Thai, Japanese ministers discuss trade, commercial tie-ups
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2022
Commerce ministers from Thailand and Japan discussed a boost in trade and commercial cooperation during a meeting on the sidelines of the 2022 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit.
Commerce Minister Jurin Laksanawisit met with Japan’s Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura on Wednesday at Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre in Bangkok.
Jurin said Nishimura presented a project to celebrate 50 years of ties between Japan and Asean under the concept “Co-create Vision”, with a highlight on building at least 100 networks of private Japanese and Asean firms by boosting business matching and joint investments across various industries.
Japan has earmarked a budget of 8 billion yen (2.1 billion baht) for the project.
Nishimura also affirmed that Japan would fully support the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), which groups Thailand, Japan and 13 other countries. The RCEP is currently considered the world’s largest free trade bloc, said Jurin.
Japan also urged the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) to continue its mission to establish economic relationships in the region among 14 member countries, including Thailand, Japan, the United States and Australia.
The IPEF was officially announced in May this year in Tokyo and, together, its members represent 40 per cent of the world’s GDP.
Jurin said he discussed the issue in which Thailand is currently exporting only 3 billion tonnes of banana to Japan under the Japan-Thailand Economic Partnership Agreement, which actually stipulates a quota of 8 billion tonnes per year.
“We could not use the whole quota because the agreement has complex regulations that have made some of our products fall short of Japan’s import standards,” said Jurin, adding that he had asked Nishimura to coordinate with the Japan External Trade Organisation to help provide knowledge and necessary training to Thai farmers so they can improve their product quality to meet Japanese standards.
Jurin also asked Nishimura to consider supporting Phuket as host of the Specialised Expo 2028. The expo, which targets medical technology and promotes medical tourism, is supervised by the Bureau International des Expositions, which Thailand and Japan are members of. The bureau is scheduled to select the host in June next year.
In the first nine months of 2022, trade between Thailand and Japan was worth 1.55 billion baht, increasing 9.13% year on year. About 642 billion baht came from exports, which increased 10.7% year on year and included automotive components, processed chicken, machinery, computers, plastic pallets, copper and steel.
ICONSIAM to host “Amazing Thailand Countdown 2023”, marking Thailand as “Global Countdown Destination,” with over THB200 million budget to drive Thai economy and tourism
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2022
To stimulate Thailand’s economy, tourism and numerous businesses on the banks of Chao Phraya River, ICONSIAM is hosting over 20 events throughout December 2022 under the theme “ICONSIAM Magical Enchanted Celebration” with over 200-million-baht budget.
In collaboration with government agencies, private sectors, hotel partners and the communities on the banks of the river, ICONSIAM is to host its iconic world-class New Year’s Eve celebration “Amazing Thailand Countdown 2023,” that will once again mark Thailand as a “Global Countdown Destination.” This year, the exquisite eco-friendly firework display will light up the most pictures curve of the majestic Chao Phraya River, spreading joy, hope and happiness to Thais and to the world.
Mr. Supoj Chaiwatsirikul, Managing Director of ICONSIAM Company Limited, said “Now that tourism has become the key factor of the economic recovery, ICONSIAM has formed a strategic partnership under ‘Collaboration to Win’ strategy with involved stakeholders that also aligns with the government’s tourism recovery plan. Our festive celebration “ICONSIAM Magical Enchanted Celebration” is sharing happiness to Thais and welcoming visitors from across the globe. With over 200 million baht spent, we are presenting over 20 grand events and marketing campaigns all through December 2022.”
ICONSIAM is creating the mega “Amazing Thailand Countdown 2023,” in collaboration with government agencies, private sectors, hotel partners, entrepreneurs and the communities along the Chao Phraya, to ring in the New Year, as our special gift to Thais and visitors from all over the world. This is the first year after the recovery from COVID-19, and we, along with our business allies are determined to make this grand event even more splendid. The highlight of the New Year celebration event is “Hybrid World Countdown,” featuring splendid light and sound show integrated with the immersive technology connecting exciting the on ground experience and the virtual world along with the magnificent eco-friendly firework displays set along the most beautiful curve of the Chao Phraya River. This grand event will reaffirm Thailand’s image as one of the must-visit global countdown destinations for tourists from all over the world to in the New Year together with Thai people”, says Mr. Supoj.
