Update Q4/2014

4/2014 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

E DAT P U !

D R E A E TODAeYn/ IN e/ ONLthailand.ahk.d / http:/

RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT Research and development – pillars of Germany’s economic strength

Asean integration needs to be based on promotion of innovation and technology

German machine tools and production technology improving Thai industrial competitiveness, production efficiency

Organized by:

Sponsored by:

GTCC Christmas Party 2014 & Celebration of our 550+ Membership Achievement

The German-Thai Chamber of Commerce wishes to extend its sincere gratitude for the generosity of our sponsors for this significant event.

Most importantly, a special appreciation to all GTCC members as we couldn’t have come this far without your strong and engaging support for our development and initiatives over the years.

We look forward to our continued co-operation in 2015!

The GTCC Team

Santa Claus Sponsor:

Snowman Sponsors:

In-kind Sponsors:

Sugar Cane Sponsor:

DEAR READERS As we are drawing closer and closer to the official launch of the ASEAN Economic Community, much attention is being given to different areas that need to be strengthened in order to position Thailand as the leading and most competitive nation among other ASEAN countries. For sustainable development, it is undeniable that research and development is one of the key areas that Thailand needs to pursue and develop further. Therefore, in this issue of Update we take a look at the significance of research and development from the perspective of the different players and the related aspects in Thailand.

In this final quarter of 2014, the GTCC has been particularly busy hosting a series of successful visits by German business delegations and conferences. Our technology symposium on "Innovations in production technology – machine tools from Germany" attracted tremendous interest from Thai industry representatives, manufacturing companies and exper ts who gained firsthand insights from German manufacturers on how to improve industrial competitiveness and production efficiency. It was highly encouraging to witness such active participation and eagerness by Thai industries to move forward in bringing the country to the forefront as an innovative nation in ASEAN, with the support of German counterparts.

Aside from this, I recently took part in the fourteenth Asia-Pacific Conference of German Business (APK) in Viet Nam, held under the theme of ”Understanding Trends and Perspectives”. The two-day conference was intensive and highly interesting with points of views shared by 94 speakers, on 19 different topics, with more than 800 participants from 31 countries. The Asia-Pacific Committee of German Business (APA) Chairman, Mr., Hubert Lienhard, stressed the high importance of opportunities for German businesses arising from Asia’s continuing rapid growth as well as the need for German businesses to adapt to this changing political and economic power shift.

Meanwhile, the GTCC’s brainchild, the German Dual Vocational Education project, also gained outstanding momentum with the signing of a series of Memoranda of Understanding with leading partners, including the Thai sugar giant, Mitrphol Sugar, and the Federation of Thai industries. In 2015, we foresee that the current number of new students will double and we are offering a new curriculum for new industrial branches to accommodate unique demands.

In addition, the GTCC team and I are now very much involved in the planning of activities and events for 2015 as we will be introducing a number of fresh and improved services and event par tnership opportunities.

Last but not least, on behalf of the GTCC team, I would like to thank you for the enthusiastic support that you have given the Chamber throughout 2014, and wish you a restful and enjoyable Christmas and New Year break with family and friends.

With best regards,

Jörg Buck Executive Director 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 cheque to the German-Thai Chamber of Commerce, Empire Tower, 195 South Sathorn Rd., Bangkok 10120, Thailand. Tel.: (+66) 02-670-0600. Fax: (+66) 02-670-0601. 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: Jörg Buck Editor & Communications Director: Ratanaporn Bistuer Editorial Assistant: Pimwipa Vatanutanon Advertising Director: Pimtip Faktorngpan Design & Layout: Sorapol Liengboonlertchai Sub-Editor: Tony Oliver

SAVE THE DATE

29 MAY 2015

Greater Mekong Subregion: Growing together CONTENTS

06

Thailand aiming for significant increase in R&D investment

52 German machine tools and production technology improving Thai industrial competitiveness, production efficiency

54 GTCC Annual Christmas Party 2014

and celebration of 550-plus membership

56 German dual vocational education

collaboration in Thailand gains momentum

72 Green Week eightieth anniversary to feature numerous highlights

RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

GTDEE INSIGHT

12 The Art of R&D Automotive Engineering –

56 German dual vocational education collaboration

16 ASEAN integration needs to be based on

60 GIZ regional In-Company-Trainer development

Made in Thailand

promotion of innovation and technology

22 Fostering innovation-driven business in Thailand: Applied R&D from Fraunhofer IFF Germany

26 New Science and Technology Park, innovative initiatives driving ‘Lanna’ region economy

BUSINESS BRIEFS 36 Ducati Motor (Thailand) celebrates official factory opening

CHAMBER ACTIVITIES 44 German businesses point out ‘Smart Grid Solutions Thailand’

50 GTCC Oktoberfest Night 2014 a major attraction

in Thailand gains momentum

workshops

MEMBER’S CORNER 62 Logwin: ‘Always close to our customers’ 64 Member2Member privileges

TRADE FAIRS 72 Green Week eightieth anniversary 73 DOMOTEX 2015

74 BAU 2015 75 embedded world 2015 76 Spielwarenmesse 2015

06 RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

THAILAND AIMING FOR SIGNIFICANT INCREASE IN R&D INVESTMENT Contributed by Dr. Waldemar Duscha, Germany Trade & Invest Thailand is planning to treble investment in research and development (R&D) by 2016 to the equivalent of approximately US$ 4.1 billion.

The Government aims to lift R&D investment to 1 per cent of the gross domestic product (GDP) from the current investment, which stands at only 0.37 per cent. This ambitious goal can be reached given a stronger involvement of the private sector, whose share in the national R&D portfolio is expected to gradually increase to 70 per cent, up from 51 per cent at present. The essential key to speeding things up lies in co-operation between the public and private sectors – particularly in view of the country’s low potential of scientists, researchers, engineers and technical personnel.

The fact that, in the past, R&D was not regarded as a key government priority is also reflected in the lack of statistical recording, which is available only in rudimentary form and is out of date. As of 2011, around 40 per cent of private sector R&D activities were focused on just three sectors, i.e., chemicals, food and petroleum products.

However, priority areas include biotechnology, nanotechnology, material science as well as information and communications technology. Other important sectors are automotive, electronics, machinery, minerals, rubber and plastics.

In 2013, the agro-industry sector attracted the greatest number of companies (462) investing in R&D, followed by the chemicals (413), and rubber and plastics sectors (267). The number of R&D staff in the private sector trebled to 22,245 persons between 2006 and 2013.

UPDATE 4/2014

BASIC DATA, 2011 National R&D expenditure

US$ 1.3 billion

Public share

49%

Private share

51%

R&D personnel

53,123

Full time researchers Public sector

20,200

Private sector

20,680

Patent applications Product design

3,789

Inventions

1,984

Patent approvals Product design Inventions

1,253 900

Source: National Research Council, Department of Intellectual Property.

LOGISTICS & TRANSPORT 07

NIA, NSTDA THE MOST IMPORTANT AGENCIES The Ministry of Science and Technology is politically responsible for promoting research and innovation by a total of 13 different agencies. The two most important independent national agencies are the National Innovation Agency (NIA) and the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA). NSTDA operates five of Thailand’s specialised R&D centres.

These centres focus on genetic engineering and biotechnology (BIOTEC), metal and materials technology (MTEC), electronics and computer technology (NECTEC), nanotechnology (NANOTEC) and technology management (TMC).

NSTDA currently employs some 3,000 personnel, nearly 60 per cent of whom are qualified or graduate scientists. In the previous budget (2013/14), expenditure amounted to US$ 130 million, while revenue reached US$ 42 million. So far, 588 research papers have been generated internationally, 77 patents have been issued and 1,420 patent applications are pending.

The Government is suppor ting the development process with the "National Research Policy and Strategy 2012-2016".

The programme, equivalent to about US$ 14 billion, is focusing on five research strategies: (a) social development (24 per cent); (b) economy development (44 per cent); (c) development of natural resources and the environment (19 per cent); (d) human resources development (12 per cent); and (e) reform of the national research system (1 per cent).

In economic development the main priority is being given to the improvement of the value-added of agricultural products, fisheries and coastal aquaculture as well as cattle. The second focus is being placed on raising the efficiency of industrial products and services in other priority sectors, including tourism, energy, ICT and logistics.

NSTDA and its research centres are all headquartered in the Thailand Science Park (TSP), an innovation centre that began oper ating in 2002 in Pathum Thani province (www.sciencepark.or.th). The objective of TSP is to act as a catalyst for co-operation between institutes, universities and private enterprises. The park is ideally located adjacent to Thammasat University, the Sirindhorn International Institute of Technology, the Asian Institute of Technology as well as five industrial parks (Nava Nakorn, Bang Kadee, Hi-Tech, Bang Pa-in and Rojana). In December 2013, the second promising phase of TSP was launched with the inauguration of the Innovation Cluster 2 (INC2), paving the way to becoming a knowledgebased economy.

As the hub for R&D activities of Thailand, TSP provides the most impor tant platform for knowledge and technology transfer among the institutes located there, leading research universities and the private sector. TSP is inviting foreign investors looking to place their research and innovation hubs in the upcoming ASEAN Economic Community to join the park's community.

In this context, the Board of Investment (BOI) initiatives that are designed to attract foreign investor s to for m long-term partnerships in Thailand are playing a leading role. For effective advertising purposes, BOI offers investors the existing manufacturing infrastructure in some sectors and the availability of skilled laboratory scientists and field technicians. Potential investors would be guaranteed the protection of intellectual property rights through several pieces of legislation. (In 2009, Thailand became a party to the Patent Co-operation Treaty.)

http://thailand.ahk.de

08 RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

THAILAND’S “SILICON VALLEY” IN RAYONG TWO CLUSTERS WITH DIFFERENT ORIENTATIONS The first phase of the park, Innovation Cluster 1 (INC1), is occupied by around 70 local and international corporate tenants. They include renowned conglomerates such as Siam Cement (building materials), Betagro (agricultural products), PTT Phenol (petrochemicals), Mitr Phol (sugar) or Japan Taisei Kogyo and Sumitomo Rubber. The second phase of the park, INC2, is aiming to serve another 150 companies in the first phase.

The first investor to set up a shop here was the Japanese company, PolyPlastics, an engineering plastics specialist. PolyPlastics has invested about US$ 1.5 million in a Technical Solutions Centre with the objective of capitalising on the growing automotive industry. Other Japanese companies that established themselves in TSP include UENO, DISCO and Shiseido.

The new science and technology project launched in mid-2014 in Rayong has been praised as the “Silicone Valley” of Thailand. The project, with financing provided by the national oil company PTT, is scheduled to be inaugurated by autumn 2015. It consists of the Rayong Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (RAIST) and the Rayong Science Academy (RASA).

The main focus of RAIST will be applied research in co-operation with companies in the Rayong industrial park. RAIST was modelled on the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology. In the beginning, the teaching programme will cover molecular and energy science engineering. It will build on a co-operation programme with Oxford University and the University of Tokyo.

TSP focuses on five target sectors of agriculture and food, energy and the environment, health and medicine, bio-resources and community as well as manufacturing and services industries. A special incubation programme provides support for the promising start-up of companies.

The Siam Cement Group, with its three key areas of petrochemical, building materials and paper also appears to be on the way to becoming a technology-intensive enterprise. As in 2013, the conglomerate planned to spend the equivalent of around US$ 60 million on R&D in 2014 with the aim of producing higher-quality products with greater profit margins. However, the expenditure is not excessive when compared with an investment budget of some US$ 7.5 billion planned for the next five years.

The investment in the infr astr ucture of TSP amounted to approximately US$ 150 million. Currently, 10-12 per cent of all national R&D expenditure is undertaken through TSP. Others parks are being planned in Chiang Mai, Khon Kaen, Hat Yai and Chon Buri.

In a regional comparison, Thailand – with only one science park – still lags behind China (80) and Japan (23). However, Thailand could soon catch up with the Republic of Korea (5), India (4), Taiwan (3), Hong Kong (2) and Viet Nam (2).

Biotechnology is still in its beginning stages, according to BOI, but the approaches undertaken so far as well as the partnerships give rise to much optimism. The second National Biotechnology Policy Framework 2012-2021 focuses on the motivation of the private sector with a budget of around US$ 24 million, of which 75 per cent is intended for R&D. Currently, 400 people are employed – including about 150 qualified researchers – in five fields of agriculture, food products, natural resources, genetics and medical molecular biology.

UPDATE 4/2014

ThaiGerTec

10 RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT – PILLARS OF GERMANY’S ECONOMIC STRENGTH Contributed by Sascha Kienzle , Head of Science and Technology Department, Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in Bangkok and Singapore Innovation is the backbone of a country’s economy. Developing new products is a crucial key for today’s industries. Competitiveness in a faster changing globalised world can only be achieved by economies that are driven by innovation with the capability to adopt new technologies that will satisfy future consumer needs.

To increase innovation and thereby economic performance research and development (R&D) is essential. Three correlating variables – research, development and innovation – are the main pillars of Germany’s industrial strength, welfare and competitiveness. R&D intensity can serve as indicator for measuring innovation as well as the ability to generate knowledge and future growth.

Germany’s wealth is based on productive knowledge, which is understood as being the ability to transform input of raw material into output with higher value. It was Adam Smith, the father of modern economics, who described the development of a nation’s wealth not as the outcome of accumulation of goods or resources but as a result of productive knowledge. To continuously increase the wealth of a nation, better solutions to transforming resources into desired goods have to be found.

Over the years, Germany has continuously improved its performance in R&D in order to find these innovative solutions. Today, Germany belongs to the top five R&D performers worldwide. With an economy policy that has promoted R&D, Germany has been able to establish a strong technological base and high productivity, particularly in its high-tech industries.

To maintain its position as a world-class research location and a future-oriented high-tech nation, Germany began significantly increasing expenditure for R&D in 2008 following a period of continuous moderate growth since 2000. In 2012 alone, approximately Euro 79.4

UPDATE 4/2014

billion was spent on R&D projects, with Euro 54 billion of that expenditure coming from the private sector. In fact, no other country in Europe invests more money in R&D. With only 1.2 per cent of the world’s population, Germany is responsible for about 7 per cent of total global expenditure on R&D. In terms of R&D expenditures as a percentage of gross domestic product (GDP), the Euro 79.4 billion expenditure in 2012 represented 2.98 per cent of Germany’s GDP. This brought Germany close to the 3 per cent of GDP for R&D objectives in Europe’s 2020 strategy; this also means that Germany will manage to pass this threshold sooner than estimated. The average rate of R&D expenditures as a percentage of GDP in Europe is just over 2 per cent.

In 2005, German R&D expenditure as a percentage of GDP stood at 2.5 per cent. Strong efforts have been made to achieve an increase of about 0.5 per cent in less than 10 years, thereby creating more than 115,000 jobs in the research sector. Between 2010 and 2013, Germany managed to raise the total additional expenditure on education and

LOGISTICS & TRANSPORT 19 research to more than Euro 13 billion, despite the financial crisis and budget consolidation during that period. That expenditure as a percentage of GDP was significantly higher than that of France or the United Kingdom, which contributed to Germany's resilience in weathering the financial crisis better than other European economic powers.

To further promote R&D, among other initiatives Germany established two strategies worth mentioning – the Excellence Initiative and the High-Tech Strategy. The latter is an initiative to define key technologies and areas of particular contribution to solving future challenges on a global scale. The High-Tech Strategy is designed to support innovative small and medium-sized enter pr ises (SMEs), star t-ups and entrepreneurs. SMEs are the spearhead in terms of technological progress and are suppor ted substantially through a variety of programmes. In 2013, Euro 1.4 billion was spent on support for R&D undertaken by SMEs. The objective of the Excellence Initiative is to increase R&D at universities and research institutes. In 2012, German universities were able to boost their expenditure on R&D by 6 per cent. Research institutes managed to increase their R&D expenditure by 3.3 per cent in the same year.

All these commitments have secured Germany’s top position as one of the leading export nations of research-intensive goods. Half of the 10 most research-intensive companies in Europe are German. In 2010, 42 per cent of German companies invented new products or services, which was more than in any other European Union member State.

With regard to transnational patent applications, Germany is among the top three. Germany also ranks third in the European Innovation Index 2014. A total of 7.2 per cent of the output of scientific articles worldwide comes from Germany, placing it in fourth position behind the United States of America, China and the United Kingdom.

To present sustainable solutions for future challenges, Germany needs eco-friendly, clean technologies, an efficient health-care system, new forms of mobility and a secure communication infrastructure.

Germany’s industry has to be transformed in order to deal with the requirements of industry 4.0. If the country wants to achieve outstanding results in these areas, a strong focus must be placed on R&D. Only by creating progress through innovation in the field of science and technology will Germany be able to tackle future challenges, continuously serve as Europe’s economic juggernaut and maintain its top position as one of the leading high-tech nations worldwide, thus ensuring that the label “Made in Germany” continues to stand for high quality and innovation.

http://thailand.ahk.de

12 RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

THE ART OF R&D AUTOMOTIVE ENGINEERING – MADE IN THAILAND

Contributed by Markus Waidelich, Managing Director, ThaiGerTec Co., Ltd. (TGT) When the team from TGT spots the i3 or the i8 from BMW r unning on roads worldwide, they feel a great sense of pride.

Every one of these futuristic and progressive electric cars relies upon the results of their skill, hard work and dedication. At the very heart of these vehicles is the main electric control unit, par tly developed and tested in Bangkok, Thailand.

Thailand may not be a place you would automatically associate with high-tech automotive electronics. Thousands of engineers worldwide were involved in creating the futuristic aluminium box that plays such a vital role in these vehicles. TGT played a key role in that team.

rather than mechanical innovation that has produced safer, more economical and more powerful vehicles. For this reason, the value of electric and electronic systems in a high-end car is already more than 50 per cent.

Electronic systems for automotive applications face particular challenges.

First, and most importantly, the electronic systems’ control functions are crucial to safety, so they must be 100 per cent reliable. However, they must also work in rough environments, perform flawlessly for the long life of the vehicle, and be resistant to shock, humidity and temperature changes. They must be produced cheaply enough to allow the vehicle to be priced competitively, and, with shortening time to the market, must be developed to a tight schedule.

On the other hand, all these contradicting requirements define a challenging work environment for engineers. These developments can only be achieved by using the latest technologies and innovations. Automotive, an industry that changed the world and continues to do so – just have a look at today’s new fully electric cars.

