (security) and ISO/IEC 20000-1 (cloud services).

SIGNIFICANT PURSUIT RACE In the ICT Development Index (IDI), Thailand was ranked at 82 in 2016. The Republic of Korea held the top rank in this global comparison, ahead of the otherwise soaring cities of Hong Kong, SVR (ranked at 6) and Singapore (ranked at 20). The digital master plan aims to catapult Thailand into the top 40 places in IDI, which is why a number of priority activities have been defined. The main objective is the promotion of 1,500 digital start-ups as well as small and micro enterprises with 300 practical business prototype models. Other objectives include the expansion of the broadband network to 10,000 free Wi-Fi spots, the broadening of online trading and setting up a "Personal Health Record System" in healthcare.

THAILAND’S DIGITIZATION 2016 Category Internet users Mobile subscribers

Number of users 38 million 82.8 million

Landline users

33 million

Facebook users

44 million

E-Payment E-Commerce

Market volume (Baht)

860 trillion 2,245 trillion

Internet banking

2.4 trillion

Mobile banking

584 billion

Source: Thailand Board of Investment, Bank of Thailand, Digital Advertising Association and Electronic Transactions Development Agency.

Note: Circa baht 38 = 1 Eur. An integral part of the digital platform is the transformation of the former Ministry of Information and Communications Technology into a "Ministry of Digital Economy and Society".

The main task is the formation, planning and development of a political agenda in order to promote the digital economy and simplify the transformation process. Fur thermore, the Ministry has control over other institutions such as the National Statistical Office (NSO), the Meteorological Depar tment, the Electronic Transactions Development Agency, the Electronic Government Agency and the Software Industry Promotion Agency (SIPA) as well as over the three state-owned companies of TOT, CAT Telecom and Thailand Post.

POSITIVE FUTURE FOR IOT Next to 4G and the expansion of mobile devices, data and analytic centres exemplify additional drivers for the IoT. Regarding market maturity, Thailand performs rather slowly compared to other Asian members.

The International Data Corporation (IDC) has forecast a density of 2.2 IoT units per capita in 2019. Hence, Thailand is clearly behind the Republic of Korea (8.2 IoT units), Singapore (5.1), Taiwan (3.8) and China (3.5).

Between 2015 and 2020, annual growth rate is projected to be 13.2 per cent on average.

According to IDC, the main part of IoT expenditures will be covered by big producers, accounting for US$ 1.3 billion, followed by logistics and freight monitoring (US$ 575 million), product asset management (US$ 503 million), smart homes (US$ 250 million) and remote health monitoring (US$ 225 million).

The assessment by IDC of Thailand’s expenditures on IT infr astr ucture is approximately Baht 400 billion in 2016; nevertheless, expenditures are expected to rise continually to reach Baht 500 billion in 2020. According to IDC Thailand, 30 per cent of the 500 largest Thai companies will then be utilising digital products, ser vices or experiences to cover much of their businesses.

In line with this assessment, a major increase in Big Data and Multi Cloud Ser vices is predicted. The latter is forecast to account for 55 per cent of the national cloud architecture by 2020.

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

www.thailand.ahk.de

08 ASEAN DIGITAL REVOLUTION

BIG DATA: THE SECRET TO WINNING IN BUSINESS Carlo Herold

Big Data is taking the world by storm, and the hype around it is real.

Many experts have warned that companies who miss Big Data oppor tunities today will miss the innovation, competition and productivity of tomorrow. There is little doubt that Big Data is valuable and that the evaluation of mass data enables businesses to improve efficiency in all operations. However, while data are nothing new, many of us are still unclear about exactly how big Big Data is, how best to approach it or how it can bring value to businesses.

adapt messaging towards particular client needs. A trading company can use Big Data to identify gaps in its production or logistics processes and thereby reduce the volume of goods returned.

A manufacturing company can use Big Data to optimize processes by simulating complex production workflows, establishing machine utilisation thresholds and spotting errors in production installations.

WHAT EXACTLY IS BIG DATA?

OPPORTUNITY TO OUTRUN THE COMPETITION

The buzzword Big Data defines the phenomena of rapidly growing data volumes, sources and structures. For example, there are 50,000 “Like� clicks on Facebook every second and, in just one minute, 72 hours of new material is uploaded on YouTube. As you can imagine, these kinds of data volumes are impossible to store, process or analyse within the capacity of standard database software tools. However, when professionally evaluated and used, the data variety offers new and invaluable insights that would otherwise remain unlocked.

Big Data allows companies to acquire new insights that improve strategic and operational decisions. This can minimise risk and volatility, improve customer retention and maximise return on investment.

Insights gained from the data can increase efficiency, identify undiscovered market potential and ultimately set companies apart from their competitors.

On the individual company level, Big Data covers each and every piece of data stored. It includes data lying in the servers and data stored in clouds; it includes structured and unstructured data; it even includes data stored unintentionally over the years. Collectively, all this data is called Big Data, which when analysed can provide valuable results for predictions or smarter business operations.

For example, a bank can use Big Data insights to offer tailor-made promotions, engage with clients during life-changing situations and

UPDATE 3/2017

Brave new world? Big Data makes it possible.

For example, Big Data analysis has revolutionised the access and utilisation of customer insights. If and when properly mined and channelled, data analysis can be the key to building an optimised customer lifetime funnel. Obtaining more customers through better targeting, customer value by increasing product utilisation and cross-selling services, delivering personalised and superior customer experiences.

Some real-life examples of how businesses today use Big Data include: A telecommunication provider builds in-depth customer analysis and segmentation to personalise packages according to customer

ASEAN DIGITAL REVOLUTION 09

wants and needs. This not only improves client retention, but also attracts new customers.

A media provider develops Big Data strategies to better understand and target cross-platform audiences as well as to automate personalised content such as text and video stories (think Facebook bir thday messages and “Friendaversary” videos).

An educational institution uses digital media paired with data analysis to deliver the right content to the right audience at the right time. This allows the business to contact new students by tailoring communication according to the individual needs of the students.

The starting point for Big Data projects is usually within corporate strategy. The analyses of relevant data provide the company with an overall picture and create transparency in market situations and business processes. To this extent, Big Data projects offer corporate management a solid basis for well-founded business decisions.

WHY ISN’T EVERYONE USING IT? Big Data alone is not enough. As outlined above, Big Data covers each and every piece of data stored. To unlock million-dollar insights, organisations need to have the proper

“…managers and decision-makers need to know how to treat Big Data within business. Unfortunately, many are still not ‘thinking digital’ enough and remain focused on immediate returns” structures and Information technology tools to derive the desired analysis. For this, managers and decision-makers need to know how to treat Big Data within business. Unfortunately, many are still not ‘thinking digital’ enough and remain focused on immediate returns.

In moving forward, those who want to end up on top must recognise that the analysis of Big Data will help to identify and solve the questions that were previously unsolvable only when proper structures and IT systems are in place,. This is how technology has to be deployed and this is how it will deliver returns.

DATA SCIENTISTS ARE A MUST Then there are data scientists – the final variable in the Big Data, without which data and technology are almost futile. Data scientists are responsible for handling all the Big Data; cleaning, preparing and analysing it to unlock actionable business insights.

Today, we are already witnessing the start of a fight for the most talented, experienced and knowledgeable data scientists in Asia. Indeed, it is not easy to find exper ts in what the profession demands; data scientists need IT knowledge, a technical aptitude, and the social skills and ability to understand broad business processes. They are also needed in all areas of business, because all industries and depar tments can profit from Big Data findings.

Contact details: Carlo Herold Managing Director Heroleads Thailand Co., Ltd. Tel: +66 86 381 6822 ch@heroleads.com www.heroleads.co.th

www.thailand.ahk.de

10 ASEAN DIGITAL REVOLUTION

WHAT WILL THAILAND’S E-COMMERCE MARKET LOOK LIKE IN FIVE YEARS? ecommerceIQ

Thailand’s e-commerce market has long been forecast by Google and Temasek to become the second biggest in Southeast Asia after Indonesia, capturing nearly 13 per cent of the market by 2025. Online retailing in this country is forecast to reach US$ 5.31 billion in 2021, an increase of 1.8 times from a projected market volume of US$ 2.95 billion in 2017.

However, which categories are projected to have the largest sales?

Which will see the fastest growth in the next few years?

ELECTRONICS, MEDIA E-COMMERCE LEAD ONLINE SHOPPING Electronics and media is currently the leading e-commerce category in Thailand and will remain as such in the medium term as shown by Statista data. This category includes online sales of physical media (e.g., books, DVDs, games), consumer electronics (e.g., televisions, stereo systems) and communication devices (e.g., computers, smartphones, tablets). The projections for this category are: In 2017, US$ 1.25 billion or 42.5 per cent of the total e-commerce revenue; In 2021, US$ 1.77 billion or 33.4 per cent of the total e-commerce revenue; Revenue, 2021 vs. 2017, +40 per cent; Annual growth rate (CAGR), +9.1 per cent; Market’s largest segment – consumer electronics (2017 market volume: US$ 834 million).