“During the fourth quarter of 2022, especially in November and December, in which the 2022 APEC meetings are being held and the New Year celebrations are coming, Thailand is expected to attract more than 2 million investors and tourists, which can stimulate over 20,000 million baht to the economy. ICONSIAM, as one of the stimulating forces to stimulate the Thai economy, is certain that the marketing plan specifically set for these final two months will revive the businesses on the Chao Phraya riverside and attract both Thai and international customers. The number of tourists is expected to reach from 100,000 to 130,000 tourists each day by the end of 2022,” concluded Mr. Supoj.
The grand New Year celebration event, “Amazing Thailand Countdown 2023”, is taking place on 31 December 2022 amidst the majestic view of the Chao Phraya River. Previously, the event was broadcast worldwide by leading international news agencies, such as CNN, BBC, AP, Reuter, ABC, etc., portraying the magnificent night scenes of the Chao Phraya River, which is one of the world’s renowned iconic landmarks imprinted on all Thai people’s hearts.
In addition, visitors will be amazed by the showcase of the Christmas tree lighting festival ICONSIAM Bangkok Illumination, from now until 5 January 2023. This year’s vibrant Christmas tree is powered by clean energy generated by solar cell, in line with ICONSIAM’s mission on energy saving and reducing carbon footprint. Another highlight is the New Year gift fair “ICONSIAM World of Gifts.” More than one million gifts being offered ranging from locally-made to imported products between 1 December – 9 January 2023. Attractive promotions will be also offered in these joyful celebrations with prized valued over 8.5 million baht.
ICONSIAM also offers a lineup of entertainment showcases, such as the multimedia water show featuring remarkable lights and sounds, ‘ICONIC Multimedia Water Features’ under the concept of “Empowering The Joy, ” as music is a universal culture that connects all generations. “CineAsia 2022” is the international motion picture event, which will take place on 5-8 December 2022 at TRUE ICON HALL. “DISNEY IN CONCERT: A Magical Celebration 2022,” brings beloved Disney stories and characters to life orchestrated by 46 American musicians playing Disney’s movie theme songs. The concert will be performed for four rounds from 31 December 2022 to 1 January 2023 at TRUE ICON HALL, 7th floor, ICONSIAM.
Siam Piwat reinforces the center of ‘Luxury Destination’ in Asia, creating a world-class experience to unveil a lineup of new luxury pop-up stores for the first time
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2022
Siam Piwat Co., Ltd., a leading property and retail developer – the owner and operator of global destinations including Siam Paragon, Siam Center, and Siam Discovery, and a joint venture partner of ICONSIAM and Siam Premium Outlets Bangkok, is delivering an ultimate experience with an exciting lineup of world-class luxury brands joining hands to debut their latest pop-up stores, new retail concepts and exclusive collections, for the first time in Southeast Asia and even make their Asia’s premier at Siam Paragon and ICONSIAM.
Being the most prestigious locations and the ultimate luxury destination shows the confidence of major global high-end brands in Siam Piwat’s and underlines the company’s strength as the leader that hold Thailand’s largest high-purchasing customer base as well as emphasize the company’s mission to never stop delivering the ‘ultimate world-class experience.
Mrs. Thanaporn Tantiyanon, Head of Business Unit, Siam Paragon said, “Being ‘The Visionary Icon,’ Siam Piwat’s has always thrived for excellence while maintaining its highest standards in the business. We also integrate the power of ‘Co-Creation’ with alliances, business partners and brands to deliver unparalleled experiences in every dimension. We have been customers’ top-of-mind and attracts locals and international travelers from all over the world.”
“Siam Paragon is a prestige world-class shopping center in the heart of Bangkok and ICONSIAM is an iconic global landmark by the Chao Phraya River, both are an unparallel wealth of lifestyle offerings, bringing the best of luxury shopping and entertainment phenomena that caters to premium lifestyles. Importantly, both properties are key platforms for retailers, from global designer brands to Thai entrepreneurs to present their best offers. The luxury sections have been tremendously well received and have generated high sales and seen remarkable growth that rank among the top in the world, underlying both Siam Paragon and ICONSIAM as true luxury destinations. Renowned high-end brands have specifically chosen Siam Paragon and ICONSIAM to be their exclusive locations for their special pop-up stores to debut their exclusive and limited collections. These special pop-ups are definitely the ultimate and unique experience and a key magnet that attracts affluent customers.”
