UPDATE Q1/2023: Tourism and Hospitality

Dear readers,

Tourism is one of the key drivers of Thailand’s economic growth, accounting for almost 22 per cent of its gross domestic product (GDP) in 2019. That year the around 40 million foreign tourists spend THB Baht 1.9 trillion (US$ 49.6 billion).

Despite being adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic during the past two years, coupled with high inflation and increasing commodity prices due to the Russian War in the Ukraine, Thailand already reached its tourism goal of 10 million arrivals in 2022 on December 10. The Thai economy in Q3/2022 recorded the fastest growth in a year – 4.5 per cent – as a result of the pick-up in tourism, amid rising domestic consumption. People have tended to travel as a way of making up for lost time during the pandemic, so-called “Revenge Travel”. GTCC member G.M. Tour & Travel (GM) saw its bookings explode overnight when destinations eased entry restrictions.

The projected number of foreign arrivals will increase in 2023 to 22 million and 34 million in 2024, according to Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Governor Yuthasak Supasorn.

During 2023-2027, the Thai Government aims to rebuild high-value tourism and attract affluent tourist groups consisting of wealthy global citizens and pensioners, professionals and highly skilled professionals, under a "reform and resilience" strategy, according to Finance Minister Arkhom Termpittayapaisith. This will enable tourism to continue as a strong driver of Thai economy for years to come.

The Long-Term (LTR) Visa is a decade-long visa designed to attract high-potential foreigners to relocate to Thailand on a long-term basis. The Government has launched a set of incentives to attract long-staying investors and foreigners. The LTR Visa is aimed at attracting four groups of high-potential foreign residents, i.e., high-income earners, retirees, highly-skilled workers and professionals working remotely from Thailand. In 2022-2026 about 1 million qualified new foreign residents are expected to generate THB 1 trillion in spending, THB 800 billion in investments, and THB 270 billion in tax income.

The pandemic is not only a challenge but also has brought new opportunities to Thailand’s tourism and hospitality sector such as the emergence of new demographics and demands for different types of services for wellness, privacy, health and premium experiences.

Siam Seaplane has already exploited the new opportunities by offering premium and personalised private charter and sightseeing flights. The Lufthansa Group also understands the change in customers' behaviour and demand for sustainable travel with a wellness focus. The German airline will be launching "Allegris" worldwide, delivering the most personal premium experiences to customers in all travel classes. Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is used in the group’s aircrafts as an alternative to fossil energy sources and it aims to lead the aviation industry into a sustainable future by becoming carbon-neutral by 2050.

I trust you will enjoy an interesting and informative read.

UPDATE is published quarterly by the German-Thai Chamber of Commerce (GTCC) and distributed through an electronic platform to members and qualified non-members in Thailand and abroad. It is also available on our website: thailand.ahk.de/en/publications.

Any opinions expressed in articles in this e-magazine do not necessarily reflect the views of the Chamber. UPDATE welcomes story and photo contributions from members and non-members alike. Articles may be reproduced with acknowledgement, except for those taken from other sources.

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Publisher/Editor-in-Chief: Editor & Communications Director: Design & Layout: Sub-Editor: Dr. Roland Wein Chadaphan Maliphan Sorapol Liengboonlertchai Tony Oliver

TOURISM & HOSPITALITY

Tourists coming back – even more than expected

Perspectives on current trends in the flight sector

Perspectives on current tourism and hospitality sector trends, and how Siam Seaplane has adapted during the COVID-19 pandemic

Thailand welcomes tourists with new Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa

The unfolding transformation of the aviation industry towards sustainability

CHAMBER ACTIVITIES

VDW Technology Symposium Thailand 2022

GTCC-GIZ Kick-off Conference on Green Hydrogen

GTCC Stammtisch “Tri-Nation Night”

GTCC Year-End Reception “60 Years Celebration” supported by Lufthansa German Airlines

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Agri-Solution Research Center in Suphan Buri

BEUMER Thailand’s new office in Bangkok

New cooperation enables Evonik to provide tire industry with silica made from biobased raw materials

FRANK Legal & Tax Ltd. – 10-year anniversary

Lufthansa’s new General Manager Thailand, Vietnam, Philippines and the Mekong region

Allianz Ayudhya grabs HR Asia Best Companies to Work for in Asia 2022

GTDEE INSIGHT

FAIRS

Tourists coming back – even more than expected

Tourism is a pillar of the Thai economy. The good news is that tourists are flocking to the Land of Smiles again and the industry is investing.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) estimates that more than 10 million tourists will visit the Thai kingdom in 2022. In the middle of the year, the TAT had assumed only 6 million visitors.

After the COVID-19 pandemic, the desire to travel to Asia is apparently stronger than expected. Thailand in particular is benefiting from the travel boom. The government had opened the borders gradually in 2021 and 2022. Then, in early July 2022, the last COVID-19 entry formalities were abolished.

The Kingdom is also considered a safe destination and has traditionally been one of the most popular destinations. Thailand ranked eighth among the world's most visited countries in 2019. At that time, nearly 40 million people entered on tourist visas.

The TAT calculates that tourism, including indirect effects, accounted for about 18

per cent of the gross domestic product (GDP) in 2019. In 2020, due to the pandemic, the share of GDP plummeted to 5.7 per cent. Spending by domestic tourists fell by about 50 per cent, while spending by international visitors plunged by 80 per cent.

Thailand tourism statistics

Source: Ministry of Tourism and Sports, 2022.

HOLIDAYING IN THAILAND, NOW MORE THAN EVER!

The kingdom is profiting from the phenomenon of "Revenge Travel". After the restrictions of the pandemic, people want to go on holiday again all the more and as soon as possible.

In September 2022, 1.3 million tourists arrived. This was admittedly significantly less than the record 2.9 million visitors who arrived in the record year of 2019.

However, Japan, a major tourism contributor for Thailand, did not open its borders for inbound and outbound travel until October 2022. Before the pandemic, Japan was among the top five countries of origin for tourists. Number one was China. Every fourth visitor came from China in 2019.

Chinese visitors had essentially led the upswing in Thai tourism before COVID-19. However, the travel industry will have to do without Chinese guests for the unforeseeable future. Experts cannot forecast when and in what numbers the Chinese will be allowed to travel again.

From January to September 2022, most tourists came from Malaysia and India, followed by guests from Singapore, Vietnam, the Republic of Korea, the United Kingdom and the United States. German tourists ranked ninth in the same period with around 190,000 arrivals.

AMAZING NEW CHAPTERS

TAT is the country’s official tourism marketing organization and is currently advertising with the slogan "Visit Thailand Year 2022-2023: Amazing New Chapters". For years, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports has wanted to focus the industry more on medical and wellness tourism and wealthy customers; however, backpackers are also starting their Asia trips in Bangkok again.

The TAT forecasts approximately 18 million tourist arrivals in 2023. According to TAT estimates, these visitors are likely to spend the equivalent of around US$ 26 billion on site.

Tourists from home and abroad spent US$ 69 billion in 2019. The accommodation and catering industry accounted for around two-thirds of all expenditure. Other sectors also generate considerable income from holidaymakers.

Tourism expenditure 2019 by sector (US$ billion)

Total 68.6

Accommodation services 24.8

Food and beverage serving services 20.9

Air passenger transport services 3.7 Road passenger transport services 3.6 Travel agencies, reservation services 3.5

Other 12.1

Source: Ministry of Tourism and Sports 2022.

Note: Average exchange rate for 2019, 1 US$ = 31.05 Baht.

About half of the tourists arrive at the capital's Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok. The airport's capacity is to be expanded from 2023 to accommodate 15 million additional passengers.

BUSINESS CLIMATE AND INVESTMENT ON THE RISE

Since mid-2022, the business climate of tourism companies has been brightening, according to surveys by the industry association, the Tourism Council of Thailand. Although the business climate index in Q3 2022 was still a third below the pre-pandemic level, it is expected to return to pre-crisis levels in 2023. The hotel and restaurant industry is therefore renovating its premises and investing in new facilities.

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Hotel projects in Thailand (selection)

Project (location)

The kingdom is profiting from the phenomenon of “Revenge Travel”. After the restrictions of the pandemic, people want to go on holiday again all the more and as soon as possible.”

Year of Investment No. of Investors Completion (US$ million) rooms

ONE Bangkok, four hotels including Ritz-Carlton, 2023 3,179 1,200 TCC Assets, Frasers Andaz (Bangkok). Property

CENTARA (four new hotels in Korat, Ayutthaya, 2026 263 4,000 Central Pattana PCL Ubon Ratchathani), CENTARA ONE (eight hotels in Rayong), GO! Hotel, (25 hotels in Korat, Ayutthaya, Ubon Ratchathani, Chiang Rai, Rayong, Sriracha and Chonburi).

Hotel at Dusit Central Park (Bangkok) 2024 170 259 Dusit International, Central Pattana

Grand Centre Point Lumpini (Bangkok) 2024 127 512 LHMH

Grand Centre Point, Ratchdamri 2 (Bangkok) 2027 122 509 LHMH

Ramada and Ramada Encore by Wyndham Resorts 2024 106 950 Azure Rich Group, (Jomtien, Chonburi) Wyndham Hotel and Resorts

LHONG 1919, The Integrated Wellness 2026 91 86 hotel rooms, Asset World Destination (Bangkok) 56 residences Corporation, the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, Wang Lee

Grand Centre Point in Surawong (Bangkok) 2023 61 399 LHMH

InterContinental Chinatown (Bangkok) 2027 42 332 Asset World Corporation, IHG Hotels and Resorts

Hilton Garden Inn (Pattaya City) 2024 40 300 Honor Group

Veranda (Phuket) 2024 29 160 Veranda Resort PCL

Source: Company websites.

Note: Exchange rate 1 US$ = 37.8 Baht (October 2022).

