Informa November 2009

Vol. November 2009

Intesa Sanpaolo and KPMG meetup:

Banking, Crisis and the Future in Thailand Carmina Burana in Bangkok

H.E. MICHELANGELO PIPAN

AMBASSADOR OF ITALY

Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce

President's Message

PRESIDENT Mr. Ekkamon Hutasingh - Tesoro Co., Ltd. Tel: +66 2 719 5416-7 Fax: +66 2 719 5415 E-mail: tesoroth@truemail.co.th

Mr. Ekkamon Hutasingh President Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce

VICE PRESIDENTS Mr. Lino Geretto - LGV Engineering Co., Ltd. Tel: +66 2 255 8717-8 Fax: +66 2 255 8716 E-mail: info@lgveng.com Mr. Luca Vianelli - MDA Consulting SEA Co., Ltd. Tel: +66 2 652 2447 Fax: +66 2 652 2448 E-mail: lvianelli@mda.it DIRECTOR & HONORARY TREASURER Mr. Chakrit Benedetti - Italasia Electro Co., Ltd. Tel: +66 2 261 7990-9 Fax: +66 2 261 8700 E-mail: italasia19@hotmail.com DIRECTOR & HONORARY SECRETARY Mr. Yongyudh Teeravithayapinyo - Jewelry Network Co., Ltd. Tel: +66 2 664 8358 Fax: +66 2 664 8373 E-mail: yyudh@koola.com DIRECTORS Mr. Chayaporn Phronprapha - Italsiam Motors Co., Ltd. Tel: +66 2 612 4400 Fax: +66 2 612 4411 E-mail: chayaporn@italsiammotors.com Mr. Gianmaria Zanotti - Zanotti (Thailand) Ltd. Tel: +66 2 636 0002 Fax: +66 2 636 0221 E-mail: zanotti@loxinfo.co.th Mr. Giuseppe Zigrino - K+Z Corporation Ltd. Tel: +66 34 381 313 Fax: +66 34 381 717 E-mail: sales@kzcorp.com Mr. Mario Bracci - Asia Cement Public Co.,Ltd. Tel: +66 2 641 5600 Fax: +66 2 641 5680 E-mail: m.bracci@acc.co.th Mr. Nino Jotikasthira - Turismo Asia Co., Ltd. Tel: +66 2 245 1551 Fax: +66 2 246 3993 E-mail: nino.jotikasthira@turismoasia.com Mr. Pichai Chirathiwat - Central Trading Co., Ltd. Tel: +66 2 229 7000 Fax: +66 2 367 5445-6 E-mail: pichai@cmg.co.th Mr. Pierre Nicou - The Commercial Company of Siam Ltd. Tel: +66 2 261 0245 Fax: +66 2 261 0243 E-mail: pnicou_eurofood@ayambrand-th.com Mr. Rene Okanovic - Berli Jucker Public Co., Ltd. Tel: +66 2 367 1092 Fax: +66 2 381 4541 E-mail: rene.okanovic@bjc.co.th Mr. Romeo Romei - Quick Pack Pacific Co., Ltd. Tel: +662 998 9101-3 Fax: + 662 531 6425 E-mail: romeo.romei@gmail.com Ms. Tiziana Sucharitkul - Tilleke & Gibbins International Ltd. Tel: +66 2 653 5555 Fax: +66 2 653 5678 E-mail: tiziana.s@tillekeandgibbins.com SECRETARY GENERAL Mr. Sandro Zanello Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce.

1126/2 Vanit Building II, Room 1601B 16th Floor, New Petchburi Rd., Makkasan, Rajdhevee, Bangkok Tel: +66 2 253 9909, +66 2 255 8695 Fax: +66 2 253 9896 E-mail: secretarygeneral@thaitch.org

The Informa is the BI-monthly magazine of the Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce, covering all business activities and social news of interest to the members of the Thai-Italian community and others active in the expanding Thai-Italian bilateral relations.

EDITOR: Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce Tel: +66 2 253 9909 Fax: +66 2 253 9896 E-mail: info@thaitch.org EDITORIAL COMMITTEE: Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce President: Mr. Ekkamon Hutasingh Directors: Mr. Nino Jotikasthira Mr. Romeo Romei Mr. Giuseppe Zigrino Secretary General: Mr. Sandro Zanello Italian Embassy Representative: Ms. Somsri Pobpipugtra Italian Trade Commission Representative: Mr. Vincenzo Calì Dante Alighieri Representative: Mr. Giacomo Mauri Scand-Media Representative: Mr. Gregers Moller TICC Staff: Ms. Pawinee Watcharaprasertchai:PR-Manager Ms. Sasikan Phootdee: Marketing Manager PUBLISHER: Scand-Media Corp., Ltd. 4/41-2 Moo 3, Thanyakarn Village, Ramintra Soi 14, Bangkok 10230 Tel: +66 2 943 7166-8 Fax: +66 2 943 7169 Design: Disraporn Yatprom Email: disraporn@scandmedia.com

t is with great pleasure that I announce the return of INFORMA magazine – the only magazine dedicated to the Thai and Italian business communities. We believe that you will find the new INFORMA to be both informative and interesting, offering insights into the “who-whatwhere-when” of doing business in Thailand. I also wish to take this opportunity, on behalf of my fellow directors and members of the Thai Italian Chamber of Commerce (“TICC”), to warmly welcome H.E. Mr. Michelangelo Pipan, the new Italian Ambassador to Thailand.

We wish him a successful mission and look forward to working closely with His Excellency to promote Thai-Italian business and cultural relations. We anticipate that the next year will be an exciting one full of new projects and developments which will further strengthen the ties between the two countries.

The re-launch of INFORMA and the arrival of H.E. Michelangelo Pipan also coincide with TICC’s 30th Anniversary and the recent election of the Chamber’s Board members – we welcome two new directors, Mr. Romeo Romei and Mr. Pierre Nicou. The Board of Directors, together with our newly appointed Secretary General, Mr. Sandro Zanello, are poised to lead the TICC forward into an exciting year. We are focused on achieving deliverables for our members.

Several working committees have been formed at the Chamber to oversee the Chamber’s operations, with each committee being responsible for specific activities and/or projects. We strongly encourage TICC members to become involved in these committees as we believe that the interaction will result in a closely knit Chamber which delivers what is necessary to support our members in their business endeavors.

TICC Members should also note that in addition to its usual activities, in which the TICC participates with the 30 other Foreign Chambers in Thailand, a number of seminars are also organized in cooperation with the other Chambers of Commerce from Italy. Information regarding these seminars, as well as business opportunities and coordinated events with the Joint Foreign Chambers of Commerce, Thailand will be posted and updated regularly on TICC website, as with all other TICC activities.

Also of note is that starting this year, the TICC is now one of the Directors of the Thai Board of Trade, which means we have yet another channel to use for problem solving with local authorities. We believe our ties with the Thai Board of Trade will be of great assistance to our members.

A recent activity which TICC is proud to have been part of is our collaboration with the Department of Intellectual Property, the European Commission and Bioagricoop Scrl. Through such collaboration, efforts were successfully expended to strengthen Geographical Indications (GIs) and product trade flows between the EU and Thailand through improved protection (according to Reg. E.C. 510/2006) and increase value through the use of the EU Logo to the awarded GIs products. At present, the TICC is the only Chamber in Thailand involved in European Projects; and on this occasion, of more than 80 applicants, the Certificates of Conformity of GIs Products were awarded to representatives of the Surin Hom Mali Rice, Chiangrai Phulae Pineapple associations and early on to Doi Chang Coffe association.

I hope you enjoy INFORMA. We welcome your comments on the magazine, a selection of which will be included in the “Letters Column” Your comments are important to us and will enable us to make further improvements to the Magazine, thereby making INFORMA more useful to all of our readers.

Here’s to a successful year ahead!

Best wishes

ADVERTISING CONTACT: Mr. Finn Balslev, Marketing Director Scand-Media Corp., Ltd. 4/41 Moo3, Thanyakarn, Soi Ramintra 14 Bangkok 10230 Tel: +66 2 943 7166 Ext: 151 Fax: +66 2 943 7169 Mobile: +66 81 866 2577 Email: finn@scandmedia.com - www.scandmedia.com

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Fellow Members,

November 2009

Ekkamon Hutasingh President

CONTENT

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H.E. Michelangelo Pipan Ambassador of Italy "I will always be reachable, if my help is needed, and especially when it comes to two groups of people: Italians, who are considering doing business with Thais, and Thais who are considering working with Italians.

I would always like to help," says H.E. Michelangelo Pipan, the new Italian Ambassdor.

Carmina Burana in Bangkok The Spellbound Dance Company, one of the most famous Italian dance companies, staged the ballet “Carmina Burana” at the Thailand Cultural Centre in Bangkok as part of this year’s International Festival of Dance & Music sponsored by the Embassy of Italy.

14 Giusto + Belguardo Summit of North Italian Taste

12 Double Insight Informa Magazine arranged a meeting with Augusto Scaglione who is based in Bangkok, working for Intesa Sanpaolo, the largest banking group in Italy, and Nicholas Bellamy who is a Financial Services Partner at KPMG in Bangkok. The result was an interesting talk about banking, crisis and the future.