AUTOMOTIVE ELECTRONICS Most people who drive these vehicles have no idea how they were developed, or the incredible resources that have gone into their development. It takes a vast team of people, the combined efforts of many companies, and great expenditure of time and money.

TGT is one such company, focusing on the development and testing of automotive electronics.

From smart airbags and piezo fuel injection to pre-crash systems, most new automotive features and innovations introduced in recent years have relied upon advances in electronic and micro systems. It is electronic innovation

UPDATE 4/2014

Main electronic contral unit (ECU) at rear axle of new BMW i3

RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT 13

R&D IN THAILAND TGT understands the particular mindset that is required for research and development (R&D). Of course, significant engineering skills are required. A traditional engineering background and education can produce these skills. However, true innovative R&D requires inspiration and creativity. With these rare attributes one can do more than just solve individual problems – one can create total solutions. Few university educations develop these attributes, Thailand included. Yet TGT recognises that by nurturing creativity and creating a working environment conducive to inspiration, it can provide a valuable and rare service to international companies. This has been the primary goal of TGT since being established in Bangkok.

Thailand has been very successful in attracting investment in the automotive industry. It is now ranked as one of the top 10 automotive industries in the world. However, traditionally, it has lagged behind the other top-ranking countries in the area of R&D. ThaiGerTec looked closely at the needs of the European automotive industry, and realised that R&D was a vital component. While Thailand had proven itself as a base for automotive production and engineering, its potential as a source of R&D previous was unexploited. TGT discovered that many of the same positive factors of infrastructure, workforce, economy and living standards that attracted automotive production could also be applied to R&D. Thus, the decision was made to locate the company in Thailand, with the assistance of the country’s Board of Investment incentives.

It has taken time and effort to build an engineering team that can compete with the highest international standards; but ultimately, ThaiGerTec has proved that Thailand can be a rich source of R&D talent and capability.

KEY FACTORS FOR SUCCESSFUL R&D IN THAILAND At the heart of the challenge facing TGT was finding the right people.

A special breed of engineer is required. Training can release potential, but it is essential to find engineers with the right mindset, from the

star t. TGT immediately established links with Thai universities and organisations to find and support engineers who have what it takes to work in R&D. Recruiting and retaining the services of good R&D engineers is an important challenge in any country, but particularly so in Thailand, where they have little background or experience in R&D. However, TGT's faith in local skills has paid off. TGT now has an outstanding team of 50 engineers providing solutions to the international automotive industry. It should be pointed out that it is Thai skills that are creating these results, not those of imported Western engineers.

The current ratio of Thais to Westerners is 49:1.

However, as the company's name implies, the strategy that ThaiGerTec has employed is to take the best of both Thai and German skills, to co-operate, to learn from each other and to grow together. There was, and still is, a constant exchange between Thai and German engineers from our German partner company, To encourage creativity and innovation, one must create a working environment that allows free-thinking. TGT has worked to create an open atmosphere, in which engineers are encouraged to explore new concepts.

One of the key challenges is to allow free flow of information and research within the team, while maintaining the confidentiality required when dealing with sensitive data and information. TGT has worked hard to create systems that give customers total confidence in security, while allowing the teams to work in an open, trustworthy environment that is rare in Asian companies.

The value that TGT places on the working environment extends also to the physical space. Whereas many automotive companies base themselves in remote industrial estates, TGT adapted a row of characterful townhouses off Sukhumvit Road in central Bangkok, thus reducing travel time as well as creating a more dynamic and exciting atmosphere.

http://thailand.ahk.de

14 RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

By stripping the existing building to a shell, and redesigning the space, TGT was able to create controlled environments for offices, data rooms and automotive laboratories.

A motivated team, extensive automotive production skills and a strong, supportive infrastructure make Thailand increasingly attractive as a base for automotive R&D.

At the same time, the design included areas for relaxation, open spaces and even a small roof-top garden, all of which help to create an open and inspiring atmosphere.

ThaiGerTec's engineers have earned respect at the highest level of automotive excellence, while also expanding opportunities for future engineers and playing an impor tant role in creating “Tomorrow’s Technology – Today”.

In TGT's office, visitors may wonder why the walls are not covered with the sort of technical diagrams, flow-charts and Excel tables that one might expect in a technical environment. Instead, you will find pieces of art by contemporary Thai artists. This not only creates a work-place that emphasises creativity, it also provides a space that is a much more pleasant environment in which the team can work.

Most office workers spend almost half their life in the office, so ThaiGerTec's approach is to make it as homely and welcoming as possible.

It cannot be denied that Thailand does not offer as many R&D specialists as a European country. However, the work of ThaiGerTec has shown that with the right approach, Thailand can produce creative and innovative specialists who can compete at the highest international level.

UPDATE 4/2014

Contact details: ThaiGerTec Co., Ltd. 259/1-2, Sukhumvit Soi 22, Klongton, Klong Toey, Bangkok 10110.

Phone: +66-(0)2-663-6096 to 8 Fax: +66-(0)2-663- 6099 E-mail: info@thaigertec.com Website: www.thaigertec.com.

RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT 15

APPLIED R&D INNOVATION IN AGRICULTURE: SOME GIZ–PRIVATE SECTOR CO-OPERATION HIGHLIGHTS Contributed by Thomas Jäkel, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH One of GIZ’s first public-private partnerships (PPP) projects, the development of a biological rodenticide, was implemented in 1995 with Bayer AG in Monheim and the University of Hohenheim in Stuttgart, Germany. Thanks to the close collaboration with Thailand’s Department of Agriculture, which provided expertise in field testing and made the product ready for the market.

Today, after a successful technology transfer to a Thai company and registration in 2002, two patents for the product, and multilateral negotiations on the commercialisation in other countries of SouthEast Asia, biological rodent control is available in Indonesia and the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, and will soon be on the market in other countries of this region.

During the 2008-2010 food crisis in the uplands of northern Lao PDR, the product helped in combatting an unprecedented scale of rodent outbreaks as well as the improvement of food security among local farmers.

This successful model of a North-South technology transfer was repeated with other “green” plant protection products. Chocolate lovers may be unaware of the fact that Indonesia’s cocoa production, one of the world’s biggest, was threatened by a tiny butterfly. With the help of a new insect-attracting technology that was introduced

by GIZ in collaboration with Mars Inc. (producer of the famous “Mars” chocolate bar) in Indonesia in 2009, local cocoa farmers now have a tool to manage this pest and improve cocoa quality at the same time.

and insurance system, termed ‘RIICE”, is being developed through PPP with the Allianz Group, the International Rice Research Institute and other partners (see www.riice.org).

The RIICE project’s objective is to provide access to new insurance solutions for governments, co-operatives or rural banks, and individual rural farmers in order to cushion the financial effects on farmers that stem from natural catastrophes such as flooding and drought, the major causes of crop destruction in Asia. RIICE is also expected to increase information on rice-growing areas and expected yields to help improve the management of domestic rice production.

Recently, GIZ has also been active in improving food safety and the quality of fruit juice in Thailand. In partnership with the international industry association, SGF (Sure-Global-Fair), which has 700 members in about 60 countries, the focus of the project is on the authenticity and safety of fruit juice sold on the European market. The Thai fruit juice industry and GIZ aim to improve the quality infrastructure of juice manufacturing in this country.

These are just a few small but effective examples to illustrate the value of PPP in improving the value chain in the agri-food sector for the benefit of producers, traders and consumers alike.

Increasing food security in Asia is still high on the GIZ agenda today.

Within the framework of the ASEAN Sustainable Agrifood Systems project, for which GIZ was commissioned by the Federal Government of Germany in 2013, new avenues were opened for collaboration with the private sector. For example, a new satellite-based information

http://thailand.ahk.de

16 RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

ASEAN INTEGRATION NEEDS TO BE BASED ON PROMOTION OF INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY

Contributed by Patric Hehemann, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH

Innovation is an important factor in facilitating growth and in improving the competitiveness of companies and countries in increasingly integrated markets. However, the expenditure on research and innovation by the private sector in the members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is still comparably low.

While the private sector in countries such as Germany or China contributes about 70 per cent to the overall expenditure on research and innovation, this share is as low as 20 per cent in some ASEAN members such as, for example, Cambodia, Indonesia and Viet Nam. As ASEAN approaches the establishment of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) in 2015, its member States are expanding and strengthening their co-operation to enhance the involvement of the private sector in the promotion of technology and innovation.

The objective of this effort is to make the innovation effor ts more effective and successful.

Since 2011, GIZ has supported ASEAN in its efforts to achieve its goals in the promotion of innovation and technology through the project “Promoting Innovation and Technology in ASEAN Countries”. The project is funded by the Federal Ministr y for Economic Co-operation and Development (BMZ).

The counterparts are the ASEAN Secretariat and the ASEAN Committee on Science and Technology (COST), which comprises representatives of all 10 ASEAN members.

UPDATE 4/2014

Specifically, the project supports ASEAN in examining the legal and institutional conditions under which universities, research institutions and companies operate in the ASEAN members.

The goal is to develop a guideline that identifies the circumstances under which the involvement of the private sector in technology and innovation promotion is most successful and to share this knowledge within the ASEAN community.

In addition, ASEAN is being assisted in the implementation of a series of pilot projects in which new instruments of technology transfer and innovation promotion are being used. These pilot projects are aimed specifically at small and medium-sized enterprises. The resulting experiences are disseminated between the ASEAN members to allow the replication of successful approaches.

To complement these activities, training and networking events are carried out in order to strengthen the involved persons and institutions as well as to facilitate the growth of linkages between the innovation and technology promotion organisations of ASEAN and Germany, such as the Fraunhofer Institutes, Steinbeis and others. For example, a two-year training programme, which included a 12-month stay in Germany and placement in a German company, research institute or intermediary organisation, was organised for participants from ASEAN countries during 2012-2013.

18 RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

PROTECTING INNOVATIONS THAT RESULT FROM RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT IN THAILAND Contributed by ASEAN IPR SME Helpdesk

Many European small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) may not consider that they conduct any research and development (R&D) in Thailand because they do not have a laboratory or research facility there, but in reality, a high proportion of these companies engage in activities which fall under at least one of the terms: research or development.

Some examples of R&D might include an SME that enters into a contract with a local company to use their engineers to develop a prototype into a commercial product or application; or an SME that works with local researchers in a Thai university to design a digital database that is to be accessible via the Internet to users in Europe.

In te llec tu al pr o pe r t y (IP ) i s a cr i t i ca l consideration for European SMEs that come to Thailand wishing to tap into this increasingly high-tech production network, or the talent pool for technology development. When engaging in R&D in Thailand, new intellectual property is being created, the rights to which need to be clearly defined from the outset to avoid disagreements later on.

UPDATE 4/2014

PROTECTING NEW INNOVATIONS THROUGH CONTRACTS

as individuals if the owner ship of the innovation will not be granted to them.

Contracts and agreements can be one of the most effective ways to keep hold of innovations that result from research and development.

Examples include using non-compete clauses in employment contracts or requiring all employees to sign non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) to ensure new ideas are not leaked to competitor s – NDAs are quick and inexpensive, and a basic template will require little modification for use with different products and clients.

Additionally, you will need to consider the legal status of the individual inventors. If the inventor is an employee of another party, for example a researcher at a local university, the inventor may be under contractual duty to assign his/her IP rights to that employer. Ignoring the inventor’s existing legal duties can cause serious problems.

If the primary inventors are non-Thai citizens, you will have much more leverage in deciding how to control the IPR. If, however, the Thai team is expected to make key contributions, IPR ownership will be a more sensitive issue when negotiating the terms of your agreement.

Innovations that are created during the course of the employee’s work can be specified as the proper ty of the company in employee contract clauses. However, to retain the innovators you will need to include a sufficient amount of rewards and incentives for them

PROTECTION OF NEW IP RIGHTS GENERATED (DERIVATIVE WORKS AND TECHNOLOGY IMPROVEMENTS) Business ventures involving complex, innovative technology often involve licensing the technology to local companies for production.

As research and development may be on-going or incidental to the process of operating with the technology, it is very impor tant to address ownership issues in licence agreements (i.e., who owns rights to the derivative works and improvements of licensed technologies), so that there will be no later disputes.

RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT 19

The ASEAN IPR SME Helpdesk is a European Union co-funded project that provides free, practical, business advice relating to ASEAN IPR to European SMEs. To learn about any aspect of intellectual property rights in Southeast Asia, visit our online portal at www.asean-iprhelpdesk.eu.

For free exper t advice on ASEAN IPR for your business, e-mail your questions to: question@asean-iprhelpdesk.eu. You will receive a reply from one of the Helpdesk experts within five working days. The ASEAN IPR SME Helpdesk is jointly implemented by DEVELOPMENT Solutions, European Business Chamber of Commerce Indonesia and European Business Organisations Worldwide Network.

In the absence of a clear contract on ownership rights, the law generally recognises the creator of a work/inventor as the owner, even if the underlying licensed rights belong to another party. For example, the translator of an original licensed literary work would be the owner of the copyright of the translated work, even though the copyright of the underlying licenced work belongs to the original owner. The par ty who makes improvements to a technology based on the licenced technology automatically owns the IP rights on such improvements.

The licensee can afterwards enter into a separate agreement to assign or licence its rights to the improvements back to the licensor. However, many licensors in IP licensing contracts include so called “grant-back” clauses providing that any improvements/modifications made to the licenced technology/work by the licensee will belong to the licensor. Drafting of an effectual licensing agreement is a complicated and challenging process– it is advisable to seek the advice of a local legal practitioner in order to avoid legal pitfalls.

STAY SAFE, THINK AHEAD When deciding to conduct research and development in Thailand your first step should be to review your business strategy. Ask yourself the following questions: who are you working with, what is the potential of your technologies under the R&D, and what are the worst case scenarios? For all potential problems you foresee there are always preventative measures that can be taken.

If you have a question about how to protect you IP while conducting R&D in Thailand, contact our IP Business Advisor for free first-line legal advice at question@aseaniprhelpdesk.eu.

http://thailand.ahk.de

20 RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

THE DAAD – YOUR PARTNER IN RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT Contributed by DAAD Information Center

Internationality is the core competence of the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). As a self-administered organisation representing Germany’s higher education institutions and their student bodies, the DAAD is the world’s largest funding organisation in the field of international academic exchange. Since it was established in 1925, the DAAD has provided support to over 1.9 million academics in Germany and abroad.

Since the 1950s, with the introduction of German language lecturers and scholarships, the DAAD has strongly suppor ted academic exchange between Thailand and Germany. The DAAD Information Center in Bangkok was established in 1999 to promote study and research at German universities and to provide free and comprehensive service to students, graduates and researchers. The DAAD regularly organises alumni events in Thailand, at which it fosters close contact with some 1,500 DAAD alumni who have gained some part of their education at German universities.

SCHOLARSHIPS FOR THE BEST The DAAD is known for its scholarship programmes that allow German and international students to study or conduct independentlyorganised research at universities and research institutes worldwide.

In the area of research, the DAAD not only funds talented individuals in international research teams, but also supports mobility in academic cooperation projects. With its structural measures – such as the establishment of international PhD programmes or bi-national groups

UPDATE 4/2014

of junior researchers at universities and research institutes – the DAAD helps intensify co-operation with the world’s top researchers, thereby helping to internationalise research in Germany.

In 2013 alone, funding provided by the DAAD enabled 563 Thais to study and conduct research in Germany, and facilitated academic exchange for 261 Germans in Thailand. Moreover, the DAAD awards so-called “Sur Place” scholarships to applicants of degree programmes at Mahidol and Kasetsart Universities as well as the Asian Institute of Technology in Bangkok for candidates from South-East Asia. Most of these programmes have been running for more than 40 years, producing a total of some 700 graduates to this day.

Besides open-topic funding programmes aimed par ticularly at giving young researchers additional academic qualifications, the DAAD has expanded its portfolio in recent years to include theme-based funding programmes. These programmes are intended to specifically promote those topics that contribute to resolving key social and global issues (e.g., climate change). The central focus of these programmes is always on young scholars wishing to apply their specialist expertise to research projects and in collaboration with international experts.

The DAAD’s scholarship programmes for Thailand comprise a broad scope of funding measures – individual and structural, open-topic and theme-based. While the scholarships for doctoral research, research stays, internships and re-invitation of alumni are open to all disciplines,

RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT 21

the DAAD also supports special degree programmes in important areas such as development-related postgraduate courses, master’s degrees in public policy and good governance, and in sustainable water management. Thus, the DAAD makes an important contribution not only to scientific progress in general, but also to subjects which play an especially vital role in developing countries.

STRUCTURES AND KNOWLEDGE FOR INTERNATIONAL CO-OPERATION However, awarding scholarships is just one facet in a wide spectrum.

The DAAD promotes the internationalisation of German higher education, strengthens German language and literature studies abroad, and works together with developing countries and emerging economies to establish higher education institutions. With more than 250 programmes, the DAAD supports about 74,000 Germans and foreigners each year, as well as institutions in Germany and around the world.

The institutional programmes range from fact-finding missions to the establishment of higher education institutions abroad. The DAAD suppor ts the international activities of German higher education institutions with marketing ser vices, publications, events and professional training, advice and support as well as with programmes aimed at enhancing the internationalisation and global attractiveness of German higher education institutions. Finally, the DAAD acts in an advisor y capacity in the development of foreign cultural and educational policy, international higher education policy and development policy.

A number of outstanding institutions in Thailand have received structural funding from the DAAD including the Sirindhorn International Thai-German Graduate School of Engineering at King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok and the GermanSoutheast Asian Center of Excellence for Public Policy and Good Governance, a joint institute of Thammasat University and the University of Frankfur t/Main, the University of Münster and the University of Passau. In total, the number of university collaborations between Thai and German higher education institutions has risen to over 160 in 2014, making Thailand the leading partner for German academia in South-East Asia.

For more information about the DAAD, visit www.daad.de and www.daad.or.th, or get in touch with the DAAD Information Center in Bangkok directly.

Contact details: DAAD Information Center 18/1 Soi Goethe, Sathorn 1, Bangkok 10120 Phone: +66 (0)2-286-8708 to 9 E-mail: info@daad.or.th

http://thailand.ahk.de

22 RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

Kick-off Workshop – SEAR DE Project/Digital Engineering Thailand, June 2013, Bangkok. (Photo: Mashuriati Binti Abdul Rahim, IFF BKK). Fraunhofer IFF©

FOSTERING INNOVATION-DRIVEN BUSINESS IN THAILAND: APPLIED R&D FROM FRAUNHOFER IFF GERMANY Contributed by Ralf Opierzynski , Fraunhofer IFF Magdeburg, Bangkok Applied research is the mission of the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft. Founded in 1949, this research organisation performs applied research that benefits industry and society. Contractual partners and clients include industrial and service companies as well as the public sector.

