Thailand Mission 2008 (JTBF)

Contributed by: JTBF Mission Team   

Succeeding 2006 and 2007, this year (2008) also, Japan-Thailand Business Forum (Note 1) sent a mission to Thailand with following itinerary. Mission members was 12 in total. Members list is attached at the bottom. (Note 2)

• Feb.11 Morning -Japanese Chamber of Commerce Bangkok
• Feb.11 Morning -Board of Investment Head Office
• Feb.11 Afternoon -Thailand-Japan Association
• Feb.11 Afternoon -Thai National Shippers' Council
• Feb.11 Afternoon -Bank of Thailand
• Feb.11 Evening -Reception Dinner hosted by Mr. Arsa Sarasin
• Feb.12 Morning -Japanese Embassy
• Feb.12 Morning -Securities and Exchange Commission
• Feb.12 Morning -Federation of Thai Industry
• Feb.12 Morning -Tourism Authority of Thailand
• Feb.12 Afternoon -Board of Trade
• Feb.12 Afternoon -Thai-Nichi Institute of Technology
• Feb.14-15 Visit to Pattaya

1. Visit to Japanese Chamber of Commerce, Bangkok (JCCB)

reported by Takashi Fuse (Representative of Bangkok Branch, JTBF)

Feb. 11th, 2008 9:00-9:45 at JCCB Head Office
Attendant from JCCB: Mr. M. Sonoda (President)/ Mr. T Inoue (Secretary General)
Attendant from JTBF: Messrs. H.Maruko/ K.Kikkawa/ H.Morita/ M.Koyama/ Y.Katono/ K.Kato/ H.Motomura/ R.Ishii/ K.Mizutani/ N.Okumura/ H.Shinozaki/ T.Fuse

• Succeeding welcome message, Mr. Sonoda introduced activity summary of 2007. The current number of member companies is 1,290, which will reach 1,300 within 2008. He perceives major policy issues as:
  • Implementation of JTEPA must be promoted. JTEPA calls for establishment of a joint sub-committee by the governments and private sectors of both countries, but not established yet so far. JCCB, together with FTI, intends to actively join the sub-committee.
  • Amendment of Foreign Business Act is still in pending status.
  • Import duty on electro-magnetic steel sheet is concerned. Customs Department has not made the final decision yet.
  • Stricter regulations on issuance of Visa and Work Permit (for companies which showed deficit in the previous fiscal year) gives impact to small-and-medium size companies, especiallly those companies which are in the start-up years.
  • Labor Protection Law, which enables sub-contractors to obtain same working conditions as applied to permanent employees, has been amended and relaxed to some extent. However, it has resulted in increase of gray zone.
• According to last fall's suvey, Japanese companies view the business trend as:
  • Overall trend is improving.
  • On the contrary, competition with other companies has become severer.
  • Major concerns are price increase of raw materials, fluctuation of exchange rate and job hopping of Thai employees.
• Out of JCCB's contributions to 120th anniversary (Japan-Thailand Diplomatic Relations), to be noted are a sculpture “Springen” (located in front of Central World Office), renovation of Japanese town in Ayudtaya, etc.
• JCCB and JTBF shared opinion on the development of Thai steel industry. It is a good news that Nippon Steel and JFE plan to build blast furnace in Thailand. It is also important that JCCB continue to give suggestions and advices about the development of Thai steel industry.

return to top

2. Visit to Board of Investment

reported by Hitomi Morita (Vice Chairman of JTBF)

Feb. 11th, 2008 11:00-13:00 at BOI Head Office
Attendant from BOI: Mr. Satit (Secretary General)/ Mr. Chitaworn (Deputy Secretary General)/ Ms. Varaporn (Director of Investment)/ Ms. Patarakrit (Investment Promotion Officer)/ Mr. Stanthanee (Investment Promotion Officer)
Attendant from JTBF: Messrs. H.Maruko/ K.Kikkawa/ K.Mizutani/ N.Okumura/ H.Motomura/ M.Koyama/ K.Kato/ Y.Katono/ R.Ishii/ H.Shinozaki/ T.Fuse/ H.Morita