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On the night of August 27th, 2008, the Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce hosted a Charity Gala Dinner created by two celebrity chefs from the north of Italy, Chef Fabio Colautti and Chef Marco Cammarata, from renowned Italian restaurants in Bangkok, Giusto and Belguardo.

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TICC Welcomes New Ambassador The Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce hosted a welcome reception for the new Ambassador of Italy in Thailand, His Excellency Michelangelo Pipan, at one of the most renowned Italian restaurants in Bangkok, the “Giusto Restaurant”.

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Professional Italian Chef in Hua Hin

By Morten Scheelsbeck

I

f you are looking for a bit of Italy in Thailand, you should consider spending an early evening in La Grappa in Hua Hin. The same minute you walk into the Italian restaurant you will get the feeling that you actually walked into Italy. The decorations and the designs in original Pompei style are pure Italian made by an Italian artist with special reference to make the restaurant as authentic as possible. And he succeeded.

In Hua Hin the professional chef Andreas Bonifacio now has success with a special Italian way of running a restaurant. It takes a lot more than just good food.

Fresh, Italian raw materials are flown into Bangkok from Italy and driven to Hua Hin several times a week, the staff takes English lessons, paid by the restaurant, to service the foreigner customers in the best way, and Italian cooks 4 focuses The chef, Andreas Bonifacio, is guarantee the authentic Italian way 35 years old and has worked as of cooking. a cook since he was 15. He is originally from Trieste and has later Personal treatment worked in a Michelin restaurant in Andreas Bonifacio loves his cusBrescia and at a five star hotel in tomers and he wants them to feel London. In 2005 he moved to Thai- at home when they visit the restauland and this year he took up the rant: challenge as chef in La Grappa, where he is now also partner. To “It is very important to me that I have him the decoration is important, but the time to talk to every single table of course it is not enough that the during an evening. I can ask them what the customers think about the place looks good: food, I can guide them into picking “I usually say that we focus on the right wine, or I can simply tell four important things: environment, them that I am glad they came to food, service, and professional La Grappa, and I wish to see them cooks. A good restaurant needs it again. I want the personal contact all, and we will not compromise to be really special in La Grappa,” on any of the four things,” Andreas the chef explains, adding that the restaurant has a policy among the Bonifacio says. employees that they treat the customers like they would like to be treated themselves.

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Restaurant La Grappa improved significantly this year compared to last year regarding to the amount of customers, but Andreas Bonifacio states that numbers are not the only thing driving him:

The prices at La Grappa runs from 200 baht for the starters, 200 baht for the soups, pasta from 280 baht, meat from 380 baht, fish from 380 baht, pizzas from 260 baht, and desserts from 180 baht.

“Making good food and having satisfied customers is worth more to me than money and profit, but of course we are happy that people like us and our food,� the contented chef states.

La Grappa Italian Restaurant Pizzeria 20/5 Poolsuk Rd, Hua Hin, Prachaubkirikhan, 77110 Tel +66 (0) 32 516 510 +66 (0) 40 094 748 Open Daily: 10.00 - 24.00

November 2009

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People have been incredibly nice to me. I feel already at home.

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November 2009

COVER STORY

H.E. Michelangelo Pipan Ambassador of Italy In August, the new Italian Ambassador took over his new job. Find out who he is and where he comes from, and learn about his expectations and ambitions for his time in Thailand.

By Morten Scheelsbeck Photos by Chaiwat Panyaviriyakul

M

ichelangelo Pipan is the new Italian Ambassador to Thailand. INFORMA has met him for a talk about, among other things his personal background, his initial career and his expectations for the job in Bangkok.

The welcome The new man at the head of the official Italy in Thailand has now been in the position for a few months, and he feels really well in place.

He has been busy meeting all of his colleagues, both at the Italian Embassy and in the Italian community but also ambassadors from other countries.

"People have been incredibly nice to me. I already feel at home, and the friendly people around me have certainly a large part of the credit for that," the new ambassador says. He explains that it has been a very instructive first months, and much of the time was spent going around and meeting with new people.

"It has been useful - and it certainly will also be in the future - that I have spent time and effort getting to know so many new people right from the beginning here. They are people who have a long standing experience and the more I am with them, the more I learn about Thailand," Michelangelo Pipan says.

The family The new Ambassador was originally a lawyer from his hometown in Italy, Turin. His father was a lawyer, when the young Michelangelo lived

at home, and his father is still practicing as a lawyer in the same city. The new Ambassador explains that he never felt pressured to choose the same path as his father.

"No, definitely not. They have always supported me fully in my choice of education, and it has obviously meant a lot to me," he explains.

The Ambassador is married to Mrs. Laila Novello, who is an architect. She has followed her husband around the world, but she has also had the opportunity to put her own personal stamp on the places that they have been together.

"I'm not sure that it is always easy being married to a diplomat. Especially not for my wife, who as an architect has never been able to practice her profession in our various postings," the Ambassador says, except for once in Georgia, where the married couple’s interests suddenly fitted well together.

In February 2000, when Michelangelo Pipan was newly appointed Ambassador to Georgia, he didn’t only have to start a new job. He had the responsibility of starting the embassy from scratch, because Italy had not had an embassy in Georgia before that.

Here Mrs. Laila Novello's skills as an architect became a major benefit. She was given the task of designing the new embassy interior and select which type of interior decoration it should be. In that way, the couple's very different skills suddenly formed a synthesis.

The couple also has a son, Tommaso, born on 28 August 1980. Today Tommaso is studying for his master’s degree in archaeology in London.

The career Michelangelo Pipan was born in Turin on 25th of January 1949. He studied in Turin where he received his law education and graduated in 1972 with a degree in international law.

In 1978, he began working with the Italian foreign service, and it is here that he has been ever since. He has tried a little of everything as an Italian diplomat, from his first posting of Secretary with a focus on trade in Manila in 1981. Then he went to Vienna in 1983, and then he went to Nairobi, Kenya in 1986.

About his career, with many varying and different positions the Ambassador says:

"I have deliberately chosen a varied career, because I would hate to have restricted myself to a specific field. I am interested in everything from culture to economics, and I have now been involved in it all. I hope it will continue so in the future.

"Diversity, has to me, always been the spice of life," he adds.

Michelangelo Pipan returned after the job in Kenya to the ministry in Rome, where he worked in several different positions such as advisor to the Minister for Science and Education on international affairs. He has been the Italian Ambassador in Georgia and among his recent outstanding contributions he was a principal coordinator of the Italian Government participation in the Beijing Olympics last year.

Now he has come to Bangkok, where he started his new job as Italian Ambassador on the 1st August.

The Ambassador’s role So how is the new Ambassador planning to fulfill the important role? Will he emphasize participating in social events in the Italian community in the country, or would he prefer the more office based part of the job.

Primarily, Michelangelo Pipan suggests that his goal is always to be available to everyone who needs him.

"I will always be reachable, if my help is needed, and especially when it comes to two groups of people: Italians, who are considering doing business with Thais, and Thais who are considering working with Italians. I would always like to help," he states and, at the same time, emphasizes that he highly values the cooperation provided by the Italian Trade Commission and the Thai - Italian Chamber of Commerce.

At the same time he does not only want to be involved in social affairs. Other organizations already provide excellent opportunities for networking and, meeting interesting people.

The country The new Ambassador has high expectations for cooperation with Thailand and Thai people over here. Really high expectations: "I was obviously excited and delighted to come over here and start work when I left Italy, November 2009

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The food is delicious, the culture is interesting, and the general attitude is great. I am already happy to be here, but I am sure that it will get even better as time goes by .

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but the great enthusiasm among the Italian community, my colleagues and the people I've met here has raised my expectation even higher," the Ambassador says.

He visited Thailand for the first time in the early 1980s when he worked as First Secretary of the Italian ambassador in Manila, Philippines. He was back in Thailand again in the mid 1990s, and already at that time, he could see huge progress in a country that has developed even more in the same direction ever since: "I have visited Thailand over three decades, so I have been able to follow the evolution through the years. I must say that I am incredibly impressed that a huge city like Bangkok can grow so big with so many buildings and with such a high population density without having lost its Asian charm," the Ambassador says, paying particular attention to the country’s history and culture as things that are important to him.

As a true Italian, he is of course fond of good food, and he also mentions this area as one where he has high expectations for Thailand: "The food is delicious, the culture is interesting, and the general attitude is great. I am already happy to be here, but I am sure that it will get even better as time goes by," he emphasizes.

The politics

The problems

The spare time

All countries have their own problems, but regarding Thailand - what does the new Ambassador see as the biggest challenges for the Italian diplomacy?

"Italy and Thailand have basically good relations with each other and we have not been involved in any crises in recent times. I feel blessed with the historically good relations between the countries," Michelangelo Pipan explains.

He notes, however, that there remain some obstacles to a smooth conduct of trade.

Of course, it is the business of the European Commission to deal with this issue and Italy, as its partner of the European Union, very much supports the various negotiations and conclusions of the PTA with a respect to Thailand.