The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft currently operates 67 institutes and independent research units in Germany. Some 23,000 employees, predominantly natural scientists and engineers, work with an annual research budget of Euro 2 billion, of which Euro 1.6 billion is generated by contract research.

Clearly oriented towards applied research, and focused on key future technologies, Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft plays a central role in German and European innovation. Its applied research has an impact that goes far beyond the direct benefits for clients in their research and development (R&D).

Fraunhofer Institutes contribute to regional, German and European competitiveness. They foster innovations, boost technological capability, improve acceptance of advanced technologies, and provide basic and advanced training to urgently needed young engineers and researchers.

International branches establish contact with the most important present and future regions of research and business.

The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft has been successfully completing projects in South-East Asia since 1999 through its Fraunhofer Institute for Factory Operation and Automation IFF Magdeburg.

UPDATE 4/2014

Geared towards production engineering, the Fraunhofer Institute for Factory Operation and Automation IFF is an independent institute of Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft. It is a technology partner to major industries, small and medium-sized manufacturing and service enterprises, and the public sector. The applied research work of the more than 160 researchers at the Fraunhofer IFF concentrates on factory planning and operation as well as automation.

Particular importance is attached to new methods and technologies of digital engineering and their extensive use in the development, production and operation of products and production systems. This is the basis for the institute’s development of innovative solutions in its fields of research, i.e., “smar t work systems”, “resource efficient production and logistics” and “convergent supply infrastructures”.

Thematically, the Fraunhofer IFF projects in Asia have been, and are focused on logistics, power engineering, quality assurance and testing systems, and digital engineering. Given its excellent networks, years of experience with projects and the promising potential for development in South-East Asia, the Fraunhofer Institute for Factory Operation and Automation IFF Magdeburg made a strategic decision in 2008 to establish a regional office in Bangkok.

The Fraunhofer IFF Regional Office in Bangkok has been operating as a regional research and development hub for know-how and technology transfer projects in South-East Asia since 2008. The objective is to provide German companies in Thailand as well as Thai

RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT 23

businesses and institutions with assistance when they are developing innovative products and services. This entails being prepared for present and future challenges (innovation-driven business and the process of transformation toward a knowledge society).

Thailand has recognised the need for expanding and strengthening networking with regional and global business in the future. Factors such as strengthening business and industry readiness to innovate and increasing workforce productivity, in conjunction with technology investments and qualification actions for skilled labour, are basic prerequisites for Thailand’s assumption of a fitting role in the forthcoming ASEAN Economic Community.

The Fraunhofer IFF Regional Office in Bangkok is working together with a select group of excellent partners to facilitate this process.

Thematically, the collaborative relationships var y widely. The establishment of a Centre of Excellence for Digital Engineering CDE in Thailand (supported by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research) is one such innovative reference project. That project is being completed in co-operation with Thailand’s National Science and Technology Development Agency and Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg.

The primary objective of the project is to establish a sustainable collaborative partnership between Germany and Thailand in the field of digital engineering. Three key priorities are being pursued: Technology transfer s through the institutionalisation and establishment of a national Centre of Excellence for Digital Engineering in Thailand; Transfer of sustainable exper tise through co-operation in qualifications and education (e.g., the establishment of a dual Master’s programme in digital engineering); Initiation and completion of bilateral research and development projects involving industry partners.

Interest in collaboration in this project is substantial in Thailand.

Partnerships have already been established with representatives from research, academia, government, business and industry.

The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft has a significantly broader range of expertise. The Fraunhofer IFF Regional Office in Bangkok is working to develop other innovative projects in the following domains: Plans for sustainable urban development and industrial parks on the basis of virtual reality; Assistance in assembly operations on the basis of augmented reality applications; Dynamic energy management in smart grid infrastructures; Innovation in agriculture through the use of hyperspectral analysis; Advancement of food safety through the use of smar t, active packaging; Development of innovative, low-cost telecommunications solutions in rural areas; Smart city and smart home applications.

Digital Engineering at Fraunhofer IFF. (Photo: Dirk Mahler, Fraunhofer IFF).

Fraunhofer IFF©

The potential for development is multifaceted, fascinating and promising. The Fraunhofer IFF Regional Office in Thailand makes it possible to provide interested partners with access to the largest applied research organisation in Europe.

More than 60 years of experience in applied research, highly-motivated researchers, a top reputation in international research and business, and an excellent technological infrastructure make the FraunhoferGesellschaft the par tner of choice for the development, implementation and promotion of innovations. The Fraunhofer IFF Regional Office is available as a par tner for development and collaboration in Thailand.

Contact details: Ralf Opierzynski, Head of Office, Bangkok, Fraunhofer Institute for Factory Operation and Automation (IFF), Magdeburg, Germany.

Fraunhofer IFF ASEAN Regional Office NGO Thailand, State Tower (RCK Tower), 1055/550 Silom Road, 29th Floor, Khwaeng Silom, Khet Bangrak, Bangkok. 10500, Thailand.

Phone: (Germany) +49-172-319-8506 (Thailand) Office: +66-(0)2-630-8644 Mobile: +66-(0)81-285-5465 Fax: +66-(0)2-630-8645 E-mail: ralf.opierzynski@iff.fraunhofer.de Website: www.iff.fraunhofer.de

http://thailand.ahk.de

24 RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

HDFF RESEARCH ON ‘FOREIGN LAND OWNERSHIP IN THAILAND’ Contributed by The Human Development Forum Foundation

The current study for 2014 is on “Foreign land ownership in Thailand: History and perspectives”, which is collecting data in order to evaluate the status of foreign land ownership and use in this country. The aim is to develop policy recommendations to be submitted to the Office of the Prime Minister in order to improve or adapt existing regulations related to foreign land ownership in the kingdom. The research will be completed and presented in early 2015.

The background is that Thailand has a long history of foreigners being integrated into the social, economic and political life of the Kingdom.

While the economic and social contributions by foreigners were welcomed, land ownership was, and remains, restricted as the traditional understanding of land as being under Royal ownership continues to prevail.

The Human Development For um Foundation (HDFF), a Thai registered foundation that was established in 2007, has a clear focus on working extensively in the field of research on ASEAN- related topics and human security issues. The HDFF vision is to address the needs of communities and seek to reach all levels of society from grassroots to top leaders.

HDFF has a proven record of success in capacity-building for humanitarian personnel within Asia together with a host of partners and donors. The programmes have ranged from leadership training to awareness raising and expert training for flood prevention in Ayutthaya as well as “Stay Safe” training for security managers of United Nations organisations, international non-governmental organisations and businesses.

HDFF’s training curricula are based on diligent needs assessments, experiences, and feedback gained through more than seven years intensive and successful work. HDFF’s capacity-building training programmes cover a variety of curricula, ranging from general topics of human security, project cycle management, safety and security as well as “anti-kidnapping” training.

The HDFF Research Institute (HDRI) has a demonstrated a record of working on land rights issues. In 2011, HDFF was working on a study on “AFTA and its social implications for the Kingdom of Thailand related to land rights”. Another study in 2012 was on “Social implications of climate change for land tenure and land policy: Case studies from ASEAN, Germany/European Union and United States of America/North Atlantic Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA)”. In 2013 HDFF’s study on “Disaster risk reduction and land management in flood prone areas: Case studies from European Union/Germany (River Rhine), NAFTA/United States (Mississippi) and ASEAN (Mekong)/Thailand (Chao Phraya)” was also a big success.

UPDATE 4/2014

However, with increasing international interdependence and globalisation, a need for the re-examination of land ownership regulations relating to foreign nationals has become evident. Thus, the current study presents a unique oppor tunity to present the interests of foreign businesses as well as foreign individuals to government policy makers. This will also provide an opportunity to demonstrate that foreign land owners, with sufficient, properly implemented and enforceable reforms in national land ownership policy, can make a positive contribution to Thai society.

As Thailand continues to grow economically, and is set to become increasingly integrated within ASEAN with the forthcoming launch of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) in 2015, the Royal Thai Government has recognised the need to re-evaluate its policies regarding foreign land ownership and use.

Changes in the economic climate of ASEAN and the world have served as the catalyst for creating an atmosphere that will encourage greater foreign investment as well as permit more inclusive, reciprocal and equitable international economic partnerships. This will result in

(From left) Diana Richter; Tracy Vangh; Dr. Herrmann; Gorawan Guntawong; and Adam Martin

RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT 25

an increase in foreign industry confidence in the security and protection of their assets and operations in the Kingdom. As a result, the Royal Thai Government has authorised this non-partisan study, via the Thai Research Fund, as the first step towards making policy changes that include reviewing policies, practices and attitudes on the foreign use and ownership of land in Thailand.

The study has focused on corporate and private land ownership and includes perspectives from attorneys specialising in proper ty management and land rights laws in Thailand. The duration of the project is about one year, with the final report, both in English and Thai languages, scheduled to be presented in the first quarter of 2015.

The key hypothesis of this study is that the actual land laws and their implementation are providing some space for improvement for commercial and private use by foreigners.

Additional objectives of the study are to: (a) determine the advantages and disadvantages of the current land laws and to define any obstacles, that foreigners may face in addition to the legal restrictions; and (b) outline the obstacles foreigners may face in their attempts to purchase land. The study will make a contribution to the overall objectives of the Thai Research Fund’s goal to provide the Government of Thailand with informed policy recommendations regarding foreign land ownership.

In the study, private individuals were mostly interviewed in and around Bangkok, through acquaintances, professional contacts, friends of family members, passersby, public foreigner hotspots, expatriate websites, social media, Chambers of Commerce, classified adver tisements, special events targeting specific foreign communities, newspapers, professional advertising, business lunches and networking.

The second group comprised legal advisors specialising in land ownership issues for foreigners. They represent have the expertise in working with and for foreigners who would like to buy land. Their professional and personal experiences, together with their precise evaluation and impressions regarding this law and its implementation, formed an essential input to this study.

The third group comprised representatives of corporations jointly held by foreigners based in Thailand. Thanks to the co-operation of

the German-Thai Chamber of Commerce (GTCC), it was possible to reach a number of them. Researchers were able to interact with this group directly and to respond in a formal and structured setting.

The questionnaires were a combination of quantitative and qualitative questions aimed at finding out the advantages and disadvantages of the current Thai law and the additional obstacles that foreigners encounter when they consider buying property. The interviewees were also asked to provide their opinions and feedback on the current law and to suggest some recommendations that would improve their situation.

On 17 September 2014, HDFF, in co-operation with the (GTCC), presented a breakfast talk at the Shangri-la Hotel on the topic “Foreign land ownership in Thailand”. Guests at this event included representatives from multinational companies as well as representatives from law firms specialising in the area of land ownership.

The objective of this event was to provide an overview of the research that had already been completed as well as to introduce the current study and ask for active participation. HDFF received a wealth of insightful comments and opinions as international investors described obstacles that they felt they had experienced while doing business in Thailand, especially in the area of land ownership, management and usage.

HDFF has undertaken this study as part of four consecutive years of co-operation with the Government on land rights issues in the Kingdom. The actual study, however, has uniquely opened the door for directly involvement of foreigners as individuals or businesses in the drafting of policy recommendations. HDFF would like to thank all GTCC members who participated in the study.

Contact details: Human Development Forum Foundation B.P. Place, Room 72, 5 Pahonyothin Soi 18, Jompol, Jatujak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand.

Phone: +66 (0)2-617-7020.

Website: www.hdff.org

http://thailand.ahk.de

26 RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

NEW SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY PARK, INNOVATIVE INITIATIVES DRIVING ‘LANNA’ REGION ECONOMY Contributed by Martin Venzky-Stalling, Senior Advisor, CMU STeP Among the key concerns of Thai economic policy-makers are how to enhance Thailand’s long-term competitiveness, avoid the so-called middle-income trap, and make economic development more regionally balanced and sustainable. The regional economic imbalances in Thailand are well known; Bangkok, Central Thailand, and the Eastern Seaboard account for more than 70 per cent of the kingdom’s GDP, but most people live in the north and north-east.

A countr y’s spending on research and development (R&D) is considered to be a leading indicator of its long-term economic development prospects. For Thailand, this indicator has been extremely low (0.26 per cent in 2012). The low investment in R&D and technology innovation has also dragged Thailand’s competitiveness ratings down for many years. In order to increase R&D expenditure , improve the R&D infrastructure, and train more scientists, the National Science and Technology Policy Office (STI) has defined new policies and strategies that involve the development of Science Parks in Thailand.

The use of Science Parks is a developmental model that has been well-tested in regional economic development in several other

UPDATE 4/2014

countries, including Germany. During past years, Thailand’s Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) has worked with clusters of universities and others stakeholders such as the local chapters of the Thai Federation of Industries in the north, north-east and south of the country to initially develop three new regional science parks as tools for strengthening the local innovation systems and drive economic development as a result.

NORTHERN SCIENCE PARK The Chiang Mai University Science and Technology Park (CMU STeP; www.step.cmu.ac.th) co-ordinates the development of the Northern Science Park (NSP), which is a collaboration project between MOST and several other universities in the north. While each participating university receives funding for outreach projects, incubation, capacity development and strengthening of existing laboratories to enable them to improve services to industry, the

RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT 27

main new infrastructure will be at Chiang Mai University (on a campus seven kilometres south of the city).

Until the new buildings and facilities have been completed, CMU STeP is operating like a technology or innovation centre connecting local, national and international companies with the resources of Chiang Mai University and other parties as required. It is a demanddriven model; while CMU STeP communicates the university’s research strengths, facilities and services – its does not sell and produce technology – it aim is to become a one-stop service centre for solving industry problems.

The key focus area of CMU STeP is the food industry, linked to an initiative called the “Northern Food Valley” to strengthen the food cluster in northern Thailand under the name “Northern Food Valley”. Most recently, CMU STeP, in partnership with the National Innovation Agency (NIA) and CMU Faculty of Agro-Industry, set up a Food Innovation and Packaging Centre (FIN) to establish an interdisciplinary service and R&D centre for the food industry. Already, Japanese, Dutch, and United States companies have become active in northern Thailand’s food sector.

OTHER HIGH-POTENTIAL SECTORS Other sectors and topics targeted include alternative energy, new materials (bioplastics, medical grade polymers etc.), biotechnology and life sciences, and IT and digital content.

Half of Chiang Mai University’s budget and activities are related to medicine. Combine this with the high biodiversity level of the environment and its many medicinal plants, local traditional medicine practices that go back centuries, and a strong wellness sector popular with both Thais and foreign tourists, it is not surprising that cosmetics, biotechnology and life sciences are seen as areas with high potential.

In a d d i t i on, the Cre ative Chiang Mai (www.creativechiangmai.com) project, a fouryear-old initiative launched in co-ordination with CMU STeP to promote the creative industries of Chiang Mai that focus particularly on IT, software and digital content, has also been supporting the noticeable growth of a local IT cluster. In addition, there is an electronic cluster in the industrial estate of neighbouring province of Lamphun. Many international entrepreneurs, investors and digital nomads have come to Chiang Mai because of the good quality of life, lower costs of living and a pool of 100,000 students from seven universities.

CMU STeP’s approach is ser vice- and customer-oriented and it works with many other government agencies, including the local office of the Board of Investment, the many international consulates, and business a s s o ci a t i o ns . T he o b je c tive s o f the development of CMU STeP and the NSP are to use innovation to improve the competitiveness of companies in northern Thailand as well as attract to selected areas more investors from central Thailand and abroad.

economic and commercial activities while preserving its charm and quality of life. There are now more than 20 daily flights connecting Chiang Mai with Bangkok as well as international flights to China, Myanmar, Singapore, Malaysia and the Republic of Korea.

One local initiative in particular that has made an impact is “Creative Chiang Mai”. Founded by 40 organisations from the education, pr ivate and gover nment sector s, and endorsed by the Governor of Chiang Mai, this initiative has set out to promote creativity, innovation and collaboration in order to create new jobs and business opportunities.

A hallmark of Creative Chiang Mai is the fact that it is led by local universities and the private sector, not the Government.

DIGITAL ECONOMY, LANNA STYLE Chiang Mai is often seen as a sleepy city in Thailand’s nor th, with beautiful natural surrounding countryside, rich culture and customs, and far away from Thailand’s main development. While still one of the most attractive cities in which to live, the city is quickly transforming itself into a hub of new

http://thailand.ahk.de

28 RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

CMU STeP is the secretariat for this initiative and its development committee. Therefore, a strong link exists between creativity and technology innovation. Creative Chiang Mai not only focuses on certain creative industries – such as IT, software, and digital content; design; and crafts (including furniture and decorative items) – but also links those industries with each other and to other sectors such as food, tourism and wellness (e.g., service design, digital content, corporate identity development, urban design and packaging).

During the past decade, Chiang Mai has developed into Thailand’s second most significant IT cluster. This development was driven by several factors. Chiang Mai has traditionally been an education hub in northern Thailand with more than 100,000 students. In addition, the Government invested in the College of Art, Media and Technology – a faculty entirely focused on software engineering, computer graphic design, knowledge management and animation.

FOCAL POINT FOR LOCAL IT INDUSTRY In addition to computer departments at other CMU faculties and other universities, the establishment of the College of Art, Media and Technology has created a focal point for the local IT industry. Chiang Mai has also been the home of a regional office of the Software Industry Promotion Agency since 2012. The quality of life, the lower cost of living and the pool of students have attracted international technology entrepreneurs who have set up business, or sometimes even moved their companies to Chiang Mai. A more recent phenomenon is that Chiang Mai has become one of the top places in the world for digital nomads, a fact well-noticed by a new category of entrepreneurs that have set up co-working spaces that, in addition to Chiang Mai’s many cafés, serve this growing segment as well as Chiang Mai’s ever-increasing army of local IT freelancers and startup entrepreneurs.

Chiang Mai is also the home base for a range of high-quality events in IT and related fields; these range from a large annual Barcamp (an “un-conference” that is an open, participatory workshop-event

UPDATE 4/2014

for software developers), Thailand’s largest idea and creativity conference (TEDxChiangMai) that attracted more than 1,000 attendees in 2014, a convergent technology seminar (CNXP) modelled on the huge SXSW Interactive event in Austin, Texas, and three events during the Global Entrepreneurship Week.