• The meeting started as led by Mr. Chitaworn, followed by frank discussions. Mr. Satit came in later to join the discussions.
• Mr. Chitaworn referred to the current investment environment. Thailand's GDP reached 243 billions US$ in 2007, 4.5% growth rate. Investment from Thailand to other Asian countries reached 41 billions US$. According to World Bank's publication, Thailand is ranked as 15th in 2007 in terms of investment environment, which improved from 18th of 2006. In regard to relation-ship with Japan, promotion of JTEPA is expected to make it even closer.
• Ms. Varaporn spent a certain time to focus on the recent BOI promotion policies. In addition to the zone privileges, investment for high technology area is more and more encouraged.
• The shift to high technolgy was also emphasized by Mr. Satit. He listed up, as typical examples, eco-car assembly and clean energy generation such as wind power, solar energy generation, bio-ethanol production, etc. He intends to visit Tsukuba in his next visit to Japan to have a survey of the technical trend in these area.
• Mr. Chitaworn asked for JTBF's opinion in regard to an appropriate timing of Prime Minister's visit to Japan. JTBF responded that an early-as-possible visit would be appreciated.

return to top

3. Visit to Thailand-Japan Association

reported by Hitomi Morita (Vice Chairman of JTBF)

Feb. 11th, 2008 14:00-15:30 at Thailand-Japan Association Office
Attendant from Thailand-Japan Association: Mr. Staporn Kavitanon (Vice Chairman Bangkok Bank)
Attendant from JTBF: Messrs. H.Maruko/ K.Mizutani/ H.Morita

• We enjoyed a friendly conversation with Mr. Staporn, recalling the past time when he was active as Secretary General of BOI.
• In responding to our question regarding the current investment trend to Vietnam , his view was that, even though country stability is concerned, the investment to Vietnam will continue. Thailand is also interested in the investment in view of a project of Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh super-express train and oil mine of South China Sea.
• In regard to GMS, he was not so much positive because market size of Laos and Cambodia is relatively small. It may take a time before we see development of these GMS countries.

We were 3 from JTBF. But, other members had a chance to exchange conversations with him at the dinner reception.

return to top

4. Visit to Thai National Shippers' Council (TNSC)

reported by Riichi Ishii (Chairman of Food Development Committee, JTBF)

Feb. 11th, 2008 15:00-16:00 at TNSC Office
Attendant from TNSC: Mr. Suchart Chantaranakaracha (Chairman)/ Mr. Paiboon Ponsuwanna (Vice Chairman)/ Mr. Techa Boonyachai (Vice Chairman)/ Mr. Surapon Vonvadhanaroj ( Advisor to the Board and Director)/ Ms. Runotahi Mahaddhananond (Executive Director)/ Mr. Pornsil Patcharintanakul (Director)/ Mr. Manapol Poosomboon (Deputy Secretary General)/ Mr. Rungroj Rungrojsakhon (Public Relations)/ et al
Attendant from JTBF: Messrs. K.Kikkawa/ K.Kato/ Y.Katono/ H.Shinozaki/ R.Ishii

• Since Food Development Committee was newly organized in JTBF in October last year, it was the first time to meet each other and to confirm mission roles of both sides. After we introduced the organization/roles of JTBF as well as Food Development Committee, we received a briefing from TNSC to understand its role as "to help enhance potential and competitiveness of exporters by focusing on logistics and supply chain management", namely:
  • ＴＮＳＣ has convinced public sector on significance of logistics management towards national competitiveness. As a result Government, or National Economics & Social Development Board (NESDB) has put logistics into the national agenda, and set up National Logistics Committee chaired by Prime Minister. TNSC has been invited to be a committee member in order to drive for the clear and concrete result.
  • To serve as the problem-solving center related to export issues for members as well as general exporters, TNSC has opportunity to participate in various committees, sub-committees and working groups of the public sector in relation to import/export and logistics development.
  • To serve as the information center on export and logistics and supply chain management.
• Major discussions:
  • Japan is suffering from agricultural chemicals residual in food imported from China. Food exporters of Thailand could have opportunities to expand food export to Japan. TNSC emphasized that they also prioritize food safety.
  • In regard to FOODEX, food exhibition which is annually held in Japan, we listed up our observations. More efficient promotion in the exhibition could be considered.
  • TNSC's view is that small and medium size exporters of Thailand expect to receive transfer of food technology from Japan. Retired Japanese who have expertise of the food technology could satisfy their requirements in terms of skill and salary.