"We are obviously also struggling with an international crisis, but that is not specific to Italy either. This applies to everyone. Therefore, I do not think that we as Italians just have 'our own' problems to contend with."

Thai politics is something that is unique, and it can be hard to understand it. An unstable political image may complicate the diplomatic work of every nation, and it does not matter where in the world it is. Thailand has in recent years, experienced a stormy political landscape with changing governments, but the question is how it will affect Italian interests here.

The new ambassador was obviously aware of the situation, both when he accepted the job and when he moved to Bangkok and began work.

"I watched and read the international media and learned about the political crisis in Thailand, already long before I moved down here. It has been difficult to understand it completely, when you're used to another system, but that is also an important part of the diplomatic work, and I think I've done my homework well," Michelangelo Pipan says.

He does not want to deny that the unstable political landscape in Thailand has had a negative effect on the Italian investment in the country: Investors take a country's political image into consideration before they invest in a country. That is obvious. However, there are more things than politics at play, and Thailand has been relatively good getting through the economic crisis.

Michelangelo Pipan has so far been quite busy with his new job in Thailand. He is happy to have had a good and busy start, and he makes it very clear that although he has had much to do in the first two months, it has been exciting and challenging. But what does a busy Ambassador do, when he finally has free time to spare?

"Spare time? Ha-ha! I have not had much yet. I have been buried in my work since I came here, but that is alright. I have a lot to do, but I hope to get some spare time soon when I get through the many tasks," the Ambassador says. He has, however, some clear ambitions for how he will spend his free time, when it finally comes: "I love to play golf when I have the time, and then I also have got to take some exercise.

In addition to that I would like to devote some time to explore the country, so I can get as good a picture of it as possible. It fits in well with the job. Along with the most famous tourist’s sites I look forward to seeing the hill tribes of Northern Thailand, the Ambassador says.

He hastens to add one last but very important thing: "And I will at least spend some time to visiting some cultural sites along with my wife," he smiles.

Carmina Burana in Bangkok On September 29th at the Thailand Cultural Centre in Bangkok the Spellbound Dance Company, one of the most famous Italian dance companies, staged the ballet “Carmina Burana”, as part of this year’s International Festival of Dance & Music and under the sponsorship of the Embassy of Italy.

Writer: Ms. Valentina Palazzi Edited: Prof. Luca De Mori

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irected by reputable choreographer Mauro Astolfi, the Spellbound Dance Company danced on the notes of the notable musical opera in three acts “Carmina Burana”, composed by Carl Orff in 1937, and reedited on the base of the collection of lyric poetry written by wandering clerics in the XIII century.

“But this show – according to Valentina Marini, manager of the company – does not only enact Orff’s well known music, because the choreography was created keeping well in mind Antonio Vivaldi and Valentino Caracciolo’s amazing musical creations”.

The show consists of three parts: the “clergy” part, which points out the profligacy and debauchery of the clergymen of the time; the merry part in which food, wine and sensual pleasures play the leading role of the story; the conclusion, where some of the most peculiar aspects of the second part are staged, the most important of which is insanity.

“On the whole –Valentina Marini summarizes – the show swings between a sacred dimension on one side and a mundane one on the other; it displays the different characters and nature that distinguish them”.

The sacred and the mundane dimensions are brought to life by the dance and the choreography and the set design takes the main role.

“The greatest appeal of this show - the managers goes on – is precisely the interplay between set design and choreography. Set design components, like for example the wooden table, the benches and the closet, and take a complementary role to the dancers’ movements and gesture; that emphasizes the dynamic tension between dancers on one side and the stage context on the other.

The result is a very captivating show. Adriana De Sanctis, former dancer and choreography assistant, points out that Mauro Astolfi, the choreography Director, succeeded in making the most of the nine dancers’ strong character and personality; in doing so, he created a show with a strong sense of unity.

Tiziana Dionisio, the organizer of the Asian tour of the company, gladly stated that the public reacted in an extremely positive way. “The rounds of applause were enthusiastic. I think that we should offer foreign audience more chances of knowing Italian culture with a wider choice of high quality cultural activities”.

At the end of the show the performers were greeted by several warm rounds of applause and by the personal tribute of His Excellency Michelangelo Pipan, Ambassador of Italy in Thailand. That was the end of a night in which the Italian culture was the centre of the stage.

RESTAURANT

GIUSTO - Ristorante Italiano Meet the Finest Italian Taste in Sukhumvit Soi 23

G

iusto Bangkok - the Italian restaurant located on 16, Soi Sukhumvit 23 - was established on the February of 2003 from 25 year long friendship of 3 Italian men, Giulio, Renzo, and Fabio who considered themselves true travelers who wanted to present their worldwide experiences as new generation Italians through their own business. The concept of “Giusto” is not only to take exquisite Italian cuisine to the next level but also to present several kinds of activity and events which also include art exhibitions, and for those who are enthusiastic about food, events incorporating wines and arts which are the heart of Italian culture.

The first impression you will get is a homely atmosphere with green areas which you cannot find easily in the bustling business area of

Bangkok. Modern minimalist interior decoration suits young business people, the main target group of this restaurant, who are looking for a place to enjoy their leisure time in the Italian style with fine dinner and fine wine in a fine atmosphere. Diverse art exhibitions from young Thai artists are the main decorative items that can be found throughout the restaurant. Some areas are also reserved for special events. This implies that Giusto is the place for someone searching for recreation, inspiration, and self expression.

“Creation of new dishes” is an important character of the menu preparation. Giusto’s menu is always updated. The restaurant’s Chef, Fabio, tries to break from the tradition of Italian culinary by creating what we can consider as an inventive Italian cuisine. There are about 70 dishes on the basic menu which will change every 3 months. And for someone who sought something more extravagant, Giusto also provides monthly special menus which will change every month. But if you are the type in need of something original and intuitive, the Chef can customize a new dish specially to suit your desires. The last menu type is the lunch menu which will change weekly. Regarding pricing, there are irresistible offers specially for business

Creation of new dishes” is an important character of the menu preparation. meetings. The lunch menu consists of 2 and 3 course meals in which the first would be a starter following by the second which would be your own selection among pasta, meat, fish or pizza. The third course would be dessert.

A very significant warm up dish which the customers always mention is the “Black truffle cream soup”, very tender and light bodied, with fragrance from high quality ingredients like rare black truffle, a kind of wild mushroom with a unique aroma and an exceptional savory taste which will absolutely raise your appetite before the next course arrives.

Apart from the creation of new dishes, Chef Fabio is always concerned about the harmony between each course. Tonight’s starter, “Grill giant Scallop with white asparagus on top with truffle mayo sauce” is one of the chef’s proud starters. A unique combination of superb ingredients from the mountains and the sea,

well garnish and decorated, will be a good introduction to the main course.

“Black spaghetti, rock lobster and fresh diced tomato with lobster sauce” is the chef recommended main course. This is a creation from fresh daily home-made natural squid ink spaghetti with fresh rock lobster and fresh diced tomato. Smooth well-seasoned lobster sauce gave this dish its outstanding taste. The most important key to Giusto’s dishes is the freshness and the variety of ingredients carefully selected from sources all over the world. This is also the key to the customers’ heart.

Wine is also a very important part of an Italian dining culture. Giusto also offers a wine bar that provides you with over 400 labels from the cellar. Giulio, one of the partners and a sommelier, chooses and tastes every bottle by himself and with his years of experience, you will certainly find good wines with reasonable price. More than half of the restaurant’s wine cellar houses Italian wines while the rest are from a variety of countries around the world.

You will always find good quality wine ranging from the price of 1,800 to 18,000 baht to compliment your relaxing lunch or special evening at Giusto.

You can check their updated activities calendar or any further information through the restaurant‘s website: www.giustobangkok. com November 2009

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Intesa Sanpaolo and KPMG meetup:

Banking, Crisis and the Augusto Paolo Scaglione has been working for the largest banking group in Italy, Intesa Sanpaolo since 1982. Two years ago he moved from Hong Kong to Bangkok as Regional Representative to manage the Representative Office of Intesa Sanpaolo in Thailand.

Informa Magazine arranged a meeting with Augusto Scaglione and Nicholas Bellamy who is a Financial Services Partner at KPMG in Bangkok. The result was an interesting talk about banking, crisis and the future.

Nicholas Bellamy: So, when Italian companies want to start up in Thailand, they can come to you?

By Rikke Bjerge Johansen

Nicholas Bellamy: In your opinion, how have you avoided the crisis?

Augusto Scaglione: First, I would like to state that our office is a Representative Office, not a branch providing banking products and services.

Augusto Scaglione: We are much more based on traditional banking business. Last year banks in other countries gave priority to business with a very high income to be generated in a very short term. They employed ‘super managers’ with a huge salary and bonus to facilitate in reaching high profit. Instead of having a careful investment strategy, these banks preferred to look at a day-to-day profit. This was a dangerous game, like playing with fire.

Nicholas Bellamy: Intesa Sanpaolo is the largest banking group in Italy and one of the larger banks in the world. Can you explain some of the services that you are providing to your customers in Thailand?

Augusto Scaglione: We represent our Bank Head Office based in Turin and Milan in Italy.