Currently, only a few players in Thailand specialise in this category: JIB,

UPDATE 3/2017

Advice, Power Buy, IT City, Banana Store, Munkong Gadget and HP. Apart from consumer electronics stores, book shops Asia Books and Kinokunya also sell physical media through their own online stores.

While it is the largest e-commerce category, its revenue growth rate is projected to be the slowest of all the categories within the next five years. Apart from specialised e-commerce stores, businesses planning to sell electronics and media should note that online marketplaces also serve as popular sites for purchases of such gadgets.

Brands opting to sell in the e-commerce marketplace have a variety of tools available to increase sales.

FASHION E-COMMERCE REVENUE TO GROW THE FASTEST Fashion e-commerce sales are projected to increase 2.5 times within the next five years, the fastest among the categories. Fashion is, and will remain, the second biggest online revenue earner in the medium term: In 2017, US$ 525 million or 17.8 per cent of total e-commerce revenue; In 2021, US$ 1.31 billion or 24.7 per cent of total e-commerce revenue; Revenue, 2021 vs. 2017, +149 per cent; Annual growth rate (CAGR), +25.6 per cent; Market’s largest segment – clothing (2017 market volume: US$ 345 million).

ASEAN DIGITAL REVOLUTION 11

“Thailand’s overall e-commerce market is expected to grow by nearly 16 per cent in the next five years.”

Twelve per cent of consumers in Thailand buy clothing and footwear from a few specialised online fashion retailers. The oppor tunity offered in the country has recently been noted by big global players like Uniqlo and Zara that have opened brand.com stores.

It is only a question of time before other big players will follow suit. Twenty-five per cent of consumers already shop for fashion on social networks such as Facebook, Instagram and chat app LINE.

their customers. The projections for the furniture and appliances market are: In 2017, US$ 475 million or 16.1 per cent of total e-commerce revenue; In 2021, US$ 855 million or 16.1 per cent of total e-commerce revenue; Revenue – 2021 vs. 2017: +80 per cent; Annual growth r ate (C AGR), +15.8 per cent; Largest segment – home appliances (2017 market volume: US$ 259 million).

GREATER DEMAND FOR TOYS, HOBBY AND STATIONERY PRODUCTS

FOOD AND PERSONAL CARE

Online sales of toys and baby items, sport and outdoor products, garden products, hobby and stationery (e.g., musical instruments and office supplies) offer another opportunity for businesses in Thailand. This is good news for online retailers as only a few are targeting mothers and babies (Orami) or selling office supplies (OfficeMate and Somjai). Revenue is expected to double to US$ 1 billion within the next five years: In 2017, US$ 506 million or 17.2 per cent of total e-commerce revenue; In 2021, US$ 1.03 billion or 19.4 per cent of total e-commerce revenue; Revenue, 2021 vs. 2017, +103 per cent; Annual growth rate (C AGR), +19.4 per cent; Market’s largest segment – hobby and stationery (2017 market volume: US$ 270 million).

This is the smallest category and includes sales of food and beverages, cosmetics, pharmaceutical and medical products.

However, its projected annual revenue and growth rate of more than 16 per cent suggests strong demand in the next five years: In 2017, US$ 186 million or 6.3 per cent of total e-commerce revenue; In 2021, US$ 340 million or 6.4 per cent of total e-commerce revenue; Revenue, 2021 vs. 2017, +83 per cent;

Annual growth r ate (C AGR), +16.4 per cent; Largest segment – personal care (market volume: US$ 121 million in 2017).

LOOKING AHEAD Thailand’s overall e-commerce market is expected to grow by nearly 16 per cent in the next five years, while online spending per user is expected to almost double.

Those who buy online this year are also expected to spend an average of US$ 243, whereas in 2021, ever y four th Thai is expected to buy online with an average expenditure of US$ 382.

Note: This ar ticle is provided cour tesy of ecommerceIQ

Contact details: Editorial Team ecommerceIQ Tel: +66 2 261 3540 hello@ecommerceiq.asia www.ecommerceiq.asia

FURNITURE AND APPLIANCES TO GROW STEADILY The market projections foresee more Thais will buy furniture and home appliances online as sales in this category are expected to grow by 80 per cent. Local names such as Index Living Mall, Home Pro and SB Design Square are already pursuing an omni-channel strategy, with both online and offline shops to reach

www.thailand.ahk.de

12 ASEAN DIGITAL REVOLUTION

DIGITALIZATION VITAL TO SURVIVAL OF INSURANCE COMPANIES Lucien Heijstee

To ensure their survival, insurance companies cannot avoid adapting to an increasingly automated and digitized environment. The question is whether to be a first mover or a fast follower.

With this in mind, Thaivivat Insurance PCL has always strived to stay at the forefront of technology. The company has applied new innovations whenever and wherever possible, from pioneering computerised insurance policy issuance in the 1980s to the more recent "Thaivivat Smar t Solution" and "M-Station" GPS tracking of our surveyors and clients involved in a car accident. For its travel and health insurance products the company has been offering 24/7 global cashless services since 2006, including the unique use of a MasterCard Care Card system, which can be used at any medical facility accepting credit cards.

The main dr iving force behind such innovations has always been winning

UPDATE 3/2017

customer satisfaction and loyalty. The company continuously asks itself "how can we offer customers the most suitable product and the most efficient and convenient service?". At the same time, the company must respond to the new technologies being implemented in the areas of communications, products and services, from online airline/holiday bookings to self-driving cars. The company's recently launched pay-per-use (PPU) car insurance product is a good example of using the latest technology to offer clients a custom-made insurance solution that is flexible and matches their "on-demand" lifestyle.

Increasingly, insurers offer the possibility to buy insurance online, mainly for car and travel products.

ASEAN DIGITAL REVOLUTION 13

E-COMMERCE ROLE IN INSURANCE PRODUCTS The new digitalization era offers opportunities for improving not only ser vice but also internal cost efficiency by increasingly automating various processes involved in the insurance journey from sales and customer service to claims and renewals. The younger generation is very much accustomed to all the modern technologies, so as an insurer, Thaivivat cannot afford to lag behind and remain stuck in old routines as the market moves on. As such, many insurers, including Thaivivat, now offer online purchase options for car and travel insurance products.

In addition, the company has developed several car accident claim 'apps' that ensure the fastest possible on-the-spot surveyor assistance as well as directions to the nearest network garages and hospitals. In Thailand, there are now a few usage-based car insurance products on the market; however, Thaivivat’s PPU product is unique in that it uses a smar t phone 'app' instead of the more common and expensive "Black Box" tracking device.

With all the new technologies, there are a number of impor tant points to consider.

As part of the financial sector, and handling personal and often sensitive data, the insurance industry has to always ensure that its customers' data are kept secure at all times, which is a growing challenge in this increasingly interconnected world.

Another point, often underestimated, is personal contact. It is essential to keep the personal touch and direct people's contact.

Buying insurance is not like buying a refrigerator or a car. You actually buy a promise – the promise that the insurer will be there, not if but when a client encounters an unforeseen incident. Especially then, personal care and claims-handling efficiency is what can set apar t one insurer from another.

ASEAN COMPARED TO OTHER REGIONS Thailand and other countries in this region are in a unique position compared to the

Thaivivat Insurance PCL has received the ICT Excellence Award 2017 for its innovative pay-per-use (PPU) car insurance product.

“Thailand and other countries in this region are in a unique position compared to the more mature economies in Europe and the United States.

As developing countries, they do not carry around the legacy of older technologies and processes.” more mature economies in Europe and the United States. As developing countries, they do not carry around the legacy of older technologies and processes. Younger people in particular are very adept at using the latest technology. Skipping desktop computers and landline telephones, most of their activities are now "fully mobile and flexible". Just look at Thai farmers, who not only use mobile ‘apps’ to look at weather forecasts or market prices of their produce, but who also have a social media group sharing cloud and sunshine information in order to move and adjust their solar-powered irrigation pumps.

Another good example of technological changes affecting the insurance sector is the advances made in the automobile industry. A wide range of advanced active safety features are increasingly becoming standard on all cars, and self-driving cars are no longer a thing of the future. The technology is already here, but the regulations still have to catch up; this is also a challenge for the insurance sector: For example, if a self-driving car is involved in an accident, where does the responsibility/liability lie – with the car manufacturer, the software developer, the car owner, the "driver" or another par ty? What if the accident was the result of a cyber attack?

