update q1/2014

MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY & HEALTH CARE

First Myanmar-German Business Forum

1/2014 http://thailand.ahk.de

T H E M A G A Z I N E O F T H E G E R M A N - T H A I C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E

Finding a cure for Thailand’s costly health-care market

Ordinary General Meeting 2014welcomes new GTCC president

Proudly presented by

German-Thai Chamber of CommerceAnnual Gala Night 2014

Friday, 30 May 2014, 6:30 p.m. to midnightShangri-La Hotel, Bangkok

In-kind sponsors:Silver Sponsors:Diamond Sponsor:

Platinum Sponsors:

Gold Sponsors:

Main partners

Member:3,500 baht net per person35,000 baht net per table (10 seats)

�e German-�ai Chamber of Commerce (GTCC) invites you to be part of a glamorous evening at GTCC Gala Night 2014 under the theme ‘�e Magical Germany’. Experience and let yourself be mesmerized by the enchanting beauty of Germany which will be translated into highlightperformances and shows of the evening. The Magical Touches 6-course Gala fusion set dinner menu paired with exclusive German wines Paulaner's open bar Live music and dance �oor Breathtaking dance performance Mesmerising Fashion Show by ZuZa Fashion Win ‘Be a Queen’ gift voucher for one custom-made evening gown Win one Business class air ticket from Lufthansa German Airlines (Grand Prize)

Call 02 – 670 0600 ext. 2010 or email to [email protected] for ticket or table reservation

Non-member:5,000 baht net per person50,000 baht net per table (10 seats)

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Update is published quarterly by the German-Thai Chamber of Commerce and distributed free of charge to members and qualified non-members in Thailand and abroad.

Subscription is also available at an annual rate of US$75 (airmail). Payment can be made in cash or cheque to the German-Thai Chamber of Commerce, Empire Tower, 195 South Sathorn Rd., Bangkok 10120, Thailand. Tel.: (+66) 02-670-0600. Fax: (+66) 02-670-0601. E-mail address: [email protected].

Any opinions expressed in articles in this 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.

Circulation per issue : 2,000

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief: Jörg Buck

Editor & Communications Director: Ratanaporn Bistuer

Advertising Director:Pimtip Faktorngpan

Design & Layout: Sorapol Liengboonlertchai

Sub-Editor: Tony Oliver

DEAR READERS

We hope you have had a refreshing Songkran holiday.

Despite the current political tension, 2014 has kicked off strongly and positively for the German-Thai Chamber of Commerce (GTCC) with a number of interesting activities already having been undertaken. We successfully held our annual Ordinary General Meeting 2014 on 13 March with more than 120 participants, and officially welcomed Mr. Phongsakdi Chakshuvej, Executive Vice-President of B.Grimm & Co. Ltd. as the new GTCC President. With his long experience and knowledge of the promotion of dual vocational education, we anticipate an even more active year for the German-Thai Dual Excellence Education (GTDEE) programme as well as further involvement of GTCC member companies in this initiative that is designed, in particular, to feed the need of industrial demand.

We also have some other good news on the GTDEE side. Mercedes-Benz (Thailand) Ltd. officially come on board the GTDEE programme as a new partner company at a Memorandum of Understanding signing ceremony in February, making GTDEE even stronger. In addition, we are stepping up our activities in the Eastern Seaboard region and have joined the Eastern Seaboard Networking group with partnering chambers of commerce who take turns at hosting this monthly and extensive networking event. Check out further details on these and other happenings inside.

Focusing on medical technology and health care, this issue of Update magazine presents various insightful aspects from selected German companies that are key players in this industry. This section includes a look at the rising cost of health care in Thailand, and the impact on the Thai health-care market, by DKSH Healthcare for Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore. It also contains an article on the joint initiative between Bayer Thai Co., Ltd. and the National Cancer Institute Foundation to relieve treatment costs and widen drug accessibility for patients.