As a Representative Office, our main activity is to develop relationship with our correspondent banks based in this area with the purpose to develop a closer banking relationship. They are located in Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines and Thailand. Our Representative Office provides also support for our Italian customers who are interested in operating in Thailand and in the region.

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Augusto Scaglione: We welcome Italian companies to come here to consider investments. When our customers come here, we can provide them with general information about the country, assist in meeting local authorities, local banks, introducing lawyers and accountants. Our purpose is to give them a good service so they will continue using our bank.

Nicholas Bellamy: How has Intesa Sanpaolo been affected by the recent financial crisis?

Augusto Scaglione: Probably well known by all, American and European banks suffered losses during last year’s financial crisis.

Luckily, Intesa Sanpaolo and the other Italian banks were not affected like their European counterparts thanks to conservative banking regulations and traditional commercial banking activities. We did not expose our banks to these new financial instruments, like subprime mortgage lending. Some banks in Italy have had problems, however very little compared to the other European banks. Actually, no Italian banks have claimed help and funding from the government to survive.

Nicholas Bellamy: The banks in Thailand have weathered the financial crisis comparatively well. Why do you think this is, and could the European and American banks and regulators learn anything from this?

Augusto Scaglione: The banks in Thailand, Indonesia and Philippines have similarities between their banking system and our Italian. The Far East financial crisis in 1997 was a good lesson for many countries. Strong banking rules were probably one element

in avoiding last year’s crisis since they were more conservative like us. The only problem generated by last year’s financial crisis was the tremendous negative effect on the ‘real’ economy that affected all of us. People are loosing jobs, companies close down and banks with a very conservative policy also suffer.

Nicholas Bellamy: Do you see a return to stronger market regulation?

Augusto Scaglione: Yes, I think now people in different countries are scared to put money in the banks. I think central banks and governments need to apply very strong new rules in order to regulate and supervise the bank business and limit the banks in looking for risky investments. I think Italy is a good example of a well-regulated banking system

Future in Thailand

From left: Mr. Nicholas Bellamy, from KPMG Thailand, and Mr. Augusto Paolo Scaglione, from Intesa Sanpaolo.

which avoids similar problems that happened to other countries.

Nicholas Bellamy: Where do you see the opportunities for Italian companies in Thailand arising from the crisis?

Augusto Scaglione: I think one of the main keys for Italian companies to find opportunities in Thailand and in the other markets after the recent crisis could be the possibility to invest in this market. They should consider assembling or manufacturing their line of machineries and technologies in this market

with the purpose to become competitive against foreign competitors. I think another important element is to invest in innovation and new technologies. Countries like Thailand could be an important element for several Italian companies to strengthen their business activities in the Far East. I am confident that Italian investors in Thailand can find a lot of opportunities in establishing their production line and services to cover this important region.

Nicholas Bellamy: What are the risks that Italian companies should be aware of?

Nicholas Bellamy: Last but not least, there are a large number of excellent Italian restaurants in Bangkok. Do you have any favourites?

Augusto Scaglione: In Italy 80 percent of the export is based on small-medium enterprises, mainly family owned and probably established by their grandfather. To be a small size company in the 70’s and 80’s was a winning factor. It allowed these small-medium size companies to be very flexible in production and easy to adjust to market changes and easy to manage with the local unions. Today it is a problem, because they must compete with globalisation, large international companies and a very competitive and dynamic new Asian industrialist.

Nicholas Bellamy is a Financial Services Partner in KPMG Bangkok, with clients in the Banking and Insurance sectors. A UK qualified Chartered Accountant, Nicholas has more than 17 years experience in Asia, and has been based in Thailand from 19942003 and currently since 2007. Contact: +66(0)26772125 or nbellamy@kpmg.co.th.

Nicholas Bellamy: Given the rising importance of ASEAN, and your role across the region, how do you see this impacting your customers and your business?

Augusto Scaglione has more than 22 years experience in Far East and North America and has been based in Bangkok since 2007.

Contact: +66(0)26700429 or bangkok.repoffice@intesasanpaolo.com

Augusto Scaglione: The ASEAN implementation is not creating any particular problems or changes to our bank activities or strategies towards this area. I think a very important consideration is the importance for Italian companies to be located with their own industrial investments in one of the ASEAN countries, like Thailand. ASEAN is representing over more than 580 million people and if we also consider the other countries that have signed the Free Trade Agreement, like Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, China and India, the total population will reach over 3.5 billion people.

The direct presence of Italian companies in one of the country members of ASEAN will provide a huge business opportunity to export to all these countries without particular problems with custom duties and quota.

So, I’m very keen to promote to our Italian costumers the potential of ASEAN for their business.

Augusto Scaglione: The fact that they are so many show how easy it is for Italians to come to Thailand to set up a business. Here, the Italians can become partners and shareholders and they can bring a strong cooking identity to the restaurant. Besides that, I think my house is the best and I enjoy eating at home. I should open for business.

The KPMG publication "Investment in Thailand" is available free of charge at the following link: http://www.kpmg.co.th/Publications/ InvestmentinThailand2009.pdf

About KPMG Thailand KPMG in Thailand is part of a global network of professional services firms providing Audit, Tax and Advisory Services. There are over 1000 professionals and staff in the Bangkok office committed to providing clients with value adding services. The independent member firms of the KPMG network operate in 140 countries and have more than 135,000 professionals worldwide. http://www.kpmg.co.th About Intesa Sanpaolo Intesa Sanpaolo is the leading banking group in Italy with 6,175 branches in Italy and 1,944 branches abroad serving about 11.1 million customers. Augusto Scaglione’s Representative Office is in charge of the market covering Brunei, the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand.

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Giusto+Belguardo

Summit of North Italian Taste

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n the night of August 27th, 2008, the Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce was honoured to have hosted the Charity Gala Dinner, a get together created by two celebrity chefs from the north region of Italy, Chef Fabio Colautti and Chef Marco Cammarata, are from two renowned Italian restaurants in Bangkok, Giusto and Belguardo.

This initiative was also a fund raising occasion intended to provide support to the "Camillian Home for Disable Children" (CHDC), a sanctuary to disable, indigent and rejected children in Rayong, at the same time – to promote the north Italian cuisine from the two restaurants.

In this occasion, all the Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce and friends of the chamber were invited to indulge in the delicious food and fine wines as well as to participate in the charity together. More than 100 kind-hearted people

and those Italian cuisine lovers had made that night a wonderful experience.

The dinner started with a special appetizer created by Chef Fabio. Chef Marco performed his gastronomic talent in the first course and main course and Chef Fabio closed the northern gastronomy with his gorgeous and tasty dessert.

Cindy Sirinya Bishop hosted as the Master of the Ceremony and also ran the 11 vintage wines auction. The revenue from the auction went to "Camillian Home for Disable Children" (CHDC) to help children with disabilities.

CHDC was established by Father Giovanni Contarin in 1994. At the end of the night 5 lucky people won the SPA voucher from “Zense of Joy”, each voucher was a value of 5,000 baht.

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Summit of North Italian Taste supported by Giusto and Belguardo closed nicely with a filled stomach and full heart of all participants.

We would like to thank GFOUR for sponsoring fine wine, Italasia for Illy coffee and Swissotel Nai Lert Park for the luxurious venue, which this fine night took place in.

Above (from left): Mr. Chakrit Benedetti, Mr. Chayaporn Phronprapha, Mr. Lino Geretto, Mr. Ekkamon Hutasingh, Mr. Pichai Chirathiwat, Father Giovanni Contarin, Ms. Cindy Sirinya Bishop, and Mr. Yongyudh Teeravithayapinyo

November 2009

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The Italian Institute for Foreign Trade (ICE) also known as Italian Trade Commission, is the government agency entrusted with promoting trade, business opportunities and industrial co-operation between Italian and foreign companies. It operates through 115 branch offices in over 86 countries in the world.

This year Italian Trade Commission Bangkok office has organized the varieties of events and fairs, among those the most important are; the yearly event ITALIAN FESTIVAL 2009 in co-operation with the Italian Embassy and the Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce, Italian Pavilions in 3 main trade fairs in Thailand; VIV ASIA 2009, TIPREX 2009 and WIRE SOUTHEAST ASIA 2009 and Promotional Activities “TASTE OF ITALY” in cooperation with Central Group.

The Italian Pavilion in WIRE SOUTHEAST ASIA 2009 The International WIRE & CABLE Trade Fair for Southeast Asia, 13 – 15 October 2009, BITEC in Bangkok, Thailand.

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he participation among 19 of the best wire and cable technologies manufacturers from Italy under the Italian Pavilion, which was cooperated between Italian Trade Commission (I.C.E.) and ACIMAF (Italian Wire Machinery Manufacturers Association), aimed to promote wire & cable latest technologies as well as to seek to penetrate Thai Markets’ direction. Furthermore, they provided the effective solutions to Thai manufacturers and met their special requirements in order to develop Italian-Thai trade exchanges.