return to top

5. Visit to Bank of Thailand (BOT)

reported by Hiroshi Motomura (Chairman of Finance Committee, JTBF)

Feb. 11th, 2008 15:30-16:30 at Deputy Governor's Conference Room (BOT)
Attendant from BOT: Dr. Bandid Nijathaworn (Deputy Governor, Bank of Thailand)
Attendant from JTBF: Messrs. M.Koyama/ H.Motomura

• We visited Dr. Bandid to the newly-opened BOT building which looks down Chaophraya river and the modern design of Rama 8th Bridge. It was a long time since we met him before. He was confident in Thai economy and frankly responded to our questions and requests for advice.
• Following were major topics.
  • In regard to so called "30% reserve regulation", in fact, it has been gradually relaxed. Currently, it is applied to currency trading and Baht-based bond investment only. The regulation will be abolished before long. (Note: Ｔｈｉｓ　Reserve requirement was lifted effective 3rd March 2008.)
  • Interest rate of Thailand is now 3.25%, has turned higher than that of US. There still remains a factor to invite cash flow to Thailand. However, financial institutions and business sectors of Thailand have learnt how to hedge the currency risks and unlikely to repeat the past confusion. Difference of interest rate between Thailand and US is considered to come from economic situations, mostly cautiousness against inflation, of both countries.
  • "Capital Outflow" must be encouraged as countermeasures against Baht appreciation. Today, it is allowed to open bank account in foreign currency. But, it may not be sufficient. With focus on rich silver ages, more opportunities should be provided to allot assets outside.
  • Inflation rate of Thailand is within a control range. Not in a situation to raise the interest rate.
  • Growth rate of credit extension from financial institutions recorded positive mark in the 4th quarter last year. It is a sign that business sectors have recovered their confidence in Thai economy. Due to political instability, in past 2 years, there has been a lack of actual feeling of economic growth, even though exports have been strong.
  • It is to be noted that low level investment of past 2 years has made subprime loan problem have minimal impact to Thai economy. Dr. Bandid was confident that a positive momentum has come back to Thai economy again.
• As we left BOT building, Chaophraya river was reflecting glowing light of the sunset as if it suggested a bright tomorrow of Thailand.

return to top

6. Dinner Reception hosted by Mr. Arsa Sarasin

reported by Hiroyuki Maruko (Chairman of JTBF)

Feb. 11th, 2008 19:00-21:00 at Pacific City Club
Attendant from Thailand Side: Mr. Arsa Sarasin (His Majesty’s Principal Private Secretary, Former Minister of Foreign Affairs)/ Mr. Staporn Kavitanon (President of Thai-Japanese Association)/ Mr. Apisak Tantivorawong (Chairman, Thai Bankers’ Association)/ Mr. Pramon Sutivong (Chairman, Thai Chamber of Commerce), Mr. Santi Vilassakdanont (Chairman, Federation of Thai Industries)/ Mr. Akio Yamamoto (President of Mitsui & Co., (Thailand) Ltd.)/ Mr. Dusit Nontanakorn (Vice Chairman, Thai Chamber of Commerce)/ Mr. Prasopsuk Prasarttong-osoth/ Mr. Somphob Hoontrakool (Secretary General of Thai-Japanese Association)/ Mr. Toshihide Hashima (Itochu (Thailand) Ltd.)/ Mr. Masakazu Okamoto (President of Y.M.P. (Thailand) Co., Ltd.)/ Mr.Sasiwat Wongsinsawat (Minister Counsellor, Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
Attendant from JTBF: Mr. H.Maruko/ Mr.&Mrs. K.Kikkawa/ Mr. H.Morita/ Mr. M.Koyama/ Mr. Y.Katono/ Mr. K.Kato/ Mr. H.Motomura/ Mr.&Mrs. R.Ishii/ Mr. K.Mizutani/ Mr. N.Okumura/ Mr. H.Shinozaki/ Mr.T.Fuse