Although particularly strong in the areas of digital content, graphic design, game development, mobile application and animation skills, an increasing array of companies are focusing on software development for industries such as tourism, food, agriculture, health care and logistics. The linkages with the electronics sector in the Lamphun Industrial Estate, the strengths of the Faculty of Engineering, and the craft skills of local people have led to the development of an active maker community that combines hardware and software elements to create new inventions including embedded technologies, robotics and mechatronics.

The Science and Technology Park has earmarked the IT, digital content and software sector as one of its target areas and will link its related activities with the Government’s new policies for the development of a digital economy at the local level. Noteworthy, however, is the strong participation of the international community in the development of Chiang Mai’s IT cluster. Long-term, it is also expected that the Creative Chiang Mai initiative will lead to activities in the so-called smart cities space. Already, Chiang Mai has been selected by IBM as a pilot-smar t city in two areas while other companies such as Microsoft have expressed interest.

http://thailand.ahk.de

30 RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

KEY INFRASTRUCTURE – THAILAND SCIENCE PARK PHASE II Contributed by Thailand Science Park

To strengthen the research and development infrastructure of the country, the Government of Thailand has invested Baht 3 billion in the expansion of the Thailand Science Park (TSP).With this expansion, the park is now the largest fully-integrated research and development hub in Thailand.

corporate tenants, with a combined workforce of more than 700 skilled workers, 60 per cent of whom are involved directly in R&D. The majority of the tenants are within the electronics and computer technology cluster (28 per cent), metal and material technology cluster (29 per cent) and biotechnology cluster (29 per cent).

In 2002, TSP established its first phase as the country’s first science and technology park with the objective of promoting innovation development and research and development (R&D) activities in the private sector. TSP was established as the key infrastructure for supporting technology-intensive businesses. In addition to advanced facilities and business space, TSP offers a full range of value-added services aimed at technology-intensive companies.

Around 30 per cent of the corporate tenants are international companies, mostly from Japan, the United States and Germany.

International companies who have research centres located within the park include TUV SUD, Ecolab, Air Products, Zoetis, Austrianova, UENO, RPD and Emsland. TUV SUD, the German testing and product certification company, has been renting 1,800 m2 in the park since 2002 to provide services in the areas of chemicals and materials, acoustics, electrical safety, electromagnetic compatibility, microbiological products, automotive and telecommunications. Together, local and international companies contribute approximately US$ 100 million to the country’s economy. As a hub for science and technology research, TSP is the preferred location for many world-leading, high-tech companies.

The park is situated close to the Asian Institute of Technology, Thammasat University and the Sirindhorn International Institute of Technology, and it houses the National Science and Technology Development Agency’s (NSTDA) four national research centres, i.e., the National Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), National Metal and Materials Technology Centre (MTEC), National Electronics and Computer Technology Centre (NECTEC) and National Nanotechnology Centre (NANOTEC). This close proximity provides an opportunity for corporate tenants to gain access to highly-skilled personnel, including 2,000 full-time NSTDA researchers, of whom some 500 are Ph.D scientists.

Phase 1 of TSP, located on 140,000 m2, is fully occupied not only by the above four national research centres but also by more than 60

UPDATE 4/2014

To meet rapidly growing demand, NSTDA has constructed new facilities for the TSP Phase II complex named Innovation Cluster 2 (INC 2), which is already operational.

INC 2 covers 124,000 m2 and comprises four interconnected towers built around the concept of “Work-Life Integration” in order to create a conducive environment where today’s knowledge workers can live, work and play.

RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT 31

The four buildings are interconnected by walkways on every floor. Numerous green spaces have also been created throughout the buildings. These and other enhancements have been made to encourage and facilitate interaction and networking among the occupants, so as to promote the exchange of ideas across various disciplines as well as collaboration among different groups.

TSP believes that the expansion will accelerate the pace of new innovation development and strengthen collaboration between the government and private sectors and research institutions, thus stimulating and driving private sector research and development activities. This, in turn, will contribute towards Thailand’s goal of becoming a knowledge-based economy.

Contact details: Thailand Science Park.

Tel: +66 (0)2-564-7200 and +66 (0)2-564-7222; E-mail: sam@tmc.nstda.or.th.

Website: www.sciencepark.or.th

http://thailand.ahk.de

32 RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

THE SOCIO-CULTURAL EFFECT ON THAILAND'S R&D SCENARIO – PRESENT AND FUTURE Contributed by Jayut Chaiyanan, Director of Operation, PCMC Engineering Co Ltd Before we start talking about research and development (R&D), I want to quote a relevant part of the song called “Time”, by Pink Floyd in 1973 in their album “The dark side of the Moon”. This is what Roger Waters wrote: “You are young and life is long, and there is time to kill today, And then one day you find 10 years have got behind you.

No-one told you when to run, you missed the starting gun.”

There is the nexus – “No one told you when to run, you missed the gun”. That’s exactly what we are now facing in Thailand, and will continue to face unless we Thais reform ourselves and reform our so-called “Thainess” or “Thai culture“, which does not help in making one step forward but instead 100 years backward .

Some thoughtful research will turn up the following facts. How many Thais have received the Nobel Prize? None. How many Japanese or Indians have been granted that honour?

The stunning answer is “a large number“. This shows how strong R&D is in those countries.

Another glaring example of this discrepancy is the fact that our smaller neighbour, Malaysia, has its own brands of cars, yet Thailand has none.

I come from a so-called “elite” Thai family.

I was scolded by my Thai mother after I questioned and argued with my senior relatives about ethical issues. As a result, from that day I stopped talking to those particular so-called “elite” relatives just because in the Thai culture we must not question our elders.

I was 26 years old then.

This is the root cause of the intellectual level in Thailand failing to flourish. This situation will continue to block our freedom to think, to express our thoughts and to question our teachers or our respected elders unless we have heroes like Aristotle or Galileo. However, I am not confident enough to expect to see such heroes appear in my country.

My son went to a so-called famous Thai school for a while, where he was threatened with punishment by a teacher if he asked any more questions. I immediately took him out from that school and let him study at home for the next six months until he was awarded a scholarship at the international school, KIS. Since then, I have spent many sleepless nights worrying about Thailand’s future and about our young children in this country who, every single day, live in fear of punishment for showing the desire to learn by asking questions and expressing their thoughts. We urgently need a national leader who can lead the countr y with vision and the courage to achieve such an objective, and who understands the importance of reforming the Thai education system. Three impor tant steps towards reaching this goal are: The creation of a fair and reasonable salary structure to attract good-quality students to train for the teaching profession. This will help to ensure that many good graduates will gain a passion to build the strength of our nation through teaching children rather than just seeking high-end jobs.

UPDATE 4/2014

RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT 33

The creation of institutions that can train go o d te ac h e r s fo r a l l l e ve l s , b e i t kindergarten, primary or secondary level.

The first two levels – kindergar ten and primary – are where teachers can make a tremendous impression in children’s innocent minds; they can create minds that are inquisitive and in which ideas will flow like a river and translated to inventions and innovations. It is an indisputable fact that people without minds that are inquisitive and questioning minds people will be like a dead buffalo. Result – the end of the nation’s progress.

Greater direct involvement of government educational agencies, the provision of larger financial funding to each school to encourage scientific activities and a system for rewarding even small innovations or creative ideas.

Given the current approach by the Thai education system, it is not at all surprising that Thailand’s record in R&D comes right at the bottom of the rankings given to many countries in Asia and Europe as well as the United States. Government spending per capita on R&D in this country is right off the map. This is obvious from the bar-char t, which shows the standing of European Union members, the United States and our neighbours, China, Japan and the Republic of Korea, in terms of per capita R&D expenditure by their respective government agencies and private corporate companies to their educational institutions. The bar-chart clearly indicates that Thailand needs to act quickly on taking the next step to improve this situation.

COMPARATIVE EXAMPLES OF NATIONAL R&D EXPENDITURE (per cent of GDP)

Source: World Bank data, 2014.

Therefore, it is imperative that Thai corporate conglomerates be encouraged to invest more generously in providing funding to local-level educational institutions including schools, colleges, universities as well as technical and engineering vocational colleges.

Thailand needs to introduce reforms that will strongly encourage our children to become creative inventors as well as analytical and logical thinkers. This is the key to ensuring a sociocultural environment that will provide a sound basis for the country’s future R&D scenario.

Failure to do so will leave the nation “enslaved” by superior foreign technology, and billions of dollars will keep draining from our coffers.

Last but not least, Germany, through its embassy and the German-Thai Chamber of Commerce, is now at the forefront of educating Thai engineers and influencing Thai authorities to improve standards in the industrial and engineering sectors of the country. Therefore, we need to quickly take advantage of this opportunity to learn so that we can become self-reliant and a leader in producing engineering and scientific inventions.

http://thailand.ahk.de

34 RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

HEADING FOR A BRIGHT BIOTECH FUTURE IN HANNOVER Contributed by Deutsche Messe AG

Even a year ahead of BIOTECHNICA 2015, preparations for Europe’s number one meeting place for biotechnology, the life sciences and lab technology are already in full swing. The next BIOTECHNICA will be staged from 6 to 8 October 2015 and will feature two special marketplaces dedicated to the topics of “bioeconomy” and “personalised medicine technologies”. Another major emphasis at next year’s twenty-first BIOTECHNICA is on helping the biotech industry get down to business, with tailored matchmaking offerings designed to maximise the number of promising leads and partnerships generated at the show.

“When it comes to successful networking, Hannover offers all the right formats for the scientific and the research and development communities as well as providers of biotech goods and services,” according to Dr. Jochen Köckler, a member of the Managing Board at Deutsche Messe. “This makes BIOTECHNICA stand out as Europe’s best business and knowledge-sharing platform.” BIOTECHNICA’s impact will also be enhanced in 2015 when Deutsche Messe launches its brand-new LABVOLUTION laboratory technology trade fair at the same time and place.

“Biotechnology is one of the most exciting technologies of our time,” Dr. Köckler pointed out. “It will put us on track for a sustainable economy beyond fossil raw materials.” Just a few weeks ago, in connection with the German Government’s high-tech strategy, the decision was made to devote several billion euros to suppor t the rapid market deployment of scientific discoveries. In this context, the bioeconomy was highlighted as a particular focus, and biotechnology as a key technology.

BIOTECHNICA 2015 holds a mirror to today’s cutting-edge solutions

UPDATE 4/2014

and demonstrates the innovative power now in play in science and industrial applications. BIOTECHNICA stands out from the would-be competition as it is the only trade show that addresses the entire biotech value chain, end-to-end, i.e., from basic research through to market-ready products. With its bioeconomy and personalised medicine technology marketplaces, it showcases the sector’s most significant trends.

“The German biotech sector is strong and has grown into an industry with huge growth potential,” according to Mr. Peter Heinrich, Chairman of the Board of the BIO Deutschland Association. He explained that “it is a leader in many areas, despite ongoing difficulties with sourcing research and development funds as well as government policies with room for improvement”.

He also emphasised the fact that “as an innovative sector, biotechnology naturally also needs strong national showcases that make a big impact.

RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT 35

This makes BIOTECHNICA a key event where all the major players can exhibit and connect in an international setting.” This applies to research and industry equally, as both sectors leverage BIOTECHNICA as a community meeting place and a business platform. Leading universities and research institutes thus take part in BIOTECHNICA alongside biotech companies.

Partnering tools that create successful business matches before the fair begins also provide valuable support with lead generation, and the numerous special events offer plenty of scope for knowledge-sharing and networking. These events include the Innovation Forum that highlights new products, the Life Science Spotlight with scientific presentations on key topics from the life science industry as well as other flanking conferences.

The BIOTECHNICA Opening Ceremony on the evening before the trade fair, with its 400 par ticipants from government, the biotech industry and science, is not the least of such oppor tunities where guests can enjoy productive discussions around the sector’s most important topics.

Next year, the eleventh European Biotechnica Award will be presented at this event. The award goes to a European company that has successfully brought a “disruptive technology” from the biotech or life sciences field to market.

The show’s two featured marketplaces facilitate highly-targeted knowledge transfers. At the Bioeconomy Marketplace, biotech experts for manufacturing and food industry applications address the challenges involved in leveraging biotech resources for production processes, and for promoting the efficient and sustainable use of biomass. The latest trends in the chemical, polymer and food industries are also covered. The second dedicated marketplace focuses on personalised medical technology, with the keynote theme of “Companion Diagnostics”.

In addition, the new LABVOLUTION – the World of Laboratory Technology – is being staged side by side with BIOTECHNICA at the Hannover Exhibition Centre, from 6 to 8 October.

The LABVOLUTION trade fair will offer extensive added value and promote crossover visitors. As the flagship trade fair for northern Europe, LABVOLUTION will embrace the entire spectrum of laboratory technology for the all-important chemical, pharmaceutical, plastics and materials development sectors as well as for materials testing, cosmetics, medical technology, environmental engineering and nutrition.

LABVOLUTION will thus give a major boost to the coverage given to laboratory technology for biotechnology and the life sciences. The new show will be held alongside BIOTECHNICA. Since admission covers entry to both shows, visitors can enjoy an even more enriching tradeshow experience without added expense.

BIOTECHNICA 2015 will give start-ups the oppor tunity to take par t in the “Young Innovative Companies” pavilion supported by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy. A comprehensive offer for students, recent graduates, doctoral scholars, and young and experienced professionals will be found on job-vector career day. From networking to presentations at the forum, and including the Jobwall with its concrete job offers, plenty of assistance will be at hand to look for an entry-level job or new professional challenges.

BIOTECHNICA has strong partners on board once again for the coming year. Together with BIO Deutschland, they include the Diagnostics Industry Association and the Life Science Research Group as well as the Association of Pharmaceutical Research Companies.

Contact details: Deutsche Messe AG Messegelände, 30521 Hannover, Germany Phone: +49-511-89-0 E-mail: ina.goerzen@messe.de

http://thailand.ahk.de

36 BUSINESS BRIEFS

DUCATI MOTOR (THAILAND) CELEBRATES OFFICIAL FACTORY OPENING Ducati Motor (Thailand) Co., Ltd. officially opened its Ducati Motor Thailand factory in Rayong district on 7 November, marking the completion of its production line for all models and the start of production of the new Ducati Scrambler.

The ceremony underlined the importance of Ducati’s long-term investment in Thailand and represented an endorsement of the country’s high level of automotive expertise, highly-skilled workforce and excellent quality local component suppliers. The German-Thai Chamber of Commerce was also present at the ceremony together with representatives from other Chambers of Commerce and the Thailand Automotive Institute (TAI).

The 22,000-m2, state-of-the-art facility stands on a 45,000-m2 site in a Free Trade Zone within the Amata Industrial Park in the Rayong district. The Italian manufacturer’s Thai production lines are now complete and fully functional, enabling the company to make Ducati’s full range of Diavel, Hypermotard, Monster, Multistrada and Superbike (899) models available in addition to the company’s brand-new and highly anticipated Ducati Scrambler.

The new production site boasts the latest German and Italian technology in its CNC machining, frame welding, painting and quality control departments. The entire facility has been designed to be ready for considerable growth in future production capacity, with the number of Ducati Motor Thailand staff set to increase as production is ramped up for Ducati’s new model range.

40 YEARS OF SCHENKER (THAI) LTD. Schenker (Thai) Ltd. recently celebrated its fortieth anniversary by hosting a gala event to commemorate the many long-standing and successful partnerships as well as Schenker Thai’s deepest appreciation for the support of valued customers. Distinguished guests and customers were invited to par ticipate in this event.

The ceremony was held on Friday, Nov. 28, 2014 at the Devaraja-Sabharomya Thorn Hall, Phayathai Palace.

UPDATE 4/2014

BUSINESS BRIEFS 37

DR. PAUL STRUNK RECEIVES CROSS OF THE ORDER OF MERIT OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY German Ambassador to Thailand Mr. Rolf Schulze, in the name of Federal President Joachim Gauck, bestowed on Dr. Paul Strunk the Cross of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany on 25 November 2014, at the Hilton Hotel Pattaya, in the presence of some 70 distinguished guests.

German-speaking School in Bangkok, the Thai-German Institute in Chonburi and the Thai-German Graduate School of Engineering.

By granting this decoration the Federal Government of Germany has expressed its high regard for the efforts by Dr. Strunk to promote bilateral relations between Germany and Thailand.

The award was given to mark Dr. Strunk´s outstanding contribution to the economic, cultural and legal relations between Germany and Thailand during the past 34 years. As executive director of the German-Thai Chamber of Commerce from 1989 until 2007 he enhanced trade relations between the two countries in many fields and was a highly-esteemed contact person, both for German and Thai companies.

In 2009 Dr. Strunk became the Honorary Consul of the Federal Republic of Germany in Pattaya, where he provides consular services to the many German residents and tourists in Thailand. He is also engaged in the field of education through support for the

http://thailand.ahk.de

38 BUSINESS BRIEFS

FORMER POLITICIAN JÜRGEN KOPPELIN: STILL A ‘FATHER’ OF CLOSE GERMAN-THAI TIES Contributed by Mark Sonntag, Centasia Co., Ltd.

Thanks to politician Jürgen Koppelin from the Free Democratic Party (FDP), Thailand and South-East Asia have had an important voice in the Bundestag for decades. However, his northern German modesty prevents him from admitting this fact – but he is definitely one of the “fathers” of the long and excellent German-Thai relationship.

Mark Sonntag:You became a lay judge due to your sense of justice?

Mr. Koppelin: This is certainly true, but I especially want to learn new things and experience everything that can happen – from tavern brawls to cigarette smuggling, I've experienced a lot in the first few months as lay judge.

Mark Sonntag: Mr. Koppelin, you retired from the Bundestag at the end of the last parliamentary term and, after 23 years as a parliamentarian, you decided not to stand for election anymore. In addition, you celebrated your sixty-ninth birthday in September.

Everything points towards full retirement.

Mark Sonntag: As a Bundestag Member, you held significant positions, for example, chairman of FDP in the budgetary committee and parliamentary manager of the FDP parliamentary group in the Bundestag. In addition, you were deputy chairman of the GermanASEAN parliamentary group in the German Bundestag for more than 20 years. How did that happen?

Mr. Koppelin: I do not have time for full retirement. Actually, I retired from federal politics in order to pay more attention to my interests in Thailand and South-East Asia. In addition, I'm writing a script for an unusual German detective story set in my home in the North Sea. In addition, I have accepted another task – as of Januar y 2014, I became a lay judge for the Land Court in Kiel.