Italian exhibitors presented in the Italian Pavilion are: CONTINUSS PROPERZI SPA., DEM COSTRUZIONI SPECIALI SRL., EUROALPHA SRL., EUROTEK SRL., GCR EURODRAW SPA., MARIO FRIGERIO SPA., M+E MACCHINE+ENGINEERING SRL., OCN SPA., OFFICINE MECCANICHE DI LESMO SPA., OTOMEC SRL., PAN CHEMICALS SPA., PROMOSTAR SRL., PS COSTRUZIONI MECCANICHE SRL., SAMP SPA., SAS SNC. ENGINEERING AND PLANNING, SCHNELL SPA., SIRIO WIRE, TKT GROUP and WELDING WIRE MACHINERIES SRL.

The Italian Pavilion in VIV ASIA 2009 Italian Technology for Innovative Animal Production and Processing 11-13 March 2009, BITEC in Bangkok, Thailand Mr. Aphirak Kosayothin, PM Consultant greets Mr. Vincenzo Calì, Italian Trade Commissioner

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he Italian Trade Commission organized the Italian Pavilion in VIV ASIA 2009, the worldwide platform that connects the Asian and pacific markets in animal production and processing sectors. With a great presence of 14 Italian companies of varieties and innovative cut-edged technologies, that fit market needs.

Italian exhibitors presented in the Italian Pavilion are: BARBIERI SRL, CARFED SPA, CHEMIFARMA SPA, CODAF SRL, CORTI ZOOTECNICI SRL, DOXAL ITALIA SPA, GIGOLA & RICCARDI SRL, GIORDANO POULTRY-PLAST SPA, IZO SPA, MABRE SRL, MEDI CHIMICA INTERNATIONAL SRL, PORTALUPPI RUBBER INDUSTRY, SKA SPA and TREI SPA

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The Italian Pavilion in TIPREX 2009

ITALIAN TECHNOLOGY

at TIPREX BITEC, Bangkok, 23 - 26 September 2009

“Thai International Plastics and Rubber Exhibition for the Indochina Region” 23-26 September 2009, BITEC in Bangkok, Thailand

Italian Plastics and Rubber Processing Machinery and Moulds Manufacturers Assocomaplast The Embassy of Italy

ITALIAN PLASTICS AND RUBBER PROCESSING MACHINERY AND MOULDS MANUFACTURERS’ ASSOCIATION

The Italian Ambassador to Thailand H.E. Mr. Michelangelo Pipan and madame, Mr. Vincenzo Calì and madame, Mr. Marco Midolo, Counsellor (Commercial), Embassy of Italy, and Mr. Vanchai Chirathivat, Chairman Central Group of companies at the opening ceremony of “Taste of Italy”

The Italian Ambassador to Thailand H.E. Mr. Michelangelo Pipan and Mr. Vincenzo Calì at the opening ceremony of Italian Pavilion Tiprex 2009

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IPREX 2009 returned to Thailand in 2009 introducing the latest in cutting-edge processing solutions, technologies and products. It is considered as the key avenue for international suppliers in the plastics and rubber industries to extend their reach into the growing and increasingly important Thai and Indochina markets.

The Italian Trade Commission, Bangkok, organized the Italian Pavilion in TIPREX 2009. All visitors had an opportunity to find 8 among the best Italian manufacturers of plastic and rubber processing machinery and moulds with a wide range of new products and solutions for Thai and Indochina plastic and rubber sectors that are playing significant roles in elevating the manufacturing and industrial sectors to the next level.

Italian exhibitors presented in the Italian Pavilion are: BAUSANO & FIGLI SPA, CACCIA ENGINEERING SRL., CMG-MAM SRL., GAP SRL., ICMA SAN GIORGIO SPA., IPM SNC., MORETTO SPA. and VISMEC SRL.

TASTE OF ITALY “AMO L’ITALIA” 30 September – 27 October 2009

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he objectives of this promotional event are to increase the sales of Italian Product, to promote and to introduce new Italian food, and non-food products to Thai customers, and to expand the knowledge of existing products in the Thai market and to achieve these objectives, the Italian Trade Commission – Bangkok Office and Central Food Retail Co., Ltd. organized 28 days promotion of food and non-food products in 2009.

For more information regarding business opportunity and industrial co-operation please contact: Italian Trade Commission Bangkok Office 14/B Floor, Bubhajit Bldg.,20 North Sathorn Rd Silom, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500 T +66 2 633 8491-3 F +66 2 633 8494 Bangkok@ice.it www.italtrade.com/muangthai November 2009

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Paul McGinley and Pablo Larrazabal

Asian Team Fans

A Royal Date for Europe and Asia Yuta Ikeda joins 18-year-old golf sensation Ryo Ishikawa in Asian Team

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nly a few weeks after the dust settles on this year’s professional golf season, one of the sports fastest growing championships will tee off in the lush surroundings of the exclusive Amata Spring Country Club in the beautiful seaside province of Chonburi, Thailand. The best professional golfers from the continents of Europe and Asia will come together on 8-10 January 2010 for the annual continental clash which showcases all the passion and pressure typical of team golf.

The Royal Trophy golf championship originated from the legendary Severiano Ballesteros’ vision and fervent passion for the Ryder Cup. The five-time Major winner intended to extend to the Asian continent the same golf growth impetus the Ryder Cup delivered for Europe in the 1980s and 1990s. But it was His Majesty the King of Thailand’s most gracious donation of the sixteen-kilogram solid-silver Royal Trophy which would royally christen the Championship and perpetually bind to it the Thai heritage.

Led by Ballesteros himself as Captain, Europe prevailed in the Championship’s initial two encounters. But in the third edition of the Royal Trophy, Asian sport sealed a colossal conquest with Asian Team Captain Naomichi ‘Joe’ Ozaki leading the continent to prevail over the Europeans by a score of 10-6. The tremendous victory was earned with the rapturous support of over 40,000 passionate spectators and established Asia as a significant contender in world golf.

Japanese golfing giant Ozaki remains as Captain and will lead Asia in the quest for a

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colossal second consecutive victory over the Europeans. He has already nominated some of the continent’s premier golf talent for the monumental task including Thailand’s Thongchai Jaidee and Prayad Marksaeng and Japan’s Ryo Ishikawa and Yuta Ikeda.

“We are determined to keep the Royal Trophy in Asia. We will do our utmost to defeat Europe in Asian home ground for the second consecutive time,” said Ozaki.

“The Europeans can be sure that we will fight very hard to defeat them again. The Royal Trophy is very meaningful to all of us Asians, and the Europeans can be certain that we will do all we can to keep the Trophy away from them,” warned a determined Prayad Marksaeng, who together with partner Jaidee secured a record three points each for Asia in the Trophy’s previous edition.

“To play for the Asian Continent is definitely something of the greatest significance and it is with tremendous pride that I will wear our Asian uniform,” said golf phenomenon Ishikawa, already the winner of a remarkable four Japan Tour titles in 2009.

“Last time we had tremendous support from the fans and the atmosphere was really electrifying. We will fight hard and compete fiercely to win the Royal Trophy again and I hope all the fans will come out once again and support our Asian effort. We have a tough job ahead but I am committed to getting it done,” concluded Ishikawa, also known as the ‘Shy Prince’ as a result of his ‘good looks’ and unassuming demeanor.

Three-time Open Championship winner Ballesteros intends to lead the European challenge himself. The two-time Masters champion is presently constructing what is certain to be a fantastically strong European side.

“Europe and Asia coming together to compete for the Royal Trophy is very significant and this is a Competition that means a lot to me,” stated the European golfing legend.

“Seve Ballesteros making a return to lead Europe in the fourth edition of the Royal Trophy will be extremely meaningful. Seve has been a great source of inspiration for so many throughout his remarkable career. It is difficult to put into words how much Seve’s return to the Royal Trophy would mean to sports fans all around the world,” said Royal Trophy spokesperson Lincoln Venancio.

“We are certain to have record-breaking galleries and an unbelievable atmosphere at the next edition of the Championship. All infrastructure is being prepared for the largest spectator galleries to ever attend a golf tournament anywhere in Asia and to establish a most enjoyable experience for the spectators and patrons,” added Venancio.

The fourth edition of the Royal Trophy will be played on 8-10 January 2010 and will feature a series of sixteen matches: four foursomes, four four-ball and eight singles. Stewardship of the perpetual Royal Trophy is the principal award for the winning continent.

The Royal Trophy, played during Thailand’s most pleasant weather conditions, will be staged at the members-only 7,470-yard Amata Spring layout, only a forty-five-minute drive from Bangkok and a fifty-minute ride from Pattaya.

The Championship offers visitors a compelling opportunity to combine playing some of the many outstanding golf courses located in the region, witnessing team match-play professional golf of the highest standard and supporting Asia or Europe respectively in their efforts to win the Royal Trophy.

Visit www.TheRoyalTrophy.com For further information, please contact: Thailand Tel: +662 651 9499 Fax: +662 651 9498 Hong Kong Tel: +852 2834 0060 Fax: +852 2838 8593 Ms Doris Chang Mobile : +66 846 939 392 (Thailand mobile) Mobile : +852 9046 2571 (Hong Kong mobile) Email: doris@eg-rt.com

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Italian Festival

2009 May-July 2009

A special culturalcommercial event, 'Italian Festival 2009' celebrated the 140-year-old relationship between Thailand and Italy

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he festival, organized by the Italian Embassy and the Italian Trade Commission in cooperation with the Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce, took place around Bangkok and aimed to strengthen ties between Thailand and Italy.