• Welcome Address delivered by Mr. Arsa Sarasin
  
  • Welcome JTBF Mission members who are good friends of Thailand and also my personal good friends for long time.
  • Very much appreciate activities of JTBF since it was established in 2002 and glad to know that its activities have been diversified and enhanced remarkably.
  • Both Thai government offices as well as private sectors expect JTBF to continue to support Thailand in every respect by giving them any sort of advice and constructive proposal as one of the most reliable supporting bodies bridging Thailand and Japan.
• Speech by Mr. Hiroyuki Maruko
    Thank you very much for this evening.
    JTBF was established about 6 years ago in collaboration with Thai government, in particular, BOI and Royal Thai Embassy in Tokyo. We have been keeping very close contact with BOI Secretary Generals, former Mr. Somphong and incumbent Mr. Satit and also have been maintaining intimate relationship with Ambassadors,H.E.s Mr. Chawat, Sakthip, Kasit and Suvidhya. Ambassador Suvidhya is exceptional indeed. When the idea of forming up this kind of group or association came into our mind, I consulted with Khun Arsa, first of all in Bangkok early 2002. Khun Arsa told me, Maruko it's a very good idea. I support you and your friends both in Thai and Japan. Go ahead. I will give you a good name. Either Japan Thai Forum or Japan Thailand Business Forum and finally JTBF was born. Khun Arsa is truly a Godfather of JTBF.
    Since then you have been earnestly supporting activities of JTBF by giving us warm advice and guidance as a friend.
    We are happy to say that our activities have been enhanced year by year. We have now 12 committees with 70 members. All of them are O.B. of JCCB. All of us were active core members of JCCB while we were living in Thailand. We are proud that we have become a strong supporting body for Thailand.
    Every time we,JTBF members, visit Thailand, you have always welcomed us warmheartedly. We are most grateful to you for your thoughtfulness and everlasting friendship.
    All of us here sincerely look forward to the pleasure and honor of having you and madame with us In Tokyo soon.Thank you so much.

return to top

7. Visit to Japanese Embassy

reported by Kazuo Kikkawa (Vice Chairman of JTBF)

Feb. 12th, 2008 9:00-9:40 at Japanese Embassy
Attendant from Japanese Embassy: Ambassador H. Kobayashi/ Minister J. Yamada
Attendant from JTBF: Mr. H.Maruko/ Mr. H.Morita/ Mr. K.Kikkawa/ Mr. K.Mizutani

• The major intent of paying a courtesy visit to Ambassador was to share with him the purpose of JTBF's mission to Thailand. It was also beneficial for us to receive his view of Thailand from various aspects, politics, economy and others.
• He summarized last year's events in commemoration of 120th anniversary of Japan-Thailand Diplomatic Relations. It counted 340 in both countries. Japan-Thailand relation-ship has become even closer, to his view.
• He shared with us an information in regard to restart of yen-credit loan.　According to him, it starts with 60 billions yen, and will increase to 120 billions in the next step. The loan will be utilized for extension of the so called purple subway line.

return to top

8. Visit to Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)

reported by Mitsutoshi Koyama (Chairman of Capital Market Committee, JTBF)

Feb. 12th, 2008 9:00-9:45 at Head Office of SEC
Attendant from SEC: Mr. Tirachai Phuvanatnaranubala (Secretary General of SEC)
Attendant from JTBF: Messrs. M.Koyama/ H.Motomura

• It was 15 years since we met Mr. Tirachai in the last time when he was working in Bank of Thailand. He was confident in policy management and frankly responded to our questions. We came to know he was paying a tremendous efforts to make an accounting standard of the stock-listed companies consistent with world standard. It is an important factor when Japanese investors assess Thai stock market as one of investment destinations. Mr. Tirachai welcomed a visit of JTBF members and expressed his expectation that JTBF take a role of delivering real Thailand to Japanese society.
• Following are major topics of what Mr. Tirachai referred to.
  • Newly established government is highly appreciated. So far he met with Dr. Surapong, Deputy Prime Minster and Minister of Finance, he is knowledgeable about financial business. His economic policy will be realistic and reliable.
  • It is desirable to abolish stock-market regulations as early as possible. At this moment, however, an inflow of short term capital without an actual demand will cause a speculative fluctuation of currency and give an impact to labor intensive industries of Thailand. From that view, Thai industry must shift more to high-technology and high value-added one. Investments in plant, equipment, land and/or facilities are the real demand and should be exempted from regulations. Asset management in foreign currency by Thai people also must be liberalized.
  • Stock market is rapidly internationalized and facing severe competition even among south-eastern Asia countries. Thai stock market must achieve a high appraisal internationally to be able to compete in the global market. Mr. Tirachai himself served 2 terms of Asia-Pacific region chairman in IOSCO (International Organization of Securities Commissions), and contributed to introduction of world standard into Thai stock market. He also had joined World Bank's project of corporate governance evaluation. Through this experience, he is confident in high standard of Thai stock market.
  • So far subprime problem has minimal impact to Thai economy. It is in a strong up-trend since last fall. Even though Thailand is not free from world economy, increase of internal demand could probably minimize the impact.