This festive season of 2022, myriad of luxury brands will showcase exciting lineups of their Thailand’s first pop-up stores as well as exclusive collections, marking Southeast Asia premier or event Asia’s debut. Siam Paragon will feature special pop ups like Balenciaga x Adidas, Burberry x Minecraft, FENDI 25th Baguette Anniversary, Looney Tunes x MCM, Montblanc, etc.
Meanwhile, ICONSIAM, a world-class landmark on the Chao Phraya River, will be presenting a unique luxury experiences from top-notch brands such as Bottega Veneta, Burberry Lola, BVLGARI Serpenti Light Up, Hermès petit h, etc.
These reflects the strength of Siam Piwat as the leader in attaining the highest purchasing power group of customers in Thailand and never cease to deliver exceptional and unparalleled experiences. It is customers’ top-of-mind and marks it as a leading attraction for local and visitors from around the world and has won numerous prestigious international awards.
RADISSON HOTEL GROUP GETS READY TO BECOME TRAVELLERS’ FIRST CHOICE GLOBALLY
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2022
Radisson Hotel Group (RHG) unveiled ambitious plans earlier in the year to rapidly expand its portfolio across the Asia Pacific region by 2025, ensuring it not only remains amongst the top three hospitality companies in the world, but also moves towards becoming the first choice for travellers.
The announcement comes at a critical juncture in the Asia-Pacific tourism industry’s recovery from the pandemic.
“As recovery gets underway, we intend to be the hotel brand of choice for employees, guests and owners with a diverse portfolio of exceptional hotels and resorts. Our nine distinct brands are designed to meet the needs of different travellers and budget levels,” David Nguyen, Managing Director of Radisson Hotel Group (RHG)’s Indochina and Strategic Partnerships, Southeast Asia & Pacific said.
Despite RHG’s strong position, the Group aspires to be at the forefront of travellers’ minds when they travel by emphasising diversity in serving customers, a supportive environment for employees, and agility in operations for owners.
Nguyen stated that Radisson Hotel Group has a clearly defined brand architecture, offering nine distinct brands ranging from luxury to mid-scale, in order to cater to travellers worldwide. With this brand architecture, the group can cater to a variety of travellers, which is especially important given the current economic climate.
“Furthermore, each of RHG’s brands has its own distinct design and experiences tailored to serve all types of travellers, ranging from business to leisure and everything in between,” Nguyen added.
RHG’s nine brands include Radisson Collection, Radisson Blu, Park Plaza, Radisson RED, Radisson, Park Inn by Radisson, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Prizeotel and Radisson Individuals, which was launched in 2020.
Nguyen commented that Radisson Individuals gives hotel owners an opportunity to plug their properties into RHG’s marketing and distributions systems, and leverage its loyalty program – Radisson Rewards.
“During the pandemic, many hotel owners were looking for ways to recover, Radisson Individuals is an upscale brand that can help recovery through greater flexibility, cost-effectiveness and minimal downtime,” Nguyen said.
He added that RHG’s brands are offered with the right business model in mind, at the right location, for the right partner. The aim is to provide tailor-made solutions with owners in mind.
He pointed out that RHG’s nine distinct brands will play a key role in helping the company expand its scale. The group will also capitalize on its partnership with shareholder Jin Jiang International and its affiliates to accelerate its expansion. He explained that being part of Jin Jiang, the world’s second-largest hotel group, allows Radisson to focus on delivering its core vision with a clear plan in leveraging and supporting those nine distinct brands in each market.
In addition to expanding RHG’s portfolio, Nguyen said the group also places high value on its employees and their development.
The hospitality industry is heavily reliant on the workforce to deliver great experiences to guests, he said. Hence, it is RHG’s goal to help employees upskill or reskill based on their potential, in order to encourage their development and continued growth within the business.
He stated that becoming the employer of choice and growing employees’ potential have always been part of RHG’s culture and goals. For instance, he said, the group gives team members the opportunity for mobility and job rotation.
“Investing in our employees, meeting their needs and allowing them to grow, whether through training or practical work is our aim. We also ensure our employees are recognized for the work they do,” Nguyen confirmed.
RHG’s distinctiveness, according to Nguyen, goes beyond its focus on employees and guests, but also through its adaptable business model. The Group is looking to grow through various models including, mergers and acquisitions and strategic partnerships.