Italian Festival in Thailand has been held yearly from 2002 to present throughout Bangkok between May and July which also marks the annual celebration of

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Italy’s National Day on the 2nd of June.

This year, the festival included a wide range of activities, offering a special glimpse of Italian culture and lifestyle. The objectives were to promote Italian culture and trade cooperation between Italy and Thailand in food and beverage including other sectors. It also aimed to enhance the relationship between Italy and Thailand, which has been lasting for more than 140 years.

Thanks to the contribution of many local partners, the program brought "The best of Italy” to town such as “Italian Culinary weeks” – The Excellence of Italian Cuisine the superb Italian food festival with special recipes by renowned Italian chefs from 8 leading restaurants in Bangkok and Hua Hin. Music from the Cinema Great Artists 2009 Concerto by Nello

November 2009

Salza’s quintet, the concert by M° Nello Salza Ensemble that evoked the most significant Italian film discography. Italian Film Festival with a variety of 19 films within a week! Italian Espresso Culture “Lavazza” organized a workshop that focused on Italian culture and coffee, what is the real Italian espresso and cappuccino and how to make them. PIAZZA ITALIA (Italian Square) by Italian Fine Wines. The Fashion Hall of Emporium was transformed into an Italian Piazza with consumer products on display! The Weeks

of Italian Food, Wine and Consumer Goods Promotion in collaboration with The Mall Group.

The Mall Group, the Embassy of Italy and the Italian Trade Commission jointly presented 'Italian Festa' for another year with a promotion of Italian products, lifestyle and culture during which everyone could experience exquisite Italian cuisine and other specially imported products. International Symposium “140 Years of Thai-Italian Relations” In celebration of 140 years of Thai-Italian Relations, the Faculty of Arts, Chulalongkorn University in collaboration with the International Institute for Advanced Asian Studies (CESMEO, Turin), the Italian Embassy in Bangkok and the Royal Thai Embassy in Rome held an International Symposium, focusing on Italian language, literature and culture, as well as the history of relations between the two countries. ‘Primavere del Bianco’ (Springs in White) Art Exhibition.

Primavere del Bianco presented works of art with the focus on the theme of “white” colour. And many more…

More information: www.italianfestivalthailand.com

Dante Alighieri Association, the promoter of Italian culture and language From right to left: Mr. Lino Geretto (Vice President of the Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce), Mr. Mario Moretti Polegato (President of Geox), and Mr. Romeo Romei (Director of the Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce).

Italy’s puts Geox

best foot forward in Asia The business of Geox has grown very well in Asia if compared with other parts of the world, where the recession has bigger effects on the Geox’s sells, said Mario Moretti Polegato, president of Geox in occasion of last business briefing.

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he economic downturn will benefit Geox because in these tough times, customers will look for quality products with fashion and comfort content, Mario Moretti Polegato, president of Geox said, adding that the company had international patents that protected it in more than 100 countries. With this actual situation Geox, the Italian footwear brand known internationally for the Breathing shoes, expects to double the sales in the Asia Pacific area, and Thailand will be a significant part of it.

Today Asia area represent only 3% of the sells for the Italian company but the goal for this year is to reach the 5% and by the 2010 double it; for make this possible Geox is launching new products lines, new marketing campaign and store concepts. The company sees Asia like a huge potential market because the number of middle-income customers is increasing as like the quality of the life.

"Though there are political problem, we are optimistic about Thailand, where the demand comes from both local people and tourists.

Political problems take place in every country, even Italy. But we are confident we will continue our businesses," he said.

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he Dante Alighieri Association is a non-profit organization of volunteers and it’s one of Bangkok’s most successful cultural associations helping to foster and enhance the local community’s longstanding love affair with Italian language and culture.

Its operating funds are derived from membership fees and promoted event revenues.

The Association takes its name from Dante Alighieri (1265-1321), that is the reputed father of the modern Italian language, author of the Divine Comedy and generally considered to be one of the greatest Italian poets and writer of the Italian vernacular. For this reason, Dante was chosen to be the figurehead for a group of association around the world, with the desire to promote Italian language and culture.

In order to promote the Italian language and culture throughout the world, La Dante Bangkok organizes Italian language courses and cultural events.

The annual program include: • Italian language COURSES for children and adults.

• Member GET-TOGETHERS every month to watch Italian movies with English subtitles at DC Consulting, 22 Floor, Amarin Plaza (Chitlom skytrain station).

• A program of ASSOCIATION DINNERS at excellent Italian restaurants in Bangkok, at special prices.

• One guided TOURS of Bangkok mansions and monuments designed and built by Italian architects and artists. These tours have also been very successful.

• The next year a TRIP to ITALY in the footsteps of King Rama V. • The GIORNALINO, the periodical that keeps members informed of La Dante activities • SPECIAL EVENTS, e.g., shows and concerts, in cooperation with the Embassy of Italy and others organizations.

For contacting us : Email: dantebangkok@hotmail.com

Source: Bangkok Post October 5, 2009

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TICC ACTIVITIES

Get Together at Barsu

TICC’s new member, Narai Phand Co., Ltd. , Mrs. Yuvanit Pisantanakul.

Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, 23rd July 2009 n Thursday 23rd July 2009, our get-together networking event was held at Barsu, Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit.

We would like to thank Italasia (the wine sponsor) for their generous support. In this occasion, we introduced 3 new members; Narai Phand Co., Ltd., Star Marine Engineering Co., Ltd. and Oceanic Management Co., Ltd. For this event, the guest speaker was Mr. Martin Klose, a partner with Rödl & Partner and a German qualified law attorney. We are hoping that this event will contribute to establish positive business connections.

(From left to right) Mr. Eugenio Collavini, Mr. Lino Geretto, Mr. Rene Okanovic, Mr. Ekkamon Hutasingh and Mr. Felice Maffei.

TICC’s new member, Oceanic Management Co., Ltd., Mr. Patrick Catallani.

TICC’s new member, Star Marine Engineering Co., Ltd., Mr. Bunchong Kunuchit.

Seminar on "Packaging Development for Italian Market” 21st September 2009

n Monday 21st September 2009, OSMEP, in collaboration with the Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce, hosted a Seminar on "Packaging Development for Italian Market" at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center.

In this event, a brief presentation focusing on the development of Thai product packaging to exploit Italian market was held. The guest speakers were Dr. Schwin Dhammanungune, an expert in management and business consultant, Mr. Massimo Zucchi, well known designer and consultant for Rolex, and Mr. Guido Traverso Guicciardi, Business Advisor with a long experience in Accenture, Italy.

Mr. Guido Traverso Guicciardi, Mr. Ekkamon Hutasingh, Mr. Massimo Zucchi and Dr. Schwin Dhammanungune. (From left to right)

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The TICC Welcomes Italy’s New Ambassador

Mr. Giuseppe Zigrino, Mr. Pichai Chirathivat, H.E. Michelangelo Pipan, Mrs. Pipan, Mr. Ekkamon Hutasingh, Mr. Lino Geretto and Mr. Yongyudh Teeravithayapinyo (From left to right).

17th September 2009 n Thursday 17th September 2009, the Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce hosted a welcome reception for the new Ambassador of Italy in Thailand, His Excellency Michelangelo Pipan, at one of the most renowned Italian restaurants in Bangkok, the “Giusto Restaurant”.

We would like to thank all members of the Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce and guests, including Mr. Marco Midolo, the Counsellor (Commercial) of the Italian Embassy, Mr. Vincenzo Calì, the Italian Trade Commission and the TICC’s directors, who came out on this wonderful evening. Additionally, the Chamber wishes to thank Italasia and Collavini (wine sponsor) and also the Giusto Restaurant (catering and venue sponsor) for their generous support.

For this occasion, world famous Italian brands like Ducati, Ferrari and Lamborghini showcased of their luxury and sport cars and motorbikes at the restaurant.

H.E. Michelangelo Pipan and Mrs. Pipan taking group photo with the Board of Directors of the ThaiItalian Chamber of Commerce, Secretary General of TICC , Mr. Sandro Zanello and the Italian Trade Commissioner, Mr. Vincenzo Calì.

Parma Ham and the Italian GI Protection in Thailand 15th October 2009

n Thursday 15th October 2009, the Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce hosted a networking lunch at Saladaeng Room, the Dusit Thani Hotel. We thank Eurofood for providing delicious Parma Ham to the event.

For this occasion, Mr. Stephane Passeri, our guest speaker, examined the landscape of intellectual property law in Europe and Thailand and described the case history of Parma Ham.