return to top

9. Visit to Federation of Thai Industries (FTI)

reported by Hitomi Morita (Vice Chairman of JTBF)

Feb. 12th, 2008 10:00-10:30 at Conference Room of FTI
Attendant from FTI: Mr. Payboon Ponsuwanna (Vice Chairman)/ Mr. Sompong Tancharoenphol (Vice Chairman)/ Mr. Payungsak Chartsutipol (Vice Chairman)/ Mr. Mangkorn Dhnasarnslip (Vice Chairman)
Attendant from JTBF: Messrs. H.Maruko/ H.Morita/ R.Ishii

• Major topics covered in the interview.
  • FTI's food industry division is holding joint meeting with JCCB every 3 months. The division are also holding seminars in Japan, namely at Miyako Hotel of Tokyo last year, in Tokyo, Nagoya and Fukuoka in January this year, with a strong back-up support of BOI Tokyo. FTI has 39 industry divisions centered in Bangkok as well as 74 industry divisions located in each province.
  • Thai economy survived the financial crisis of 1997. Since then it is in a solid growth trend. As the car industry is expanded, development of SME has become more concerned. In this sense, there are more to be learnt from Japan. May have to seek for cooperation with Japan Federation of Economic Organizations.
  • Logistics infrastructure must be implemented even though it may take a time. May need a cooperation with BOI. Majority of today's car export is pickup trucks. From now on, shift to passenger car will be accelerated.
  • The food industry faces many issues, as many as incomparable with Japan, such as labor hour restrictions of coast fishing, low intellectual level of fishers, standardization of fish net, etc. Also a system of food supply chain must be established in regard to Japanese food export, such as pretreatment of cloud ear and Mongolian squid.
• It looked that FTI is facing a deadlock in solving many problems. Joint work with JCCB could be the best way to find a way out.

return to top

10. Visit to Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)

reported by Kazumasa Mizutani (Chairman of Tourism Committee, JTBF)

Feb. 12th, 2008 11:00-12:00 at TAT Head Office
Attendant from TAT: Mr. Udom Metatamrongsiri (Advisor 10)/ Mr. Emporn　Jiragalwisul (Director,　East　Asia　Market)/ Mr. Duangjai　Kanｔeeranon　(Chief　East　Asia　Market)/ Mr. Shikano　(Advisor)/　Mr. Santi　Sawagcriaroen(Assistant Director　TAT Tokyo)
　 Attendant from JTBF: Messrs. H.Maruko/ K.Kikkawa/ H.Morita/ M.Koyama/ Y.Katono/ K.Kato/ H.Motomura/ R.Ishii/ K.Mizutani/ N.Okumura/ H.Shinozaki/ T.Fuse