Contact details: Lucien Heijstee In shor t, the Asian region has an Executive Vice-President opportunity to stay at the very forefront Thaivivat Insurance PCL of technological innovations, and the Tel: 1231 / Tel: +66 2 695 0800, ext. 1003 insurance industry must keep up in order Fax: +66 2 248 4406 to avoid the significant changes that have lucien@thaivivat.co.th already affected many other industries www.thaivivat.co.th and sectors.

www.thailand.ahk.de

14 ASEAN DIGITAL REVOLUTION

THAILAND ON TRACK TO TRANSITION INTO A DIGITAL ECONOMY Thailand Board of Investment

Thailand has continuously been improving its economic model, starting from “Thailand 1.0,” which focused on the agricultural sector, to light industries with “Thailand 2.0,” where the country utilized cheap labor cost with a focus on domestic productions, through to “Thailand 3.0,” which is focused on more complex industries to attract foreign investments making Thailand a production hub for expor ts. However, under Thailand 3.0, the countr y has faced middle-income trap, growing disparities, and d imbalanced development, major concerns lan hai .0 T 1 w h i c h p r o m p t e d t h e g ove r n m e n t t o transform Thailand’s economic structure to “Thailand 4.0.”

The government of Thailand took an important step as par t of its “Thailand 4.0” strategy to reposition the country’s economy by welcoming a new ministry into its ranks. The National Legislative Assembly approved the establishment of the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society on 16 September 2016, taking over the responsibilities of the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology. The new ministry is largely responsible for shaping, planning, and developing policies to promote and transform Thailand into a digital economy. The purpose of this realignment was to enable a more efficient and refocused approach both on the part of the running of government and towards the digital industry given the rapid market changes underway.

UPDATE 3/2017

d ilan Tha4.0 d ilan Tha3.0 d ilan Tha2.0

The ministry will take on responsibility for the National Statistics Office, the Meteorological Department, the Electronic Transactions Development Agency, the Digital Economy Promotion Agency, and the Electronic Government Agency, as well as for state owned enterprises, namely TOT Public Company Limited, CAT Telecom Public Company Limited, and Thailand Post Company Limited in order to drive these state agencies to be the spearhead of more lucrative advanced technologies.

The Digital Economy Promotion Agency (DEPA), founded in January 2017, plays an important role in supporting businesses in the software industry with the objective of strengthening software entrepreneurs

ASEAN DIGITAL REVOLUTION 15

and enabling them to compete in the global market. This will ensure a more targeted focus and bring Thailand in line with many countries, such as Sweden, South Korea, and Canada, which have aggressively adopted a similar digital approach.

In suppor t of the government’s plan and the new ministr y, the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI) offers tax and non-tax incentives for activities related to the digital economy. For example, projects in electronic design, embedded and high value-added software, cloud ser vice and technology industrial zones (i.e. science and technology parks, software parks, data centers) shall be granted eight-year corporate income tax exemptions without being subject to a corporate income tax exemption cap.

Investment projects in enterprise software and digital content, as well as, manufacture advanced technology electrical products such as the Internet of Things (IoT) are granted five-year corporate income tax holiday.

Par ticularly for small and medium-sized enterprises in the IT sector, The BOI has an announcement specifically for investment promotion of SMEs, with the condition of the investment value being less than general activities, particularly in the IT sector activities such as software, which the BOI would like to encourage star t-up businesses. The expenses for salaries for IT-personnel of at least 1,500,000 baht per year will be taken into account for project approval instead of the size of investment.

To sharpen Thailand’s focus on the digital economy, the BOI recently announced special incentives for activities in Digital Technology Development. Eligible projects will receive corporate income tax exemption for 10

“As of 2016, there are 315 projects related to digital economy registered under the BOI with a total value of THB 5,114 million (approximately Euro 134 million).

This marks a huge success…” years with no limit on the income tax exempted. Furthermore, projects qualified under the BOI’s merit-based criteria may be eligible for an additional 1-3 year CIT exemption, provided the total number of years do not exceed 13. This is a significant improvement from the original incentive scheme, which only offered a maximum eight-year CIT exemption. Apart from CIT exemption, investors will continue to enjoy the same benefits provided under the initial BOI act, which include an exemption of import duties on machinery, raw and essential materials, and other non-tax incentives such as foreign land ownership rights and work permits.

As of 2016, there are 315 projects related to digital economy registered under the BOI with a total value of THB 5,114 million (approximately Euro 134 million). This marks a huge success and shows that these policies will help Thailand move forward through smart investments in this important sector further modernizing the country’s digital infrastructure and establishing a true digital economy.

Thailand is taking a broad, multilayered approach to help the country transition into a digital economy and the government is making it appealing for investors to invest in this segment by providing them with attractive incentives. Given the massive strides in digital development that the country is making, Thailand looks well set to position itself as a prominent digital hub in the ASEAN Economic Community.

Contact details: Office of the Board of Investment 555 Vibhavadi-Rangsit Road, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900 Tel: +66 2 553 8111 head@boi.go.th www.boi.go.th

One Start One Stop Investment Center (OSOS) 18th Floor, Chamchuri Square Building, 319 Phayathai Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 osos@boi.go.th www.osos.boi.go.th

www.thailand.ahk.de

16 ASEAN DIGITAL REVOLUTION

THAILAND: DIGITAL LANDSCAPE Thailand Board of Investment

As the world has entered the digital era, it is undeniable that the global economy is being driven by technological advancements and shifting towards increased use of online platforms.

The importance of the digital world is underlined by the fact that 3 out of the 10 fastest growing Fortune 100 companies are in the technology sector.

With a surge in online activities, strong government suppor t, and advances in digital infrastructure, Thailand is undergoing a huge transformation towards becoming a digital economy. The widespread use of digital devices among the Thai population, and the dramatic growth in the e-commerce market, venture capital firms and startups, are all reshaping Thailand’s economy and transitioning the country into an investment hub of ASEAN, given its rapidly growing digital ecosystem and the increased regional convergence.

“Digital economy opens up new investment potential in many areas, for instance, agritech, edutech, and healthtech.”

THE EMERGENCE OF VENTURE CAPITAL FIRMS Financial suppor t is unavoidably the core driver of the digital evolution. In terms of the digital economy, Venture Capital (VC) or funds that invest in more risky projects typically in startups, is the main driver that will play a major role in further promoting the Thai digital ecosystem. While the Thai government has recognised the importance of such funding through the injection of government support, including the SME VC Fund, Thailand Equity Fund, and Thailand Recovery Fund, the private sector also has a major role to play. Numerous banks and telecommunications service providers such as Siam Commercial Bank, Kasikorn Bank, Bangkok Bank, DTAC, AIS, True, and also private firms such as 500 Tuk Tuk, Ardent Capital have established their own presence in the world of venture capital.

PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER

DIGITAL LANDSCAPE ON THE RISE The fast moving world of technology presents tremendous oppor tunities in an era of connectivity and digitalization. Transactions can be done seamlessly throughout the globe in the blink of an eye. The value of the e-commerce market in Thailand has been growing rapidly, together with growing numbers of Thai internet users and consumers who have quickly embraced the convenience of conducting business and completing transactions using online platforms, allowing Thailand to achieve the highest percentage in the online consumer-toconsumer (C2C) market in the world.

DIGITAL SECTOR IS A HIGH PRIORITY Moving to Thailand 4.0, the Thai government has prioritised transforming the country into “Digital Thailand.” The Digital Thailand Plan is divided into four main phases over a multi-year period, beginning with laying a strong digital foundation, to providing Inclusion to all Thai citizens, engaging in a full transformation, and finally focusing on global digital leadership.

PromptPay, an internet and mobile banking money transfer service that links citizen ID card and mobile number with a bank account number, is a significant development in Thailand’s e-payment system. All 15 commercial banks and 4 specialized financial institutions are ready to enhance the speed, accuracy, and reliability of cash transfers throughout the country.

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As the country undergoes a major digital tr ansfor mation, lucr ative investment oppor tunities arise in many industries that serve as the backbone of Thailand’s economy.

Digital economy opens up new investment potential in many areas, for instance, agritech, edutech, and healthtech. In combining the strength of the rapidly growing internet-led consumer market together with highlycommitted government support, Thailand is a leading investment destination that will prove to be a tremendous success in the future.

Note: This article is an abridged version and provided courtesy of the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI).

Contact details: Office of the Board of Investment 555 Vibhavadi-Rangsit Road, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900 Tel: +66 2 553 8111 head@boi.go.th www.boi.go.th

ADVERTORIAL 17

THE DIGITAL RESHAPING OF HEALTHCARE On your way home, your smartphone receives a photo from your smart refrigerator, displaying its current status: the milk is almost finished and you’re out of green vegetables. Great, now you know exactly what to pick up at the grocery store. You also send a quick text to be displayed on the fridge’s touchscreen door, reminding your spouse to resist from snacking on the leftover cake—it’s detox week at home! This, at its most basic, is the magic of the Internet of Things (IoT)—a concept that is transforming the way we live and work.

