Issue 46

Logistics is a major factor in providing practical support to ensure successful international trade, especially in a globalised business world.

The key to providing a good logistics system is supplying what the customer demands – a definite delivery time, good security and controllability – at a competitive price, argues Chananyarak Phetcharat, managing director Thailand and Indochina of DHL Express International (Thailand) Ltd.

“When it comes to the supply chain, it is all about supply and demand,” she says. DHL’s logistics system is designed to “support the flow of goods from sender to receiver”. This includes sourcing raw materials both domestically and internationally, having sufficient warehouses to stock the goods, and a distribution centre and vehicles to deliver those goods. “These are all part of the logistics system.”

Phetcharat believes that DHL’s decision to choose Thailand as a regional hub is a positive sign for the country. The global logistics company considered Thailand’s strong strategic location, airport maturity, transportation safety and security, before investing in Thailand. “This is a good signal that Thailand has potential within ASEAN,” she says.

According to Phetcharat, international trade requires knowledge of complex international shipping rules. “Understanding tariffs, taxes and customs clearance regulations is quite important, which is why DHL provides a one-stop service to support our customers,” she says.

The company uses modern technology and innovation to satisfy its customers, such as through its track and trace service that allows them to see where their goods are at any moment.

“They [customers] have the peace of mind that we’re with them all the time along the shipment,” she says. “We invest in infrastructure and create innovative asset solutions for their goods to arrive safely.”

Phetcharat believes that in the current climate, it’s essential that businesses understand how to implement efficient logistics to succeed in the global market.

“It’s important for businesspeople to know what happens and what are the rules in other countries, such as FTAs or the WTO agreement, as well as what are the rules in their own country, so the transaction is made efficiently. These things will also help the business sector in the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) which has dramatically driven international trade,” she says.

DHL’s latest project is a collaboration with several players, including the DITP and The Support Arts and Crafts International Centre of Thailand.

“In the past, people have appreciated Thai products just through arranged events,” she says. “From now on, if they miss the chance to attend the event, they could see all the quality products through our online marketplace. DHL will be one of the key supporters to efficiently deliver our Thainess to the world.”

For more information, please visit www.dhl.com

Words by Natthinee Ratanaprasidhi