Our trade fair team has been very active since the start of the year. Among the various events that they have arranged was the recent hosting by the GTCC of an exclusive press conference and luncheon in collaboration with iba 2015, the world’s leading trade fair for bakery, confectionary and snacks. For that occasion, we were very fortunate to have the participation of several key industrial figures, including Mr. Peter Becker, President of the German Bakers' Confederation, and Dr. Yingsak Jonglertjesdawong, Managing Director of Thai & International Food Technological College (TIFTEC) and a leading figure in Thai culinary, who provided detailed information on iba 2015.

Last but not least, we’re counting down towards the GTCC Annual Gala Night 2014 in May, under the theme “Magical Germany”, so do not forget to reserve your seats as we are now almost fully booked. Thismagical night has many highlights awaiting you!

Best regards,

Jörg BuckExecutive Director

Sponsor a GTCC Event and Get Optimum Exposure for Your Company!Throughout the year, German-Thai Chamber of Commerce hosts a number of great events both single-handedly and in collaboration with our member companies. GTCC events, offered in a variety of formats, are member-orientated and reflect current business and investment trends to ensure that GTCC members enjoy beneficial information that contributes to business success.

Our experienced and resourceful Event team is ready to work closely together with you to design relevant event and tailor a sponsorship package that not only meets your needs, but also generates optimum exposure for your company within our extensive business network.

GTCC Events Breakfast talk Business luncheon Seminar, workshop and conference Business networking events Site visit

Contact us today and let’s tailor an event together!Tel: +66 (0) 2 670 0600 ext. 2003 or 2004Email: [email protected] Website: http://thailand.ahk.de GermanThaiChamberOfCommerce

CONTENTS

MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY AND HEALTH CARE12 Finding a cure for Thailand’s costly health-care market

16 National Cancer Institute Foundation and Bayer Thai jointly extend Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patient Assistance Programme (N-PAP)

23 BNH Hospital invites you to visit and share “The Art of Care Gallery”, opened to celebrate its 116th anniversary

BUSINESS BRIEFS

26 Thai-German Trade and Investment Promotion Dialogue

28 Evonik opens expanded Thai production facilities

34 ‘Thailand is the spider in the web of South-East Asia’

CHAMBER ACTIVITIES

36 German Business Community Information Exchange

36 Ice-Breakers meet Canada Networking Event

38 GTDEE, Mercedes-Benz join hands in dual education programme

39 Exclusive iba press conference and luncheon

TRADE FAIRS44 HANNOVER MESSE 2014

45 CeMAT 2014

46 IFAT

47 Interzoo

48 International Green Week Berlin 2014 (IGW)

06 A healthy market with huge potential

Interzoo 47Interzoo 47GTDEE, Mercedes-Benz join hands in

dual education programme

38First Myanmar-German Business Forum 27 Ordinary General Meeting 2014

welcomes new GTCC President

40Ordinary General Meeting 2014welcomes new GTCC President

40

Greater Mekong Subregion: Growing together

FOREIGN TRADE

In 2012, imports of medical devices by Thailand again showed vigorous growth of 24 per cent to US$ 949 million, after having risen by 27 per cent in the previous year. In 2013, the market appeared to remain steady with a slight increase of perhaps 2 per cent, similar to the figures recorded in the preceding year. Around two thirds of the medical device imports are from four countries: the United States of America (26 per cent), Japan (15 per cent), Germany (13 per cent) and China (12 per cent).

Medical equipment and supplies from Germany also recorded quite strong gains of 16 per cent to US$ 115 million in 2012. However, the relative share of the supplies fell slightly from 13 per cent to 12.1 per cent. Germany held a very appreciable market position for X-ray equipment (13 per cent), ophthalmic instruments (25 per cent), medical furniture (33 per cent) as well as other instruments and appliances (17 per cent).

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08 MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY AND HEALTH CARE

of the previous event) and 6,396 visitors (+16 per cent). Around one-third of those visitors were from abroad, with the majority coming from China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Viet Nam. With 12 national pavilions, the trade fair set new standards in the regional economic community. This included a joint German stand with 27 companies offering a wide range of instruments, equipment, advisory services and packaging.