Mr. Koppelin: I have always had sympathy for South-East Asia, par ticularly Thailand and Viet Nam. Since there were only a few Members who had a similar interest, I took this oppor tunity to develop myself. By the way, I came in contact with Thailand from a very early age. As a trainee at Raiffeisenbank I had to carry sacks of tapioca flour, which at that time came from Thailand.

UPDATE 4/2014

BUSINESS BRIEFS 39

Mark Sonntag: In 2009, you were awarded an honorary doctorate by the Hanoi National Economics University. So you also have strong connections with Viet Nam? Mr. Koppelin: Yes, but Thailand is a second home to me. In Viet Nam and the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, many people still speak German due to close co-operation with the former German Democratic Republic. This led to requests for funding for various projects, including those dealing with water and sanitation. That is how I became connected with Viet Nam. There I discovered a project, the planned subway for Ho Chi Minh City which had been shut down.

Together with support from representatives of the SPD and CDU I managed to revive the project. Chancellor Angela Merkel also gave us her full support. Today, sections of the future subway are being planned or are under construction.

General Barbara Riepl had experienced in Munich. A reclining Buddha statue was exhibited there at the Viktualienmarkt. Tourists even sat on the statue to be photographed. This disrespect is scandalous, and the German-Thai Society also became publicly active in this area.

Mark Sonntag: You greatly admire the Thai Royal Family. In particular, you hold Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn in great respect. What is the reason for this?

Mr. Koppelin: Yes, I know Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn personally and have great respect for her work. She has a fascinating personality and a wealth of knowledge. Among other things, she is dedicating herself to vocational education. She travels to

Mark Sonntag: Your ties with Thailand are also demonstrated by your membership in the German-Thai Society. Apart from the contact through tapioca flour, how did this connection occur?

Mr. Koppelin: There was a time in my life when I had a par ticular interest in Buddhism. After I had read all the books on this topic that were available in our local bookstore, I wanted to gain practical experience of Buddhism in a Buddhist country. This was in 1985. So I went to a travel agency where a friend worked, and she had recommended Thailand to me. Without knowing anything about the country, I landed in Pattaya.

I was incredibly lucky, because there I have got to know a Thai who worked as a tourist guide at TUI at that time, but was in fact a member of a wealthy, well-respected family. He was a practicing Buddhist and spoke excellent German and four other languages. He helped to expand my knowledge and experience of Buddhism, especially through temple visits. He was a good friend, but sadly he passed away. Today, I try to plan temple visits during my travel to Thailand.

Mark Sonntag: In Thailand there is an organisation called “Knowing Buddha” that tries to educate tourists, in particular, about the Lord Buddha and thus encourage them to have greater respect for Buddha images. There are frequently cases in which Buddha images are misused as merchandising objects, even on toilet covers. Do you believe that this effort deserves to be supported?

Mr. Koppelin: I can understand that. I was recently ver y much disturbed when I heard about what Thailand's Honorary Consul-

http://thailand.ahk.de

40 BUSINESS BRIEFS

Germany very often, visits many Max Planck Institutes, and also speaks German very well. She is invited to the Lindau Nobel Laureate Meetings every year. I recently had the honour of giving the opening speech in Bangkok for one of her projects, a "Children's University", inspired by an initiative from T端bingen. I admire very much her commitment to her country.

Mark Sonntag: You were on the supervisory board of the German Society for International Co-operation (GIZ) for 20 years and still support the organisation today in Thailand. Which projects do you support?

Mr. Koppelin: We are trying to develop vocational education and training. This is something that GIZ has already successfully implemented in Viet Nam. In particular, the dual system of vocational classes and practical training in a company is supported, based on the classic German vocational education. Well-trained technicians are also a precondition for German investments in the country. In Thailand, the German-Thai Chamber of Commerce and GIZ implement the project under the name GTDEE, with B. Grimm, BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Bosch, among others. In the budgetary committee of the Bundestag, I have succeeded in providing ongoing funding from the Bundestag budgetar y committee to suppor t GTDEE.

UPDATE 4/2014

Mark Sonntag: What other important projects have you supported in Thailand with federal funds?

Mr. Koppelin: One example is the promotion of the German language.

However, since Thailand is no longer a developing country, there is no direct financial aid for development. Our Ambassador, Mr. Rolf Schulze and his new deputy, Dr. Peer Gebauer, under take a great deal of demanding work here for Germany. So I know that the German-Thai relationship is in competent hands with our Embassy.

Mark Sonntag: What can Thailand and Germany learn from each other?

Mr. Koppelin: I would say that ASEAN can learn from the European Union, from closer collaboration to a single currency and open borders. However, this is not a simple task. It was also not easy for us.

We in Germany, too, can learn from the Asian mentality, i.e., even when winning, one should give the other person the opportunity to save face. This would also be good advice for German politics.

SPONSORSHIP OPTIONS FOR 2015 IS NOW AVAILABLE.

MARKET YOUR BUSINESS THROUGH GTCC TODAY!

GTCC organizes more than 60 business and social events each year.

Event sponsorship is the most effective way to gain visibility and promote your business.

Breakfast Talk Business Luncheon Ice Breaker Eastern Seaboard Stammtisch Sport & Lifestyle event GTCC annual Gala Night Oktoberfest Various GTCC event platforms enable corporate members to: Host company presentations and industry-specific networking events Promote the latest product and services Expand business network Contact us to find out more about the marketing opportunities that suit to you needs!

Call 02-670 0600 ext. 2003 or 2004, or Email us at communications@gtcc.org

42 CHAMBER ACTIVITIES

From left: Dr. Peer Gabauer, Minister, Deputy Head of Mission of the German Embassy in Thailand; Chanintr Sirisant, CEO, Chanintr Living; Phongsakdi Chakshuvej, GTCC President; and Winthorn Bunnag, Managing Director, AAS Auto Service Co., Ltd.

GTCC, CHANINTR LIVING HOST ‘GERMAN LUXURIES: DESIGN, QUALITY AND INNOVATION’ EVENT On 11 September, GTCC teamed up with Chanintr Living, the leading retailer of luxury furniture and home furnishings in Thailand, to hold an executive networking event to showcase two of Germany’s most innovative engineering, best-in-class brands for the home and the road – Bulthaup, the provider of luxurious kitchen systems, and Porsche’s 911 Carrera S, Boxster and Macan R4 models, distributed

by AAS Auto Service Co., Ltd. The event, held at Bulthaup’s Thonglor showroom, was well-received by businessmen and other guests.

With the kind support of AAS Auto Service Co., Ltd., 10 lucky draw winners were offered the opportunity to enjoy a test drive experience in the Porsche Macan, Panamera S E-Hybrid, 911 Carrera S and Cayman models. The test drive was organised separately on 2 November at the Rarb 11 military base where par ticipants were personally guided by a Porsche instructor.

UPDATE 4/2014

CHAMBER ACTIVITIES 43

BREAKFAST TALK ON FOREIGN LAND OWNERSHIP (AEC) as well as with global economic communities. The Royal Thai Government therefore has recognised the need to re-evaluate its policies regarding foreign land ownership and use.

Changes in the economic climate of ASEAN and the world have served as the catalyst for creating an atmosphere that will (a) encourage greater foreign investment, (b) permit more inclusive, reciprocal, and equitable international economic partnerships, and (c) increase foreign industry confidence in the security and protection of their assets and operations in Thailand.

As a result, as the first step towards making the necessary policy changes, the Government has authorised a study that will include reviewing policies, practices, and attitudes on the foreign use and ownership of land in Thailand.

The Kingdom of Thailand is continuing to grow economically and is increasingly moving towards regional integration with the approaching launch of the ASEAN Community

Recognising the importance of keeping its members updated on the changes, the German-Thai Chamber of Commerce and the Human Development Forum Foundation co-organised a Breakfast Talk to present research information on “Foreign Ownership in Thailand” on 17 September at the Shangri-la Hotel, Bangkok.

STAMMTISCH BANGKOK In this last quarter of 2014, GTCC held the final two events of the Stammtisch Bangkok series on 18 September at Bei Otto Bangkok, and 27 November at Deutsches Eck, with a new ‘German Corner’ for visitors to enjoy traditional German cuisine in the hear t of Bangkok.

The last Stammtisch Bangkok of the year was organised as a Tri-nation Night to welcome guests from the three Germanspeaking nations of Germany, Austria and Switzerland. On this occasion, guests also enjoyed a non-formal oppor tunity to meet and greet with German Ambassador Mr. Rolf Schulze, Austrian Ambassador Mr. Enno Drofenik and Swiss Ambassadress Mrs. Christine Schraner Burgener.

Stay tuned for the new Stammtisch Bangkok 2015 schedule – don’t miss this typical German get-together brought to you by GTCC!

http://thailand.ahk.de

44 CHAMBER ACTIVITIES

Four Eastern Seaboard Networking events were organised in the las t qu ar ter of 2 0 1 4 by h o s t i n g C h a m b e r s o f Commerce . GTCC hosted its last Easter n Seaboard Stammtisch of 2014 on 17 October at the Pullman Bangkok Hotel G. Special thanks are due to the generous suppor t of the Pullman Bangkok Hotel G as well as Roedl and Par tner Ltd. who made it possible for us to ensure a great evening for all the guests!

EASTERN SEABOARD NETWORKING GERMAN BUSINESSES POINT OUT ‘SMART GRID SOLUTIONS THAILAND’

To foster and accelerate the co-operation between Thai and German companies within the framework of the “Energy efficiency – made in Germany” initiative supported by the Federal Ministr y for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi), the German-Thai Chamber of Commerce (GTCC) and the German AsiaPacific Business Association (OAV) organised a “German-Thai Technology Conference: Smar t Grid Solutions Thailand” on 22 September this year . The conference focused on the roadmap planning from Thai utility authorities and the state-of-the-art technology on the smart grid. The event was well-attended by almost 200 experts from Thailand, Germany and neighbouring ASEAN members.

The various German business representatives attending the seminar included exper ts from the electronic equipment and electronic industries. Those industries are the key has begun the process of abolishing nuclear power and switching to renewable energy. Since Thailand plans to improve its large-scale infrastructure for smart grids, the use of “Made in Germany” technology can make a valuable contribution in this area.

UPDATE 4/2014

CHAMBER ACTIVITIES 45

WORKING TOGETHER FORUM THAILAND 2014 On 25 September, the Working Together Forum Thailand 2014 was hosted by the Franco-Thai Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with German-Thai and other partnering Chambers of Commerce at the Pullman Bangkok Hotel G. The event served as a platform for business matching between large corporations and SMEs based in Thailand. Companies were offered the opportunity to present their products and services to selected targets and to discover the wide range of offers proposed by other participants during a series of 20-minute meetings.

The event attracted par ticipants from various Chambers of Commerce, including the German-Thai, BeLuThai, British Chamber of Commerce in Thailand, Danish-Thai, Netherlands-Thai, Thai-Finnish, Thai-Italian, Thai-Norwegian, Thai-Swedish, Thai-Canadian and Swiss-Thai Chambers.

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN GERMANY AND THAILAND In co-operation with the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in Thailand, GTCC took part in a seminar on “Investment Opportunities in Germany and Thailand”, which was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 30 September.

Mr. Jörg Buck, GTCC Executive Director, participated by moderating one of the discussions as well as the subsequent question and answer sessions with the distinguished panelists that included Dr. Waldemar Duscha, Delegate, Germany Trade and Invest; Nick Reitmeier, VicePresident, Buying, International Food & Wine, Central Food Retail Co., Ltd.; and Frank Krings, Chief Countr y Officer, Thailand and General Manager of Deutsche Bank.

Following an informative luncheon the afternoon session, attended

by GTCC members, focused on “Opportunities for investments in Thailand, policies and measures” and delivered insights on current

topics and investment policy strategies. Key panelists included experts from leading institutions such as Mr. Porametee Vimolsiri, Deputy Secretary-General of the Office of National Economic and Social Development Board (NESDB), and Ms. Duangjai Asawachintachit, Deputy Secretary-General, Thailand Board of Investment (BOI).

http://thailand.ahk.de

46 CHAMBER ACTIVITIES

BREAKFAST TALK ON THE REFORM OF THE EUROPEAN UNION GSP later elaborated on by Mr. Pekka Penttila, Trade Attaché, Trade and Economics was Section, European Union Delegation to Thailand.

REFORMING OF THE EUROPEAN UNION GSP For the past several decades Thailand has been one of the biggest global beneficiaries of the European Union’s GSP through the granting of lower import duties for goods exported from the developing world to the European Union market.

On 7 October, GTCC joined hands with the European Union Delegation to Thailand to host a Breakfast Talk on the reform of the European Union's Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP) at the Swissôtel Nai Lert Park, Bangkok.

The Breakfast Talk topic was introduced by Dr. Christine Falken-Großer, Commercial Counsellor, Economic and Commercial Affairs, German Embassy in Thailand, and

In 2010 the European Union started a reformation process for its GSP scheme to better meet global challenges facing the poorest nations. The new GSP Scheme entered into force in 2014 and, as a result, products made in Thailand will exit the scheme from 1 January 2015 and lose all preferential tariffs for approximately 6,000 products.

Several types of manufactured goods, such as automotives and automotive parts, motorcycles, footwear, textiles, and electronic products and electrical appliances exported to the European Union will face higher import duties at the border.

For example, automotive tariffs will increase on average from 6.5 per cent to 10 per cent. Research studies by Siam Commercial Bank have estimated that Thailand could lose some US$ 2.2 billion worth of market share due to the increased tariffs.

GTCC CLUSTER MEETING: LOGISTICS AND FORWARDING IN FOCUS As part of its effort to strengthen communication with its members, by industry, on 9 September 2014 GTCC organised its first Cluster Meeting focusing on logistics and forwarding. The meeting, chaired

by Mr. Thomas Tieber, CEO DHL Global Forwarding South Asia, served as a platform for experience exchanges among members and the Chamber. The event drew 12 participants from nine member companies operating in the logistics and forwarding industry.

The discussion focused on three main areas: (a) market changes; (b) AEC 2015; and (c) the German-Thai Dual Excellence Education (GTDEE) programme for the logistics profession.

When discussing the political unrest that occurred earlier during the year, the majority of the participants said that the incidents had very little impact on their business operations. However, concern was raised regarding the long-term effects of the withdrawal of several new Board of Investment projects and the lack of further expansion opportunities for existing investors.

In the context of AEC 2015, the participants agreed that it would be critical to establish uniformity in documentation and compliance across the region in order to facilitate the implementation of the AEC.

UPDATE 4/2014

In the context of AEC 2015, the participants agreed that it would be critical to establish uniformity in documentation and compliance across the region in order to facilitate the implementation of the AEC. The possibility of extending the GTDEE programme in 2015 to include a course for the logistics profession was also discussed. The participants expressing strong interest in this issue.

The series of GTCC Cluster Meetings will be continued during 2015.

CHAMBER ACTIVITIES 47

INTERNATIONAL AUTOMOTIVE CONGRESS – ASEAN The economic development of the ASEAN region is characterised by a high level of dynamic activity. This is not only a clear sign of its economic growth but also of the involvement of the ASEAN States in world trade, which is reflected in the fact that the ASEAN region is already Asia's third-largest ”growth engine” after China and India.

In 2012, the ASEAN States manufactured more than 4.2 million vehicles. Nearly 2.5 million of these vehicles were produced in Thailand, which is now one of the world’s top 10 nations in the field of automotive manufacturing.

The International Automotive Congress placed special emphasis on the International Suppliers Fair (IZB) partner region of ASEAN. The challenges, investments and potential available from strategic partnerships in the South-East Asian automotive market formed the focus of the Congress, which took place at the Wolfsburg AG Arena.

Points of discussion were the dynamic development of the ASEAN automotive market, ASEAN as a product location, the opportunities in the budget market, the automotive scenario in ASEAN and tapping into strategic potential.

VW as well as partners from supporting industries, who discussed the future potential of ASEAN for the automotive industry. Mr. Jörg Buck, GTCC’s Executive Director and Chairman of the network of German Chambers of Commerce in ASEAN (GACN), presented the audience with an overview of investment and expansion opportunities in the ASEAN market at the International Automotive Congress – ASEAN, on 13 October 2014 in Wolfsburg

Known as a major gathering for automotive experts, participation at the Congress included high-ranking representatives of Wolfsburg AG,

The Congress was followed by the IZB trade exhibition, featuring both partners and sponsors. The fair receives tens of thousands of visitors from all over the world every two years.

THAI-GERMAN CO-OPERATION SUPPORTS SUSTAINABLE PHOTOVOLTAIC MARKET DEVELOPMENT Since the Government of Thailand announced that it would reach the country’s target of 3,000 MW of installed solar capacity by the end of next year instead of 2021, more and more Thai companies are tapping the solar rooftop power as well as the solar farm business.

The Federal Government of Germany supports these events so that Thai companies can benefit from German technology and experience in order to ensure high-quality solar power installations in Thailand.

Global solar market development has shown that in its early phases it is vital for the technology to deliver on its promises of longevity and reliability.

German solar power exper ts are sharing know-how with Thai companies in a series of events, supported by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi), which are aimed at contributing to sustainable solar market development in Thailand.

GIZ and GTCC conducted the first “Thai-German Solar Training Week” in Bangkok during 8-10 October in co-operation with the Department of Alternative Energy Development and Efficiency (DEDE) and the Thai Photovoltaic Industries Association (TPVA). Subsequent to the training programme a German business delegation visited Thailand with a focus on grid-connected photovoltaics. The visit was highlighted by a Thai-German Technology Conference on “Grid-connected photovoltaics in Thailand”.

http://thailand.ahk.de

48 CHAMBER ACTIVITIES

A TASTE OF BAVARIA AT CENTRAL WORLD

With collaboration between Central Food Retail Co., Ltd., the Bavarian State Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Forestry, the German Embassy in Thailand and the German-Thai Chamber of Commerce, a “Taste of Bavaria: The Best of Germany” food fair was organised from 15 October to 11 November at the Central Food Hall, Central World.

The opening ceremony to launch the fair, which highlighted Bavarian culture, was held on 16 October 2014 with participation by partner representatives, guest celebrities and invited guests. The Chamber’s services and activity booth, Tourism Bavaria, and Munich Airport were presented on this occasion together with participating food vendors.