RHG’s top priority is to pay close attention to its three principal facets, namely hotel guests, owners, and employees.
According to Nguyen, RHG has consistently understood when and how to support its stakeholders, because they genuinely listen to them.
“We have established a local business unit in Thailand to support all our key stakeholders and provide above par operations. We have also made investments worldwide in digitizing the guest experience. Our investment of more than 150 million euros in technology and transformation allows us to deliver the uniqueness that customers are looking for in the foreseeable future,” Nguyen said.
To sustain its growth, RHG has committed to a five-year transformation plan that includes best-in-class technology and integrated solutions to maximise revenue across the group’s hotels and deliver the industry’s best GOP.
Meanwhile, Nguyen said the hospitality industry faces various crisis and challenges. “High inflation, a slowing economy, and geopolitical tensions are all possibilities. As a global hospitality company, we are no strangers to such challenges and have navigated through them successfully. Travel continues to be a mainstay, though travellers’ needs and demands may change and we are confident in delivering on these with our portfolio of brands,” Nguyen elaborated.
With over 75 years of hospitality experience, RHG is committed to serve every guest, grow its employees and a value-add to its owners through their strategic plan. Nguyen believes RHG will maintain its position as the world’s top three hospitality companies.
Maintain focusing on Thai market
Moreover, he is also committed to prioritising the Thai tourism industry because the country’s vast diversity of attractions is one of its core strengths. Nguyen believes its resilience as a market gives RHG and its brands a strong opportunity to grow.
According to the Bank of Thailand (BOT), the country should see 10 million foreign tourists this year and 19 million in 2023. Nguyen noted that this is a positive sign of recovery because the expected number is nearly 60 per cent of pre-pandemic levels.
“In Thailand, we target to double our current portfolio within the next 18 months. That progress is on track. Our plan has also accounted for the rebound of travel and tourism from China that is expected to resume in the near future,” he said.
Radisson is now one of the world’s largest and most dynamic hotel groups, having been named Forbes’ fourth Best Employer in the Travel & Leisure Industry for the second consecutive year. There are over 1,700 hotels in operation or in development around the world.
The baht opened at 35.80 to the US dollar on Thursday, weakening from Wednesday’s close of 35.63.
The currency will likely move between 35.70 and 35.95 against the greenback during the day, Krungthai market strategist Poon Panichpibool predicted.
He said the baht is coming under more pressure to weaken as the market has descended into a risk-off state and is therefore supporting the dollar.
Furthermore, foreign investors might offload additional Thai assets for profit so the baht might weaken in the short term, he believed.
Poon suggested keeping an eye on statements from hawkish US Federal Reserve officials as they could cause the market to fluctuate.
Investors are wondering that if the Fed does slow down its interest rate increases, by how much will the rate rise? And is the Fed still deeply concerned about the state of the economy and the rate at which it is slowing?
Poon said mass gold sales could also be a factor in the weakening of the baht.
He expects the currency’s resistance level to be 35.85-36 to the dollar and feels the support level would be 35.50, something most importers are waiting for to purchase the greenback and other foreign currencies.
Poon advised investors to use hedging tools such as options to manage risks in a highly volatile currency market.
Business council adds three urgent items to Apec leaders’ agenda
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2022
Nongluck Ajanapanya
The Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) Business Advisory Council (ABAC) has urged Apec leaders to develop a plan to address three urgent economic issues: inflation, food and energy security, and climate change.
The request has been abruptly added to their five key recommendations to accelerate economic recovery in the aftermath of Covid-19.
ABAC chairman Kriengkrai Thiennukul said at a press conference on Wednesday that the three sudden requests arose from worries of business leaders in the Asia Pacific region.
“We are concerned about the impact of inflation, which we believe will slow the recovery. Meanwhile, geopolitical tensions have a significant impact on energy and food security, and weather variability caused by climate change poses a significant risk to our economic sustainability,” Kriengkrai noted.
He expected Apec leaders to give these urgent items on the agenda serious thought and develop some policies to help mitigate the negative effects.
After four major meetings held throughout the year in Singapore, Canada, Vietnam and Thailand, the meeting finalised five key recommendations with 69 sub-clauses under two objectives, “Promoting speedy and sustained recovery” and “Regaining momentum for sustainable, inclusive, and resilient growth”, according to Kriengkrai.