• The meeting started with Mr. Udom's briefing as follows.
  • TAT put a high priority on Japanese market. Historically, relation-ship of both countries goes back to 600 years ago. Last year, a number of events were held in both countries to celebrate 120th anniversary of diplomatic relations. Now, the relation is even closer.
  • Mr. Udom introduced some statistics of Japanese tourists.
    (1)1.4 millions Japanese visited Thailand last year. It is in the 2nd place, next to Malaysia. 10% of the total tourists.
    (2)Consumption of Japanese tourists amounts to 50 billions Baht, 10% of the total.
    (3)Average length of stay is 6.6 days. Consumption per day is 4,200 Baht (not so much as other foreigners).
    (4)Male occupies 66%. Repeater occupies 65%. Package tour occupies 38%. Consumption per a trip is 28,000 Baht. Flight availability is more than 100 in a week.
  • TAT's strategy for this year:
    Income target from overseas market for this year is 600 billions Bahts, 10% increase from the previous year.
    (1)To continue and further promote "Quality over Number". It means development of markets where more consumption is expected, namely medical tour, golf/spa tour, longstayers, senior ages and so on.
    (2)To diversify tourism spots from Bangkok to local cities such as Chiangrai and North-eastern cities.
    (3)To intensify market area of Europe and East Asia countries, and further to other countries from where tourists are increasing such as Vietnam, Philippines, Indonesia, Russia, Eastern Europe and Middle East countries.
    (4)To sell Thailand's features as "Seven Amazing Wonders" under the brand name of "Amazing　Thailand". The seven means finding of traditional Thai life, heritage/history, comforting beech, beautiful nature, country of friendly smiles, hot/cool trendy and attractive world events.
• JTBF responded with following messages.
  • JTBF have also proposed development of local cities as tourism spot since several years ago. In this regard, TAT's strategy is quite welcome.
  • In regard to TAT's promotion activities in Japan, it could be more effective if the activities are managed with closer and tighter cooperation among TAT, Embassy, BOI and other government agencies resident in Japan. Mr. Katono, Chairman of Longstay Committee of JTBF, added a comment that long stay promotion campaign of Malaysia is a good example of this kind of cooperation.

return to top

11. Visit to Board of Trade (BOT)

reported by Kazuo Kikkawa (Vice Chairman of JTBF)

Feb. 12th, 2008 14:00-14:50
Attendant from BOT: Mr. Pramon Sutivong (Chairman)/ Mr. Savaraj Sachchamarga (Vice Chairman)/ Dr. Suchati Chuthasmit (Adviser)
Attendant from JTBF: Messrs. H.Maruko/ H.Morita/ K.Kikkawa

• As we had met with Mr. Pramon already in the previous evening at the dinner reception, we skipped the general matters. Following are major topics newly brought up from BOT side.
  • As to Mr. Pramon's inquiry whether or not Japanese health insurance system can be applied to Thailand, together with an implication that the system could also benefit Japanese resident in Thailand as well as Japanese subsidiaries in Thailand, we responded with our observation that some Japanese companies have started to introduce the system internally and that increasing number of companies will introduce the system eventually.
  • Mr. Savaraj expressed his expectation as to expansion of export and import trade resultant from closure of EPA, especially export of food products from Thailand to Japan. We suggested that Thailand could find favorable opportunities of expansion because Japan is facing safety problems with food products imported from China. (However, closure of EPA alone may not help. There seems to exist a lack of understanding that companies' efforts are even more important.)

return to top

12. Visit to Thai-Nichi Institute of Technology (TNI)

reported by Kazuo Kikkawa (Vice Chairman of JTBF)

Feb. 12th, 2008 15:30-17:30
Attendant from TNI: Dr. Supong Chayutsahakij (Chairman of University Council)/ Prof. Krisada Visavateeranon (President of TNI)/ Ms. Porn-anong Niyomka Horikawa (Vice President of TNI)/ Mr. Koichi Mizutani (Lecturer of TNI)/ Mr. Sozo Yamamoto (Advisor of TPA)
Attendant from JTBF: Messrs. H.Maruko/ K.Kikkawa/ H.Morita/ M.Koyama/ Y.Katono/ K.Kato/ H.Motomura/ K.Mizutani/ N.Okumura/ H.Shinozaki