The Board of Investment (BOI) can support projects in tourism. The investing companies then receive tax exemptions and other incentives. The BOI received 15 applications from industry players in 2021, who submitted investments totalling US$ 510 million.

The 2004 Hotel Act defines which establishments also need a licence. A hotel is defined as a lodging establishment that provides temporary accommodation to travellers or other persons for a fee. Pensions, resorts or hostels also require a hotel licence. However, a hotel licence is not required if the establishment has less than four rooms and can only accommodate a maximum of 20 persons. Accommodation set up for the purpose of monthly rental also does not require a hotel licence.

The licence fee depends on the size of the hotel and its facilities. Documents such as a building permit and other supporting documents must be submitted with the application and signed by a Thai hotel manager to be appointed.

A Foreign Business Act also restricts the rights of foreigners who want to own or operate a hotel business. Among other things, foreigners need a special permit, called a Foreign Business Licence, to register a company for certain service activities.

It is therefore advisable to consult law firms in advance. If a hotel licence is granted, it is valid for five years and can then be renewed in a simpler procedure.

Contact details: Thomas Hundt Director Thailand, Cambodia, Myanmar, Laos GERMANY TRADE & INVEST www.gtai.com

Perspectives on current trends in the flight sector

The peak year for the global travel trade was 2019. Records were being broken everywhere – sales, number of passengers, flight schedules. Therefore the COVID-19 pandemic stunned the unprepared industry. It was the utmost stress test. What began as a short travel break stretched into a long and painful rollercoaster ride with every outbreak of a new strain. Fortunately, the sector has proven its resilience and is now racing back to recovery.

However, in the case of G.M. Tour & Travel (GM), a wholesale and corporate travel agency in Thailand, the situation has not been quite so serious as the company has managed to adapt throughout the COVID-19 pandemic with determined faith and since June 2022 has increased sales to pre-pandemic level. These are the critical trends that we see.

TRAVEL IS HERE TO STAY, WITH OR WITHOUT COVID

It is known that humans crave to explore and interact with each other physically, not through social distance or isolation. Accordingly, global tourism grew 60% in 2022 and is set to grow 30% in 2023, although it has yet to reach pre-pandemic levels. The Russia-Ukraine war and China’s zero-COVID restrictions are delaying recovery progress, particularly in markets such as Thailand,

which received 11 million inbound tourists, 25% of whom were from China, in 2019.

KEY FACTORS DETERMINE THE TRAVEL RATE OF GROWTH

When cooperative destinations eased entry restrictions, GM saw bookings explode overnight. This was exacerbated by pent-up demand and the revival of group and religious travel, corporate events and leisure happenings like the FIFA World Cup. With it came higher ticket prices due to labour shortages, limited flight availability and inflation. GM anticipates continuous growth before a potential dip in demand in the second and third quarters of 2023. By then, everyone will have satisfied their travel desire, and there will also be increased

consumer price elasticity in travel. Low-Cost Carriers (LCCs) are positioned to take advantage of this dip, as they already recorded 60% of 2022’s January to September passenger movement in Thailand.

TRAVEL BEHAVIOUR HAS BEEN TRANSFORMED

Businesses now allow working from home, leisure (business-leisure) trips and video calls for short meetings. In turn, when business travel does occur, those involved tend to stay longer and spend more. Technology continues to drive key innovations and shift more processes online – from search and booking tools, to keyless check-in and biometric gates.

“ When cooperative destinations eased entry restrictions, GM saw bookings explode overnight.”

Sustainability, ecotourism and climate change are beginning to influence trip decisions, and GM expects this trend to gain momentum. In the meantime, wellness, experiential and luxury travel are also set to increase their share of audience. Thailand faces challenges and opportunities in every topic mentioned.

THE TRAVEL TRADE HAS SURVIVED AND ADAPTED

Given the trends mentioned above, travel trade businesses have had to devise shortand long-term survival strategies. Some have adapted slightly, while others have completely reinvented themselves. Almost all were faced with the dilemma of when and how many layoffs were appropriate. There are travel agencies who are looking to exit business after their recuperation growth, and there are those that have simply closed shop due to the recession and drained resources. On the other hand, national airlines and hotel giants with strong finances affirmed have their commitment to flexibility, refundability, safety and cleanliness in the effort to retain trust. Today we are beginning to see how each strategy is panning out.

GM’S COVID STRATEGY WAS STICKING TO THE COMPANY’S CORE PILLARS

Our initial reaction to the pandemic was initially defensive. With massive refund orders flooding in, we had to devise ways to systematically process the travel tickets with the same manpower. As the refunds died down and no new ticket sales, GM then buckled down and operated business with no clear visibility. Obvious cost-cutting measures and work-from-home policies were put in place. As the long wait extended, we had time to concentrate on our core pillars.

Content

As a wholesaler, our customers come to us for competitive content and the latest product coverage. We have ensured that this expectation has been met by sourcing content through the travel trade’s latest channels, i.e., new Application Programming Interface (API) connections and New Distribution Capability (NDC) fare sourcing and servicing capabilities.

Service

With the hefty travel regulations for different countries and airlines, customers are flooded with information. GM’s job is to provide filtered, relevant information key to their travel plans. This has meant 300-400% more customer interactions with no revenue. Operations have run as normal for 365 days until now. Fortunately, GM staff have been willing to take pay cuts which allows GM to retain its manpower and skillset. This has been pivotal to our swift recovery.

Technology

Lack of visibility meant resource planning was less accurate. Shifting GM infrastructure entirely to cloud gave us the scalability and cost-cutting ability for the bumpy ride. This also provided added cyber security, compliance with personal data regulations and footing for long-term growth. Today, travel bookers can now search corporate, negotiated and flexible fares without complicated and costly implementation, and can choose to enjoy travel booking and support with our staff, 24/7.

By retaining our customers' trust and the backing of key airlines, GM is marching into 2023 with optimism and resilience for upcoming challenges. The company is ready to put COVID behind and tackle other significant issues such as sustainability, human rights and destination development.

Kit Sananwathananont

Managing Director

Contact details: Napapat Kiengsri Account Executive | Corporate Travel

G.M. Tour & Travel Co., Ltd.

Tel: +66 (0) 2838-1555 ext. 866 napapat@gmtour.com https://th.gmtour.com/

Perspectives on current tourism and hospitality sector trends, and how Siam Seaplane has adapted during the

COVID-19

pandemic

Travel is back. While it had never really gone during the COVID-19 pandemic, it now looks quite different and will remain so for the foreseeable future. Many people might question the fact that travel did not disappear during the pandemic, yet it depends on how we look at it – there were months during lockdown and international travel restrictions when no foreign tourists arrived in Thailand. Yet, during the whole of 2020, Thailand saw more than 130 million domestic tourists.

What has been different since then is the focus of travellers. Health and privacy were of the utmost importance to many people. This resulted in a surge of private jet travel during the pandemic. While business jets were often associated with top executives and VIPs only, according to the consultancy firm WINGX, they now account for a quarter of the United States’ flights, which is approximately twice the pre-pandemic share — similar to other parts of the world. McKinsey & Company also estimated that before the pandemic, only 10 per cent of those with the means to travel privately, did so.

While Thailand certainly also has private jet offers, Siam Seaplane saw a niche for premium private travel that sits in between typical business class offerings and the ultra-luxury jet market. Not only can this connect smaller airports and private runways that cannot be served by either airlines or private jets, the unique ability to land on water adds another dimension to cutting travel time and arriving in style at holiday destinations — a gamechanger for tourism in Thailand. This was recognized also by the related authorities. For example, as Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), put it: “Siam Seaplane is part and parcel of the recovery plan for Thailand.”

Another trend that already existed pre-COVID is becoming increasingly more prevalent now – it comprises travellers who are seeking experiences, memories and an ever-more unique lifestyle. A nice hotel room on its own just doesn’t cut it anymore.

COVID has also brought about a change in demographics for the tourism market in Thailand now. While this may rebound in the future, the current segmentation is something to which the hospitality world must adjust. For example, Chinese tourists made up nearly one-third of pre-COVID Thailand tourism. Now that number has virtually become zero. Instead, a large influx now of Russian and Indian tourists often calls for different types of activities, locations and preferences. New markets have opened up, such as with the affluent Saudi Arabia connection. An increased focus is on wellness and health attracts different tourists, and the recent liberalisation of Cannabis further supports this change.

In addition, COVID-19 has caused remote/flexible work and technology usage to become de facto standards. A larger reliance on technology and mobile phones means businesses, aviation and hospitality are included in that reaction. Therefore, they need to ensure their social media game is top notch, and that their apps and digital strategy not only “just exist” but are up-to-date. Are you on Tik Tok yet?

At Siam Seaplane, we have been building our business almost entirely during the COVID-19 period. It has allowed us to adjust to these trends well. COVID showed us new opportunities — such as the focus on wellness, privacy, health and, most importantly, premium experiences — to reiterate that the path we have been on is the right one. While close collaboration with

the authorities has slowed down due to the pandemic, it meant more awareness of new and different types of services. The official Thai tourism strategy has doubled down on seeking to attract premium tourists.

Last, the impact of the pandemic and changing trends in travel has showed us the need for better connectivity, not only for landing on water – which will be launched within 2023 – but also for ground-to-ground connectivity. As such, Siam Seaplane recently launched a sister brand, Siam Scenic, to offer premium and personalised private charter and sightseeing flights. They are comparable to private jet comfort, but at an accessible price. The first aircraft is now in Thailand, and the company’s service is getting ready to start.

Siam Seaplane has remained acutely aware of the new trends in tourism and hospitality, as outlined above. This has made it possible for the company to adapt to, and move with, these trends alongside many partners –ranging from luxury resorts to experience providers – in offering travellers unique memory makers, privacy when needed, healthy and sustainable solutions, and a larger diversity of options for going forward.

Siam Seaplane is excited about the trend of tourism and hospitality in Thailand going forward, and it remains convinced that Thailand will remain at the top of the list when it comes to being a leading global holiday destination.