TICC Board of Directors and Department of Intellectual Property (DIP): Mr. Yongyudh Teeravithayapinyo, Mrs. Ramida Hutasingh, Mrs. Pajchima Tanasanti (DIP), Mr. Ekkamon Hutasingh, Ms. Urawee Ngowroongrueng (DIP) and Ms. Thitinuntana Tonsrisakul (DIP). (From left to right) Mr. Pierre Nicou, Mr. Stephane Passeri (the speaker) and Mr. Yongyudh Teeravithayapinyo. (From left to right)

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Mosquito Borne Diseases Mosquitoes have been on the planet longer than man and have come to regard us as an attractive “all you can eat” buffet. They really don’t mean us any harm; there is no grand plan to take over the planet, it is just that now and then they like a little feed of blood. It is not even all the mosquitoes that are after us, only the older ones and, you may be surprised to learn, only the females.

By Dr Michael Moreton *)

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nfortunately the mosquitoes carry some rather nasty parasites and viruses in their bodies. They have been clever and have adapted so that they do not suffer from these diseases but they do pass them on to us when they bite. There is little reaction to the first bite and it may be quite painless; with more bites the sensitivity of the body increases and an itchy red hive may appear after a few minutes.

When the female mosquito bites in order to obtain blood, she also injects saliva and an anti-coagulant into the blood stream; the saliva may contain parasites and viruses that can cause illnesses. It was as recently as the 1890s that it was discovered by work in Calcutta, Cuba and Panama that the mosquito was responsible for spreading Yellow Fever and Malaria. The heroes who made this discovery were Sir Ronald Ross who when working in Calcutta proved that mosquitoes were the transmitters and Dr Walter Reed of the US Army Medical Corps who used this information in Panama to protect the workers; without his work it is unlikely that the Panama Canal could have been built. *) Dr Michael Moreton is the International Medical Coordinator at the Bangkok Hospital. Email: Moreton@bgh.co.th

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About 700 million people annually, mostly in Africa, Asia, South and Central America, suffer from mosquito-borne diseases resulting in two to three million deaths, the majority of them being young children in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Malaria: Anopheles The word Malaria comes from Italian and means bad air. Before Dr Reed’s work it was thought that the disease was caused by bad elements in the air. We now know that the disease is caused by a single cell parasite the Plasmodium; of which there are five varieties, the most serious being the Plasmodium falciparum. This is usually carried by an Anopheles mosquito that has acquired the parasite by biting an infected person. About a week later, when the mosquito enjoys another meal of human blood, the parasite is injected into that new victim. The Anopheles likes to feed at dusk and dawn and this feature is useful in designing protection programs. It is also predominantly a rural disease but it does occur in cities too, probably because the mosquito finds more suitable breeding places in country areas: ponds, swamps and other pools of stagnant water.

The parasite multiplies in the patient’s body and symptoms start to appear about 6-12 days after infection. Fever, chills, nausea, muscular and joint pain, shortness of breath and rapid pulse are typical symptoms.

The classical symptoms of Malaria are the cyclical occurrence of sudden coldness, followed by rigor and fever and sweating for several hours. Coma, convulsions and neurological complication may occur. In severe cases, kidney failure may result in blood being passed in the urine - one of the old names for the disease was Black-water Fever.

Even with excellent medical care a 20% death rate can occur; without it, the death rate may be much higher even more. Following the initial attack, patients may suffer from Chronic Malaria where the disease returns months or

years after the initial attack. The parasite can hide in the liver for many years and come out to cause a new attack. The longest recorded period between the initial attack and a recurrence is thirty years!

Since Charles Laveran first visualized the malaria parasite in the blood in 1880, microscopic examination of the blood has been the most reliable method of diagnosis, but in recent years more sophisticated lab tests have been developed which can give a rapid diagnosis.

In areas where even simple blood tests are not available the diagnosis is made from the history and physical examination; this is not satisfactory and many false positive and false negative diagnoses are made if laboratory services are not available.

Treatment is difficult and this is made more so by the parasite evolving and acquiring immunity to each new drug. The Spanish colonizers of South America learned from the native people of Peru of a “wonder drug’ for the treatment and prevention of Malaria. Quinine is extracted from the bark of the Cichona tree and this medication, known as Jesuits Bark, was used for over three hundred and is still being used in some situations. Modern drugs have been developed and the choice depends on the individual patients symptoms and the location of the patient as drug resistance differs from place to place.

Prophylactic use of drugs controversial The prophylactic use of drugs, patients taking medication before going to visit an area in which malaria is endemic, is controversial.

They have to be started before the risk of exposure and continue for up to four weeks afterwards, they can sometimes cause serious side-effects and are subject to the problem of resistant strains.

In the days of the British Empire, the colonizers all had to take a dose of Quinine every night. Quinine is very bitter, so to make it more palatable they added a little Gin, soda water and lemon, which is the origin of the Gin and Tonic.

Visitors to endemic regions are encouraged to take steps to avoid being bitten. Suitable clothing with arms, legs and neck being covered are ideal; special care should be taken at night. Skin preparations either in cream or spray form should be applied to all exposed skin. Preparations containing DEET are very effective.

The use of mosquito netting at night is es-

Screen doors, and insect window screens have greatly reduced the mosquito exposure to mosquitos in our homes.

Mosquito bed nets are essential in bungalows in places like Cambodia - and then they are also decorative.

sential if the bedroom is not closed from the outside air. Modern netting is impregnated with anti-mosquito chemicals that can increase the protection.

Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water so draining swamps and flooded areas has helped enormously. DDT was used extensively for many years but the health hazard and other environmental risks of this chemical have almost eliminated its use. Other less hazardous chemicals have been developed but some public health authorities still feel that DDT has a useful role to play.

No effective vaccine has yet been produced but we may be getting close. The Bill Gates Foundation is financing a project in which researchers have expressed confidence that they will produce a vaccine within the next few years.

Yellow Fever: Aedes Yellow fever is an acute viral disease transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito. “Yellow� refers to the jaundice that is quite common in sufferers. There have been many devastating epidemics in history; Philadelphia in 1793 when over 10,000 died; New Orleans in 1853 when 8000 died; the French Army in Haiti in 1802 when an army of 40,000 men was decimated and thus changed the history of the region.

Yellow Fever begins suddenly about three to five days after being bitten. In mild cases there may be only fever and headache but within twenty four hours 15% of the patients will develop chills, back pain, extreme prostration and bleeding into the skin. Most recover but some will die. There is no effective treatment for this disease but there is good news; there is a good vaccine against this disease. Extensive public health programs in endemic regions have helped control this disease.

Dengue Fever: Aedes This is another disease spread by the Aedes aegypti mosquito. This mosquito, unlike the malaria types is a day feeder and is also present in urban as well as rural regions. Dengue is present in many tropical countries; a recent outbreak in Australia, caused several hundred cases. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that worldwide there are 50 million cases a year. It is caused by a virus in the Flavivridae family. There are four types of this virus and each one causes a slightly different disease. Contracting and developing antibodies to one, unfortunately, does not protect you from the others.

The disease presents with a sudden onset of fever, headaches, severe muscle and joint pain.

An old name for the disease was Breakbone Fever because of this terrible pain. There may also be abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. One of the worrying features is that there are changes in the blood which makes the blood less able to clot and leads to spontaneous bleeding. This causes a typical rash, caused by many small hemorrhages underneath the skin. If the disease should become severe internal bleeding may occur, then it is classified as Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever, a much more serious disease.

There is no specific treatment for the disease; dehydration can be a problem and intra-venous fluids are given to prevent this from occurring. Careful observation of the platelet count is needed and the patient nursed with care to avoid any trauma; only very rarely is a blood or platelet transfusion necessary.

The four types of Dengue mean that one attack may not give protection from another variety, in fact an attack by a second variety may be more severe and is more likely to lead to Hemorrhagic Fever than the first. It is as if the immune system is fooled into believing that it has antibodies to this new invader when it doesn’t.

Work is being done produce a vaccine for the four types and there are reasons to believe that one will be available within a few years.

Precautions are similar to those for Malaria, mosquito control and personal mosquito protection. It should be remembered that this mosquito is a day feeder.

Japanese Encephalitis: Culex This disease is most prevalent in Southeast Asia.

The JE virus is a member of the Flavividae Family and is carried by the Culex mosquito, whose natural home is in rice fields. It is most prevalent in rural area but cases are seen even in urban areas. Most infections are asymptomatic or mild and it is estimated that only 1 in 200 cases develop into encephalitis.

After a few days of non-specific fever symptoms the patient may start to show neurological signs: neck rigidity, numbness, and convulsions.

A vaccine was developed over fifty yeas ago and has been found to be very effective.

Anyone traveling extensively in Asia, particularly to country areas is encouraged to have this injection.

Bangkok Hospital expertise Avoiding being bitten is the priority in preventing any of these diseases. The development of fine mesh window screens in the nineteenth century was probably the most significant step in defending us against the mosquito.

The application of a DEET cream or spray before leaving home is of the greatest importance; it should also be reapplied every few hours.

The Travel Medicine Clinic at the Bangkok Hospital is staffed by doctors able to provide information and advice to patients planning trips in Asia or to other parts of the world where these diseases are a problem. The doctors can provide advice on prophylaxis against Malaria and recommend vaccines that you may need.

Mosquito repellents?

How could we ever live without them?!

