Issue 18

The President of the German-Thai Chamber of Commerce (GTCC) tells Horizon Thailand what German companies have to offer its long-term Asian partner.

What benefits does the GTCC offer its members?
The GTCC provides services to German and Thai companies and is the most competent strategic partner and principle intermediary between the two economies with a strong focus on technologies, innovation and sustainable investment. The GTCC supports companies and institutions from both countries in opening up new trade and investment opportunities.

How does the GTCC promote trade between German and Thailand?
We offer services range from extensive market and sales consultancy, information events and trade fair services, to an active representation of the interests of German companies in Thailand. We organise business delegations from Germany to Thailand and vice versa, as well as to neighbouring countries. This was further emphasised by contributing to the activities of the German-ASEAN Chamber Network (GACN) that have seen a reasonable increase in demand over the course of the last year.

How many German companies are there in Thailand?
The Chamber’s membership now stands at almost 600 and is increasing, hence it is one of the biggest foreign chambers of commerce in Thailand. Out of this approximately 400 member companies are German or are representatives of German SMEs. Germany is one of the biggest investors in Thailand, with key specialised industrial sectors: automotive, chemicals, logistics and transport.

What are some ways that Thai-German economic relations can be strengthened?
Definitely in the field of renewable energy, green technology and innovation. One of the concrete examples we are proud to tell you about is our German-Thai Dual Excellence Education (GTDEE) programme, in which we work together with pairs of partner companies and colleges to train higher vocational education students to fit the specific needs of each company, with German standards. At the end of the two-year programme the students will be awarded an internationally accepted certificate allowing them to find work abroad. A number of leading German companies are involved in the project and in November, 2014 we added leading Thai companies as well. Indeed this project will help promote economics between Thailand and Germany as well as tackling the shortage of skilled labour and strengthening Thailand’s position in view of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC).

How is the current condition of Thailand’s economy for German businesses?
We continue to be innovative and sustainable long-term partners and investors in Thailand. German businesses in Thailand maintain their activities as usual. We expect that … the economic reforms will strengthen the Thai economy.

What are some investment opportunities that exist across Thailand for German companies?
For Thailand the infrastructure projects are very important. Here we have a lot to offer when it comes to railway planning and management, but as well in the area of sustainable water management. German SMEs are very innovation driven and are interested in joint ventures. With the implementation of the GTDEE programme we are trying to optimise … the existing vocational education system and with this to better the environment for high-added value investment (HAV investments).