PRODUCTION/INDUSTRY STRUCTURE

Local production is limited to labour-intensive, low-technology medical devices and accessories. Examination and surgical latex gloves as well as non-disposable medical gowns and uniforms are larger categories of Thailand's exports. Locally produced products also include test kits, syringes, reagents, needles, wheelchairs and orthopaedic devices. The industry comprises a total of 285 manufacturers, approximately one quarter of which is associated with the industry association, ThaiMed.

A growing market potential and strong investment by foreign medical device manufacturers could increase local production and raise technology standards. So far, only a few big companies are producing in Thailand. ThaiMed regards mergers and acquisitions as the best means to increase self-production, while Thailand's Board of Investment attracts foreign firms with tax and duty exemptions. The BOI stated that the first significant success in the recent years were oscilloscopes and spectrum analysers, laboratory and diagnostic reagents and irradiation apparatuses.

Selected list of leading medical device companies in Thailand

Companies Products Internet addresses

Kawasumi Dialysis equipment, blood bags, infusion tests etc. www.kawasumi.jp Laboratories

Infus Medical Dialysis equipment, hoses and connectors for www.infus.com therapeutic plasma exchange etc.

Riken Blood bags, infusion tests etc. www.rikenthai.com

3M Dental products, stethoscopes etc. www.3m.com

Alcon Ophthalmic surgical products www.alcon.com

B. Braun Elastomeric infusion pumps www.bbraun.co.thSource: Company data.

Chaophya Abhaibhubejhr Building ,Thai Traditional Medicine Museum

http://thailand.ahk.de

MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY AND HEALTH CARE 09

Imports of selected medical products to Thailand (in US$ million)

HS Product group 2011 2012 From Germany (2012)

9018.11 bis .20 Electro-diagnostic apparatus and equipment 127.3 148.2 15.8

9022 Apparatus based on the use of X-rays etc. 123.5 225.2 29.1

8419.20 Sterilisers 20.9 23.6 1.2

8713 Wheelchairs 4.2 4.8 0.1

9018.41and .49 Dental equipment; other instruments and appliances 34.7 33.9 4.1 used in dental sciences

9018.31 bis .39 Syringes, needles, catheters, cannulae etc. 84.5 105.3 3.7

9018.50 Ophthalmic instruments 25.4 30.2 7.5

9018.90 Other instruments and appliances 173.8 194.8 32.2

9019, 9020 Respiratory equipment, breathing appliances etc. 52.9 53.4 7.1

9402 Medical furniture etc. 19.6 21.2 7.1

9021 Orthopaedic technology, prostheses etc. 96.8 108.8 7.3

Total 763.6 949.4 115.2

Source: Ministry of Commerce, Thailand.

BUSINESS PRACTICES

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is responsible for market access in Thailand. Imports of medical equipment must be reviewed and approved by the Medical Device Control Division, which is affiliated with the FDA. Medical devices, which are prohibited for sale in the country of production, cannot be registered, imported or sold in Thailand. The requirements for marketing authorisation were clearly defined under the New Medical Device Act, BE 2551 (2008). The background of this new procedure was first and foremost the increased imports of illegal or copied products as well as the attempt to implement a harmonised regulatory framework for medical device registration across all ASEAN member States.

Contact addresses

Names Internet address Remarks

AHK Thailand http://thailand.ahk.de Point of contact for German businesses

Export Initiative Health-care Industry www.exportinitiative- Portal of the export initiative of the Federal Ministry gesundheitswirtschaft.de of Economic Affairs and Energy

Ministry of Public Health www.moph.go.th Ministry responsible for health care

Food and Drug Administration – www.fda.moph.go.th Registration and control of pharmaceutical products Medical Device Control Division

National Public Health Institute www.ianphi.org National Institute for Infectious Diseases

Board of Investment of Thailand www.boi.go.th National agency for investment promotion

Thai Medical Device Technology www.thaimed.co.th Industry association for medical technology Industry Association

Medical Fair Thailand – Queen Sirikit www.medicalfair-thailand.com Leading biennial trade fair in Bangkok National Convention Centre (next event: September 2015)

Thailand is a prime geographical location for establishing an Asia-Pacific region medical hub. Together with its well-known and unique hospitality, these factors are contributing to increasing numbers of overseas patients from as far away as the United States of America, Canada and Europe to the country.