“The latter includes advancing towards sustainability, deepening regional economic integration, and fostering an enabling environment through digitalisation. The working group will then deliver the complete report to Apec leaders,” he noted.
ABAC is also the host and chair of “Apec CEO Summit 2022”, which will be held from November 16-18 under the theme “Embrace, Engage, Enable”.
This summit brings together economic leaders, thought leaders, and leading CEOs to discuss trade perspectives, investments, and the social drive that will allow the Asia-Pacific region to embrace opportunity, engage in collaboration and enable new possibilities in partnership with the private sector.
Dominique Ng, the next ABAC and Apec CEO Summit chairman of the United States, was also honoured at the press conference.
He praised Thailand and the working group for working tirelessly to find a solution to the current challenges, notably how to support micro, small, and medium enterprises, which account for more than 90% of the Apec region’s economic activities.
He also revealed that the next ABAC’s theme would be: “Equity, Sustainability, and Opportunity”, which will be implemented in 2023.
He pledged to continue promoting the role of the private sector for the benefit of the people, ensuring economic growth while remaining environmentally conscious, and implementing concrete policies that provide inclusive opportunity.
‘Revival of talks on FTA a key development from Thailand hosting Apec Summit’
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2022
Neena ML.
Auramon Supthaweethum, director-general of the Department of Trade Negotiations (DTN), expects to see positive conclusions from the Apec meetings this week in terms of trade and investment in Thailand’s bio-circular-green economy and free-trade agreements.
In an exclusive interview with The Nation, Auramon speaks about the role of her department in helping Thailand’s preparations to host the Apec Summit, trade and investments issues, bilateral free trade agreements between Thailand and other economies and the predicted outcome of the summit.
Q: As the curtains go up for Apec 2022, how excited is the Department of Trade Negotiations about the possibilities?
A: Very excited, because we have been helping, assisting with the organisation of the Apec Summit since the beginning of this year as an economic pillar.
Q: What are the areas towards which the DTN has contributed?
A: The department has been involved with four key activities that will take place in the next few days.
First, we are helping the MFA [Ministry of Foreign Affairs] host the Apec Ministerial Meeting [AMM], which will be chaired by Jurin Laksanawisit, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce, and Don Pramudwinai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand. It will provide opportunities for ministerial levels to discuss this year’s Apec theme: Open. Connect. Balance. Another activity that my department has been involved in is the bilateral meetings of minister Jurin, because there is going to be a good opportunity to meet other Apec ministers who accompany their leaders to Thailand. It’s a good opportunity to discuss bilateral trade issues with them. The other important development is: we are planning for the ministers to sign a MoU [memorandum of understanding] between Thailand and Australia on economic cooperation, and we are also helping the Department of International Trade Promotion and the Ministry of Commerce in showcasing Thai products on the BCG theme at the event.
Q: What other FTAs are likely between Thailand and other economies?
A: We are going to have the AMM meetings, but they also provide opportunities for Thailand to have bilateral discussions with our trading partners. We have already set the agenda with some countries for ministers to meet. For instance Japan. So it will be a good opportunity.
Q: Apart from Japan, are any other meetings planned, such as with China or Russia for example?
A: Maybe not China and Russia this time. In the case of Russia, the ministers had already met last year. There’s going to be a leaders’ meeting — between President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha — so there’s no need for a ministerial level meeting.
Q; Amid geo-political tensions, are you concerned about any disagreements in international trade between the economies and also would it cause concern or inconvenience to Thailand in negotiating trade with the other economies as well?
A: I think Apec is a forum where members can discuss cooperation, so when Thailand was chosen to host Apec, we set the theme as: Open. Connect. Balance. When we chair and host the AMM on November 17, we have provided some topics for Apec economies to discuss. It will be relevant to the three key areas in the theme, and the meeting will be divided into three main agendas. The agenda that Minister Jurin will chair will be related to Open. I think this will guide Apec economies to discuss their ideas on how Apec can move forward to have open trade in order to make the Apec region very efficient and have sustainable economic integration.
Q: How do you see Apec moving forward and contributing to the world situation right now, especially when the world is recovering from the pandemic, and economies are hit by recession or downturn? How do you see this cooperation between Thailand and the other economies panning out?