• Right after an exchange of greetings, we were invited to a campus tour in 2 groups. Each group was led by 2 students to the class room, computer practice rooms, the workshop, language practice rooms, the library and so on. At each spot, 2 to 3 students were standing by to give us explanations. All of the students tried to speak in Japanese, even though they had learnt Japanese a few months only. Their sincere explanations were very impressive. As the main feature of "institute of technology", computer practice rooms were fully equipped with computer sets and students were engaged in programming lessons. The car mechanics workshop was also well equipped with experimental facilities and tools. At the library, we found that books were not sufficient. At the canteen, the menu was various. The price was set cheaper than the market price (with funding support of the institute ).
• Returning back to the conference room, we received a briefing on managerial status of the institute. New news to us were:
  • TNI have concluded Academic Exchange Agreement with up to 10 universities of Japan so far, namely Kyushu University, Osaka Institute of Technology, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tohoku University, Tohoku Gakuin University, Tohoku Institute of Technology, Nagoya Institute of Technology, Daido Institute of Technology, Shibaura Institute of Technology and Saitama Institute of Technologists.
  • Number of enrolled students for the first year was 375, not meeting planned 500. A certain number of enrollment eroded because of movement to other universities at the final stage. This year, TNI will submit acceptance notice to the number which takes erosion into consideration.
• After the formal schedule was over, following subjects were discussed among Dr. Supong, Prof. Krisada, Ms. Porn-anong, Mr. Maruko and Mr.Kikkawa.
  • TNI asked JTBF for sending lecturers for Industrial Management class. This subject is pending JTBF's investigation.
  • TNI is looking for lecturers from Japan through JICA. However, it may take a time to secure applicants in view of affordable compensation level. This subject is pending further discussions between TNI and JTECS (JTBF joining) scheduled in March end.
• According to information from JCCB, Japanese companies' expectation on TNI is quite high. Collection of scholar-ship fund for this year is under way more favorably than the previous year.

return to top

13. Visit to Pattaya

Feb. 14th and 15th, 2008
Attendant from TAT Tokyo: Messrs. Hiroshi Sasaki (Information Officer)/ Yoshiaki Fujimura (Marketing Manager)
Attendant from JTBF: Messrs. K.Kikkawa/ M.Koyama/ Y.Katono/ K.Kato/ H.Motomura/ K.Mizutani/ N.Okumura/ H.Shinozaki/ T.Fuse

The visit to Pattaya was conducted with an endorsement of TAT Tokyo, that Pattaya is no more what it used to be and that today's Pattaya is more attractive to Japanese tourists than ever.

Report 1    reported by Y.Katono (Chairman of Longstay Committee, JTBF)

• At the top of tour agenda, we met and exchanged greetings with Mr. Ronnagit Akasing, Deputy of Pattaya city, as well as Mr. Pisai Panomwan, Chairman of Pattaya Tourism and Sport, at the reception room of Horseshoe Point Resort.
  • To Mr. Ronnagit's view, while a number of Japanese factories are located in Pattaya area, it is not well-known to Japanese tourists or it is known with a bad image. Therefore, the city continue to improve safety, quality of food and tour events. Currently, Russian tourists count about 300 thousands (per year), succeeded by Chinese and Korean. Japanese are minor. Major hotels and super-markets have been opened to the convenience of tourists. Major sport events are also invited.
  • Mr. Pisai appealed the current Pattaya. It is close to the new airport, one hour. Tourists have an easy choice of leisure, not only golfing but also variety of marine sports. Environmental control, such as sewage treatment, is much enhanced. Security is more enhanced than before by means of police and volunteers patrolling as well as installment of monitoring cameras. Big changes of the last 10 years have made Pattaya more attractive to tourists, more comfortable for senior ages and longstayers.
• 1st day agenda covered, various facilities of Horseshoe Point, the new club house of Siam Country Club, the Sanctuary of Truth, Arangkarn Theater. We stayed in Royal Cliff Resort Hotel. 2nd day, after enjoying Nong Nooch tropical garden and its show events, we took lunch at Sea Sand Sun resort, where we had an opportunity of hearing from a Japanese, resident in Pattaya, about his view of the recent Pattaya. All of the agenda made us have a feeling of remarkable changes, and made us confident that the timely public information is even more important for the tourism promotion . .

Report 2    reported by K.Kato (Member of Longstay Committee, JTBF)