Contact details: Ms. Khemjira Thakamwong Siam Seaplane Co., Ltd. Senior Associate, Partnerships Tel: +66 6 419 58579 khem@siamseaplane.com www.siamseaplane.com

Dennis Keller Chief Business Officer

“ Health and privacy were of the utmost importance to many people. This resulted in a surge of private jet travel during the pandemic.”

Thailand welcomes tourists with new Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa

A NEW LONG-TERM OPTION

Thailand has consistently been among the top tourism destinations in the world, with Bangkok often taking the position as the number one global destination city in the world, while Phuket and Pattaya also remain hugely popular. Although the COVID-19 pandemic has had a major negative impact on tourism worldwide, Thailand’s quarantinefree reopening in May was a welcome change for visitors anxious to explore the Land of Smiles, with a further loosening set to take place provided the decline in infection rates continues.

The government and tourism organizations are working to rebalance this important sector with the country’s reopening to a new normal and the rapid shift to more environmentally conscious travel, which ranks highly among tourists worldwide, and in particular, Thai travellers who are strongly committed to sustainable journeys and respect for local communities – while travel platforms are likewise updating their sustainability information, including accommodation providers that save energy

and water, support local communities and protect nature.

However, beyond the conventional travel market, one aspect of the reopening that is likely to gain attention is the rollout of the Long-Term (LTR) Visa, which is meant to provide an important boost to the Thai economy – and well-timed as the country opens up. To give a boost to the reopening, the government has launched a set of incentives to attract long-staying foreign investors and foreigners, which can help in attracting investment and skills with a longer-term win-win approach.

A WIN-WIN STRATEGY

To stimulate the economy, the goal of the LTR Visa is to attract high potential foreign residents to Thailand among four groups under the relatively new plan. An estimated one million qualified new foreign residents over a five-year period (2022-2026) are expected to generate baht 1 trillion baht in spending, baht 800 billion in investments, and baht 270 billion in tax income. The benefits include not being required to notify

Thai authorities every 90 days (moving to annual reporting), which is currently a standard for conventional visa and work permit holders, and a mild source frustration among visa holders.

Moreover, and more importantly, the visa period is for a 10-year period (renewable after five years), providing significantly extended coverage and likely to be an important draw for applicants. The win-win approach is meant to attract and bring in qualified individuals with greater spending power than regular short-stay travellers, whose trips are for just a fixed period, while on the applicant side, LTR visa holders are those who know Thailand and would want to put down roots, buy homes, and work in advanced sectors and make business investments resulting in productive use of their time.

POSITIVE KNOCK-ON EFFECTS

As the LTR Visa rolls out, the four eligible groups who can qualify are high-income earners, retirees, highly-skilled workers, and professionals working remotely from

Thailand. A notable benefit on the business side includes the removal of the requirement for employers to hire four Thai citizens per foreigner, making the process for hiring much easier. In this regard, LTR Visa holders can help the broader economy, while those in the information technology and engineering fields can potentially assist Thailand in valuable technological developments, AI and data science, in line with Industry 4.0. In addition, health-care service providers can expect to benefit from the higher number of foreigners in the country, demonstrating the knock-on benefits.

HOME IN THE LAND OF SMILES

With the different visa classifications currently available, the LTR Visa is likely to win out among foreigners, given its simplicity and competitive benefits, i.e., property purchase eligibility and reduced personal income tax rates. The LTR Visa is also meant to boost Thailand’s competitive position within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and globally with a more streamlined process and an enhanced benefits package, providing

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As the LTR Visa rolls out, the four eligible groups who can qualify are high-income earners, retirees, highly-skilled workers, and professionals working remotely from Thailand.”

a more competitive choice to other countries around the world as well as those that are much closer to home – including Malaysia’s tightened Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) eligibility criteria.

While many countries are looking to attract investors, remote workers and the more affluent segment, the LTR Visa appears to be the right fit, given (a) the valuable benefits accorded to visa holders, (b) the incentivized long-term approach, and (c) the fact that Thailand remains a hugely popular country of interest to foreigners worldwide.

The Thailand Board of Investment’s Expatriate Services Division is in charge of handling all inquiries and the processing of the LTR Visa in co-ordination with the relevant government ministries as well as the NESDC in implementing this programme. It is also worth noting that the registration fee was reduced from the initial baht 100,000 to baht 50,000, providing sizeable costsavings and an added enticement for eligible applicants looking seriously at Thailand as an option. The country is already an important base for a large number of leading multinational corporations from around the world across a range of sectors – many of which are increasingly focused on advanced technologies and industries, and more sustainable solutions.

The LTR Visa, which is set to contribute to longer-term economic growth in Thailand, can therefore serve as an important way to crowd-in a diverse and talented group of expatriates attracted to a country that is providing a far more convenient and attractive option to grow their inbound investments. It is also further showcasing Thailand as the preferred location for highpotential foreigners looking to transition to their new home.

Contact details: Thailand Board of Investment (BOI) +66 2 553 8111 www.boi.go.th

The unfolding transformation of the aviation industry towards sustainability

Anlee Do

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the industry suffered tremendously, airlines grounded the fleets, entry restrictions changed constantly, and the freedom to fly disappeared for a while. Right now, the aviation industry has come back strongly, especially for the passenger business. Besides all usual stakeholders of the industry, we are taking extra care of an additional important one: the environment.

While tourism plays a major role in the recovery of the aviation industry, Lufthansa Group, the largest aviation group in Europe, looks ahead toward a sustainable future for its operations. The company has set very clear goals of becoming CO2 neutral by 2050 and halving net emissions by 2030 compared to 2019. Lufthansa Group is actively using latest technology and innovation to achieve this important target.

GTCC UPDATE interviewed Ms. Anlee Do, also known as Anh-Thu Van Do, who has been Lufthansa’s new General Manager of Thailand, the Philippines, Vietnam, and the Mekong region since September 2022. Her fascination with the travel and aviation industry began in her childhood as her father was working as a tour guide specialized in European destination and then running a travel agency in Ho Chi Minh City. She started at Lufthansa as a management trainee in Germany and has now been with the company for

more than 14 years. After gaining several opportunities to work abroad, rotate between different departments as well as develop personally and professionally, she gained the chance to return to Thailand after seven years. Under her leadership and with her extensive experience, she has the passion to lead the teams in the region with strong focus toward a sustainable future for flying.

Under your leadership, what will be changed in the focus of Lufthansa Group in Thailand and the South-East Asian region?

My focus for Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines and the Mekong region is to connect customers to Europe in the most sustainable way. Lufthansa Group has been playing an active part in educating the market and our partners about solutions and offers to significantly reduce the amount of CO2 related to flight activities.

What concrete steps is the Lufthansa Group taking to push towards green aviation and sustainability?

First and foremost, it's about avoiding CO2 That's why we are thrilled to have Deutsche Bahn as a member of the Star Alliance and as an intramodal partner this year. With the on-going collaboration, there are many flights in Germany that can be connected to our hubs via train connections and that avoids CO2 emissions to the environment. We are working with Deutsche Bahn to create a seamless travel experience from the plane to the train. Currently, we can reach more than 30 destinations by train from our hubs, and more to come in the future.

The second point is the significant reduction of CO2. Lufthansa is now investing 2.5 billion euros per year in new aircraft that use less fuel and produce less CO 2. We have also developed a functional biomimetic technology called "AeroSHARK" together with BASF, the world's leading chemical and coatings manufacturer. AeroSHARK is an innovative riblet film, which successfully mimics sharkskin in order to reduce significantly aerodynamic drag and this in turn increases fuel savings for flight

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People are familiar with the concept of sustainable travel and appreciate the efforts of brands that are committed to this issue. Willingness to pay is higher when it comes to sustainable travel or wellness focus.”

opertaions. It is cost-effective, scalable, retrofittable and sustainable.

The very important driver in reducing CO2 emission is by using Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), which is made from used cooking oil or biomass, and this can be blended with Jet-A fuel. SAF can reduce 80 per cent of CO2 emissions, which is very significant and can have an immediate impact. The Lufthansa Group was the largest SAF customer in Europe in 2021 and among the top three worldwide.

The last point is compensation. We are carrying out many climate projects around the world to protect the planet, but unlike the switch to SAF with immediate reduction of CO2, compensation is more long-term.

What are the current/major trends in Thailand’s tourism and hospitality sector, and how will the trends affect the aviation sector?

The first major trend is that everything now is online. Especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, we saw that people's behavior had changed, especially in terms of travel. Nowadays, people go online to get inspired, plan and buy a trip at the touch of a finger. This aspect will grow much faster in the future.

Second, the topic of sustainability is becoming more and more important. People are familiar with the concept of sustainable travel and appreciate the efforts of brands that are committed to this issue. Willingness to pay is higher when it comes to sustainable travel or wellness focus.

Finally, people want individuality and personalization rather than one-size-fits-all offerings. Individualization is the key; the new product we are launching, Lufthansa "Allegris," is no longer about the seats that we sell in each compartment, but about the most personal experience customers can

have on board our intercontinental flights. There are 14 different types of seats, tailored to different travel needs, e.g., maximum comfort in Economy Class with Sleeper Row, honeymoon suite in Business Class, extralong seat for tall passengers or the exclusive suite experience in First Class. The new concept has already been launched on selected United States routes.

How do you see the future of the aviation Industry and tourism in Thailand and the South-East Asian region? What is Thailand’s strength compared to the aviation industry in other South-East Asian countries? Will Thailand still be the region’s centre of aviation in the next 10 years.

I believe that Thailand will remain the centre of aviation in the region because it is an attractive destination for tourism and for business. The Lufthansa Group has been present here even during the toughest time of the pandemic, and that shows our commitment to Thailand market, as well as our region. We are always looking for opportunities to grow our network in a sustainable way and South East Asia is a focus region for the Lufthansa Group.