Essentially, IoT allows electronic devices to “talk” to each other—and to you. It also equips people to stay connected with each other in more meaningful ways. The implications of IoT go far beyond home automation; for example, the Internet is changing the world of health in fundamental ways, taking patient care to new heights. At the heart of this digital revolution are electronic health records. With all the relevant patient information now accessible on portable devices, doctors can stay constantly updated on critical cases and be much more hands-on during patient interactions. With innovative applications that assess an individual’s medical history to make timely check-up recommendations*, we are able to diagnose and treat patients faster and more effectively than ever before.

Patients also have more control over their own health, thanks to Internet-linked health products—the most common being wearables, which have taken the guesswork out of estimating daily activity levels and sleep patterns. At home, smart medicine dispensers remind patients to take their daily dose, while monitoring devices track their glucose levels and cardiac activity.

In sum, smart tools give us a more complete view of an individual’s health and enable us to spend our valuable time caring for patients instead of doing paperwork. Plus, we are better placed to respond rapidly to any dangerous developments. The portability of connected devices—from fitness bands to mobile phones—has opened up new possibilities in emergency protocols, such as geolocation and SoS broadcasts for patients in distress**.

DIGITAL TOOLS AT BNH HOSPITAL *iHealth: An in-house BNH platform that automatically generates a unique health profile for each patient, based on age, gender and medical history. By analysing relevant data, this technology can instantly recommend necessary check-ups—taking into account the tests which have already been completed. This makes it convenient for hospital staff to decide on the best course of action with patients. **SoS: An innovative mobile application that connects people in Bangkok with first responders and emergency service providers.

In an emergency, the patient simply activates the app, which then signals the closest trained first responders and the Emergency Department at BNH Hospital. Sharing the precise location with the right people at the right time enables the patient to receive lifesaving help as soon as possible.

For more information or participation, please contact bnhcontact@bnh.co.th. www.bnhhospital.com

18 BUSINESS BRIEFS

LOHMANN HOLDS THE GRAND OPENING OF FACTORY Lohmann (Thailand) Co., Ltd. held the grand opening celebration of its new facilities in Thailand on 9 May 2017. The event began with an opening speech by Lohmann Tape Group CEO, Mr. Elmar Boeke, followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony and factory tour. GTCC Executive Director, Dr. Roland Wein, also participated in the celebration and factory tour.

Lohmann, which is headquar tered in Neuwied, Germany, is a manufacturer of adhesive tape systems and adhesive solutions for industry. With more than 1,600 employees worldwide, the company is currently represented in more than 50 countries throughout Europe, America and Asia. The company’s special products are already well-established in the Asian markets. The company’s DuploFLEX® innovative plate mounting tapes range, which is well-known in the graphics industry, was presented at the previous Pack Print International fair in Bangkok in 2015.

TGM LAUNCHES AN INNOVATIVE PRODUCTION PLANT

On 22 May 2017, Thai-German Meat Product Co., Ltd. (TGM) celebrated the grand opening of its second and highly innovative factor y. Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn graciously presided over the ceremony and the visit to the factory, together with the management and guests of honour.

Mr. Bunsong Srisiam, welcomed the participants. After a speech given

by Mr. Ulrich Schaefer, on behalf of Mr. Rolf Schaefer, partner and co-founder of TGM, Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Thailand, H.E. Mr. Peter Pruegel, and Mrs. Jantana Puapatanakajorn, Managing Director of TGM, officially opened the ceremony.

GTCC Executive Director, Dr. Roland Wein, had the pleasure of attending this special occasion, during which TGM president,

TGM, which is a joint venture between Thai and German partners, is the leading producer of authentic German sausages, ham and bacon.

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BUSINESS BRIEFS 19

BOSCH REXROTH OPENS A CENTRE IN AMATA CITY GTCC, represented by Head of Membership, Events and Communication, Ms. Patcharaporn Korbuakesorn, joined Bosch Rexroth's grand opening ceremony of its sales and service centre on 26 April 2017at Amata City, Rayong. During the event, she presented a congratulator y bouquet to wish Rexroth success and prosperity.

The ceremony started with keynote speeches by Mr. Martin Hayes, President of Bosch Southeast Asia and Managing Director of Bosch in Singapore, Mr. Joseph Hong, Managing Director of Bosch in Thailand, Mr. Roland Keller, Regional President of Rexroth ASEAN and Mr. Lars Langner, General Manager of Bosch Rexroth Thailand. A tour through the centre and other activities then followed.

Bosch Rexroth provides global application experience in the market segments of mobile applications, machiner y applications and

engineering, and factory automation through the development of innovative components as well as tailored system solutions and services. The company offers customers exper tise in hydraulics electric drives and controls, gear technology, and linear motion and assembly technology all from one source.

MERCEDES-BENZ MAKES A NEW MOVE IN SUV CATEGORY Mercedes-Benz (Thailand) Limited, boosted its reputation in the luxury vehicle market with a new move in SUV category. The practicality of SUVs and the sportiness of Coupes have been fused to create the local production version of the GLC 250 d 4MATIC Coupé. In addition, the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC Coupé is marked as the 9th member of the Mercedes-AMG family and tailored for customers was also officially released.

“With sales increasing to 706,170 units in 2016 or a plus of 34.4 percent compared to the same period in 2015, Mercedes-Benz can proudly announce that our SUV range is outstandingly preferred by customers. The sales growth in this particular segment is the highest compared with every other vehicle platform of ours. It is testimony to our commitment to create new automotive innovations to meet the lifest y le s o f o u r c us t om e r s . We constantly strive to sustain our leadership in the Thai luxur y car market and continue our philosophy to present ‘the best’ to our customers today and tomorrow,” said Mr. Michael Grewe, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz (Thailand) Limited.

http://thailand.ahk.de

20 BUSINESS BRIEFS

QIAGEN SETS UP ITS FIRST OFFICE IN THAILAND On 8 June 2017, Qiagen, a leading global “Sample to Insight” solution provider, celebrated the official opening of its first office in Thailand. The company also announced two new collabor ations in Thailand: a molecular techniques center established with the faculty for tropical medicine at Mahidol University and cancer treatments using genomic insights from next-generation s e q ue nc ing (NGS) c o o p e r at ed w ith Ramathibodi Hospital. GTCC Executive Director, Dr. Roland Wein, had the pleasure to deliver a keynote address on the importance of the company’s entry into the Thai market and its positive impacts on Thai people. The expansion in Thailand supports QIAGEN’s strategy of investing in emerging markets, where the use of advanced molecular technologies for medical care and research is growing rapidly.

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BUSINESS BRIEFS 21

HAPPYPET COMES TO THAILAND

New GTCC member Happy Pet (Thailand) Co., Ltd. held a grand opening event at Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre (QSNCC) on 25 May 2017. GTCC Executive Director, Dr. Roland Wein, joined the celebration together with Mr. Kriengsak Athikomvittaya, General Manager of Happy Pet (Thailand); Mr. Georg MĂźller, owner and Managing Director of Happy Pet; and a large number of distributors of pet articles in Thailand.

Happy Pet (Thailand) will import Happy Dog and Happy Cat products from Germany. It aims to be the premium pet food’s leading brand

in Thailand, with nutritious products at affordable prices. The company also plans to expand into Myanmar, Cambodia and Laos by using Thailand as a base to distribute the products in the future. For more details about Happy Pet (Thailand), please visit www.happydog.de or www.happycat.de.

UMICORE HOSTS A DUAL EDUCATION MEETING

Umicore Autocat (Thailand) Co., Ltd. organised a meeting on Dual Educational Programme on 14 June 2017 at the company. Led by Mr. Marc Watzal, Umicore plant manager, the meeting highlighted a presentation by GTDEE Project Director Mr. Markus Hoffmann on Dual Education in the Eastern Seaboard area, and practical training plans for companies. GTCC Executive Director Dr. Roland Wein also joined the event together with several company representatives interested to learn about the GTDEE Project. They further discussed the benefits of the dual education in Thailand and the possibilities of future cooperation.

22 CHAMBER ACTIVITIES

JOINT CHAMBER BOI LUNCHEON On 22 March 2017, GTCC and joint foreign chambers of commerce organised a luncheon presentation at the Conrad Hotel Bangkok on the Thailand Board of Investment’s (BOI) investment policy. Ms. Duangjai Asawachintachit, Deputy SecretaryGeneral of the BOI, provided participants with the latest BOI policy updates and insights into foreign investment in Thailand, in addition to key information on cluster industry development in Rayong/Map Ta Put, how businesses could drive Thailand 4.0, and how BOI policies will benefit businesses.

GTCC CLUSTER MEETING ON ENERGY GTCC organised a Cluster Meeting on “Quo Vadis Thailand: Latest insights and challenges for the energy sector under Thailand 4.0” at the GTCC Office on 23 March 2017, which attracted about 25 participants. The meeting started with welcoming remarks by GTCC Deputy Executive Director Mr. Marius Mehner and highlighted a series of lectures and updates by the following distinguished speakers: Assistant Secretary-General of the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), Mr. Khomgrich Tantravanich; Assistant Director of System Planning Division, Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT), Mr. Nimit Sujiratanavimol; Managing Director of Bender-IS, Mr. Juergen Bender; Senior Sales Manager of STEAG GmbH, Mr. Nils Twietmeyer; and CEO of Max Boegl (Thailand), Mr. Josef Knitl.