GTCC-AMCHAM-BCCT LUNCHEON ON FOREIGN ANTI-CORRUPTION LAWS On 29 October, GTCC, together with the BCCT and AmCham, organised a luncheon to present and compare the foreign anti-corruption laws of Germany, the United Kingdom and the United States together with a panel of qualified lawyers from those three countries at the Westin Grande Sukhumvit, Bangkok.

The speakers included Chitchai Punsan of Tilleke and Gibbins, Fergus Chance of Clifford Chance, Till Morstadt of Lorenz and Partners, and Doug Mancill of PriceSanond.

UPDATE 4/2014

50 CHAMBER ACTIVITIES

GTCC OKTOBERFEST NIGHT 2014 A MAJOR ATTRACTION This year, one of the most anticipated GTCC annual celebrations, the Oktoberfest Night, welcomed more than 700 guests on 31 October at the Grand Ballroom of GTCC’s partnering hotel, the Millennium Hilton Bangkok.

The Oktoberfest ambience filled the room, which was packed with wooden benches, as the guests enjoyed live music and entertainment by the Anton and The Funny Guys Band that was flown in from Germany especially for the occasion. Authentic Oktoberfest beer by Paulaner and an assortment of German delicacies were available throughout the evening to complete a perfect celebration.

GTCC wishes to express great appreciation to our main partners, the Millennium Hilton Hotel Bangkok and Paulaner, as well as our Diamond sponsor, Stiebel Eltron Asia Ltd., and Gold sponsors BASF (Thai) Ltd. and Watson, Farley and Williams (Thailand) Ltd. Save the date: The next GTCC Oktoberfest Night will be held on Friday, 30 October 2015!

UPDATE 4/2014

CHAMBER ACTIVITIES 51

http://thailand.ahk.de

52 CHAMBER ACTIVITIES

GERMAN MACHINE TOOLS AND PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGY IMPROVING THAI INDUSTRIAL COMPETITIVENESS, PRODUCTION EFFICIENCY On 12 November 2014, the German Machine Tool Builders’ Association (VDW), located in Frankfurt/Main, Germany, in co-operation with GTCC, invited Thai industry representatives, manufacturing companies and experts to an exclusive German production technology symposium on "Innovations in production technology – machine tools from Germany".

During the event, 14 internationally-renowned German manufacturers presented their products, solutions and services for efficient and modern production. Technologies from various fields were highlighted

including, for example, metal-cutting applications, grinding machines and solutions, multi-spindle machining, CNC-turning machines, manufacturing systems for precision metal components, high-precision machine tools for milling, turning, boring and grinding of metallic and composite materials, and various types of rolling machinery.

Some 200 participants and key stakeholders from relevant companies and associations of the Thai automotive and parts supply industry, the general engineering sector, and the machine and metal-working industry participated in the symposium.

TRAINING ON PLANNING AND IMPLEMENTING CSR STRATEGIES IN SMEs In collaboration with GIZ and CSR ASIA, GTCC organised a two-day training session on 15 and 16 December at EASTIN Grand Hotel Sathorn, which focused on how to plan and implement CSR strategies in SMEs The training programme was designed to help managers in SMEs address challenges and opportunities for CSR. The participants learnt how to understand the sustainability context for SMEs, and how to position their companies in the context of sustainability challenges.

Stay tuned to the GTCC website for the latest updates on the next CSR training session to be held in the first quar ter of 2015, which will focus on “employee engagement”.

UPDATE 4/2014

Imported by : Danmark Co., Ltd. Distributed by : Flow Inter Co., Ltd. 22 Chalermprakiat Rama 9 Soi 23 Nongbon, Prawet, Bangkok 10250 Tel. 02 361 6257-60, Fax. 02 747 2021 www.paulaner-thailand, E-mail : info@paulaner-thailand.com

Warning: Please drink responsibly

54 CHAMBER ACTIVITIES

GTCC ANNUAL CHRISTMAS PARTY 2014 AND CELEBRATION OF 550-PLUS MEMBERSHIP In rounding off a very productive and successful year, the GTCC was especially pleased to host its annual Christmas Par ty this year during which more than 400 members, families and friends gathered to celebrate the festive season at the Garden Villa of the Sukhothai Bangkok Hotel on Tuesday, 16 December.

Since 2013, membership of GTCC has steadily grown. Therefore the Chamber was also delighted to announce and celebrate its 550+ Membership Achievement on this occasion. This achievement confirms the results of the strong efforts by GTCC to develop its services as well as cater to the expectations of the German-Thai business community.

At the party, adults and children alike enjoyed a delectable Christmas feast and drinks, plus various enter tainment activities for guests of all ages. The highlights included a flight landing simulation, thanks to the generosity of Flight Experience Bangkok, and live music.

In addition, following the long-standing Chamber tradition, the children were given the opportunity to meet-and-greet as well as receive special gifts from Saint Nicolas, ensuring that they went home with big smiles.

Special thanks are due to all the sponsors of the event, including Paulaner, B.Grimm Trading Corporation, Hong Kong Transpack, and Lufthansa German Airlines, who made it possible for the Chamber to host such a happy and relaxed evening!

UPDATE 4/2014

CHAMBER ACTIVITIES 55

http://thailand.ahk.de

56 GTDEE INSIGHT

GERMAN DUAL VOCATIONAL EDUCATION COLLABORATION IN THAILAND GAINS MOMENTUM November 2014 marked a major leap forward for the German-Thai Dual Excellence Education (GTDEE) with practical follow-through activities.

TRI-LATERAL AGREEMENTS WITH THAI SUGAR GIANT On 17 November 2014, German-Thai Chamber of Commerce (GTCC) entered into two tri-lateral agreements with the Office of Vocational Education Commission (OVEC) Ministry of Education, the Thai Chamber of Commerce (TCC), and Mitrphol Sugar.

The agreements will facilitate the developments of the GTDEE programme by bringing school into the company, thus allowing students to “dually” work and study at the same time.

Minister of Education Admiral Narong Pipattanasai, who presided over the event, stressed that the vocational curriculum, teachers and relevant trainers were crucial to the long-term plan in Thailand's development. The dual programme aims to achieve academic and practical training at a ratio of 40:60. The pilot programme with the Mitrphol Group will commence in the first semester of 2015 for 160 students.

Four fields of training will be provided for the GTCC pilot project with Mitrphol Sugar – electric power, electronics, mechanics, and agriculture mechanics. Later, GTCC will award internationally-accepted certification to successful vocational students, which will also enhance their career opportunities.

MoU WITH FEDERATION OF THAI INDUSTRIES A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on dual vocational education collaboration in Thailand was signed on 27 November 2014 by the GTCC with OVEC of the Ministry of Education; the Federation of Thai Industries, Ministry of Industry, and the Department of Skill Development, Ministry of Labour.

The MoU signing ceremony was part of the “Dual Vocational Education Thailand” event that was organised by OVEC to showcase the collaboration between entrepreneurs and successful pioneering offices in managing dual vocational education from Germany, under the GTDEE project, and other countries.

The event was the first-ever of its type in Thailand as it followed the Government of Thailand’s policy of increasing the numbers and standards of vocational education students, in order to meet the economic needs of the country and the forthcoming ASEAN Economic Community (AEC). Minister of Education Admiral Narong Pipatanasai, presided over the ceremony and Deputy Prime Minister Mr. Yongyuth Yuthawong gave a welcoming speech.

Together with the MoU, an exhibition displaying the development of German-Thai Dual Vocational Education was held. Three German companies were present at the GTDEE pavilion – Mercedes-Benz, BMW Group Thailand and the B.Grimm Group.

UPDATE 4/2014

GTDEE INSIGHT 57

GTDEE ANNUAL CONFERENCE Parallel to the “Dual Vocational Education Thailand” event, the GTDEE project organised the first GTDEE Annual Conference, where interested parties come together to share information and opinions on various topics related to implementing German-style dual vocational education to suit the Thai situation.

Par ticipants, both Thai and foreigners, from various types of organisations including colleges, companies, and government agencies, organised were divided into small groups to work together on different aspects. The GTDEE project team helped in guiding the discussion topics. The participants enjoyed the afternoon sharing experiences and learning more from each other. This was another practical step towards smoother GTDEE implementation in Thailand.

FIRST GTCC PAL EXAM A MILESTONE FOR DUAL VOCATIONAL EDUCATION IN THAILAND One of GTDEE’s main claims to excellence in dual vocational education is that it ensures quality in accordance with German standards. One method of quality insurance is the German PAL exam, a standardised and centralised examination for testing the apprentices’ theoretical knowledge and practical skills in their respective professions.

GTDEE and founding member BOSCH Packaging conducted the first pilot PAL examination from 30 October to 5 November 2014. Three Mechatronic apprentices were examined in the fields of mechanics, electronics, pneumatics and programmable logic controller (PLC). GTCC was responsible for conducting the exam, supported by a German Apprentices and experts after the first PAL exam at BOSCH Packaging. expert from BOSCH China. Industry and college experts Following this first pilot exam, it has become apparent that establishing were invited to observe and become acquainted with German PAL new standards and adapting to local conditions can only be achieved exam standards. by a private-public partnership. Excellence in dual vocational education can only be sustainable if all par ties concerned work together and Parallel with the exam procedures, GTDEE conducted the first training are prepared to share experiences and knowledge with par tners. session for examiners. Company trainers and college teachers were The PAL exam and the training for examiners was another step in introduced to the complex structure of a PAL exam. Participants also that direction, and GTDEE looks forward to moving ahead together discussed appropriate teaching and learning methods for improving with its company and college partners. dual vocational education in Thailand.

http://thailand.ahk.de

58 GTDEE INSIGHT

VOCATIONAL EDUCATION PROVIDES VALUABLE SKILLS AND GOOD JOB OPPORTUNITIES In today’s highly competitive world, one element that makes someone stand out is practical skills that have required years of training. This leads to the fact that for dual vocational graduates, who are already equipped with several years of practical learning gained during their studies, it is easier to find a job compared to regular Bachelor degree students.

One example of this is Mr. Nuttakit Ruangyodngarmlerd, Service Manager, Suanluang Autohaus Co., Ltd., who graduated at the vocational level, and has since been working with Benz Rama 3 Co., Ltd. for 20 years.

GTDEE: Mr. Nuttakit Ruangyodngarmlerd, please could you tell us more about your background Mr. Nuttakit: When I was in grade 9 my academic results were not good, so I decided to go for vocational education in the field of automotive mechanics. Later, I continued with higher vocational in the same field at Rajamangala Technical College, Krungthep Campus (now Rajamangala University of Technology Krungthep). Then I went on to get a Bachelor degree in Mechanical Engineering at King Mongkut's University of Technology Nor th Bangkok (KMUTNB). That was an evening course, which left me with too much free time during the day.

So I applied to work with Benz Rama 3 in their “School Factory” project run by Ajarn Prawet. The official name of the project is Automotive Technical Training Centre (ATTC). I was a member of the

UPDATE 4/2014

sixth batch from which only students who passed the entrance test could enter the programme for both theoretical and practical studies with real Mercedes-Benz cars.

Thereof, from 8am to 4 pm I attended ATTC, which at that time was located at King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Then, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., I used a motorbike to go for studies at KMUTNB. It was a rather tough time, having to travel back and forth between the two places, although it enabled me to learn double the amount in the same period. During the day I worked on real Mercedes-Benz cars, which led to questions about how and why a system could work automatically; my evening studies provided the answers.

GTDEE: So you gained more knowledge and experience than your classmates?

Mr. Nuttakit: Yes, sometimes. My friends would ask how come you know about this. I would tell them it was because I was studying in dual vocational programme, during the day with Mercedes-Benz cars and in the evenings in class at KMUTNB. GTDEE: What kind of things did you learn?

Mr. Nuttakit: Well, I don’t think I can tell you all in one day. Basically, in the dual vocational programme we trained in manual technical skills for three months, and then we learnt how each system in the whole

GTDEE INSIGHT 59

car worked. At present, in a Mercedes-Benz car there are a number of computer s working together in a network.

I can give you an example of the different control boxes that work together. The Automatic Door Lock system starts when the speed of the car exceeds 15 km/h. This means all the doors will be automatically locked. This system works because we set the parameters for the Automatic Door Lock system to work. Another system, called ESP (Electronic Stability Programme), logs the car’s speed into the network; then, when the door control module for the four doors receives the speed information that the speed condition has been reached, all the doors will be locked.

GTDEE: What was your situation after graduation?

Mr. Nuttakit: I studied in the dual vocational programme for two years. However, the KMUTNB cour se took three year s to complete, so I needed to continue working and studying for another year after ATTC. I graduated with my Bachelor degree from KMUTNB with honours and started working with Benz Rama 3 as a technician until I become Head of the Technical Department after 12 years. Now I am Service Manager at Suanluang Autohaus.

GTDEE: How many classmates did you have?

What are they doing now?

right away. As of now, new technicians have to work in a service centre for at least two years to become eligible to take the CMT test. Nonetheless, GTDEE graduates can take the CMT test immediately after graduation.

After gaining two years’ working experience they can take the CST test and after a further two years they can try for CDT. GTDEE: How about compensation? Do GTDEE graduates earn more than other vocational students?

Mr. Nuttakit: In general, higher vocational students earn around 9,000-10,000 baht a month, but for GTDEE students who work with Mercedes-Benz there is also a profitsharing programme. That increases earnings t o a ro u n d 15,000 b aht to s tar t with; sometimes, it can be more, depending on the performance of the service centre.

GTDEE: Is the performance good at the Suanluang service centre?

Mr. Nuttakit: I would consider the answer to that as a definite “yes”. One main reason why I say so is because we have low staff turnover. We receive reasonably good compensation for our work and there not too much pressure working here. The executives are good; they reward us on a merit basis. The centre is now planning to expand the service garage, and our executives are going to hand-pick some good staff members from the GTDEE students to participate in our expansion.

Mr. Nuttakit’s experience clearly shows the value and opportunities of a vocational education.

Even more than that, not only is training in automotive skills provided by the dual vocational programme – the GTDEE project is planning to open new study fields in other fields in 2015.

So stay tuned!

Mr. Nuttakit: There were 24 of us. We are now doing different things. Some remained as technicians while others own a garage or are working in The United States. Some have become service advisors or service managers like me, and some have become executives for other car brands.

GTDEE: What types of technicians do you need in one service centre?

Mr. Nuttakit: Various levels of technicians are required. According to the German Dealer standard, each service centre needs to have a certified maintenance technician (CMT), a cer tified system technician (CST) and a certified diagnosis technician (CDT). In 2002 I won a nationwide skills contest, so I was able to take the exam for the first CDT batch

http://thailand.ahk.de

60 GTDEE INSIGHT

GIZ REGIONAL IN-COMPANY-TRAINER DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOPS A PARTICIPATORY APPROACH TO SOLVING THE LACK OF SKILLED LABOUR As a core partner of the GTDEE Initiative, the GIZ “Effective In-Company Vocational Training in the Mekong Region” project, or “BB-Mekong”, aims to promote the German Dual Vocational Education System, stressing the role of the private sector in workforce development as an approach to tackling skilled labour deprivation in the region. One of the project’s main objectives is to develop a Regional Minimum Standard for “In-Company-Trainers” in the Mekong region because qualified and competent trainers in companies play a crucial role in the quality of knowledge transfer and training.

A participatory approach is the main method used in developing a Regional In-Company-Trainer Standard. It is GIZ’s belief that ownership and fittingness are important elements in achieving sustainability; therefore, instead of adopting the standard developed elsewhere in the world, the In-Company-Trainer standard is to be developed in the region by local stakeholders.

With the participatory approach, the roles of participants and experts in the workshops change from input-giver and developer to developer and facilitator. By using this approach, the duties of experts are limited to supervising and facilitating the development to make it as smooth

as possible, while trying also avoiding intervention of any type that might influence the ideas of the participants. On the other hand, the par ticipants are encouraged to provide input, and to develop, prioritise and categorise ideas among themselves under the loose guidelines, thus steering them towards the standard development.

The ultimate output of such a process is a genuinely context-oriented standard that can be implemented regionally. This includes regulations, training curricula and a certification concept for In-Company-Trainers as well as for their trainers.

STANDARD STATUS Three workshops have already been conducted that achieved a relatively high level of satisfaction both among the GIZ project team and the participants. In the first workshop, participants expressed their ideas and discussed the duties and competencies of in-company trainers, the output of which was integrated, analysed, and presented at the second workshop for further comments and suggestions.

During the second workshop the discussions were more detailed, moving on from “what should in-company trainers do and be able to do?” to defining “what are they supposed to know and prepare in order to conduct training effectively?” The challenge was to define

fields of activity following the 3-Phase approach of “Planning – Executing – Evaluating” and group them following the level of expertise from novice to expert.

Based on the results of the second workshop, the curriculum was drafted for review and further elaboration at the third workshop, which was conducted in Germany from 24 to 29 November 2014 in combination with visits to companies and Chambers of Commerce in order to offer participants greater insight and better understanding of the German labour development system. The final (four th) workshop will be organised in Thailand during late January 2015.

For more information about the Effective In-Company Vocational Training in the Mekong Region Project, contact Christian Stüer, GIZ Regional Project Director at chirstian.stueer@giz.de or Siriporn Parvikam, GIZ Regional Project Manager at siriporn.parvikam@giz.de.

UPDATE 4/2014

STUDENT APPRENTICES PROGRAMME OPENING FOR NEW BATCH 2015 APPLY WITH US BEFORE JANUARY 2015!

Be Competent. Be Distinctive. Be GTDEE

The GTDEE Project is a part of the Vocational Education and Training Network or VETNet, which is funded by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) and supported by the Association of German Chambers of Industry and Commerce (DIHK), and covering 11 countries worldwide including Italy, Greece, Portugal, Spain, Slovakia, Latvia, Brazil, the Russian Federation, China, India and Thailand.

Examination & Certification Student Recruitment & Enrollment

Organize Training

Skill & Competence Competitions

GTDEE SERVICEPORTFOLIO

Public Relations & Marketing

Quality Assurance

E-Services Technical Seminars/ Workshops

GERMAN-THAI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Empire Tower 3, 25th floor, 1 South Sathorn Road, Yannawa, Sathorn, Bangkok 10120, Thailand Tel: +66 (0)2-670-0600 ext. 8001 to 8004 Email: gtdee@gtcc.org Gtdeeproject

Fax: +66 (0)2-670-0601 Website: http://gtdee.com

German Standard

62 MEMBERS’ CORNER

LOGWIN: ‘ALWAYS CLOSE TO OUR CUSTOMERS’ Logwin Air+Ocean (Thailand) Ltd. is among the group of companies that are currently commemorating their twenty-fifth year of membership in the German-Thai Chamber. Logwin is operating globally, including an extensive presence in ASEAN. Logwin Air+Ocean (Thailand) operates three offices in this country.