What are some of the biggest challenges that Lufthansa Group has been facing during the past years? Are the challenges significantly different between the pre-and the post-COVID periods?

Due to the attractiveness of Thailand, the biggest challenges are the competitive market landscape and being relevant to all customer segments that we want to target. During the pandemic, we were required to deal with global border closures for 2.5 years, fleet grounding, and delayed openings in Asia Pacific. After the reopening of borders, the main challenge was to ramp-up the operations. However, no industry can go from 30 per cent to 90 per cent capacity in three months, especially

when combined with pilot strikes, different COVID testing systems and limited airport capacity.

How have Lufthansa’s strategies been adapted to the COVID-19 impacts on the aviation industry in Thailand and the region?

Our strategy remains being a premium airline group and having the best connectivity to Europe and sustainable flying solutions from Thailand. We did not stop flying during the pandemic and our commitment to the market is now stronger than ever. In order to offer the best connectivity to Europe, we connect Bangkok daily to our hubs in Munich, Vienna and Zürich. We have a wide range of products to meet the travel needs of different customer segments and, most importantly, Lufthansa Group is the market leader in sustainability.

What are the current routes for Lufthansa Group’s commercial flights and flights connecting Thailand and Germany. Is there a plan to increase the routes between the wo countries as well as business growth in accordance with the recovery of the tourism and hospitality industry in Thailand (e.g., more direct flights)?

Currently, it is Munich to Bangkok. We are always looking for opportunities to sustainably expand our route network, and South-East Asia is a priority region for the Lufthansa Group. As we invest in renewing our fleet, we will put a new aircraft into service every two weeks during the next 12 years. We will be keenly attuned to further opportunities to connect the Kingdom of Thailand with the European continent.

Contact details: Anlee Do General Manager Thailand, the Philippines, Vietnam, and the Mekong region Lufthansa Group ppb.thailand@dlh.de https://www.lufthansagroup.com

GTCC-TEBA event “Towards an Electric Mobility Era in Thailand”

Electric mobility is an inevitable trend. Countries worldwide, including Thailand, are accelerating the transition to electric vehicles. Various aspects and dimensions of electric mobility were discussed and exchanged at the GTCC-TEBA event "Towards an Electric Mobility Era in Thailand" on 22 September 2022. It was followed by a networking session in the warm ambiance of the Marriott Executive Apartments.

Guests of honour H.E. David Daly, Ambassador of the European Union to Thailand delivered the opening remarks. M.L. Chayotid Kridakon, Advisor to the Prime Minister, provided an insight into the "EV Perspective in Thailand" and Mr. Nuttakorn Utensute, Principal Advisor for Excise, Excise Department, presented insightful information on "EV 3 Package". GTCC President, Mr. Michael Welser delivered opening remarks together with TEBA President, Mr. Stefan Heuer.

Key trends in the Thai automotive industry were discussed by participating experts,

Third

including: Mr. Ron

(Thailand) Co, Ltd., Mr. Juergen Fitschen,

(Thailand), Mr. Martin Knoss, Regional President of

Bosch Ltd. and Mr. Bjoern Voss, Managing Director of P3 Group (Thailand) Ltd. The panel discussion was moderated by TEBA President, Mr. Jan Wittenstein, Chairman of TEBA Automotive Working Group/GTCC Board member.

GTCC Stammtisch

An enjoyable evening was provided by the third GTCC Stammtisch of this year for the many guests who enjoyed a warm and friendly networking ambiance with a dazzling scenery of the Chao Phraya River on 29 September 2022. GTCC would like to thank Event Partner Mazars in Thailand for making this evening possible, and Venue partner Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok for supporting GTCC with a fine selection of food in an excellent setting.

GTCC Multi-Chamber Eastern Seaboard Seminar

“German Supply Chain Act – the implications for businesses in Thailand”

GTCC organised a GTCC Multi-Chamber Eastern Seaboard Seminar surrounded by the relaxing scenery of Pattaya at Siam@Siam Design Hotel Pattaya on 23 September 2022. Speaker Mr. Fabian Lorenz, Attorney at Law (Germany) from Luther, provided participants with useful updates on the "German Supply Chain Act – the implications for businesses in Thailand".

Luther, one of Germany‘s leading corporate law firms, provides the whole range of legal advice, tax advice and corporate services with its “one-stop” solution. Mr. Lorenz is an attorney-at-law and partner at Luther LLP in Singapore. He is the location head of Luther in Thailand and advises primarily companies that plan to invest in the Asia-Pacific region, with a particular focus on Thailand, Myanmar, and Singapore. Fabian especially provides advice in the areas of corporate law, employment law and legal compliance (including data protection).

GTCC Multi-Chamber Eastern Seaboard Networking

A signature GTCC Eastern Seaboard Networking Event was organised in collaboration with other bilateral chambers of commerce in Thailand. GTCC sincerely thanks Event Partners Luther, Schaeffler Manufacturing (Thailand) and Thai Environmental German Services (TEGS) for helping to make this event possible and successful as well as Beverage Partner, Franziskaner for offering a unique taste of Bavaria, and Venue Partner Siam@Siam Design Hotel Pattaya. Many thanks to the guests and the participating chambers for joining us!

VDW Technology Symposium Thailand 2022

Internationally renowned German manufacturers showcased the latest production technology solutions at the VDW Technology Symposium Thailand 2022 organised by GTCC in co-operation with VDW (German Machine Tool Builders' Association) in September. The GTCC was pleased to welcome more than 150 participants and key stakeholders from relevant companies and associations of the Thai automotive and supplier industry, the general engineering and machinery and metalworking industry at the delegation week for German machine tool manufacturers.

The experts presenting production technology solutions at the event were from German manufacturing companies, including: ALZMETALL Werkzeugmaschinen- fabrik und Gießerei Friedrich GmbH & Co. KG; BLOHM JUNG GmbH; DMG MORI/DECKEL MAHO Pfronten GmbH; GROB-WERKE GmbH & Co. KG; Maschinenfabrik Berthold Hermle AG; INDEX-Werke GmbH & Co. KG; OPEN MIND Technologies AG; and TRUMPF SE + Co. KG.

The symposium also included a discussion on “Smart and sustainable manufacturing in Thailand” by: Dr. Frank Neuscheler, Robert Bosch GmbH; Mr. Somphop Klyosumphan, Thai Subcontracting Promotion Association

(THAI SUBCON); Mr. Chatchai Pholmoon, Thai Automation and Robotics Association (TARA); and Dr. Somwang Boonrakcharoen, Thai-German Institute (TGI).

Asst. Prof. Dr.-Ing. Kumpanat Sirivedin from the Sirindhorn International Thai-German Graduate School of Engineering (TGGS) provided an introduction to the companies and moderated the session. An individual "B2B Match-Making" between Thai and German companies was also organised to discuss further inquiries. The symposium was part of a threeday delegation program which begun on the first day with a country briefing on political and economic aspects. The delegation program was concluded with a site visit to A.L.K. Precision Works (1976) Company Limited and Unical Works Co., Ltd.

GTCC-GIZ Kick-off Conference on Green Hydrogen

Thailand is in transition towards its goals to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2065. Green hydrogen is a future energy source that could help Thailand meet its energy demand and reach the net-zero emissions goal.

This objective was discussed at a conference on green hydrogen held on 5 October 2022, which was organised in co-operation with the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) in the framework of the H2-Uppp programme. The aim is to ramp up the market for green hydrogen (GH2) and Power-to-X (PtX) applications in Thailand with support from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK).

The conference, held at the Crowne Plaza Bangkok, Lumpini Park, was well-received by all the relevant partners and stakeholders as well as more than 180 attendants. The event provided first-hand knowledge from discussions and presentations given by industry pioneers, technology providers, policymakers and other key stakeholders. The Chamber offers its thanks to all the partners, speakers, panellists and participants for making the conference a complete success.

Following the conference, a reception was hosted by the German Ambassador to Thailand, H.E. Georg Schmidt at his residence.

GTCC Multi-Chamber interactive and innovative training

A psychologically-safe environment empowers individuals to speak up without fear of humiliation or punishment, and it has proved helpful to increasing the efficiency of teamwork and performance.

In this context, GTCC Multi-Chamber training on "Implementing psychological safety with multi-cultural teams South-East Asia", was organised on 12 October 2022. The event, which was very interesting and informative, was guided by Mr. Luke Salway, Master Facilitator from Coachology. The participants enjoyed the discussion on psychological safety that would bring about the best actions by the teams despite their culturally-diverse backgrounds. Thanks are due to the speaker and guests for and to Hotel Venue Partner Westin Grande Sukhumvit, Bangkok for its assistance in providing an excellent venue setting.

GTCC HR Committee Seminar with Mercer Thailand

A GTCC HR Committee Seminar, "Compensation and benefits trends in the Thailand talent market", organised together with Mercer Thailand, was held on 20 October 2022 at the Crowne Plaza Bangkok Lumpini Park. The event attracted more than 30 GTCC members, among them executives, human resources professionals and colleagues

As the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic declines and the workforce returns to their places of employment, not only has the way that work is done changed; the way that employees prefer to engage in their work has also been transformed. Ms. Mella Daracan, Career Products Leader at Mercer Thailand provided valuable lessons. She also held a relevant discussion on how the recent trends in compensation and benefits practices reflect these changes and how employers in the Thai market have responded.

The seminar was followed by a professional networking session with open exchanges

among the participants. Thanks are given to Event partner Mercer Thailand and the Speaker, Ms. Mella Daracan, for their excellent contributions to the fruitful discussions. Also, GTCC appreciates the support from Crowne Plaza Bangkok Lumpini Park for providing a well-set venue and excellent food and drinks.

GTCC tax seminar and networking with Mazars in Thailand

An informative night with Mazars in Thailand took place on 25 October 2022 at the Rembrandt Hotel & Suites, Bangkok, with various crucial updates on taxation changes that pose significant challenges to the international business community in Thailand.