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CHAMBER ACTIVITIES 23

ASEAN INSIGHTS 2017 GTCC Executive Director Dr. Roland Wein, together with other Executive Directors of AHKs in ASEAN, presented business opportunities and challenges in ASEAN at "ASEAN Insights 2017". The event was organised by the IHKs Baden Wuerttemberg and the AHK ASEAN on 28 March 2017 at Industrie- und Handelskammer Region Stuttgar t Jägerstraße.

SECOND GERMAN-ASIAN BUSINESS DIALOGUE

On 29 March 2017, GTCC Executive Director Dr. Roland Wein attended "Der 2. DeutschAsiatische Wir tschaftsdialog" (the second German-Asian Business Dialogue), which was hosted at the Allianz Forum, Berlin. At the event, Thailand's Minister of Commerce, H.E. Mrs. Apiradi Tantraporn, shared insightful information, and engaged in a discussion with other Ministers from Mongolia, the Philippines and Brunei Darussalam during the session of the Minister's Dialogue on "Free Trade in the Asia-Pacific – Chances and Challenges".

During the afternoon, Dr. Wein participated in a working meeting between Mrs. Apiradi Tantraporn, Mr. Matthias Machnig, Germany's State Secretary at the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs, and Energy, and key representatives from German business associations.

www.thailand.ahk.de

24 CHAMBER ACTIVITIES

ASIA-PACIFIC MEMBERSHIP MEETING The AHK Thailand in co-operation with the DIHK, organised the first APAC Membership Meeting from 3 to 5 April 2017 in Bangkok. Twenty delegates from 12 AHKs from the Asia-Pacific region came together at the event to discuss challenges as well as to share informative insights and experience in membership practices.

GTCC OPEN HOUSE DAY On 18 April 2017 GTCC hosted its Open House Day to provide an opportunity for GTCC members, partners and friends to visit its new office and learn more about the Chamber’s enhanced facilities, functions and services. Starting with a house blessing ceremony in the morning, recently elected GTCC President Mr. Markus Lorenzini initiated the candle lighting, followed by ritual prayers and merit making. For the reception in the evening, H.E. German Ambassador to Thailand Mr. Peter Prügel kindly made special remarks to the more than 70 participating members, partners and friends, following a welcoming speech given by Mr. Markus Lorenzini. The move to the new office is part of GTCC’s “Strategy for 2017: Communication, Co-operation, Competence and Change”.

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CHAMBER ACTIVITIES 25

GTCC STAMMTISCH Around 60 GTCC members and guests joined a "Stammtisch get-together" organised by GTCC at Deutsches Eck Bangkok on 20 April 2017. GTCC President Mr. Markus Lorenzini delivered welcoming remarks to the guests and invited them to join upcoming activities. While enjoying German beer and Bavarian food, the guests exchanged their business experiences and other concerns.

THAILAND'S TRANSFORMATION ROADMAP GTCC, in co-operation with other bilateral Chambers of Commerce, organised a seminar on Thailand’s Transformation Roadmap on 27 April 2017 at the Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit.

Guest speaker, Dr. Porametee Vimolsiri, Secretary-General of the National Economic and Social Development Board (NESDB), introduced the work of the NESDB and its key roles as a national planning agency as well as presenting the National Five-Year Plan and the 20-year development plan. The event also provided an excellent opportunity for the foreign business community to provide inputs to NESDB for the upcoming transformation of Thailand.

www.thailand.ahk.de

26 CHAMBER ACTIVITIES

GTCC BUSINESS AND STUDY TRIP TO GERMANY Between 24 and 28 April 2017, GTCC organised an exclusive business and study trip to the world’s leading annual trade fair for industrial technology, Hannover Messe.

Under the theme of “Integrated Industry/ Industrial Automation/Smar t Factor y", 25 par ticipants had the oppor tunity to gain new insights at the trade fair and visit other exclusive sites including KUKA, TRUMPF, M. Preymesser, Porsche and the Mercedes-Benz Museum.

FREEDOM DIALOGUE: GERMANY – THAILAND 4.0 GTCC, in co-operation with the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom, hosted the “Freedom Dialogue: Germany – Thailand 4.0” on 3 May 2017 at the Siam Society, Bangkok. Digitalization fosters a range of

UPDATE 3/2017

opportunities for businesses as well as consumers around the world. However, it also poses a range of new questions, e.g., on access rights of businesses and the State. The dialogue featured Mr. Jimmy Schulz, IT expert and former German Member of Parliament; Mr. Liher Urbizu, Managing Director, SAP Indochina, SAP Systems, Applications and Products in Data Processing (Thailand) Ltd.; Ms. Suchada Inluksana, Professional Plan and Policy Analyst, Thai Ministry of Digital Economy and Society. The discussion covered ways of how Thailand and Germany can learn from each other when it comes to supporting digital innovation and securing rights to data ownership.

CHAMBER ACTIVITIES 27

GTCC BREAKFAST TALK WITH L&P GTCC organised a Joint Chambers Executive Breakfast Talk on “Tax and Legal Implications of International Assignments” on 12 May 2017 with Lorenz & Partners Co., Ltd. legal experts Mr. Till Morstadt and Dr. Constantin Frank-Fahle at Pullman Bangkok Hotel G. The event was a great success and aroused the interest of many participants.

INDUSTRIE 4.0 IN THAILAND 4.0 Secretary of Ministry of Industry, Dr. Somchai Harnhirun; Permanent Secretary of the Thai Ministry of Science and Technology, Dr. Soranit Siltharm; Director-General for Industry, German Federal Ministry of Economics and Energy, Dr. Wolfgang Scheremet; and Chairman, Federation of Thai Industries, Mr. Chen Namchaisiri.

On 15 May 2017, GTCC President Mr. Markus Lorenzini participated as a key panelist in the High-Level Policy Talk on “Industrie 4.0 in Thailand 4.0: New Technologies, New Business Opportunities from Concept to Implementation”, held at the Dusit Thani Hotel, Bangkok. The other panelists included: Permanent

Jointly organised by the German Embassy in Bangkok and Thailand’s Ministry of Industry and Ministry of Science and Technology, in close co-operation with the Federation of Thai Industries and the GTCC, the event was opened with welcoming remarks by the German Ambassador to Thailand, H.E. Mr. Peter Prügel, followed by a keynote speech by H.E. Dr. Uttama Savanayana, Minister of Industry, and a special lecture on “Germany’s Strategy for Innovation and Growth – An Industry Perspective” by Prof. Dr. Peter Post, Head of Applied Research, Festo AG & Co. KG, Member of German Council of Science and Humanities.

www.thailand.ahk.de

28 CHAMBER ACTIVITIES

GTCC GALA NIGHT 2017 “CELEBRATING UNDER THE STARS” MARKING GTCC 55 YEARS ANNIVERSARY On Friday, 26 May 2017, members of the German-Thai Chamber of Commerce (GTCC) together with their spouses, friends and business partners, among them executives from over 20 top brands in the German-Thai business community, participated in the GTCC Gala Night 2017 under the theme “Celebrating under the Stars” marking GTCC 55th Anniversary at Shangri-La Hotel, Bangkok.

Mr. Markus Lorenzini, the President of the GTCC, welcomed around 410 guests and the guests of honor. He underlined the GTCC’s historical background and success stories in promoting bilateral business relations and supporting companies and institutions from both Germany and Thailand since 1962. H.E. Apiradi Tatraporn, Minister of Commerce of the Royal Thai Government and H.E. Peter Prügel, German Ambassador to Thailand, kindly delivered congratulatory speeches on successful German-Thai economic cooperation and mutual friendship. They congratulated the GTCC for its 55th Anniversary and acknowledged its significant contribution to the successful development of the German-Thai economic relations.

All proceeds from raffles sales will be donated to the Chaipattana Foundation to support its rural development work as the foundation serves as a helping hand as well as a facilitator in the national development process.