November 2009

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TRADE SHOW International Trade Fairs in Italy (December 2009- March 2010) In Italy Exhibition

Detail

Date

Venue/Website

L’ARTIGIANO IN FIERA

13th International Crafts Selling Exhibition

5-13 Dec 2009

Fiera Milano-RHO www.artigianoinfiera.it

MACEF

International Home Show

15-18 Jan 2010

Fiera Milano www.macef.com

MADE expo

The International Exhibition for Projects, Architecture and Building

3 – 6 Feb 2010

Fiera Milano-RHO www.madeexpo.it

MIPEL

International Showcase of Leather Goods and Accessories

2-5 Mar 2010

Fiera Milano-RHO www.mipel.com

International Trade Fairs in Thailand (December 2009- March 2010) In Thailand Exhibition

Detail

Date

Venue/Website

MOTOR EXPO 2009

Thailand International Automobile Exhibition

2-13 Dec 2009

Challenger Hall 1-3 Impact Muang Thong Thani www.motorexpo.co.th/2009/

Phuket International Marine Expo (PIMEX)

The 7th South East Asia’s Premier Annual Boating and Lifestyle Show

7-10 Jan 2010

Royal Phuket Marina Exhibition Centre, Phuket www.phuketboatshow.com

Boiler& Pressure Vessel 2010

The 2nd International Boiler& Pressure Vessel Exhibition and Conference

24-27 Feb 2010

Impact Muang Thong Thani www.boiler-pressurevessel.com

Victam Asia 2010

South East Asia’s event for manufacturers and suppliers of technology and equipment used for the production of animal feed, pet food and aqua feed.

3-5 Mar 2010

Queen Sirikit National Convention Center www.victam.com

BECOME A MEMBER OF THE THAI- ITALIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Company Name:

Fill in this coupon and fax or mail to Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce to receive further information and a full application form for membership.

Contact Name: Address:

Telephone:

Fax:

E-mail: Website:

28

November 2009

Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce 16th Fl, Vanit II Bldg., Room 1601B 1126/1 New Petchburi Road, Makkasan Bangkok 10400 Thailand Tel: (662) 253 9909, 255 8695 Fax: (662) 253 9896 E-mail: info@thaitch.org

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS CK-Shosen Co., Ltd. Mr. Supornchai Kongpatanakul 499/9 Moo 7 maliwan Road, T. Bantum, A. Muang, Konkean 4000 Tel. 66 2 753 2233 Fax. 66 2 384 7805 Email: sm@ckshoes.co.th, supornchai@kmcc.co.th Bio Thai Supply Co., Ltd. Mr. Rene ML Geeraerts 246 Times Square Building, 21st Floor Room 21-02, Sukhumvit Road, between Soi 12-14 Klongtoey, Bangkok 10110 Thailand Tel. 66 2 254 7197-8 Fax. 66 2 254 7199 Email: rg@eurasiathailand.com, rg@eurasia.in.th Website: www.eurasiathailand.com Ducatisti Co., Ltd. Mr. Apichart Leenutaphong 842 Soi Thonglor, Sukhumvot Road, Klongton Nua, Wattana, Bangkok 10110 Tel. 66 2 381 8811 Fax. 66 2 381 8810 Email: apichartl@ducatisti.co.th Website: www.ducatithailand.com Star Marine Engineering Co., Ltd. Mr. Bunchong Kunuchit 2/5 M11 Bangphueng, Phrapradaeng, Samutprakarn 10130 Tel. 66 2 816 8001-5 Fax. 66 2 463 2616, 66 2 463 5223 Email: bunchong@starmarineeng.com, info@starmarineeng.com Website: www.starmarineeng.com Niche Cars Co., Ltd. Mr. Vittawat Chinabarramee 317 Srinakarin Road, Huamark, Bangkapi, Bangkok Thailand Tel. 66 2 379 4422, 66 2 379 5111 Fax. 66 2 379 5584 Email: pondgamol@nichecars.co.th Website: www.nichecars.co.th Qatar Airways Mr. Chan Seck Fun 388 Exchnage Tower 2nd floor, Unit 212, 214, 21st Floor, Unit 2102, Sukhumvit Road, Klongtoey, Klongtoey, Bangkok 10110 Tel. 66 2 259 3560-3 Fax. 66 2 259 1088 Email: pmahudthanaviroj@th.qatarairways.com Website: www.qatarairways.com.th O.K. Wood Product Co. , Ltd. Mr. Thanun Ounkomol 17/1 Soi Wat Bangpho-Omavas Pracharad 1 Road, Bangsue Bangkok 10800 Thailand Tel. 66 2 581 5894-5, 66 2 586 9569-70 Fax. 66 2 587 8720 Email: thanun@okwood.com Website: www.okwood.com

Southeast Asia Organic Co., Ltd. Mr. Chatchaphon Pittayathikhun 333/109-110 Moo 4 Laksi Plaza Building, 9th floor, Changwattana Road, Talad Bangkhen, Laksi, Bangkok Thailand 10210 Tel. 66 2 576 0925-7 Fax. 66 2 576 0928 Email: chat@sea-organic.com, chatchaphon@cpp.co.th Website: www.sea-organic.com United Marine Logistic Co., Ltd. Ms. Nattha Klamplod 177/1 Bangkok Union Insurance Building (BUI), 11th Floor, Surawongse Road, Suriyawongse, Bangkok 10500 Thailand Tel. 66 2 634 8999 Fax. 66 2 634 8813-5 Email: nattha@umac.co.th, pattama@umac.co.th Palakiss S.p.A. Mr. Andrea Harcon Via Dell' Oreficeria, 37, 36100, Vicenza. Italy Tel. 39 0444 341 847 Fax. 39 0444 341 848 Email: info@palakisstore.com Website: www.palakisstore.com Fairs Link Co., Ltd. Ms. Krongkarn Atchayasoontorn 44/3-4 Soi Thonglor 13, Sukhumvit 55 Road, Klongton Nua, Watana, Bangkok 10110 Tel. 66 2 725 8531-2 Fax. 66 2 725 8530 Email: fairslink@yahoo.com Narai Phand Co., Ltd. Mrs. Yuvanit Pisantanakul President Tower No, 70, 7th Floor, 973 Ploenchit Road, Lumpini, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 Tel. 66 2 656 0398-400 Fax. 66 2 656 0292 Email: sales@naraiphand.com, purchase@naraiphand.com, naraiphand@gmail.com Website: www.naraiphand.com Oceanic Management Co., Ltd. Mr. Patrick Catallani 9/52 Moo 9 Chaofa (East) Road, Chaong, Muang, Phuket 83130 Tel. 66 76 283 445-9 Fax. 66 76 283 447 Email: patrick@oceanic-global.com Website: www.oceanic-global.com Pane e Vino Ltd. Mr. Marco Ravasio 53/1-2 Sukhumvit Soi 39, 10110 Wattana, Bangkok Tel. 66 2 258 5606 Fax. 66 2 258 5599 Email: contact@lopera-bangkok.com Website: www.lopera-bangkok.com

Terra S.E. Asia Co., Ltd Mr. Luca Appino 49 Sukhumvit Soi 49, Klongton-Nua, Wattana, Bangkok Tel. 66 2 392 3506 Fax. 66 2 392 3506 Email: terra.di.luca@gmail.com Kami Spa SRL Mr. Stefano Sciarretta Via Degli Avignonesi 12, 00184 Roma Tel. 39 33 5135 1757 Email: s.sciarretta@libero.it Website: www.karmispa.it MZD Co., Ltd. Mr. Chayut Assarasakorn 78/1009 Rama 3 Road, Chong-Nonsri, Yannawa, Bangkok 10120 Tel. 66 2 610 3938 Fax. 66 2 163 0589 Email: chayut@mzdesign.eu, chayut.ckma@gmail.com Thai Optical Group Public Co., Ltd. Mr. Sawang Pracharktam 15/5 Moo 6 Bangbuathong-Suphanburi Rd., Kaham, Bangbuathong, Nonthaburi 11110 Tel. 66 2 862 0701-2 Fax. 66 2 862 0704 Email: sawang@thaiopticalgroup.com Website: www.thaiopticalgroup.com Generali Life Assurance (Thailand) Co., Ltd. Generali Insurance (Thailand) Co., Ltd. Mr. Keith Andrew Brooks 16th Floor, Unit 1602 – 1605, CRC Tower, All Seasons Place, 87/2 Wireless Road, Lumpini, Patumwan, Bangkok 10330 Tel. 66 2 685 3828 Fax. 66 2 685 3829 Email: info@generali.co.th, keithb@generali.co.th Website: www.generali.co.th Intercosped (Thailand) Co., Ltd. Ms. Kotchaporn Suwanwong 230 Thosapol Land 2, 14th floor, Block O, Ratchadapisek Road, Huay Kwang, Bangkok 10320 Tel. 66 2 692 7303-11 ext 134 Fax. 66 2 692 7312-3 Email: kotchaporn@intercosped.co.th Website: www.intercosped.co.th Natural Colorstone Ltd. Mr. Hemant Kumar Jain 107/1 Soi Puthaosoth, Siphaya, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500 Tel. 66 2 233 8772, 66 2 631 6788 Fax. 66 2 631 6782 Email: naturalcolorstone@gmail.com

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Tourismo Thai 1/2

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November 2009