GTCC is grateful to speaker Mr. Martin Liebenow, Tax Director and Head of the German desk at Mazars in Thailand, for sharing his knowledge and interesting perspectives on such important topics as tax and international updates as well as transfer pricing data.

Thanks are due to fellow business professionals and friends for participating in the seminar and the professional networking session with open exchanges among participants.

GTCC Stammtisch “Tri-Nation Night”

The last GTCC Stammtisch of 2022, “Tri-Nation Night”, was organised on 10 November 2022 at which it welcomed almost 160 guests comprising members, partners and friends of GTCC, ADVANTAGE AUSTRIA Thailand and the Swiss-Thai Chamber of Commerce (STCC).

The event was opened with welcoming remarks by GTCC Executive Director, Dr. Roland Wein. Mr. Hans-Ulrich Südbeck, Chargé d'affaires ad interim, German Embassy Bangkok, Mr. Michael Schmeiser, Deputy Head of Mission, Austrian Embassy Bangkok, and Mr. Conradin Rasi, Chargé d’affaires a.i. of the Swiss Embassy Bangkok also delivered welcoming remarks to the guests.

GTCC would like to thank all participants for making this event a big success, including:

• Co-hosts Advantage Austria Thailand and STCC for making the event possible;

• Event Partners Bumrungrad International Hospital, Hansen Beck, Luther, Mazars in Thailand and RIS Swiss Section-Deutschsprachige Schule Bangkok for their great support; and

• Venue Partner: Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit Hotel Bangkok for offering a spectacular setting and an excellent selection of food and drinks.

GTCC Oktoberfest 2022

GTCC Oktoberfest 2022 was organised for two days, 3-4 November 2022 with welcoming remarks by GTCC President, Mr. Michael Welser. On the first day, German Ambassador to Thailand, H.E. Georg Schmidt, officially opened the event with the traditional tapping of the barrel together with Mr. Welser, GTCC President and Dr. Wein Executive Director. On the second day, the beer keg tapping was performed by the Deputy Head of Mission, German Embassy Bangkok, Mr. Hans-Ulrich Südbeck.

GTCC was delighted to be able to deliver the best Oktoberfest experience to all the guests once again, with traditional Oktoberfest music played by a visiting band from Bavaria, ‘AnTon and the Funny Guy’, a ceremonial beer barrel tapping, the presence of men and women in traditional Oktoberfest outfits, a German buffet and original Paulaner Oktoberfest beer as well as an after-party with a live DJ until late into the night.

Thanks are given to all the guests and the following partners for making the Oktoberfest party successful:

• Diamond Partner: Häfele (Thailand);

• Gold Partners: DACHSER, Luther, Lufthansa, Munich RE, and Schaeffler Manufacturing;

• Silver Partners: B. Grimm Trading Corporation, and Thaivivat Insurance;

• In-kind Partners: Bumrungrad International Hospital, and Robert Bosch;

• Venue Partner: Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit; and

• Beverage Partner: Paulaner by Flow Inter

GTCC business and study trip to Germany –“The Future of Healthcare” and MEDICA 2022

On 14 November 2022, the delegation made a site visit to the B. Braun headquarters in Melsungen. B. Braun, a GTCC member, is one of the world’s leading medical technology companies. Thanks to B. Braun and B. Braun Thailand’s Managing Director Khun Sayan Roy for the warm welcome.

The business and study trip was completed in Bad Homburg on 18 November 2022, after visiting MEDICA 2022. In Bad Homburg, the delegation visited GTCC member Fresenius Medical Care, the world’s leading provider of products and services for people with renal diseases. The company also provides dialysis products such as dialysis machines or dialyzers.

The GTCC is grateful to Fresenius Medical Care and Mr. Maximilian M. Peschel, Manager, Public and Government Affairs APAC, of Fresenius Medical Care Asia-Pacific, for the delegation’s warm welcome.

Visit to the German Pavilion and GTCC members at METALEX 2022

METALEX 2022 was held in BITEC from 16-19 November 2022. On 17 November 2022 GTCC Executive Director, Dr. Roland Wein visited the booths of GTCC members and other exhibitors in the German Pavilion at METALEX 2022, who included ALD Vacuum Technologies, Botek, Guhring Thailand, Hermle SEA, and Oerlikon Balzers Coating (Thailand). He also met with representatives from German companies who were visiting METALEX 2022 to gather information for investment and building business partnerships.

Fifteen German companies participated in the German Pavilion, which was funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) and organised by Landesmesse Stuttgart GmbH with support from German Machine Tool Builders' Association (VDW).

METALEX, a leading trade fair for the metalworking industry and machine tools, connects more than 85,000 metalworking industrialists with more than 2,500 brands of world-class machine tool and metalworking technology providers.

GTCC Intercham YP Networking Event

GTCC’s special and last young professionals network evening of 2022 took place on 25 November 2022, in co-operation with 11 other bilateral chambers of commerce in Thailand. The event attracted more than 110 young professionals from several international circles in Thailand, who were welcomed by GTCC Vice-President Khun Waranya Pratumtin.

The lively atmosphere was complemented by the exceptional venue and delicious German food provided by Venue Partner Crowne Plaza Bangkok Lumpini Park, and various premium beverages offered by our Beverage partners Discolo, Haus of the Sober & Paulaner. The Chamber appreciated their great support.

GTCC Executive Briefing and Networking with L&P and Green Yellow

The GTCC Executive Briefing and Networking event was organised on 30 November 2022. The focus of the event was on renewable energy in Thailand, and how to make use of existing promotions and become more sustainable.

The Chamber is most grateful to Mr. Till Morstadt, Managing Director of Lorenz & Partners Co., Ltd., and Mr. Stéphane Dufrenne, Chief Commercial Officer of Green Yellow Asia for sharing many useful insights. GTCC also appreciates the support received from Venue Partner Sindhorn Midtown Hotel Bangkok, Vignette Collection as well as all the guests who participated in the event.

GTCC Year End Reception “60 Years Celebration” supported by Lufthansa German Airlines

More than 140 members, friends and guests celebrated the 60th anniversary of the foundation of the German-Thai Chamber of Commerce (GTCC) and the completion of 2022 at the GTCC Year End Reception, "60 Years Celebration", supported by Lufthansa German Airlines on 2 December 2022.

GTCC was proud to have welcomed guests of honour including German Ambassador to Thailand, H.E. Georg Schmidt, Honorary Member Volker Fischer, who served on the GTCC Board, Chamber ex-Presidents Karl-Heinz Heckhausen, who is also GTCC Honorary Member, Khun Pracha Chivapornthip, Andreas Richter and their spouses.

The grand evening event was opened with a warm welcoming speech by GTCC President Mr. Michael Welser. On behalf of GTCC, he said he highly appreciated the continuing support by the members and partners that had made 2022 another successful year for the Chamber. Mr. Welser's speech was followed by special remarks from Ambassador Schmidt. After enjoying a wide variety of fine food, the night was extended with an ultimate after-party with renowned DJ Monster P.

GTCC is also very grateful to Lufthansa German Airlines for supporting this event as GTCC’s first-ever Naming Partner. Special thanks are due to Event Partners Bumrungrad International Hospital, Luther and Schaeffler Manufacturing as well as Food and Beverage Partners KCG Corporation, Flow Inter Co., Ltd. and Serenity Wines, and Venue Partner Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit.

GTCC partner and customer appreciation

GTCC organised an exclusive cocktail dinner to celebrate its successful co-operation with almost 60 partners and customers as well as to express the Chamber’s sincere gratitude for their continued support of GTCC in 2022. The event took place at The Sukhothai Bangkok on 6 December 2022.

GTCC Multi-Chamber Business Women Networking

“Empowering women - The way forward”

About 40 women from different business communities in Thailand gathered at the GTCC Multi-Chamber Business Women Networking event on 8 December 2022 surrounded by the spectacular view of Bangkok skyline at night in the rooftop bar of Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit.

The participants shared perspectives in an open discussion, moderated by Ms. Cristy Aphimmonthol, Managing Director of Coachology and Pink lotus foundation and with Ms. Siriporn Rathie, Country Programme Manager, Women's Economic Empowerment at UN Women as an active contributor on the topic of "Empowering women – The way forward". After a thought-provoking conversation guests celebrated the festive season with a goodwill gift session.

Thanks go to Beverage Partner Serenity Wines Asia and Venue Partner Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit for their generous support.

Bayer Agri-Solution Research Center in Suphan Buri

Bayer Thai Co., Ltd., officially opened its Agri-Solution Research Center in Suphan Buri Province on 28 October 2022 to further bring innovative agricultural solutions and digital farming technologies to Thai farmers.

GTCC Executive Director Dr. Roland Wein joined the grand opening ceremony which was opened by Ms. JinA Lee, Managing Director of Bayer Thai and Mr. Srinath Bala, Regional APAC Head of Field Solution, Bayer Crop Science APAC. German Ambassador to Thailand, H.E. Georg Schmidt, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives of Thailand, Mr. Prapat Pothasuthon delivered congratulatory remarks at the opening ceremony. The Governor of Suphan Buri province, Mr. Nattapat Suwanprateep, was among the guests of honour.

Ms. Lee expressed appreciation to the Board of Investment (BoI) for granting investment incentives to the Agri-Solution Research Center.

The expansion of research and development activities in rice, corn, and vegetables will support Thailand's national agricultural strategy to elevate the agricultural sector’s competitiveness. Mr. Bala said Bayer is committed to helping farmers achieve production efficiency and better quality of life. "Farmers need innovation, not only to grow enough, but to grow better. This center will allow us to deliver tailored solutions to farmers."

Bayer was established in Thailand 60 years ago with its key investment in life science innovation and technology in the area of health care and agriculture, with the vision of “health for all, hunger for none” and mission of “science for a better life". Bayer focuses on continual research and development in innovation as the key foundation to support country and societal development as well as tackle challenges in health care and agriculture.