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CHAMBER ACTIVITIES 29

land, I wish merce of Thai istry of Com in M y and your e ar th rs of ve lf “On beha the 55th anni on C TC pment of G lo te essful deve to congratula n to the succ tio C and its bu ri TC nt G e co Th significant ic relations... om on partners ec i ed ha en highly valu the German-T have always be th e T ha i es d ni an pa m ns co io member ss as so ci at ne si bu , r that.” es fo ni pa s my gratitude fo r T ha i co m like to expres ce ld er m ou w om I C t. of en governm rn, Minister piradi Tantrapo A . rs M . .E H —

www.thailand.ahk.de

30 CHAMBER ACTIVITIES

ulate you, the GTCC portunity to congrat leadership of “Let me take this op CC staff under the board and the GT members of ll as of course all the Roland Wein as we ghout these ou thr ts en achievem the GTCC for the backbone GTCC has been the past 55 years. The cess in suc at gre ’s tor siness sec of the German bu ntinue co ll wi e no doubt that it -Thai Thailand. And I hav an rm Ge nt lle ce for the ex to be a key driver me.” co to rs in the yea Business Relations el, — H.E. Peter Prüg nd aila Th to r German Ambassado

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CHAMBER ACTIVITIES 31

“For us, as a bilate ral chamber it ha s been and continu to represent the es to be our missi business interests on of German comp enhance the Germ anies in Thailand, an-Thai business network and prov and services to Ge ide our support rman and Thai co mpanies in doing other…With our business with each activities we solid ly contributed to growth of the bil the enormous ateral trade volum e of USD 65 millio to more than US n in 1962, D 10 billion in 20 16. With the supp GTCC, German co ort of the mpanies successfu lly cooperated wi Thai partners in are th as important for the upgrading of the Thai economy, from infrastructu re development, factory automatio n to energy effici ency and renewable energie s – and most rece ntly Industrie 4.0 or Th ailand 4.0.”

— Mr. Markus Lo renzini, GTCC President

www.thailand.ahk.de

34 GTDEE INSIGHT

EXAMINER BOARD WORKSHOP On 4 Febr uar y 2017, Mr. Mar kus Hoffmann, Dr. Kamonsak Sur adom, Mr. Panuwat Jaitham, Mr. Katiphot Kanoknorrasade and Ms. Apinya Amporn organised an Examiners Board Workshop for the teacher s of Don Bosco Technological College. The workshop was aimed at preparing the teachers for a role on the Examiner Board, so that greater efficiency can be guaranteed for the Final Examinations in 2017. The workshop was held at the Don Bosco Technological College.

INTERNATIONAL FINAL EXAMINATION, MERCEDES BENZ (THAILAND) CO., LTD. On 22 and 23 Februar y 2017, Mr. Markus Hoffmann and Dr. Kamonsak Suradom participated in the internal final examination for the 20 GTDEE apprentices in automotive mechatronics at Mercedes Benz. The examination was hosted by Mercedes Benz at its Training Centre in Bang Na district of Bangkok.

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GTDEE INSIGHT 35

SIXTH VEC MEETING On 24 Febr uar y 2017, Mr. Mar kus Hoffmann, Dr. Kamonsak Suradom and Mr. Katiphot Kanoknorrasade participated in the Sixth Vocational Education Committee (VEC) Meeting on Final Examinations. The meeting was held at Mercedes Benz Tr aining Centre in Bang Na, Bangkok.

AHK-ASIAN EXPERIENCE EXCHANGE CONFERENCE

On 2 March 2017, the GTDEE team hosted the AHK-ASIAN Experience Exchange Conference at the GTCC office. The nine representatives who attended the conference were from AHK Philippines, AHK Thailand, AHK Indonesia, AHK Viet Nam, AHK India,

AHK Taiwan, AHK Hong Kong, AHK Malaysia, IHK (Germany), and DIHK (Germany). The participants shared their opinions regarding the German Dual Vocational Education system.

www.thailand.ahk.de

36 GTDEE INSIGHT

FINAL EXAMINATION 2017 FOR PLANT SCIENCE

From 12 to 15 March 2017, Mr. Markus Hoffmann, Dr. Kamonsak Suradom, Mr. Panuwat Jaitham, Project Manager of Controlling and Reporting, Mr. Katiphot Kanoknorrasade, and Ms. Apinya Amporn organised the final examination for 2017 in the field of plant science for the 2015 student group at the Khon Kaen College of Agriculture

and Technology, Suphan Buri College of Agriculture and Technology, and Singburi College of Agriculture and Technology. The examination comprised both theoretical and practical sections. For the practical session, all examinees visited a sugar cane field. The examination took place at the Kasetsart University’s Kamphaeng Saen Campus.

FINAL EXAMINATION 2017 FOR MECHATRONICS On 16 March 2017, Mr. Markus Hoffmann and Dr. Kamonsak Suradom participated in a meeting on the final examination in the field of mechatronics with teachers from the King Mongkut’s University of Technology Nor th Bangkok (KMUTNB). The meeting was held at KMUTNB.

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GTDEE INSIGHT 37

FINAL EXAMINATION 2017 FOR MECHANICS

From 20 to 22 March 2017 Mr. Markus Hoffmann, Dr. Kamonsak Suradom, Mr. Panuwat Jaitham, Mr. Katiphot Kanoknorrasade and Ms. Apinya Amporn organised the final examination for 2017 in mechanics for the 2015 student group from Khon Kaen Technical College, Chumphae Industrial and Community Education College, Singburi Technical College 2, Easter n Technological College ,

Kanchanapisek Technical College Mahanakorn and Bankhai Technical College. The examination comprised both theoretical and practical sections. All examinees had to make a tape roller for the practical par t. The examination took place at the Don Bosco Technological College.

FINAL EXAMINATION 2017 FOR LOGISTICS On 21 March 2017, Mr. Markus Hoffmann, Dr. Kamonsak Suradom, Mr. Panuwat Jaitham, Mr. Katiphot Kanoknorrasade and Ms. Apinya Amporn organised the final examination for 2017 in the field of logistics for the GTDEE apprentices at Bosch Automotive (Thailand) Co., Ltd. The examination, which comprised both theoretical and practical sections, took place at the Don Bosco Technological College.

www.thailand.ahk.de

38 GTDEE INSIGHT

FINAL EXAMINATION 2017 FOR MECHATRONICS

On 23 March 2017, Mr. Markus Hoffmann, Dr. Kamonsak Suradom and Mr. Katiphot Kanoknorrasade organised the final examination in mechatronics for apprentices from the Eastern Technological College

From 27 to 29 March 2017, Mr. Markus Hoffmann, Dr. Kamonsak Sur adom, Mr. Panuwat Jaitham, Mr. Katiphot Kanoknorrasade and Ms. Apinya Amporn organised the final examination for 2017 in the field of electric power. The examinees comprised apprentices from: the Nakorn Khon Kaen Technical College, Khon Kaen Technical College, Chumphae Industrial and Community Education College, and Suphan Buri Technical College, who were trained by Mitr Phol Sugar Corporation Ltd.; Kanchanapisek Technical College Mahanakorn who were trained by Wangnoi Beverage Co., Ltd.; and apprentices from Chonburi Technical College who received practical training from Amata B.Grimm Power Ltd. The examination took place at the Don Bosco Technical College.

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(E-Tech). They were trained by Bosch Packaging Technology (Thailand) Co., Ltd. and Grohe Siam Limited. The examination took place at the King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok.

FINAL EXAMINATION 2017 FOR ELECTRIC POWER

GTDEE INSIGHT 39

FINAL EXAMINATION 2017 FOR AUTOMOTIVE MECHATRONICS From 18 to 20 of April 2017 a GTDEE team, led by GTDEE Project Director Mr. Markus H of f man n , Sen io r P ro j e ct M a n a g e r Dr. Kamonsak Suradom and Senior Consultant Mr. Katiphot Kanoknorrasade, held the final examination in the field of automotive mechatronics for the apprentices batch 2015 from the Eastern Technological College (E-Tech), Sumat Prakarn Technical College, Kanchanapisek Technical College Mahanakorn (KTCM), Chumphae Technical College, and Bangkaewfa Industrial and Communication Education College. The examination was held at the Don Bosco Technological College.

FINAL EXAMINATION 2017 FOR AGRICULTURAL MECHANICS Congratulations to the apprentices in agricultural mechanics. Between 24 and 27 April 2017, Mr. Markus Hoffmann, Dr. Kamonsak Suradom, Project Manager for Controlling and Repor ting Mr. Panuwat Jaitham, Mr. Katiphot Kanoknorrasade and Project Assistant Ms. Apinya Ampor n organised the final examination for the apprentices in agricultural mechanics who were graduating from colleges such as the Suphan Buri College of Agriculture and Technology. Kasetsart University (Kamphaeng Saen campus), Nakhon Pathom hosted the examination.

www.thailand.ahk.de

42 MEMBERS’ CORNER

NEW GTCC MEMBERS up to 30 June 2017

German-Thai Chamber of Commerce warmly welcomes 17 new members!

ASIA T&C Ltd.