Kasemrad Hospital, founded in 1993, qualified to become a member company on the Stock Exchange of Thailand in 2004, at which time its official name was changed to “Bangkok Chain Hospital – BCH Public Company Limited”. Since then, BCH has been continuously expanding and currently has seven hospitals under its umbrella: Kasemrad Hospital Prachachuen, Kasemrad Hospital Rattanathibet, Kasemrad Hospital Bangkae, Kasemrad Hospital Sukhapiban 3, Kasemrad Hospital Saraburi and Kasemrad Hospital Sriburin.

WORLD MEDICAL CENTRE

In 2013, BCH Group became the third hospital in Thailand’s private hospital industry to enter market capitalisation. The recent opening of its World Medical Centre will ensure the entry of BCH into the international health-care market. One criterion for measuring a hospital’s ranking in the health-care market segment is the technology of the medical equipment used.

Asst. Prof. Dr. Somporn Harnphanich, Senior Executive Vice-President of Bangkok Chain Hospital PCL has made very careful decisions when choosing medical equipment. In doing so, Siemens Healthcare became her most preferred supplier and business partner in terms of advances in technology, patient and user friendliness of equipment, and expertise in application coupled with a high level of patient safety.

‘CARING FOR YOU AS OUR FAMILY’

BCH’s motto is “Caring for you as our family”. Asst. Prof. Dr. Somporn gives two examples. The first is the use of the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) 1.5 Tesla MAGNETOM Avanto, which employs a very strong magnetic field together with a radio frequency wave to create images of patient’s organs without using radiation. The magnet is small and the equipment is carefully designed to help prevent patients being affected by claustrophobia. Moreover, the image quality is very important to the overall medical investigation, a need that the Siemens MRI meets very well.

The second example is the Siemens Healthcare X-ray equipment that is used by BCH in making diagnostic investigations of the cardiovascular system (Cath Lab and Angiography System Artiz Zee Biplane). This equipment delivers a lower does of radiation both to patients and to medical staff performing the examination, while maintaining excellent diagnostic details.

Asst. Prof. Dr. Somporn is confident that the advanced technology and the high quality of patient care at affordable prices that Kasemrad Hospital Group provides will not only attract growing numbers of local patients but also overseas patients following the implementation of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) in 2015.

More information on BCH and its services can be found at the websites www.kasemrad.co.th and www.theworldmedicalcenter.com.

UPDATE 1/2014


KASEMRAD HOSPITAL GROUP PUTSTRUST IN SIEMENS HEALTHCAREContributed by: Siemens Ltd.

Asst. Prof. Dr. Somporn Harnphanich, Senior Executive Vice-President of Bangkok Chain Hospital PCLMRI 1.5 Tesla MAGNETOM Avanto from Siemens Healthcare


A PROTECTIVE ACID MANTLE

The surface of healthy skin in humans from infancy to adulthood to old age has a slightly acidic pH. This is called the acid mantle of the skin. Responsible for the pH-value are weak acids from sweat, sebum, the transformation of epidermal lipids to stratum corneum lipids, the activity of Na+/H+ anti-porters in the stratum granulosum and creates a beneficial physiological environment for naturally occurring skin bacteria and makes it more difficult for colonization by pathogenic micro-organisms whose growth is at an optimum in the pH neutral range.

Depending on the part of the body, pH values lie in the range of 4.5 and 6.0. The average pH value of the skin is 5.5.

Also, the stabilisation of the pH value against pH changes such as those caused by soaps is controlled by the acid mantle. In healthy adults, it takes up to three hours after washing with a classic soap to restore the initial pH value. The longer this process takes the greater the risk of skin damage, especially in children or older people.

WHAT DOES pH 5.5 DO FOR THE SKIN?