BEUMER Thailand’s new office in Bangkok

BEUMER Group (Thailand) Co., Ltd. recently opened its new office in Bangkok. BEUMER Group (Thailand), a GTCC member since August 1999, is a leading international manufacturer specialising in material handling systems covering various industries worldwide. The range

of products of the BEUMER Group global operations includes conveying, loading, palletizing and packaging technology as well as sortation and distribution systems. Its factory building in Thailand is located in Chachoengsao Province.

GTCC Executive Director Dr. Roland Wein joined the opening ceremony on 1 December 2022 and was welcomed by BEUMER Group Chief Executive Officer Mr. Rudolf Hausladen and BEUMER Group (Thailand) Managing Director Mr. Amir Sinai at the new office.

New cooperation enables Evonik to provide tire industry with silica made from biobased raw materials

material to produce the tire silica will be biobased and made with green energy. The demand for sustainable raw materials in tires is increasing significantly. However, until now only very small quantities of biobased silica are available in the market, despite the rising global demand.

Evonik, one of the world’s leading silica producers, has entered a strategic cooperation with the Pörner Group, Austria and Phichit Bio Power Co., Ltd., Thailand, to supply sustainably precipitated ULTRASIL® silica to tire manufacturers.

Silica is the key-ingredient for fuel-efficient tires, reducing the fuel consumption by up to eight percent compared to conventional passenger car tires. With the sustainable ULTRASIL® silica a next step will be taken to reduce the carbon footprint of the silica significantly. The silicate, which is the essential raw

The new collaboration addresses this shortage and the industry’s ambition to increase its use of renewable raw materials. Pörner Group’s pioneering process to generate the silicate from rice husk ash (RHA) uses biomass energy that enables Evonik to deliver a CO2 footprint reduction of up to 30% compared to its standard silica. Phichit Bio Power Co., Ltd. with its existing rice mills and biomass power plants, licenses Pörner Group’s technology and will invest in a new RHA sodium silicate plant in Thailand. This operation will allow a reliable supply of biobased water glass for Evonik. This is required to meet the global tire industry’s demand for more sustainably produced silica.

In picture: Gerhard Bacher, CEO of Pörner Germany, Banjong Tangjitwattanakul, President of Phichit Bio Power Co., Ltd., and Bernhard Schaefer, Senior Vice President Production & Technology of Evonik.

FRANK Legal & Tax Ltd. – 10-year anniversary

2022 marks FRANK Legal & Tax’s 10th anniversary, celebrating ten years of confidence from its clients through delivering excellent support for businesses and investors in Thailand. GTCC Executive Director joined the company’s 10th anniversary reception on 9 November 2022 at the Pacific City Club, to celebrate the milestone with the company’s clients and partners.

FRANK Legal & Tax is a business law firm founded in 2012 by German attorney Mr. Fabian Doppler. It provides legal and tax advice with the aim to act as an excellent choice for large and small businesses as well as property investors. It has its head office in Bangkok and a branch office in Phuket. FRANK Legal & Tax has been a GTCC member since 2013.

“Through our dedicated areas of legal expertise, we create meaningful impact that changes the lives of our clients and partners in Bangkok, Thailand, and globally. This is why we diligently conduct our work, to help businesses grow and investors thrive. We have accomplished much together during our first ten years and empowered many people to overcome their legal challenges. But we are now focused on the next ten years, to become a leading legal and tax firm now, and for many years to come,” said Fabian Doppler, FRANK Legal & Tax Managing Partner.

Lufthansa’s new General Manager Thailand, Vietnam, Philippines and the Mekong region

Lufthansa Group has announced that Miss Anh-Thu Van Do (Anlee) has joined its commercial team in Bangkok as the new General Manager Thailand, Vietnam, Philippines and the Mekong region as of 1 September 2022.

“Anlee is an avid and energetic airline professional with more than 14 years of experience in the passenger airline business. Besides being an aviation enthusiast, she is also very well acquainted and passionate about the South East Asia region. Anlee began her aviation career as a management trainee in the International Airlines Professional program in Frankfurt, Germany. From there, she continued her career path in many Southeast Asian cities, starting off as a Marketing and PR Executive in Ho Chi Minh City. Next, she moved on to Bangkok, assuming the position of Marketing Manager Thailand & Mekong Region. After spending almost 5 years there, she continued her journey to Singapore, working as a Digital Performance Analyst and later as an Online Sales Manager for APAC. Her last role brought her back home to Vietnam, acting as Country Manager. We are happy to welcome her back to Bangkok for the second time now. With her broad commercial and regional experience, Anlee will continue driving success in this thriving region.”

Allianz Ayudhya grabs HR Asia Best Companies to Work for in Asia 2022 for the second year in a row

Thomas Wilson, President and CEO, Allianz Ayudhya Assurance PCL together with Lars Heibutzki, President and CEO, Allianz Ayudhya General Insurance, representing the company in receiving the HR Asia Best Companies to Work for in Asia 2022.

Allianz Ayudhya has received this award for the second year in a row. It demonstrates the company’s exceptional people management capabilities, particularly in creating excellent working environments, being open to employee feedback, encouraging worker participation, and forging good corporate cultures. HR Asia, the region's leading HR magazine, recently hosted an award ceremony at the Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen's Park Hotel. The decision was based on employee representative opinion surveys on various aspects of corporate relations.

GTDEE meeting with BIBB at GTCC

On 21 October 2022, GTDEE organised a meeting with Ms. Eva Hanau from the German Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training (BIBB), Division for International Advisory Services and Cooperation. The meeting invited partner institutions with Ms. Dominique-Navina Pantke, Project Manager for "SCHOOLPLATE", and Scientific Officer and Diploma Engineer Mr. Klaus Schmid, Group Manager Electroplating Processes and Plants from Fraunhofer IPA Institute.

The objectives of the meeting were to exchange knowledge and information about the SCHOOLPLATE project, vocational training and qualification measures for the electro-plating industry in Thailand as well as experiences of the implementation of DVET in Thailand.

Meeting on Apprenticeship Development batch 2023 at Pathumthani Brewery Co., Ltd.

On 28 October 2022, GTDEE held a meeting with Pathumthani Brewery Co., Ltd. and Don Bosco Technological College on the apprenticeship development in the mechanics profession for Pathumthani Brewery Co., Ltd.

The participants representing the four parties at the meeting were Engineering Maintenance Section, Knowledge Management of Boonrawd Group, Don Bosco Technological College, and the GTDEE Project Director together with GTDEE Senior Project Manager.

Handover Certificates for Mercedes-Benz (Thailand) Apprenticeship Programme

On 1 November 2022, Mr. Roland Folger, President and Chief Executive Officer of Mercedes-Benz (Thailand) Limited presented Level A Certificates and Level B Certificates to about 116 graduates of the Mercedes-Benz Thailand Apprenticeship Programme (Automotive Mechatronics), Batch 2019 and Batch 2020 at MercedesBenz Training Center. Mr. Hans-Ulrich Südbeck, Deputy Head of Mission, German Embassy Bangkok, and GTCC Executive Director Dr. Roland Wein delivered congratulatory remarks.

The graduates attended the DVET programme offered by MercedesBenz (Thailand) under a partnership with GTDEE/GTCC, MercedesBenz dealerships and five educational institutions – the Eastern Technological College, Don Bosco Technological College, Bangkok, Samutprakarn Technical College, Lopburi Technical College and Don Bosco Technological College, Banpong

AdA International Examination

On 27 October 2022. the "AdA International Train the Trainer 2022 (Full Version) Examination" was successfully organised by GTDEE for nine technical teachers from Don Bosco Technological College, Bangkok. Dr. Sathipharp Khamsa-Ard, Chief People Officer of Ananda Development Public Company Limited and GTCC representative as well as Asst. Prof. Dr. Panarit Sethakul, President of the Faculty of Technical Education Association were invited to participate in the examination as a committee. The examination was organised by GTDEE Project Director Markus Hoffmann and Senior Project Manager Dr. Kamonsak Suradom.

Handover AdA International Certificate at KMUTNB

On 11 November 2022, GTCC Executive Director Dr. Roland Wein handed over AdA International certificates to 29 technical teachers from the Thai-German Pre-Engineering School, King Mongkut's University of Technology North Bangkok (KMUTNB). The management team of KMUTNB joined this event including the Director of the Thai-German Pre-engineering School, College of Industrial Technology (CIT), Asst. Prof. Dr. Saowakhon Khunnawut, who reported the project progress. He was followed by a welcoming

speech given by the Assistant to the President for Academic Promotion and Quality Assurance, representing the KMUTNB President. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sumet Umchid. Chargé d'affaires ad interim at the German Embassy Bangkok and Mr. Hans-Ulrich Südbeck delivered congratulatory remarks. Mr. Markus Hoffmann, GTDEE, and Senior Manager, Dr. Kamonsak Suradom joined this event.

Co-operation in dual vocational training for Don Bosco Technological College

On 8 November 2022, a new milestone in the German-Thai co-operation in dual vocational training was celebrated. The occasion was held to mark the handover of the new Mechatronic Textbook, AdA & Pedagogic Certificates presentation as well as a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony between Don Bosco Technological College (DBTC) and Boon Rawd Brewery Co., Ltd. GTCC, in co-operation with the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ), has also developed a new training approach with training textbooks and guides based on the German standard for the profession of mechatronics. GTCC is pleased to have handed over the textbooks to 27 DBTC students as well as nine certificates by AdA International and eight Pedagogic Certificates by Faculty of Technical Education, KMUTNB. The event concluded with the MoU signing ceremony between DBTC, represented by the Rector, and Boon Rawd Brewery Co., Ltd., represented by Deputy First Senior Executive Vice-President of Boonrawd Brewery Co., Ltd., Mr. Piti Bhirombhakdi.