Bangkok Hospital

Flat/Room 602, Taurus Building, 21 A/B Granville Road, Tsimshatsui, Hong Kong Tel: +49 176 8352 2669 Fax: + 852 273 99313 boeer@asiatandc.com www.asiatandc.com

2 Soi Soonvijai 7, New Petchburi Rd., Bangkok 10310 Thailand Tel: +66 2 310 3000 info@bangkokhospital.com www.bangkokhospital.com

Chamber Representative Ivo Boeer

Bambino Co., Ltd. 90/124 Soi Song Sa-rd, Jompon, Jatujak, Bangkok 10900 Tel: +66 2 160 5669 Fax: +66 2 028 8202 solitaire.th@gmail.com www.solitaire-mainz.de Activities An exclusive distributor for BNS Vertriebs GmbH in Thailand. We are distributing the brand “SOLITAIRE” and “BERGAL” nationwide with department stores such as Central, The Mall as our main POSs. Chamber Representative Teerasarn Thanakijkamthorn and Lalita Thanakijkamthorn

Activities Bangkok Hospital is a state-of-the-art medical campus providing comprehensive medical care through multidisciplinary teams of highly trained specialists. Offering a broad range of specialized clinics, with dedicated hospitals for cancer and heart disease, Bangkok Hospital is a leading tertiary care facility providing award-winning, world-class healthcare services.

Chamber Representative Oliver Franz and Ralf Krewer

blu professionals GmbH Elsenheimerstr. 61 80687 Munchen Tel: +49 89 540 226 0 Fax: +49 89 540 226 1 info@bluprofessionals.com bluprofessionals.com Activities German Process Excellence Experts in consulting for Automotive Engineering, IoT and Project Management Office (PMO): Our strength is in every aspect of project management including in a global context.

The blu-PMO relieves the load placed on project managers, facilitates transparency and optimizes existing processes, as well as supporting their launch Chamber Representative Andreas Rieckmann and Sven Zimmermann

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MEMBERS’ CORNER 43

GERB Schwingungsisolierungen GmbH & Co. KG

Joerg Herrmann – Die Personalberater eK Human Resources Management

Roedernallee 174-176, 13407 Berlin, Germany Tel: +49 304191 0 Fax: +49 304191 199 carsten.chantrain@gerb.de www.gerb.com

Wirthstr. 2 95445 Bayreuth Germany Tel: +49 921 1508798 0 Fax: +49 921 1508798 1 joerg.herrmann@jh-dp.com www.jh-dp.com

Activities GERB develops and supplies vibration isolation systems for: - Power plant equipment - Industrial Machinery - Precision machinery and vibration sensitive equipment - Buildings (protection from vibration, earthquake and subsidence) - Railway tracks Further GERB designs Tuned Mass Dampers (TMDs) for bridges and tall structures

Activities Joerg Herrmann – Die Personalberater eK Human Resources Management is recommended as one of the best “TOP-CONSULTANT in Germany” (Compamedia/2012; www.top-consultant.de) with experience in 85 different branches e.g. Automobile Industry; Mechanical Engineering; Building Material; Energy Supply; Hotels; Warehouses & Storage; Food Manufacture; Energy Sector; Manufacture of Machinery and Equipment; Manufacture of many others

Chamber Representative Carsten Chantrain and Christoph von Waldow

Chamber Representative Joerg Herrmann

infoBoard International Co., Ltd. Motorway 36/38 RK BIZ CENTER, Khlong Song Ton Nun, Lat Krabang, Bangkok Tel: +66 2 1717 942 Fax: +49 6201 8777 5509 www.infoboard.biz/th Activities Software development and design. Our main product is the innovative infoBoard planning board which is one of the leading software solutions when it comes to the everyday planning and control of business processes in industry and the manufacturing industry. It makes work organization easy and is the perfect answer to modern planning challenges.

Chamber Representative Andreas Erich Hinze and Eric Kopfmann

Mr. Juergen Braukmann GTCC MEMBER 2017

500/136 Moo 5, Nakluea Road 18, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150 Tel: +66 88 326 2512 helechales@gmail.com

juwi Renewable Energies Thai Company Limited 53, Sivatel Tower, 12A Floor, Suite No.12A03, Wittayu Road, Lumpini, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 Thailand Tel: +66 2 252 6754 to 7 Fax: +66 2 252 6758 u.shome@juwi.com, piyawan.s@juwi.com www.juwi.com Activities juwi is a leading global specialist for project development, financing, EPC, operation and maintenance services for solar, wind and hybrid projects. So far, juwi has constructed more than 4,000 MW renewable assets globally, including ~2,000 MW solar projects, one-third of which (includes those in planning/ construction) are in APAC region.

Chamber Representative Udayadittya Shome and Piyawan Saewong

www.thailand.ahk.de

44 MEMBERS’ CORNER

LANXESS Thai Co., Ltd.

Siam S & Grace Co., Ltd.

CRC Tower, All Seasons Place, 36th Floor, Room No. 44 87/2 Wireless Road, Lumpini, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 Thailand Tel: +66 2 625 3100 www.lanxess.com

1108/31 Sukhumvit Road, Phrakanong, Khlongtoey, Bangkok 10110 Thailand Tel: +66 61 380 0798 siam@serenegrace.org

Activities Trading in chemicals related to disinfectants for curing and prevention of diseases for humans and animals, Agricultures, Polymers, Pigments, Paints, Automobiles, Tire, Rubber goods, Construction and Chemicals for all kinds of industries Chamber Representative Dr. Nanthawat Kerdchuen and Georges Barbey

Master Com Engineering Co., Ltd. 888 Kallapaphruek Road, BangWa, Phasi Charoen, Bangkok 10160 Tel: +66 2 455 0121 Fax: +66 2 455 0127 mascom@mastercom.co.th www.mastercom.co.th

Chamber Representative Masami Tsuchiya

Somboon Advance Technology Public Company Limited 129 Moo.2 15th KM. Bangna-Trad Rd., Bangchalong, Bangplee, Samutprakarn 10540 Tel: +66 2 728 8500 thanthach.r@somboon.co.th www.satpcl.co.th

Activities Sale and after-sales service from KAESER KOMPRESSOR from Germany

Activities Manufacturing of automotive and agricultural machinery parts

Chamber Representative Bunyat Tantivorapun and Boonyong Tantiworapan

Chamber Representative Yongkiat Kitaphanich and Thanthach Ritthinam

Meyer Seals Asia Ltd.

Thai Prosperity Terminal Co., Ltd.

184 M.2, T. Nongkhon, A. Muang, Ubon Ratchathani 34000 Thailand Tel: +66 45 259 976 Fax: +66 45 259 976 kreuzer@meyer-seals.com www.meyer-seals.com

98 M.3 Poochaosamingprai road, Samrongklang, Prapradang, Samutprakarn 10130 Tel: +66 2 754 4501 to 9 Fax: +66 2 754 4513 sakulna@tptport.com www.tptport.com

Activities Production of closure liner (ROPP & Plastic) Chamber Representative Ralf Kreuzer and Philipp Schepper

UPDATE 3/2017

Activities 1. HR consulting and Training program provider. Official affiliate of People Focus Consulting (http://www.peoplefocusconsulting.com).

Offerings include leadership and coaching skill, vision & strategy development, and team building workshop.

2. Alcohol and glassware trading.

Activities Port/Terminal Container/Yard/Ship business Chamber Representative Tawee Srichainak and Rathasart Kunwee

MEMBERS’ CORNER 45

The Boston Consulting Group (Thailand) Ltd. 37th Floor, U Chu Liang Building, 968 Rama IV Road, Silom, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500 Thailand Tel: +66 2 667 3000 Fax: +66 2 667 3123 asavapivat.gonsarun@bcg.com www.bcg.com Activities BCG is a global management consulting firm and the world’s leading advisor on business strategy. We partner with clients from private, public, and nonprofit sectors in all regions to identify their highest-value opportunities, address critical challenges, and transform their enterprises. Founded in 1963, BCG is a private company with 86 offices in 45 countries.

Chamber Representative Benjamin Fingerle and Isada Hiranwiwatkul

Torqeedo GbmH 23/F, Athenee Tower, 63 Wireless Road, Lumpini, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 Thailand Friedrichshafener Str, 4a, 82205 Gliching, Germany Tel: +66 2 126 8015 Ext. 815 Tel: +49 8153 9215 100 Fax: +49 8153 9215 319 www.torqeedo.com info@torqeedo.com Activities Manufacturer of Electric Propulsion Systems for Marine Applications, Sales & Marketing Business Activities, Project business for sustainable marine application e.g.

Eco-Fishing, Solar Boats, Eco-Tourism, Clean Work Boats, Clean Ferries and Water taxis, Unmanned Vessels Chamber Representative David Hunter and Christian Pho Duc

www.thailand.ahk.de

46 TRADE FAIRS

IFA: LEADING SHOW FOR LATEST IN ELECTRONICS AND APPLIANCES 1-6 September 2017, Berlin

IFA, the world’s leading trade show for consumer electronics and home appliances, will take place this year from 1 to 6 September 2017 at the Berlin Exhibition Grounds (ExpoCenter City). IFA in Berlin presents the latest products and innovations in the heart of Europe‘s most impor tant regional market. Only IFA offers such a comprehensive overview of the international market, and the event attracts the attention of trade visitors each year from more than 100 countries. IFA is the main meeting place for key retailers, buyers, and experts from the industry and the media.