Only at pH 5.5 can the enzymes produce the barrier lipids, remaining inactive at neutral pH. Even the finished barrier lipids cannot function unless they arrange themselves in orderly so-called bilayer sheets. This arrangement also requires pH 5.5. At pH below 4.5 there is no more orderly structure, and above pH 6.0 only lipid spheres form. Neither arrangement can provide a barrier against dehydration or penetration of exogenous substances.

Experiments have shown that after disrupting the skin barrier by removing all lipids with acetone washings, recovery is delayed by covering the so damaged skin with a pH-neutral buffer, whereas under a pH 5.5 buffer, the recovery occurs much more rapidly.

In 1963, following extensive research and development, Dr. Heinz Maurer finally realized his idea. The first “soap without soap”, a cleansing bar based on tensides with a slightly acidic pH of 5.5 corresponding to the pH of healthy skin went into production. In 1967 he founded Sebamat-Chemie GmbH and manufactured the first Sebamed® products. To this day “Sebamed®” remains unchallenged and Dr. Maurer is recognized as the inventor and true advocate of the concept of pH 5.5 in the highly competitive market of medical skin care.


pH 5.5 IDEAL FOR HEALTHY SKINContributed by: Ouiheng International Healthcare Co., Ltd.

Contact details: Ouiheng International Healthcare Co., Ltd.46, 46/2 Soi Charansanitwongs 40, Charansanitwong Rd., Bangyikhan, Bangplad, Bangkok 10700, Thailand. Tel: (662) 886-8600-7 Fax: (662) 883-1157Website: http://www.ohi.co.th

During the past decade, many Western. healthcare companies have enjoyed doing successful business in Thailand. Fuelled by a fast-growing economy and increasing spending on healthcare, the sky has been the limit. However, new challenges have emerged. More and more companies are accordingly moving to Market Expansion Services (MES) providers to grow their businesses.

The Thai healthcare market, with a current size of approximately THB 216 billion, saw spectacular growth rates during the first years of the new millennium.1 Besides the continuously increased budget for the civil servants’ scheme, this growth has largely been due to the universal coverage scheme, which was introduced in 2001. Under Thailand’s health schemes, currently 99.5% of the population has health protection coverage. This is a major increase from the 70% when the schemes started.

RISING COSTS OF STAYING HEALTHY

While in many neighboring countries there is access to general healthcare services, it does not take into account concerns such as the disparities in accessing high-quality healthcare products and services. The type and quality of treatment provided in Thailand still depends on a person’s financial background.

Another challenge for Thailand is the rising costs of healthcare services. According to the World Bank, the government budget share

allocated to health is high and steadily increasing; while this trend might be difficult to sustain in the long term.2

Spending for the country’s major health insurance schemes grew from THB 24 billion in 2003 to THB 60 billion in 2009. The annual increase of about 16.5% outgrew, by far, the average annual gross domestic product growth rate of 6%. Health expenditure per capita in Thailand rose from USD 222 in 2001 to USD 353 in 2011. This represents a substantial increase of nearly 60%.3

During the past two years, the Thai Government introduced several measures to reduce healthcare costs, such as increased listings of generics, prescription control in the nine top selling therapeutic areas and the implementation of drug-related groups models in in-patient departments. There is also a trend towards consolidating and merging the different schemes into one overarching healthcare scheme.

MOVING TO MARKET EXPANSION SERVICES (MES)

Not only is the current political situation having a temporary adverse impact on business in Thailand, making it more complex and challenging for healthcare companies to operate, but as many companies lack the resources and capabilities to market and sell their products through healthcare channels, there has been an increased move to Market Expansion Service providers such as DKSH.