Monitoring project-based learning of mechatronics students at Eastern Technological College (E.Tech)

On 10 November 2022, Mr. Markus Hoffmann, GTDEE Project Director, and Dr. Kamonsak Suradom Senior Manager provided advice to 12 mechatronics students at E.Tech. The meeting focused on a project-based learning approach for conveyer belt automation control systems. The students were presented with system designs, preparation materials, tools and equipment. The GTDEE team also explained desired competencies, safety system and planning to be developed by individual and group work.

PAL Final examination guideline for Mercedes-Benz (Thailand) Apprenticeship Programme batch 2021

On 10 November 2022, Mr. Markus Hoffmann, GTDEE Project Director, and Dr. Kamonsak Suradom Senior Manager held a workshop on guidelines for the PAL Final Examination Part 1 in Automotive Mechatronics. The meeting was held at the Mercedes-Benz Competence Centre (MBCC), Bangna-Trad Road KM. 19. One apprentice from Don Bosco Technological College demonstrated at station 1: Car Inspection. A total of 33 apprentices participated in the workshop.

Visiting BMW Service Apprentice Programme in co-operation with GTDEE

In November, the GTDEE team visited the apprentices in the BMW Service Apprentice Programme Batches 2020 and 2021, who are undergoing practical training at BMW dealers. The GTDEE team and teachers from Bangkaewfa Don Bosco Technological College, Bangkaewfa Industrial Community Education College and Banphai Industrial Community Education College participated in the visit eight dealers.

Final examination in mechatronics

Between 22 and 23 November 2022, GTDEE organized the final examination in mechatronics at Faculty of Engineering and Technology, King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok, Rayong Campus. The examiners came from the industrial and academic sectors as well as GTCC. This final examination was organized for graduates from the Robert-Bosch Automotive Technology Thailand (Hemaraj plant) Apprenticeship Programme, Batches 2019 and 2020 in co-operation with the ThaiAustrian Technical College.

Discussion on Business and Vocational and Higher Education: Case Studies from Germany and Thailand

Mr. Markus Hoffmann GTDEE Project Director, and GTDEE Senior Manager Dr. Kamonsak Suradom, joined the Forum for World Education (FWE) 2022 Conference for a panel discussion on “Business and Vocational and Higher Education: Case Studies from Germany and Thailand”, on 1 December 2022 at CP Leadership Institute, Nakhon Ratchasima. Dr. Leon Fourie, Chief Executive of Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology, New Zealand, also joined the discussion as a panellist. The session was moderated by Prof. Dr. honoris causa Wilfried Hartmann, Hamburg University, Germany. A total of 150 participants took part in the conference on-site, while others joined it online.

Interview with Khun Supalak Rattanarangsimon

KM Manager from Boonrawd Group on “Cooperation in DVET Program”

A: First of all, the co-ordinator should understand the current company policy, requirements and issues. Then projects will be proposed according to what the company requires. We proceed with those projects under the company regulations and co-ordinate with other business departments in order to achieve the projects as planned.

More important is that we should not be afraid to take action and should collaborate with other departments in order to gain mutual benefits. We provide a system that collects and shares the knowledge and experience of talented employees. This knowledge-sharing system can help others to increase their potentials and improve their skills.

When proceeding with projects, everyone has to have the same direction and help each other to solve all issues. All of these aspects are the crucial cores that help to implement new projects successfully. Besides apprentice development, DVET Program’s key part is to make the apprentice understand their values and needs. This project encourages them to eagerly learn new skills to improve capabilities and become quality people in the future”.

Q: What is the role of coordinators in developing successful apprenticeships according to the German standard?

New GTCC members

up to 31 December 2022

German-Thai Chamber of Commerce warmly welcomes 17 new members

Bangkok Cable Co., Ltd.

Mr. Sira Boonyakida Vice President HR bcc@bangkokcable.com www.bangkokcable.com Manufacture of electrical equipment

DoubleTree by Hilton Phuket Banthai Resort

Mr. Christoph Weidemann General Manager Ms. Thanika Phadungat Secretary to General Manager HKTPA_Hotel@Hilton.com https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/hktpadi-doubletree-phuketbanthai-resort/ Hotels and similar accommodation | Food and beverage service activities

Grant Thornton Services Ltd.

Mr. Ian Pascoe

CEO and Managing Partner Ms. Ratna Wright Partner marketing@th.gt.com www.grantthornton.co.th Accounting, bookkeeping and auditing activities; tax consultancy | Business and other management consultancy activities | Employment activities

HOMA Phuket Town

Mr. Nigel Tovey Country General Manager

Mr. Luca Dotti Managing Director stay@homa.co https://www.homa.co/ Hotels and similar accommodation | Real estate activities on a fee or contract basis

Kaizen (Thailand) Limited

Mr. Ramesh Raju Managing Director Ms. Krongkarn Koonsawat Director th@kaizen.com www.kaizen.com Management consultancy activities | Business and other management consultancy activities | Other education

Marketing Bear Co., Ltd.

Mr. Jan Rohweder Managing Director Ms. Jiraporn Tippimon Project Manager info@marketingbear.co https://marketingbear.com/ Advertising and market research Mr. Martin Drux Managing Director at Marsh GmbH martin.drux@marsh.com

NARIT & Associates Ltd.

Mr. Narit Direkwattanachai Managing Director www.naritlaw.com

Legal activities

Oerlikon Balzers Coating (Thailand) Co., Ltd.

Mr. Michel Maeusli General Manager Thailand & CLMV Countries and Regional Lead Tools Service APAC Mr. Gopinath Chikathor Sales & Operations Director info.balzers.th@oerlikon.com www.oerlikon.com/balzers/th Manufacture of rubber and plastic products | Manufacture of basic metals | Other manufacturing n.e.c.

REHAU Ltd.

Mr. Patrick Edgar Hess Operations Director

Mr. David Herensperger Head of South East Asia rehaubkk@rehau.com www.rehau.com Manufacture of other plastic products

Serenity Wines Asia Co., Ltd.

Mr. Anthony Rossi Chairman Ms. Porrada Pangsombat General Manager sales@serenitywines.com.au www.serenitywines.asia Wholesale of beverages | Food and beverage service activities

Siam@Siam Design Hotel Bangkok

Ms. Naphat Honda Director of Sales info@siamatsiam.com www.siamatsiam.com

Hotels and similar accommodation | Food and beverage service activities

Siam@Siam Design Hotel Pattaya

Mr. Clive Nagington Hotel Manager

Mr. Thurdsak Thongsanta Assistant Director of Sales www.siamatsiam.com/pattaya Hotels and similar accommodation | Food and beverage service activities

STULZ Siam Co., Ltd.

Mr. Punnavit Teerawatananont Project Manager admin@stulz.co.th https://www.stulz.com Manufacture of machinery and equipment n.e.c. | Repair and installation of machinery and equipment | Specialised construction activities

Techno Interior Japan Co., Ltd.

Ms. Jananya Srisawas GM, Marketing & Project Management Mr. Seiji Sakurai Managing Director sales.technointerior@gmail.com http://www.technointerior.net/ Manufacture of furniture | Specialised construction activities | Specialised design activities

The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon

Mr. Heinrich Morio General Manager Ms. Sunsanee Gawkasem Director of Sales https://www.standardhotels.com/bangkok/properties/bangkok Hotels and similar accommodation | Food and beverage service activities

Topgolf Megacity

Ms. Supanuch Phichitnapakul Assistant Director of Sales onestopservice@topgolfthailand.com https://topgolfthailand.com/ Sports activities | Amusement and recreation activities | Sports and recreation education

BIOFACH and VIVANESS 2023

Organic. Food sovereignty. True prices.

14-17 February 2023, Nuremberg

For the next edition of the World’s Leading Trade Fair for Organic Food, from 14 to 17 February 2023, the BIOFACH Congress will be focussing on “Organic. Food Sovereignty. True Prices.” Following the one-off Summer Edition of BIOFACH and VIVANESS in July 2022, in February 2023 the international organic foods and natural and organic cosmetics community will be gathering again in person to kick off the year at the Nuremberg Exhibition Centre. The BIOFACH Congress will be concentrating on two key questions: How do organic products contribute to food security and sovereignty, and how do “true prices” – prices that include ecological after-costs – pave the path for the necessary transformation of the food and grocery industry?

“To expand organics’ contribution to sustainability further, and thus for the transformation of the food industry as a whole to succeed, the market’s failure at using environmental resources must be put to an end at last. Only ‘true prices’ will make it possible to do business within the bounds our planet can support, leading to the success of a food and agriculture industry that is truly fit to serve our grandchildren. International organisations and government must make the most of organics’ potential”,

said Tina Andres, Chairwoman of the Federation of the Organic Food Industry (BÖLW).

“Current food pricing takes the ‘polluter pays’ principle and turns it upside down, making environmentally harmful products look ‘cheaper’ than they really are. So organic foods that present more honest costing are at a disadvantage. Which means that thus far, you can make a profit by doing business conventionally – even though it undermines the foundations of life for coming generations. The great market failure in food must be remedied with new systems for accounting, taxation and support. At the congress we want to discuss just how that might be done”, Andres added.

Marco Schlüter, Executive Director, IFOAM –Organics International: “Organic practices have demonstrated a clear ability to provide solutions and ensure a secure, sovereign food supply, because this sustainable way of doing business reinforces farmers’ autonomy and generates added value on a regional basis. The organic system’s contributions towards strengthening a secure, sovereign food supply in every region of the world will also be discussed at the 2023 BIOFACH Congress in light of the current crises.”