A: During the pandemic, we realised the problem that arose from countries’ lockdowns, which caused constraints in the flow of goods and services across borders. So Thailand has tried to kick off the idea of moving forward the FTA agreement of Asia Pacific members. This is the revival of an idea that was brought up in Apec more than 10 years ago. It was suggested by the Apec Advisory Group — ABAC, the private sector. However, over the last decade, not much progress has been made on the FTA Asia Pacific. In order to help members recover from the economic situation from the pandemic, they all realised that having lockdowns and closed borders is not going to help. They recognised the importance of open trade, and the FTA Asia Pacific is one outcome that can support Open trade. So in May this year, when we organised the ministers responsible for trade meetings, the issue was discussed by Apec members and they all supported the idea. They believe that it’s positive to move forward the FTA Asia Pacific. However, because Apec comprises 21 economies — both developed and developing countries — they have different levels of economic development, so their ideas may be different. That is why, Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce held discussions with members at the senior official meetings. We are trying to formulate a four-year work plan to realise the FTA Asia-Pacific and this work plan will be endorsed at the AMM meetings.
Q: What about Asean? Are there any matters of concern related to Apec?
A: Apec is a cooperation forum where members can exchange views and ideas, in order to come up with best practices for members. Of the 21 Apec economies, only some members are from Asean. So we are individual countries, we are not talking in terms of Asean. Because, for example, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar are not Apec members, however, there are various issues related to trade that members can bring up for discussion.
Q: In the end what is the DTN’s plan for expanding Thailand’s trade and investment and also cooperation between Thailand and the 20 other Apec economies?
A: My department takes care of Thailand’s FTA negotiations — launching new FTAs, as well as trying to implement the existing FTAs. We already have FTA agreements with most of the Apec members. At present, Thailand has 14 FTAs with 18 trading partners. We have FTAs with Asean, China, Japan, South Korea for example, Australia, New Zealand. There are still countries in Apec with whom Thailand does not have an FTA yet, countries such as the US, Canada and Mexico. So, when we are talking about creating an FTA Asia Pacific, we believe that it will also provide additional benefits to Thailand, because it will be an opportunity for Thailand to discuss FTA with the countries that we haven’t had a deal with yet. At the same time my department is also involved in bilateral trade between Thailand and our trading partners so we could also take the opportunities to discuss bilateral trade, to enhance our trade and investment, cooperation, and expansion and there are some countries that we have already set up schedules for ministers to meet during the Apec Summit.
Q: How do you see the conclusion of this Apec Summit on November 19?
A: This is a good question. I think there will be a statement issued at the level of AMM meetings as well as at the leaders’ meetings. The statement certainly will cover all the main issues that members have discussed since the beginning of the year when Thailand became Apec host. It will cover three main areas: Open. Connect. Balance. Regarding Open, members have already discussed how to move forward towards an Asia Pacific FTA. I’m sure it will be covered in the statements. Members also have discussed Connect. How to reconnect after facing the Covid-19 crisis? Also there will be a statement on Balance and the BCG model and how members support the Bio-Circular-Green economy.
Q: Do you think there will be more trade and investment in BCG after the summit?
A: I think so. We can see that this idea has been discussed amongst Apec economies. Various countries have also demonstrated that they also have these policies and they implement green policies and they are trying to move forward in order to tackle climate change. They are also trying to add value to their products by doing recycling, so I think this is a trend between international forums. And like I mentioned to you, the Ministry of Commerce is also involved as we are showcasing the products of Thailand which are aligned with the BCG model. We are also showcasing products that we can use and reuse waste and create new value-added products. This has been organised by the Department of International Trade Promotions.
Q: Do you think that there will be any obstacles to reach an agreement between members, considering serious differences between some members?
A: I think at the working level we are trying to finalise it, trying to get endorsement and support of Apec economies. So we have to wait and see.
Q: If you could choose, what would be an ideal outcome of the meeting?
A: I hope that Thailand will benefit from the meeting. I hope that Thai people and the private sector can perhaps utilise what we have discussed in the Apec Summit and put it to good use and be able to network with Apec economies. If they can engage in more trade with our trading partners and enhance their revenue, it will generate income for the country and also move Thailand’s economy and society forward in a more sustained way
“Carabao” sparks football fever with the “CARABAO CUP from England to Thailand” sporting event
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2022
Bringing 2 football legends to elevate the Thai game and continue the vision of “World class product, World class brand.”