The eight segments of IFA feature the entire range of brands, products and innovations in consumer electronics and home appliances in all their diversity.

At this year’s show, IFA will be expanded for the second time to include IFA Global Markets, to be held at STATION Berlin from 3 to 6 September 2017. This additional exhibition enhances the IFA experience for trade visitors and experts. IFA Global Markets, Europe’s biggest sourcing market for technical consumer goods and digital products, focuses exclusively on trade visitors. This offers a market place especially for buyers and dealers to meet suppliers, OEMS and ODMs. At last year’s IFA Global Markets more than 300 exhibitors showed their latest product highlights and services on an area of 10,000 m2.

UPDATE 3/2017

Last year’s IFA included 1,823 exhibitors (+13 per cent) who presented their latest products on an exhibition area of 158,000 m2 (+5 per cent). With an expected order volume of 4.5 billion euros and 240,000 visitors – including an increase in international trade visitors to 139,000 – IFA laid the foundation for strong end-of-year business and again underlined its global relevance.

More than 5,700 journalists from more than 50 countries reported extensively on the latest technology trends. The highlights of the IFA Keynotes showed a wide variety of consumer electronics and home appliances, ranging from the smart kitchen to the connected car, virtual realities and the Internet of Things. The new Smart Home exhibition in Hall 6.2 was again very popular with visitors and the media. Covering 3,000 m2, more than 50 exhibitors from 15 countries exhibited their latest products and services covering various aspects of intelligent home automation. More than 150 companies showcased the latest smart home solutions on their stands.

Don’t miss the opportunity to explore emerging trends and celebrate the premieres of new technologies and products and this trade show.

More details on IFA are available at http://b2b.ifa-berlin.com/en/. For further information, please contact GTCC’s official representative for Messe Berlin GmbH in Thailand, Ms. Patamaporn Wasuwat, at tel. +66 2 055 0641 or by e-mail at berlin@gtcc.org.

TRADE FAIRS 47

KIDS INDIA 2017: COUNTRY’S LARGEST B2B FAIR FOR TOYS, OTHER CHILDREN’S PRODUCTS 20-22 September 2017, Mumbai

India Pvt., Ltd., a fully-owned subsidiary of Spielwarenmesse eG, Germany, the organiser of the world’s largest toy fair in Nuremberg.

It is the perfect stage for global producers to establish contacts with decision-makers from the wholesale and retail trade chains and the specialist trade.

The Indian toy sector is among of the fastest developing industry of its kind in the world and presents a colossal potential. Key variables for the development of the toy business are found in the developing white-collar class with its rising income levels, the decrease in the average number of youngsters per family and expanded expectation regarding quality and premium toys. That is what makes “Kids India” the country’s largest B2B fair for toys and other children’s products.

The fair offers par ticipating companies a single platform for opportunities to do business and networking.

The fifth Kids India trade fair is set to take place from 20 to 22 September 2017 in Mumbai. The fair is organised by Spielwarenmesse

At Kids India, around 180 Indian and international exhibitors will present merchandise in the following 18 product groups in two halls: Soft toys; Dolls and role-play; Educational toys and games, learning and experimenting; Games, puzzles, cards, children’s books and music; Electronic games, multimedia; Technical and action toys; Sports, leisure, outdoor; Playground equipment; School articles, stationery; Creative designing; Handicrafts, gifts and souvenir articles; Wooden toys; Party and festive articles, costumes; Babies’ and infants’ articles; Model construction, hobbies; Model railways and accessories; Licenced products; Testing and inspecting institutes and certification services.

Additional details are available at http://www.kidsindia.de. For more information and other inquiries, please contact GTCC’s official representative for Spielwarenmesse in Thailand, Ms. Chonlagorn, by telephone at +66 2 055 0642 or by e-mail at chonlagorn@gtcc.org.

www.thailand.ahk.de

48 TRADE FAIRS

BIOFACH INDIA, TOGETHER WITH INDIA ORGANIC 2017: INTERNATIONAL ORGANIC TRADE FAIR AND CONFERENCE

9-11 November 2017, India Expo Mart (IEML), Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India

The leading exhibitions at BIOFACH World trade fairs connect raw material marketplaces with international demand in six key economic regions of the world, and promote the development of regional markets at the same time. India is at the crossroads as hundreds of farmer s who have tr ied “chemical farming” are making a comeback in organic and multiple-crop farming. The country’s organic food movement has grown by four times in the past three years. For these reasons, India won the bid to host the 19th IFOAM – Organic World Congress (OWC), which will be held, at the same time, at a critical time in its agricultural history.

The OWC is considered to be the leading event for the development of the organic agricultural sector worldwide. Once every three years, the congress is held to promote and celebrate the inevitable turning of global agriculture to organic farming methods as well as to measure progress. It is also a platform where organic stakeholders can share their knowledge and exper tise , and establish valuable par tnerships. The

UPDATE 3/2017

19th OWC will be divided into four tracks: Main Track, Farmers' Track, Scientific Track, and Marketing Track.

The GTCC, as official representative in Thailand, is organising a visit by a delegation for stakeholders and exper ts in Thailand’s organic agricultural industry to BIOFACH INDIA and OWC from 8 to 12 November 2017.

For more information please contact GTCC’s official representative for NürnbergMesse, Mr. Nupat Khusribanchong at tel: +66 2 055 0643, or by e-mail at nuernberg@gtcc.org.

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AGRITECHNICA 2017: WORLD'S LARGEST AGRICULTURAL MACHINERY AND TECHNOLOGY TRADE FAIR 12-18 November 2017, Hannover Agritechnica 2017 will be held from 12-18 November at Hannover’s Exhibition Grounds.

This year’s event is expected to attract similar attendance to that recorded at the previous show in 2015 (more than 452,000 visitors and 2,892 exhibitors), making it the world’s largest trade fair dedicated to agricultural machinery and technology. The fair offers visitors a superb oppor tunity to find out more about the status of technology in this dynamic industry and to directly establish contacts with potential partners.

The exhibitors at the show will gain a unique scope for business promotion in the global market. Agritechnica is organised by Deutsche Landwirtschafts-Gesellschaft (DLG; German Agricultural Society), which was founded by engineer and writer Max Eyth in 1885.

Based in Frankfurt am Main, it provides an independent and open forum for promoting the exchange of knowledge and the shaping

of opinion in the agricultural and food sectors.

Around 200 full-time employees and about 3,000 voluntar y exper ts are engaged in working on behalf of DLG’s 27,000 members.

The organisation’s well-known test centre for technology and farm inputs, which is the largest of its type in the world, is accredited and recognised nationally and internationally.

Agritechnica will, for the first time, have an overall theme this year. It has chosen the catchphr ase “Green Future-Smar t Technology”, which recognises the need for today’s agriculture to be sustainable in terms of ecology, economy and human resources.

It also suggests that the way to achieve this is for farmers to use all available knowledge about the interactions between plants and soil, technology and labour in developing appropriate farming systems.

More details are available at www.agritechnica.com. For exhibitor/visitor inquiries or more information, please contact Mr. Nupat Khusribanchong at tel: +66 2 055 0643 or by e-mail at nupat@gtcc.org.

www.thailand.ahk.de

50 TRADE FAIRS

ISPO MUNICH: THE WORLD´S LARGEST SPORTS TRADE SHOW 28-31 January 2018, Munich The next annual ISPO MUNICH, the trade fair for the global sports industry, will be held at the Messe München centre in Munich from 28 to 31 January 2018. So get ready for four action-packed days, trends and networking with experts!

ISPO MUNICH presents the latest trends in sportswear and sports goods. For the past 40 years, ISPO has shown the whole range of sporting goods, athletic footwear and sports fashion, and the latest trends in these segments. This trade fair is a business platform as well as trend barometer for the industry.

More than 2,700 international exhibitors present their newest products in the outdoor, ski, action, sportmode, performance sports, textile health and fitness, and sourcing sectors They also take the opportunity to acquire new business contacts.

UPDATE 3/2017

In 2017, more than 85,000 trade visitors from 120 countries attended the event in Munich.

That was an increase of approximately 6 per cent over 2016 (81,368). This year's ISPO MUNICH was also more international than ever. The largest increases came from Italy, the Russian Federation, Great Britain, China and the United States, in that order. According to Gelszus Market Research, making the trip to the fair proved worthwhile for visitors, 97 per cent of whom gave the exhibition a rating of good to excellent.

More details about this event are available at http://munich.ispo.com. For more information, please contact GTCC’s official representative of Messe München in Thailand, Ms. Patamaporn Wasuwat, by telephone at +66 2 055 0641 or by e-mail at muenchen@gtcc.org.

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UPDATE 3/2017