GTCC: Mr Wedemeyer, Logwin has more than 200 locations across six continents. What are the main features of the company’s three branches in Thailand?

Mr Wedemeyer: For our clients in Thailand we offer worldwide transpor t via air and sea freight, manage entire supply chains and provide related value-added services. In order to get goods on their way cleanly, safely and in time, our offices are strategically located at important airports and sea ports.

In Bangkok, our Thailand headquarters office is located near the port while a second office is located at Suvarnabhumi Airport. Our third office is in Laem Chabang, located right outside the biggest port in Thailand. Our local colleagues handle all types of air- and sea-freight impor t and expor t shipments as well as dealing with the corresponding customs clearance. Thus, the complete handling of a shipment is processed by one team, which makes it much easier for our customers.

This also applies to big projects. When the Central Embassy shopping mall opened a few months ago in Bangkok, for example, we organised

UPDATE 4/2014

Given the growing importance of Thailand as a regional trade hub, Logwin Air+Ocean (Thailand) Managing Director, Mr. Wilfried Wedemeyer, explains why he sees great potential for his company’s business, especially following the launch of the ASEAN Economic Community in 2015.

the import shipments of fixtures, furnishings and merchandise to the shops of our customers, including customs clearance and bundled delivery to the shopping mall. The goods came from China, France, Singapore and the United States. In addition, we assembled shelving systems and displays on site. All in all, Logwin transported more than 40 truckloads of goods to the shopping mall. Most of the deliveries were carried out at night between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.

GTCC: Logwin in Thailand designs, organises and monitors the supply chain of different companies. Do you think the forthcoming ASEAN Economic Community will create major challenges to Thailand?

Mr Wedemeyer: Thailand already plays an important role within the ASEAN region, and we expect more positive effects in the future.

However, other countries are also developing well, so Thailand needs to take measures that will enable it to stay ahead. When it comes to infrastructure, as rail and road transportation within ASEAN and between ASEAN and China increases, improvements need to be made to the rail and road network infrastructure in order to serve and increase Thailand’s hub status within ASEAN.

MEMBERS’ CORNER 63

Companies celebrating 25th anniversary of GTCC membership in 2014 GEA Westfalia Separator (Thailand) Ltd., Kata Group Co., Ltd. (Resort Hotels), Logwin Air + Ocean (Thailand) Ltd., Rohde & Schwarz International Operations GmbH, Union Victors Co., Ltd.

GTCC: How is Logwin in Thailand preparing for the upcoming ASEAN Economic Community?

Mr Wedemeyer: Logwin already has its own locations in many ASEAN countries, i.e., Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Viet Nam. Our employees not only work within the borders of their respective countries, but also at the cross-border and intercontinental levels. This is how we are able to serve the needs of our clients to the fullest possible extent. This fact not only applies to our locations in the ASEAN community, but also to other Asian countries where Logwin is present, such as China, India, the Republic of Korea, Taiwan, among other places around the world.

We believe that we are already in a ver y good position to par ticipate in the fur ther developments of the ASEAN Economic Community. We place great emphasis on the continuous training of our employees, at all levels and in all countries, through our own international trainee programme or at our internal training centre in Dubai, for example. Our employees are our most important asset.

In addition, we are continuing to strengthen our logistics and customs clearance departments in the expectation of changes in the regulatory environment and changes in our customer’s business models.

GTCC: One of your company visions is “thinking global, acting local”. How do you realise this goal in Thailand?

Mr Wedemeyer: Our slogan is “Logwin – Your Logistics”. By that, we mean that we are present locally and always close to our customers – all over the world. We have a strong relationship with local companies in Thailand and are set up to sustain their businesses. For example, we have been working together with a Thai boat manufacturer for eight year s now, providing customs clearance and local transpor tation. In order to help ensure the success of these types of projects, we employ staff with local roots and in-depth know-how about the Thai market.

GTCC: Does Logwin foresee further expansion in Asia?

Mr Wedemeyer: We have noted that, in most Asian countries, the current trend is one of continuously growing trade within Asia as a result of increasing gross domestic product that is strengthening purchasing power in many countries. We provide inner Asian transportation and services for many customers. For an international supplier and service provider for the energy industry we shipped oversized equipment and chemicals from Thailand to Myanmar a couple of months ago. We also store goods for an automobile supplier in Laem Chabang and organise transpor tation to the production facility in Rayong. For a company in the technology industr y we have shipped bulk freight from Singapore to Laem Chabang seaport, from collection at our customer’s warehouse to delivery at the production site in Rayong city.

There is much potential for our customers to grow – especially in China, but also in other regions. Asian markets are also gaining impor tance in global trade. With our local know-how and global network, we see many opportunities for supporting our customers and their growth.

GTCC: In your opinion, how can Thailand develop and maintain itself as a trade hub of ASEAN in a sustainable manner?

Mr Wedemeyer: Thailand is in a very enviable geographical position, right at the centre of ASEAN, making it able to facilitate trade between ASEAN and China. With the right visions and investments, Thailand will be able to take advantage of its location and strengthen its current position as an important regional hub.

On the other hand, we are par t of an international group with 4,300 employees at 200 locations on six continents. In order to ensure the same high level of quality, we have uniform processes and global standards that are equally valid in each and every one of our branches. They are suppor ted by a uniform IT system that works seamlessly throughout our company.

http://thailand.ahk.de

64 MEMBERS’ CORNER

S R E B M E M ONLY

Sponsored by

Name Last Name Company Name

Valid Thru

31 December 2016

As a GTCC member, we offer you the GTCC Membership Card to enjoy special discounts at GTCC’s events and consultancy services as well as a number of special discounts from participating GTCC members. Whether it is for your lunch/dinner business meeting or other services, we want to assure you, as our valuable member, enjoy special treatment from fellow GTCC members to strengthen

Show or refer to your GTCC membership card to enjoy these special discounts!

your business network and relations. The list of participating outlets and services is available on our webpage, thailand.ahk.de, together with corresponding benefits and discounts for members to explore!

For more information or submission of your offer/discount, please e-mail us at membership@gtcc.org

CENTARA GRAND AT CENTRALWORLD

DUCATISTI CO.,LTD. (DUCATI THAILAND)

HÄFELE (THAILAND) LIMITED

Exclusive offers Come 4 pay 2 international buffet both lunch and dinner at The World and Ginger restaurants Come 4 pay 2 at both lunch and dinner Not include special promotions, Festive seasons and cannot join with other promotions.

Exclusive offers

Buy one, Get one free “DRE Basic Course at Ducati Thailand headquarter.”

Ducati Riding Experience (DRE) - Basic Course Learn how to ride a Ducati motorcycle with our certified DRE instructor.

Half a day class on a one-on-one basis to guarantee a smile on your face.

2,000THB (VAT inclusive).

Exclusive Thailand offers The discounts are applied for private consumption with only presentation of GTCC card.

Only valid for standard items, excluding special clearance items with special net prices.

Only for orders placed via Häfele showrooms in Sukhumvit 64, Mega Bangna, Ratchapruek, Hua-Hin, Pattaya & Phuket.

Offer is valid from now - March 2015

Offer is valid from now - March 2015

Offer is valid from now - December 2015

Tel.: +66 (0)2-100-6255 E-mail: diningcgcw@chr.co.th Website: www.centarahotelsresorts.com

Tel.: +66 (0)2-513-9999 E-mail: info@ducatithailand.com Website: www.ducatithailand.com

Tel: +66 (0)2-741-7171 E-mail: info@hafele.co.th Website: www.hafele.co.th

HARD ROCK HOTEL PATTAYA

HITON HUA HIN RESORT & SPA

PACIFIC LEISURE (THAILAND) LTD.

Exclusive Dental Promotional Offers GTCC Member Room Rate Deluxe City View @ 3,700 THB. Deluxe Sea View @ 4,200 THB.

Exclusive offers Enjoy 20% discount on Food & Beverage at The Market · White Lotus · Sky Bar

Exclusive offers “Gift Voucher 500-1,000 Baht”

Offer is valid from now - April 2015

Offer is valid from now - March 2015

Offer is valid from now - March 2015

Tel: +66 (0)38-428-755 to 9 Email: rooms.pattaya@hardrockhotels.net Website: www. pattaya.hardrockhotels.net

Tel: +66 (0)32-538-999 Email: fb.huahin@hilton.com Website: www.huahin.hilton.com

Tel.: +66(0)2-670-1000 ext. 103 Email: services@plt.co.th www.facebook.com/#!/PacificLeisureThailand

Package includes: Daily breakfast for 2 persons, 20% disc at Hotel's F&B outlets including Hard Rock Café, 10% disc at merchandize at Rock Shops except promo items. (Terms and Conditions apply)

UPDATE 4/2014

Celebrity X Cruises All the World Routes Sailing through the year 2015

MEMBERS’ CORNER 65

ROYAL ORCHID SHERATON HOTEL & TOWERS

REMBRANDT HOTEL BANGKOK

REMBRANDT HOTEL BANGKOK

Exclusive offers Superior Room Special Price Single Occupancy @ THB 3,000 net.

Double Occupancy @ THB 3,200 net.

Exclusive offers Holiday Special Deal for Minimum of 2 nights stay

Inclusive of: Buffet Breakfast & Wifi.

Inclusive of: Buffet Breakfast, Airport Transfer by Hotel Limousine (round trip), One Spa Voucher valued 1,000 Baht per room per stay.

Offer is valid from now - March 2015

Offer is valid from 1 April until 30 June 2015

Offer is valid from now - February 2015

Tel: +66 (0)2-261-7100 E-mail: reservations@rembrandtbkk.com Website: www.rembrandtbkk.com

Tel: +66 (0)2-261-7100 E-mail: reservations@rembrandtbkk.com Website: www.rembrandtbkk.com

Tel: +66 (0)2-266-0123 https://th-th.facebook.com/royalorchidsheratonhotel Website: www.royalorchidsheraton.com

SATHORN VISTA, BANGKOK – MARRIOTT EXECUTIVE APARTMENTS

SHERATON GRANDE SUKHUMVIT, A LUXURY COLLECTION HOTEL, BANGKOK

SWISSOTEL LE CONCORD BANGKOK

Exclusive Offers Experience MoMo Café, featuring international and Asian cuisine combined with local flair. Enjoy the inspired selections and receive 50% discount on a la carte menu and non-alcoholic beverages.

Superior Room double occupancy @ THB 3,990 net.

Family Room (2 adults & 2 children) @ THB 5,200 net

Exclusive Offers Enjoy 20% off food only at BarSu when presenting the GTCC membership card.

Exclusive offers Enjoy 20% discount on food only at Thara Thong, Giorgio's, Feast and Sambal when presenting the GTCC membership card.

Exclusive offers 15% Discount for International Lunch/Dinner Buffet at 204 Bistro & Bar

Terms and Conditions apply.

Offer is valid from now - October 2015

Offer is valid from now - April 2015

Offer is valid from now - June 2015 (Black Out : Festive Season)

Tel: +66 (0)2-343-6789 Email: measathornvista@marriott.com Website: www.marriottsathornvista.com

Tel: +66 (0)2-649-8358 Email: dining.sgs@luxurycollection.com Website: www.sheratongrandesukhumvit.com

Tel : +66 (0)2-694 2222 ext. 1530 E-mail: bangkok-leconcorde@swissotel.com Website: www.swissotel.com/bangkok-leconcorde

http://thailand.ahk.de

66 MEMBERS’ CORNER

NEW GTCC MEMBERS up to 31 December 2014

German-Thai Chamber of Commerce warmly welcomes 21 new members!

Adinop Co., Ltd.

Bosch Automotive (Thailand) Co., Ltd.

21 Soi Bangbon 3 Soi 12 Laksong Bangkae Bangkok 10160 Thailand Tel: +66 (0)2-445-5022 to 30 Fax: +66 (0)2-445-5032 E-mail: mail@adinop.co.th Website: www.adinop.co.th

7/102 Amata City Industry, Estate, Mabyangporn, Pluakdaeng, Rayong 21140 Thailand Tel: +66 (0)38-958-888 Fax: +66 (0)38-958-998 E-mail: hr@th.bosch.com Website: www.bosch.com

Activities For almost 3 decades, Adinop Co., Ltd. has been a trusted distributor and manufacturer of high quality ingredients for food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries.

Our QC laboratory equipped with sophisticated analytical instruments is Thailand’s first ISO/IEC 17025 certified laboratory for food colors. We also provide specialized OEM services to customers.

Chamber Representatives Siriporn Chaitharatip and Supaporn Suwansiri

Apsalagen Co., Ltd. 44 Srijulsup Tower, 18th Floor, Unit D, Rama 1 Road, Rongmuang, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 Thailand Tel: +66 (0)2-613-8303 to 8 Fax: +66 (0)2-613-8307 E-mail: thidarat.som@apsalagen.com, wannarak.sir@apsalagen.com Website: www.apsalagen.com Activities Apsalagen Co. Ltd. (ASG) , Bangkok, is a biotechnology company with fully integrated in the discovery, development and commercialization of recombinant and native enzymes for life-science research.

ASG has joint ventured with Biotechrabbit GmbH (BTR), Germany, a world-class company with top scientists in the development, commercialization and products distribution.

Chamber Representatives Dr.Songpon Deechongkit and Dr.Bernd Haase

UPDATE 4/2014

Activities Manufactures and markets automobile parts and brakes, such as boosters, master cylinders, and common rail fuel injection system for the automotive industry.

Chamber Representatives Norbert Brosi and Dirk Uphoff

Dieter Greggersen GTCC MEMBER 2014

Postbox 94, Phra Khanong Post Office, Bangkok 10110 Thailand Tel: +66 (0)2-741-9745 Fax: +66 (0)2-741-9745 E-mail: gpdgstbgk@hotmail.com Activities Pensioner (Commerzbank)

Eureka Design Public Company Limited 19 Moo 11, Ladsawai, Lamlukka, Pathumthani 12150 Thailand Tel: +66 (0)2-192-3737 Fax: +66 (0)2-192-3741 to 4 E-mail: www.eurekadesign.co.th Website: oratai@eurekadesign.co.th Activities: Assembly and testing machine for automotive and motorcycle industry. The machine, that is designed and assembled, can be categorized into 5 types: 1. Leak test machine, 2. Press machine, 3. Nut tightening machine, 4. Special assembly machine, 5. Marking machine.

Chamber Representatives Narakorn Ratchapolsitte and Dr. Amphol Tungkanawanit

MEMBERS’ CORNER 67

Ducati Motor (Thailand) Co., Ltd.

Frost & Sullivan (Thailand) Co., Ltd.

7/304 Amata City Industrial Estate, Moo 6, Mabyangporn, Pluakdaeng, Rayong 21140 Thailand Tel: +66 (0)38-640-600 Fax: +66 (0)38-640-601 E-mail: hrducati@ducati.com Website: www.ducati.com

152 Chartered Square Building, 14th Floor, Unit 14-02, Silom, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500 Thailand Tel: +66 (0)2-637-7414 Fax: +66 (0)2-637-7415 Website: www.frost.com

Activities The company produces a range of premium motorcycles including Diavel, Hypermotard, Monster, Multistrada, Scrambler and Superbike. The authentic “made in Italy” icon together with an extensive range of associated accessories, lifestyle apparels, are distributed in over 80 countries, with concentration in the European, North-American and Asia Pacific markets.

Chamber Representatives Francesco Milicia and Pierfrancesco Scalzo

FIPA Ltd. The Trendy Plaza, 10/30 1A Floor, Sukhumvit 13, Klongtoey Nua, Wattana, Bangkok 10110 Thailand Tel: +66 (0)2-168-7036 Fax: +66 (0)2-168-7037 E-mail: sales.th@fipa.com Website: www.fipa.com Activities Sales of industrial tools and equipment, vacuum cups, components and end-of-armtooling. Aftersales service of light assembling, pick-and-place application and Roboterhands.

Chamber Representatives Rainer J. Mehrer and Thomas Trefzer

Jas Forwarding Worldwide (Thailand) Co., Ltd. 193/24 Lake Rajada Office Complex, 4th Floor, Ratchadapisek Road, Klongtoey, Bangkok 10110 Thailand Tel: +66 (0)2-661-8390 Fax: +66 (0)2-661-8402 to 3 E-mail: TH-info@jas.com Website: www.jas.com Activities To engage in the business of booking and handling of all types of freight for transportation, services of domestic and international transporting loading and unloading goods including clearing goods services.

Chamber Representatives Roderich Hoffmann and Pimpisa Saransiri

Activities Frost & Sullivan support clients in developing innovative strategies through Customer Research, Market Consulting, Growth Workshops, Market Research, Corporate Training, Analyst Briefings and Growth Partnership Services.

We leverage 50 years of experience in partnering with Global 1000 companies and emerging businesses from over 40 offices on 6 continents.

Chamber Representative Koh Eng Lok

Huebner C&V, technical information management Gutenstetter Str. 2a, 90449 Nürnberg, Germany E-mail: info@huebnercv.de Website: www.huebnercv.de Activities Technical documentation and communication are central issues in the industrial manufacturing process.

We are familiar with many different processes of documentation, documentation methods, structuring, migration, creation of parts lists and preparation of post-sales and pre-sales documents, reflected in the content targeting a specific market and in valid standards.

Chamber Representative Robert Huebner

Natural Ville Executive Residences 61 Langsuan Road, Lumpini, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 Thailand Tel: +66 (0)2-250-7000 Fax: +66 (0)2-253-1204 E-mail: info@naturalville.com Website: www.naturalville.com Activities Serviced Apartment.

Chamber Representatives Charles Wrightman Chainarong Nivasanandha

http://thailand.ahk.de

68 MEMBERS’ CORNER

Jump Distributors (Thailand) Co., Ltd.

Property Care Services (Thailand) Ltd.

90 Moo 5, La-Harn, Bangbuathong, Nonthaburi 11110 Thailand Tel: +66 (0)2-190-6031 to 6 Fax: +66 (0)2-983-3694 E-mail: jantana.pansathit@fhp-ww.com Website: www.vileda.com

234 Soi Sukhumvit 101 (Punnavithi), Sukhumvit Road, Bangchak, Prakanong, Bangkok 10260 Thailand Tel: +66 (0)2-741-8800 Fax: +66 (0)2-741-8062 to 3 E-mail: customer@pcs.co.th Website: www.pcs.co.th

Activities We supply durable mechanical cleaning products such as mops, brooms, gloves, cloths, ironing boards and scourers for your home. We have been a market leader since our company was established in 1948.