For more details about BIOFACH, please contact Mr. Nupat Khusribanchong, official German-Thai Chamber of Commerce representative for NürnbergMesse GmbH in Thailand, by telephone at +66 2 055 0643 or by e-mail at nuernberg@gtcc.org

INHORGENTA MUNICH 2023: Europe's Leading Platform for Jewellery, Watches and Gemstones

24-27 February 2023, Munich

INHORGENTA MUNICH is an international trade fair for jewellery, watches, gemstones, timepieces and lifestyle. It comprises a unique combination of individuality, inspiration and innovation that offers a unique variety to its visitors: jewellery, watches, gemstones, technology, design, a top-notch conference programme and many points of contact with up-and-coming talent. The annual exhibition is open to trade visitors only. The next INHORGENTA MUNICH will take place from 24 to 27 February 2023 in Munich.

INHORGENTA MUNICH presents a whole world of jewellery and timepieces. It reveals trends, innovations and solutions for the future. The exhibitors show the latest jewellery and watch collections for the coming season. Exhibitors include watchmakers, goldsmiths and silversmiths, appraisers, gemologists, mineralogists, jewellery designers, engravers, opticians and electroplating companies. At the diverse stands of the exhibitors, a variety of insights into the latest trends, products, developments and technologies are provided.

INHORGENTA MUNICH is the international order and communication platform for jewellery and timepieces. Visitors can experience the entire value-added chain for their market in all its glory at one single venue. The event uses its atmosphere of emotional experience to communicate persuasively with the industry using enticing presentations of modern designer jewellery and innovative designs.

In addition, a comprehensive programme consisting of numerous seminars and panel discussions on the topics of the latest designs and innovations of watches and jewellery rounds off the event. It is a glamorous setting featuring elegant products from the topmost designers and specialists. The top designers and collectors attend this event to purchase the newest unique gems and jewels. This is a must-attend event for watch and gemstone collectors.

Become part of the inspiring world of INHORGENTA MUNICH. More details are available at https://inhorgenta.com/en/. For further information, please contact the German-Thai Chamber of Commerce’s official representative for Messe München GmbH in Thailand, Ms. Patamaporn Wasuwat, by telephone at +66 2 055 0641 or by e-mail at muenchen@gtcc.org

ITB Berlin 2023: World’s Leading Travel Trade Show to Take Place Live Again

7-9 March 2023, Berlin

Starting on Tuesday, 7 March 2023, ITB Berlin will once again bring together tourism professionals and key players from the global travel industry. Taking as its slogan ‘OPEN FOR CHANGE’, ITB Berlin is ready to host a live comeback next year. From 7 to 9 March 2023, after three years of pandemic-related trade fair restrictions, the world’s leading travel trade show will be opening its doors to the travel community with a new concept live on the exhibition grounds. Georgia, the official host country, will ceremoniously open the event on the evening of 6 March.

The demands placed on global trade fairs have changed considerably in recent years, which is why in future and in terms of customers, ITB Berlin will concentrate its efforts on exhibiting companies as well as on trade visitors, buyers and the media. With the future positioning of ITB Berlin as a pure B2B product, the focus will therefore be on three days of business, content and networking.

At the internationally renowned ITB Berlin Convention, which will take place in parallel

with the exhibition, current trends and exciting personalities will be brought onto the global stage, with selected sessions live-streamed on itb.com. Next year’s Convention will focus on solutions surrounding digitalisation, sustainability and resilience; for visitors from around the world it will feature the latest best practices as well as keynote speeches, panel discussions, interviews with experts and awards. It will cover the entire range of topics under the headings Travel Technology, Marketing and Distribution, Future Travel, MICE, Sustainability and Social Responsibility.

Messe Berlin also has new things in store for the general public and companies interested in B2C business. The Berlin Travel Festival will in future represent the B2C element of the leisure exhibition, BOAT & FUN BERLIN. The Berlin Travel Festival was previously held at Arena Berlin, parallel with ITB Berlin’s open weekend for the public. With its new concept, Messe Berlin has established dates for the general public, who will be able to focus on a single time period and find the whole range

of leisure services as well as boats, caravans, camping and fishing products practically under one roof.

More details on ITB Berlin are available at https://www.itb.com/en/. For further information, please contact the GermanThai Chamber of Commerce’s official representative for Messe Berlin GmbH in Thailand, Ms. Patamaporn Wasuwat, by telephone at +66 2 055 0641 or by e-mail at berlin@gtcc.org.

HANNOVER MESSE 2023

Showing the way to a climate-neutral industry

17-21 April 2023, Hannover

changes they can carry out and which innovations they develop on the road to a climate-neutral industry," according to Dr. Jochen Köckler, Chairman of the Managing Board, Deutsche Messe AG. "This is a call to action for corporations, SMEs and startups as well as science, politics and s ociety. They must work together to secure our industrial production, prosperity and future as well as to protect our environment – HANNOVER MESSE shows the way to a climate-neutral industry."

from various technology fields show innovations with disruptive potential.

The big challenges facing the world today – such as climate change, energy shortages and disrupted supply chains – all have one thing in common – they demand innovative, high-tech solutions. At HANNOVER MESSE, the world's leading trade show for industrial technology, leading companies from the mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, energy, and software and IT sectors demonstrate an industrial ecosystem that enables changes in the way we manufacture, collaborate and do business.

"With the lead theme of 'Industrial Transformation – Making the Difference', HANNOVER MESSE 2023 shows the difference that exhibiting companies can make, what

HANNOVER MESSE 2023 will host more than 4,000 exhibiting companies from all over the world, including (a) global enterprises – such as Autodesk, Bosch, Capgemini, Dassault Systemes, Microsoft, NOKIA, Salzgitter, ServiceNow, Schneider Electric, and Siemens, and (b) as well as leading SMEs – such as Aerzener Maschinenfabrik, Beckhoff, Block Transformatoren, Boge, GP Joule, Festo, Formlabs, gbo Datacomp, GFOS, Harting, ifm, Kaeser, LAPP, Pepperl+Fuchs, Phoenix Contact, Rittal, SEW, Wago, WIBU, and Ziehl-Abegg. Well-known research institutes such as Fraunhofer and Karlsruhe Institute for Technology (KIT) sketch industrial solutions for the future and more than 300 startups

HANNOVER MESSE 2023 features seven display sectors: Automation, Motion and Drives, Digital Ecosystems, Energy Solutions, Engineered Parts and Solutions, Future Hub, Compressed Air and Vacuum, and Global Business and Markets. Exhibitors show solutions in areas such as CO 2-neutral production, Industrie 4.0, artificial intelligence, IT security, Logistics 4.0, circular economy, and hydrogen and fuel cells.

Whether digitalizing complex production processes, using hydrogen to operate entire production facilities or employing software to analyse and reduce the CO 2 footprint, exhibitors at HANNOVER MESSE provide a complete picture of the technological possibilities for the industry of today and tomorrow.

For more details, please contact Mr. Nupat Khusribanchong, the official German-Thai Chamber of Commerce representative for Deutsche Messe AG Thailand, by telephone at +66 2 055 0643 or by e-mail at hannover@ gtcc.org.

LightCon 2023: Second edition, June 2023

13-14 June 2023, Hannover

Deutsche Messe will once again be staging the two-day congress trade fair on the future topic of lightweight construction on 13 and 14 June 2023, at the Hannover Exhibition Center. The conference motto will be ‘Lightweight construction: The answer in times of energy and material scarcity’.

Lightweight construction combines resource conservation with high economic potential. "After the successful premiere in 2022, LightCon will continue to grow next June. The trade fair will be the industry meeting point for the entire lightweight construction market. In addition to the high-quality congress programme, companies and networks will present their products and show how the industry can benefit from the use of lightweight technology," according to LightCon Project Manager Mr. Thomas Pinkowski of Deutsche Messe.

The cross-material and cross-technology properties of lightweight construction have the potential to contribute significantly to achieving solutions to the challenges of climate protection and energy scarcity. "Lightweight design has great potential to make a significant contribution to solutions for the important challenges of climate protection and energy and resource efficiency. The materials used in lightweight design are often combinations, since in addition to the properties to be fulfilled, the

economic efficiency and sustainability of all processes involved must also be included. LightCon follows exactly this multi-material approach and offers a stage to present innovative solutions," says Dr. Gunnar Merz, Chief Executive Officer of founding partner Composites United, the world's largest network for fibre-based multi-material lightweight construction.

Additive manufacturing is also an important component of lightweight construction. Industrial 3D printing enables construction that needs significantly less material and is therefore enormously resource-efficient. "We are currently experiencing big price jumps in manufacturing materials," says Ms. Stefanie Brickwede, Managing Director of Mobility goes Additive. "All industries are currently facing the same challenges and will have to put a big focus on material efficiency in the future. LightCon provides precisely the impetus needed to make companies and products fit for the future," she emphasizes.

As visitors, LightCon primarily wants to reach developers, constructors, designers, buyers and the management of all industries for which the topic is relevant. In particular, the event offers innovative impulses for experts from the fields of mobility, aerospace, mechanical engineering, shipbuilding, construction, wind energy, and the sports and leisure industry.

For more details, please contact Mr. Nupat Khusribanchong, the official German-Thai Chamber of Commerce representative for Deutsche Messe AG Thailand, by telephone at +66 2 055 0643 or by e-mail at hannover@gtcc.org.

Mechatronics Textbook

Mechatronics is the Thai translation of the Fachkunde Mechatronik textbook published by the Europa-Lehrmittel publishing company in German in 2019. The translation has been done by a KMUTNB team of experts.

Mechatronics is geared toward the professional needs of mechatronic technicians. It has all of the necessary materials across all learning domains and courses and it contains content required for Industry 4.0.

Mechatronics is one of Thailand’s most comprehensive mechatronics textbooks which can be used for efficient teaching and learning management, suitable for students both at the vocational level and university level especially those who work in the mechatronics industry. It includes basic and advanced concepts in metal technology, electrical engineering, electronics, and information processing.

If you are interested to purchase the textbook, please fill out an order form and send it to the German-Thai Chamber of Commerce, e-mail: gtdee@gtcc.org. The order form can be downloaded at https://bit.ly/3xT54xS