• To summarize what was observed from the window of our micro bus:
  • Pattaya beech was crowded with leisure tourists, much more than that of Phuket (observation of 2 years ago).
  • Side ways of the road were well paved and free of barrier. Handicapped person could also enjoy walking.
  • A remarkable change from the past was cleanliness. Alongside 2-3 km beech road, no trashes were observed. Unfortunately, we had no chance to go down to the sea side to confirm its cleanliness though. We neither had time to stroll nightlife streets to see how they were changed. It was also noticeable that power lines were laid underground, which gave an impression of western streets.
  • At the end of the beech road, we saw the dust car was in operation. It was 5 o'clock in the evening, unlikely to see the dust car. It seemed to suggest Pattaya city's strong intention.
• To summarize the information shared by a Japanese who has been resident in Pattaya since 2 years ago.
  • In line with opening of the new airport, construction of hotels and condominium is being accelerated.
  • Large-scaled shopping facilities are open one after another, by Thai and foreign capital. Robinson, Lotus, Carrefour, outlet malls (Jim Thompson, Mizuno, Nike) and so on.
  • HIS has opened its office and started services to offer tour programs to Japan.
  • No security concern other than specific area.
  • Number of Japanese restaurants is about 20. Price of commodities is not much different from Bangkok.
  • Other than marine sports, fishing is also enjoyable. To fish or to buy, are available sorts of fishes which are popular to Japanese.
  • It is inconvenient that you can hardly find taxi in Pattaya.

Report 3    reported by K. Mizutani (Chairman of Tourism Committee, JTBF)

• There was a fundamental question being raised by TAT Tokyo why Japanese tourists to Pattaya do not increase while tourists from other countries are increasing. As I joined 2 days' agenda and extended the stay for more 2 days to survey Jomtien Beech area, southern part of Pattaya, following is to summarize my observation and response to the question what is to be done.
• New appealing points of Pattaya are not broadly conveyed to Japanese. An aggressive advertisement would be required because there are many Japanese who are not updated with the new Pattaya. Appealing points are:
  • Recovered beauty of the beech. Cleanliness of the sea-shore and water.
  • Hotels and service apartments are abundant. Services are improved.
  • Large-scaled and attractive shopping facilities are open.
  • Large-scaled amusement facilities are open.
  • Southern part of Pattaya is suitable for longstayers.
  • Facilities are available to accept conventions and exhibitions.
  • A number of attractive tourism spots are newly born such as Sanctuary of Truth, Outlet Villages, etc.
• Further improvement items:
  • Even though security is much improved by the efforts of Pattaya city, continued efforts would be important to wipe out concerns of Japanese tourists. Also, the number of hospitals and police stations seem insufficient.
  • Transportation infrastructure is still premature. Personal tourists will have difficulty in finding transportation service with reasonable price while number of attractive spots are increasing. There also exists a strong demand of public transportation between Airport and Pattaya.
• It should be recognized that Japanese tourists are also changing in its style. Group tour will not be the majority. They prefer the style customized to their personal taste with common fundamentals provided such as safety, convenient and comfortable transportation and precise and up-to-date information of Pattaya. 　
• Tourism agencies play an important role in providing consulting services, customized package plans, flight and hotel arrangements and so on. For them to be motivated more in selling Pattaya, some sort of incentives must be considered.

return to top

Note 1: Japan Thailand Business Forum is an association consists of persons who have once worked in Thailand as executives of various Japanese companies as well as government offices located in Thailand. It was organized 4 years ago for a purpose of exchanging frank opinions with Thai authorities in regard to tourism, economy, investment and other various subjects.

Note 2: JTBF mission members

• Mr. Hiroyuki MARUKO, Chairman, former President of Mitsui & Co. Thailand Ltd.
• Mr. Hitomi MORITA, Vice Chairman, former President of Fujikura Thailand
• Mr. Kazuo KIKKAWA, Vice Chairman, former President of Tomen Thailand
• Mr. Hiroshi MOTOMURA, Finance Committee Chairman, former General Manager of Bank of Tokyo Mitsubishi , Bangkok
• Mr. Yukio KATONO, Long Stay Committee Chairman, former President of Mitsubishi Electric Thailand
• Mr. Norio OKUMURA, Public Relations Committee Chairman, former President of IBM Storage Products Thailand
• Mr. Kazumasa MIZUTANI, Tourism Committee Chairman, former General Manager of JAL, Bangkok
• Mr. Kanji KATO, Long Stay Committee member, former President of Fujitsu Thailand
• Mr. Mitsutoshi KOYAMA, Capital Market Committee Chairman, former General Manager of Sakura Bank, Bangkok
• Mr. Takashi FUSE, Representative of Bangkok Branch, former President of Nissho-Iwai Thailand
• Mr. Riichi Ishii, Food Development Committee Chairman, former President of Marubeni Thailand
• Mr. Hisashi SHINOZAKI, Secretary General, former President of Kanematsu Thailand