Chamber Representatives Jan Olov Hammarlund and Jantana Pansathit

NIST International School 36 Sukhumvit Soi 15, Klongteoy-Nua, Wattana, Bangkok 10110 Thailand Tel: +66 (0)2-651-2065 Fax: +66 (0)2-253-3800 E-mail: nist@nist.ac.th Website: www.nist.ac.th Activities The first and only full, not-for-profit IB World School in Thailand, NIST International School was established in 1992 with the support of the United Nations. The school welcomes over 1,500 students of over 50 nationalities and provides all three International Baccalaureate programmes: the PYP, MYP and DP. Chamber Representatives James MacDonald and Supranee Taecharungroj

PCMC Engineering Co., Ltd. 555/130-131, Sukhaphiban 5 Road, Ao Ngoen, Saimai, Bangkok 10220 Thailand Tel: +66 (0)2-158-7291 to 2 Fax: +66 (0)2-158-7290 E-mail: jayut@pcmc.co.th Website: www.pcmc.co.th Activities 1. M&E Contractor 2. Civil Construction 3. Interior 4. Air Condition 5. Electrical 6. Fire Protection 7. Building Automation 8. Sanitary in Areas of Hospitals, Factories, Hotel & Condo Building, Data Center, and Automobile Chamber Representatives Phichet Wangveera and Jayut Chaiyanan

UPDATE 4/2014

Activities Cleaning Services, Security Personnel & Systems, Office Administrative Services, Gardening Services, Inventory & Audit Services, Catering Services, Mechanical & Electrical Services, Washroom Hygiene Services and Pest Management.

Chamber Representatives Thana Thiramanas and Matthias Hoffrichter

RLC Recruitment Co., Ltd. 142 Two Pacific Place, 18th Floor, Unit 1805, Sukhumvit Road, Klongtoey, Bangkok 10110 Thailand Tel: +66 (0)2-653-3998 Fax: +66 (0)2-653-4399 E-mail: info@rlc-asia.com Website: www.rlc-asia.com Activities RLC Recruitment supports companies who need a more personal and customized approach to recruitment. We differ strongly from the mass market approach taken by some other recruitment companies. RLC works closely with each client to deeply understand requirements before offering a strong selection of close matches.

Chamber Representatives Markus Wehrhahn and Richard Jackson

TP Technical Panels Co., Ltd. 288 Lardkrabang Estate Processing Zone 3, Soi Chalongkrung, Lampratiew, Lardkrabang, Bangkok 10520 Thailand Tel: +66 (0)2-739-6681 Fax: +66 (0)2-739-6682 E-mail: roger@technicalpanels.com Website: www.technicalpanels.com Activities We are assembling and selling armored cash in transit (CIT) vehicles using composite panels instead of steel which has a substantial impact on weight and provide all electronic locking systems. The vehicles are tailor made according to security companies requirements.

Chamber Representatives Roger Immel and Mike Tiller

MEMBERS’ CORNER 69

GTCC MEMBER 2014

Stefan Spiess

Unexpected Co., Ltd.

50/364 Mooban Lalin Green Ville, Soi Cordia 4, Chaloem Pakiat Road 89, Rama 9 Road, Prawes, Bangkok 10250 Thailand Tel: +66 (0)2-762-7812 to 4 Mobile: +66 (0)89-891-4931 Fax: +66 (0)2-762-7805 E-mail: stefan@executive-homes.biz Website: www.executive-homes.biz

46/29 The Royal Vibhavadi Condominium, Soi Vibhavadi 48, Lad Yao, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900 Thailand Tel: +66 (0)2-941-1349 Fax: +66 (0)2-941-3849 E-mail: contact@unxp.asia Website: www.unxp.asia

Activities Stefan Spiess is the Manager Corporate Accounts at Executive Homes. We are specialist in expatriate rental housing in Bangkok. If you need to find an apartment, house or condominium to rent you have found the right address. Simply contact me with your requirements and we will be in touch with you shortly. Relocation Orientation - and Property Listing service available!

The Bangchak Petroleum Public Co., Ltd. 10th Fl., Building A Energy Complex, 555/1 Vibhavadi Rangsit Rd., Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900 Thailand Tel: +66 (0)2-140-8999 Fax: +66 (0)2-140-8911 E-mail: info@bangchak.co.th Website: www.bangchak.co.th Activities The Bangchak Petroleum Public Company Limited carries out refining of crude oil and marketing of finished oil products. The company also sells its finished oil products through the network of over 1,100 service stations throughout the country. The company classifies its business into three reportable segments, namely, Refinery, Marketing, and Electricity.

Chamber Representatives Vichien Usanachote and Wattana Opanon-amata

Activities - Office for Architecture and Design (Thai and German architect license, Sustainable Building Consultant (DGNB)).

- Unexpected Co., Ltd. offers design and planning services from commencement to completion.

- Projects range from architecture, interior design, exhibition and fair stand design to design consultancy and branding concepts.

Chamber Representatives Dr. Martin Schoch and Sunaree Lawanyawatna

Winterhalter Asia Co., Ltd. 7/378 Moo 6 Amata City Industrial Estate, Mabyangporn, Pluakdaeng, Rayong 21140 Thailand Tel: +66 (0)38-027-440 to 1 Fax: +66 (0)38-027-442 E-mail: tobias.wimmer@winterhalterasia.co.th Website: www.winterhalter.biz Activities Winterhalter is world market leader for commercial warewashing systems with around 1000 employees. Its headquarters are in Meckenbeuren with another production plant in Endingen in Germany and a production plant in Rüthi in Swistzerland. Since 2013 the company has established another production plant ‘Winterhalter Asia Co., Ltd.’ in Thailand.

Chamber Representatives Tobias Wimmer and Pirom Khongkwanmueng

http://thailand.ahk.de

70 MEMBERS’ CORNER

BECOME OUR MEMBER! The German-Thai Chamber of Commerce (GTCC) is one of the biggest bilateral Chambers in Thailand with the most extensive service por tfolio for members. More than 500 members have continued their role as strong suppor ters and active par tners for the community. Our membership

offers a variety of benefits, which allow you to contact and network with more than 500 prestigious and reputable companies in the German-Thai business community. Your main benefits include:

Regular networking with German – Thai community and Executives

Member-exclusive site visit at reputable member companies

Professional business advisory on market entry both in Germany and Thailand

Be informed on market and economic trend at our regular business luncheon and breakfast talk at special rate

Publish your profile in our annual handbook and online directory

Enhance visibility through article contribution or promote your member to member benefit in our publications and website

Want to know more about our membership and privileges?

E-mail us at membership@gtcc.org for more details.

We look forward to welcoming you in the near future as a new GTCC member!

UPDATE 4/2014

MEMBERS’ CORNER 71

Heidelberg Graphics (Thailand) Ltd., Property Care Services (Thailand) Ltd., Ducati Motor (Thailand) Co. Ltd., Kuehne + Nagel Ltd., Eureka Design PCL, Unexpected Co. Ltd,, Thai Technic Electric Co. Ltd,, Mission Hospital, Klapsons The River Residences Bangkok, PCMC Engineering Co. Ltd., Apsalagen Co. Ltd., Adinop Co. Ltd. and Ata Services Co. Ltd,

NEW MEMBER ORIENTATION AND PRESENTATIONS Following the success of the first GTCC New Member Orientation event in August 2014, a subsequent orientation session was organised on 16 December at the Sukhothai Hotel Bangkok to welcome new members to the GTCC experience. A general overview of GTCC services and activities were presented, after which each company representative had an opportunity to present their company profiles to the other the participants.

“Being a new member, I truly appreciated the orientation programme that enabled me to learn more about GTCC, their services and activities as well as meet the team responsible for it. It was a good chance to introduce Unexpected Co., Ltd. and to start making it recognised among other members.

Now I am even more looking forward to the many opportunities to come.”

........................................................

Dr. Martin Schoch, Design Director Unexpected Co., Ltd.

“It is very good! The programme (GTCC New Member Orientation) gave us an oppor tunity to get to know other new members – who they are and what they are doing. It helped us to create some possibilities.

For example, we have been able to explore and exchange some business ideas, knowledge or future collaboration together.”

“With regard to the orientation programme, it is a privilege for GTCC new members to share. It is very well organised. I had a chance to meet many fellow business people, an oppor tunity for which I thank the GTCC. I also hope, as time goes by, that there will be more opportunities to meet and get to know more Chamber members.”

Ms. Pattamon Chach-chaval, CFO Heidelberg Graphics (Thailand) Ltd.

Mr. Somchai Chuenjit, Hospital President Mission Hospital

........................................................ ........................................................

http://thailand.ahk.de

72 TRADE FAIRS

GREEN WEEK EIGHTIETH ANNIVERSARY TO FEATURE NUMEROUS HIGHLIGHTS 16-25 January 2015, Berlin Latvia, next year’s Green Week partner country, is making preparations to host its largest display to date, under the slogan “Take the time”, at the International Green Week Berlin 2015 (IGW). From 16 to 25 January, this Baltic State, which attended the fair in 1992 for the first time and which in the first half of 2015 will take over the European Union Council presidency, will be promoting its wide range of specialities from local regions.

More than 1,600 exhibitors from around 70 countries and more than 400,000 trade visitors and members of the public are expected to visit the show. In addition to providing a global market overview, companies from every part of Germany will be hosting the largest display of authentic and local specialities from the individual federal States, including food items and luxury foods that can be found at any exhibition.

The programme of conference events will focus, in particular, on the Global Forum for Food and Agriculture 2015 (GFFA), which will take place from 15 to 17 January 2015. Some 70 ministers of agriculture, deputy ministers, and high-ranking members of the food and farming industries are expected to attend the conference.

In 2015, at the combined display of the two main organisations representing the German food industry – the Federation of Food Law and Food Science (BLL), and the Federation of German Food and Drink Industries (BVE) – the focus will again be on the “Food Dialogue”. Visitors who are keen to explore new culinary horizons can fully satisfy their desires at the various product markets. These will include the BioHall, the fish market, the Herbs, Spices and Tea product market, the beer market as well as wines and sparkling wines from Germany and other wine-growing regions around the world.

Every visitor to Green Week will be able to browse examine the many things the farming and food industries have to offer at the Farm Experience, a joint initiative of the German Farmers’ Union and information.medien.agrar co-ordinated by the Organisation for the

UPDATE 4/2014

Promotion of Sustainable Agriculture. The Livestock Hall (Hall 25) will be showcasing German livestock. Among other events, the focus will be on the Federal Show for Sport Ponies (16 to 18 January) and the Federal Uckermark Beef Cattle Show (23 to 25 January).

The Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture’s (BMEL) special show will be among the displays providing especially useful information and exhibits. At nature.tec, ministries, institutions, associations and companies will be presenting the entire range of farming- and forestry-based resources used for materials and fuels. At the “Multitalented wood” show visitors will be able to learn about the many aspects of wood as a raw material. The exhibitors at the combined display entitled “Keen on the country – working together for rural areas” will be providing an insight into thriving rural life while the German Hunting Association (DJV) will be inviting visitors to take part in an informative hunting trail.

The gardening section of Green Week will be exhibiting spectacular floral arrangements. Inside the Floral Hall more than 30,000 early flowering plants will delight the eyes of visitors. The Berlin Regional Gardening Association will be showing how impor tant urban allotments are for pursuing leisure and relaxation in large cities.

The eightieth Green Week will also look back on a past that spans 89 years. Originally a mere local product market when it debuted in 1926, it has become the world's largest consumer show for agriculture, food and horticulture. Since its inception year, more than 83,000 exhibitors from 128 countries have presented wide-ranging products from around the world to more than 31.5 million trade visitors and the public.

More details are available online at www.gruenewoche.de/en/.

For further information, please contact GTCC’s official representative for Messe Berlin GmbH in Thailand, Ms. Patamaporn Wasuwat, at tel: +66 (0)2-670-0600, ext. 4010 or by email at berlin@gtcc.org.

TRADE FAIRS 73

DOMOTEX 2015 ‘THE WORLD’S LEADING TRADE FAIR FOR FLOOR COVERINGS’ 17-20 January 2015, Hannover DOMOTEX is the world’s leading trade fair for carpets and floor coverings. DOMOTEX 2015, which will be held from 17 to 20 in Hannover, Germany, will span both traditional and modern carpet designs in the world’s biggest display of handmade carpets.

Next year, DOMOTEX will again enjoy strong international participation, with more than 1,300 exhibitors expected from around 60 nations. Spread across 12 exhibition halls, they will showcase their excellence, innovative flair and creativity in a product landscape that will encompass everything from textile and resilient floor coverings to parquet and laminate flooring as well as carpets in a wide, eyecatching array of materials, colours and designs.

The Innovations@DOMOTEX 2014 showcase was extremely wellreceived by the carpets and flooring industry. It gave exhibitors a series of display zones of distinctive architecture (the Innovations@ DOMOTEX areas) where they were able to stage their innovations in textile and resilient floor coverings, parquet and laminate flooring, and modern hand-made carpets to maximum effect. The added

exposure generated by this arrangement was a boon to subsequent talks with promising leads among the exhibitors.

At DOMOTEX, exhibitors encounter keen interest in the historic patterns of traditional Oriental carpets. In fact, handmade Oriental carpets are currently experiencing a renaissance. The characteristically intricate patterns and warm colour palette are back in fashion. These masterpieces of craft and design not only match antique furniture – they can also look perfect when set against traditional or highly modern furnishings and interior styles. They all have their own unique history and are appreciated as beautiful and precious works of art that fit well into contemporary home interiors. In short, trade visitors can look forward to an amazing array of rare and precious handcrafted items.

More details are available at www.domotex.de/home. For exhibitor/ visitor inquiries or more information, please contact GTCC’s official representative for Deutsche Messe in Thailand, Ms. Kamolchanok Nantaburom at Tel: +66 (0)2-670-0600, ext. 4004 or by e-mail at hannover@gtcc.org.

http://thailand.ahk.de

74 TRADE FAIRS

BAU 2015 LATEST SOLUTIONS, MATERIALS AND SYSTEMS FOR ARCHITECTURE, CONSTRUCTION 19-24 January 2015, Munich BAU, the world's leading trade fair for architecture, and construction materials and systems, is the biggest and most important event in the sector. The next BAU will take place from 19 to 24 January 2015 at the Messe München exhibition centre in Munich. Around 2,000 exhibitors from more than 40 countries as well as more than 235,000 visitors from around the world are expected to attend.

For years all available BAU exhibition space has for years been fully booked. Covering 180,000 square metres of exhibition space, BAU 2015 will again be presenting architectural solutions, materials and systems for commercial and residential construction and interiors for new-build and renovation, and modernisation. Every two years this event brings together market leaders from the sector to participate in a unique international display of competence spanning all the construction trades.

BAU is also the world s largest trade fair for architects and construction engineers, attracting more than 60,000 design professionals. The exhibits at the fair are organised according to building materials as well as product and theme areas. The many attractive events in the supporting programme, including high-calibre forums with participation by experts from all over the world, round off this showcase event.

For more information about BAU, please contact GTCC’s official representative for Messe München GmbH in Thailand, Ms. Suvichanee Panpeng, at Tel: +66 (0)2-670-0600, ext. 4006 or by e-mail at muenchen@gtcc.org. You can also follow BAU on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BAUMuenchen.

UPDATE 4/2014

TRADE FAIRS 75

EMBEDDED WORLD 2015

24-26 February 2015, Nuremberg As the world's largest trade fair of its type, embedded world is a must for everyone concerned with the development, purchasing, procurement and application of embedded technologies in the areas of hardware, software, tools and services The focus of the next embedded world Exhibition and Conference, which will be held from 24 to 26 February 2015 at the Nuremberg Exhibition Centre, will again be on all things with embedded systems. The embedded community comes together at this event in annual rotation. As a leading international world fair with the focus exclusively on embedded technologies, it reflects the trends in the sector, with around 900 exhibitors presenting state-of-the-art covering all aspects of embedded systems.

Against this background, the embedded world Conference 2015 is inviting innovative embedded system developers to Nuremberg. For years the conference, the largest in Europe for embedded systems development, has been a byword for knowledge transfer at the highest level. In 2015, however, the “Engineering Focus” stream will concentrate on two specific areas – the “Internet of Things”, and “Security and Safety”.

In 2014, the embedded world Exhibition and Conference celebrated new records. A total of 26,714 visitors (2013: 22,547) were recorded while information was gathered from 856 exhibitors at embedded world. This leading international trade fair undoubtedly will in future also be one of the most important marketing and sales tools for the embedded sector. This expectation is confirmed by the high level of satisfaction voiced among the visitors.

For more details about the 2015 events, please visit http://www.embeddedworld.de/en/ or contact GTCC’s official representative for NürnbergMesse GmbH in Thailand, Ms. Tidarat Singsuphan, at tel: +66 (0)2-670-0600, ext. 3003 or by e-mail at nuernberg@gtcc.org.

http://thailand.ahk.de

76 TRADE FAIRS

Spielwarenmesse® – FEEL THE SPIRIT OF PLAY

28 January - 2 February, Nuremberg Spielwarenmesse® is a specialised trade fair, during which international toy markets come together. Renowned brands, trendy start-ups, buyers for large chains, independent retailers and a plethora of media representatives make Spielwarenmesse® the most important event for the toy sector.

For this reason, admission tickets can only be purchased if you are a trade professional. This means that participants must first register and provide proof of professional affiliation with the toy industry. Children under the age of 16 are not permitted to attend Spielwarenmesse.® The next Spielwarenmesse ® will be held from 28 Januar y to 2 February in Nuremberg.

MUCH MORE THAN JUST TOYS However, Spielwarenmesse,® means much more than just toys. It includes infant articles, lifestyle and trend products, school articles and stationery, outdoor products, fireworks and carnival articles and much more. Participants decide which products complement their strategy and product range. Spielwarenmesse® is the only venue that offers this unique selection of sources and suppliers.

For further information, please contact GTCC’s official representative for Spielwarenmesse eG for Thailand, Ms. Suvichanee Panpeng at GTCC tel: +66 (0)2-670-0600, ext. 4006 or by e-mail at suvichanee@gtcc.org.

UPDATE 4/2014