Thailand’s leading energy drink company Carabao will hold a major event “CARABAO CUP from England to Thailand” on Saturday 12 November where the final round of “Carabao 7-a-side Cup” will be played in Bangkok. The entire squad of the tournament’s champions will be rewarded with a trip to England for the final round of the Carabao Cup in a campaign dubbed “taking the champs to see the champs”. At the same time, the company will also take Thai football to new heights through “Coach the Coaches” program. More so, for people who register with Carabao’s official LINE account could also win a chance to travel to London under the campaign “Add line Carabao Cheer Carabao Cup”.
Carabao Group Plc. and the Siam Sport Syndicate Plc. have cooperated to organize the “CARABAO CUP from England to Thailand” to underline the success of the Carabao 7-a-Side Cup. Manchester United legend Louis Saha and Liverpool legend David James, will both watch the final and present the trophy to the champions at the hosting venue Grand Soccer Pro Kaset-Nawamin, Bangkok.
Mr. Kamoldist Smuthkochorn, Deputy Managing Director of Carabao Group Plc., said the Carabao 7-a-Side Cup tournament has been well received by participating teams. The football competition helps extend the company’s collaboration with the English Football League (EFL) in upping the levels of Thai football. It builds on the success of Carabao’s official sponsorship of the Carabao Cup football tournament in England since 2017. The company believes that sports marketing such as this campaign can attract people of all genders, ages, and backgrounds. Where football in particular, brings people together from all over the country.
The final round of the Carabao 7-a-Side Cup will commence on the 12th of November, after qualifying rounds for 512 teams held at 16 football stadiums across the country from 17th of September to 6th of November. There will be 32 teams, two winners from each stadium in the qualifying rounds who will be competing for the trophy and total winnings of over 3 million baht in prizes on November 12th, with the ultimate prize for winners who will be attending the 2022/23 Carabao Cup final at Wembley Stadium.
In order to reinforce its sponsorship of the Carabao Cup, the company has partnered with the EFL in providing licensed coaches to train and develop Thai trainers to manage football teams at youth level. Those trained in this course will have developed football coaching skills that are equivalent to world-class standards, making them able to develop and train young players in preparation for becoming professional players in the future. The training will focus on both theoretical and practical aspects which trainees can use to enhance their teaching of youth footballers in skills that will allow them to practice playing correctly, with the opportunity to ask questions and exchange knowledge and experience.
Meanwhile, consumers can also take part in world reknowned football competitions such as the Carabao Cup through the company’s promotional programme in registering for the ‘Add line Carabao Cheer Carabao Cup’ campaign on Carabao’s official LINE account. The competition allows everyone to join in the fun and win prizes without having to send in bottle caps to enter the competition. By just simply adding Carabao’s official LINE account, and choosing your favorite team who you think stands the best chance of winning the Carabao Cup. The prizes include a paid trip to watch a football game in the United Kingdom, along with many special prizes to be given away to football fans. Each individual can reserve two voting chances for their favourite teams until the Carabao Cup final on 26th of February.
Prizes are worth more than three million baht to be won at the Carabao 7-a-Side Cup final with the winning team receiving 100,000 baht, a trophy of honour, medals and a free Wembley trip to watch the final match of the Carabao Cup 2022/2023 for the whole team. The prize for second place is 50,000 baht and medals; 30,000 baht and medals for third and fourth place; 10,000 baht for each of the 5th-32nd teams; 10,000 baht and trophies for most valuable player and top goal scorer.
Interested parties can follow the Carabao 7-a-Side Cup national final and activities at Carabao Group Facebook page: Carabao Sports or www.carabao.co.th
Novo Nordisk Pharma Thailand together with Diabetes Association of Thailand, increase access to diabetes – Education to protect tomorrow
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2022
Bangkok, November 14 — Novo Nordisk Pharma Thailand Co., Ltd. attends the Walk Rally: Access to Diabetes Care of 2022 World Diabetes Day, which is marked November 14 of every year, hosted by the Diabetes Association of Thailand, at the Chulalongkorn University Centenary Park in Bangkok on the previous Sunday, November 13, 2022.
The company aims to emphasize and promote the important of educating public on right knowledges of diabetes as well as to improve and promote better health for diabetes patients and public at large through various activities including exercise games.
Diabetes is one of the most common chronic non-communicable diseases as well as a major problem for global public health. Recently, the burden of diabetes has intensified as 537 million people are living with diabetes worldwide, and it is estimated that by 2045, more than 700 million people will be living with diabetes worldwide.
From the statistics of the year 2021 disclosed by the Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health, Thailand has registered 3.2 million people living with diabetes in national healthcare system. This is an increase of about 300,000 new cases per year, causing an average loss of healthcare costs of 47,596 million baht per year. In addition, diabetes is also leading cause of many other diseases such as heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure and kidney disease, etc.
Mr. Enrico Cañal Bruland, Vice President and General Manager, Novo Nordisk Pharma Thailand revealed – “One thing we should always be aware of is the Rule of Halves. Looking at the number of people living with diabetes, out of the 100, only half, meaning 50, have been diagnosed. Beyond the national registration, the number of patients with diabetes is likely more than double. Looking to those 50 people diagnosed with diabetes, only 25 have access the proper treatment, and only about 13 achieve the treatment goals. Meaning almost 90% of people living with diabetes are not well controlled. Without working together to change diabetes, we will experience significant more complications for people living with diabetes as well as healthcare expenses. The direct impact to the public and society requires us raising awareness of diabetes and its risk factors, which is one of the main objectives of this health campaign.”
Novo Nordisk Pharma Thailand emphasizes on driving change as well as raising awareness to prevent and adequately treat diabetes. The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) has set the topic Access to Diabetes Care for the 2021-2023 campaign and this year the focus is on – Education to protect tomorrow. Hence, we feel the need to raise awareness about exercise for people living with diabetes and the public. Healthy living including exercise provides benefits for people with diabetes including weight management, improving blood sugar levels, and lowering the risk of heart diseases.
“Supporting this event on World Diabetes Day is one of our key activities, especially this year, as we are starting to count our steps towards celebrating 100 years of innovation with Novo Nordisk. It represents our long journey in the fight against diabetes and improving lives for people with diabetes, starting with insulin almost 100 years ago. As the world leader in diabetes care, we will continue to focus on providing quality products, enhancing access to treatment for the people as well as innovating the ways to improve quality of life of patients.
People with diabetes notably benefit from regular physical activities. It’s important for them to get in some proper physical activities. At our booth, we have exercise games. Participants not only enjoy themselves without feeling any added pressure, but their interactions and relationship with people, caregivers, and family members are strengthened as a result” Mr. Enrico Cañal Bruland added.
‘Apec For Her’ TikTok contest puts women’s empowerment in spotlight
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2022
Nongluck Ajanapanya
A short clip contest highlighted the importance of women’s empowerment during this week’s Thailand-hosted Apec summit in Bangkok on Tuesday.
The “Apec For Her” contest, a collaboration between TikTok and Thailand’s Foreign Ministry, is aimed at raising awareness of women’s roles in boosting economic growth around the world, said TikTok head of public policy Chanida Klyphun.
Apec prioritises women’s empowerment in a bid to create an equitable, inclusive and diverse economy, said Chanida, who was speaking at the awards for clips shortlisted in the contest.
“The ‘Apec For Her’ contest invited Thai women to share their stories in order to inspire women worldwide that they have limitless potential to succeed in their own unique way,” she added.
Participants can choose to share the story of the most powerful woman in their lives, their own positive story, or their favourite moments with their significant woman, according to Chanida.
More than 200 clips were submitted for the contest before the October 31 deadline. The clips with the most views on TikTok were chosen for the shortlist. The winner was then determined by a panel of Foreign Ministry officials.
Foreign ministry officials, Tik Tok agents, and their partners pose for photos with one of the prizes, an electric motorcycle.
Chanida said the key criteria for contestants was to create positive inspiration for other women.
“Some are single mothers, some work in very masculine occupations, while others devote their time to supporting their husband and children,” Chanida explained. “But all of their stories are very impressive.”
The first prize goes to Ratchanok Thepkhun, who overcame many insults to become a professional foreman, as everyone acknowledges.
Ratchanok’s feel-good video, according to Chanida, is uplifting women all over the world and reminding them of their unlimited female potential.
She stated that all of the clips in the project can be viewed on the TikTok app.
Currently, the #apecforher clips have been viewed by over 8 million people worldwide.
Foreign ministry officials, Tik Tok agents, and their partners pose for photos with one of the prizes, an electric motorcycle.
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