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12 MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY AND HEALTH CARE12 MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY AND HEALTH CARE

FINDING A CURE FOR THAILAND’S COSTLY HEALTHCARE MARKETContributed by: Bernd Lepper, Senior Vice President, DKSH Healthcare Thailand, Malaysia & Singapore

1 "Market Expansion Services Industry 2014", Roland Berger Strategy Consultants, March 20142 www.worldbank.org/en/news/feature/2012/08/20/thailand-sustaining-health-protection-for-all3 www.tradingeconomics.com/thailand/health-expenditure-per-capita-ppp-constant-2005-international- dollar-wb- data.html



MARKET EXPANSION SERVICES EXPLAINED

MES providers help other companies and brands to expand their business in new or existing markets. With 150 years of experience and around 26,700 specialized employees, DKSH is the leading MES provider with a focus on Asia. The ability to take over non-core activities, such as sales and after-sales services, and improve revenues and increase market shares by finding new opportunities for clients, are fundamentally different to traditional outsourcing activities that mainly focus on reducing costs.

While the majority of small and medium-sized enterprises traditionally rely entirely on providers such as DKSH to gain market access and develop their business in Thailand, due to their limitations regarding resources and know-how, there is also a clear trend among big multinationals to increasing the scope and scale of services they outsource.

In addition, the Thai healthcare market has a large, widely dispersed number of healthcare outlets which results in challenges regarding logistics and distribution. The high temperature and humidity requires advanced cold chain capabilities to ensure that healthcare products are stored and transported at the right temperature. Moreover, clients are looking for par tners who can take care not only of distribution and logistics, but also marketing strategies and after-sales services.

For these companies, DKSH is the ideal partner offering customized services such as marketing and sales and product registration, as well as customs handling, impor tation, logistics, invoicing and cash collection in the areas of ethical pharmaceuticals, consumer health and over-the-counter products as well as medical devices.

Contact details: DKSH (Thailand) Ltd., 2533 Sukhumvit Road, Bangchak, Prakhanong, Bangkok 10260, Thailand. Tel: +66-(0)2-695-4000website: www.dksh.com

... by providing blanket market coverage across Asia-Pacific

The ZEISS Group comprises market-leading companies in the optical and optoelectronic industries. In order to further expand the group’s leading technological position, the top priority for ZEISS is innovation. In the financial year 2012/13, the ZEISS Group utilised 10 per cent of its revenue – the equivalent of Euro 411 million (2011/12: €359 million 8% of revenue) – to invest in research and development. The company also holds a total of 5,863 patents and patent applications around the world. In 2012/13, ZEISS applied for 421 new patents (2011/12: 396).

Founded in 1846 in Germany, the ZEISS Group has contributed to technological progress for more than 160 years in the industrial and research solutions, medical technology and consumer optics markets. In fact, behind many innovations is a leading product of ZEISS. For example: The first man on the moon was photographed on 20 July 1969 using ZEISS camera lenses; ZEISS technology in microscopes laid the foundation for making red blood cells visible for the first time. So far, 36 Nobel Prize winners have placed their trust in ZEISS microscopes for their research; Google Earth uses ZEISS precision camera lenses to obtain spectacular images of the Earth; ZEISS camera lenses play an important role for directors and camera crews in Hollywood. Films such as “Lord of the Rings”, “Gravity”, “American Hustle”, “The Wolf of Wall Street” and “Captain Phillips” were shot with ZEISS lenses.

ZEISS IN THAILAND

ZEISS star ted its operations in South-East Asia in 1990, with its regional headquarters located in Singapore. Carl Zeiss Co., Ltd. was

set up in Thailand in May 1991 as a joint venture between the ZEISS Group (49 per cent) and the Thai multi-business corporation, B.Grimm (51 per cent).

The medical business group of ZEISS is the market leader in the laser refractive surgery business and surgical operation microscopes. The group has shown a very good rate of growth in business, year after year, with market expansion covering top medical schools and hospital eye centres nationwide. Currently, ZEISS is working in full collaboration with the Faculty of Dentistry at Mahidol University to establish a South-East Asian Dental Microscope Training Centre.

In the industrial metrology technology business, ZEISS is holding the second-largest market share for coordinate measuring machines. The Thai-German Institute (TGI) under the Ministry of Industry has signed a collaboration agreement with ZEISS to develop the demo/metrology centre in the TGI building at AMATA Industrial Park, Chonburi.

The third group of ZEISS in Thailand involves the microscopy business. The company is involved in both the industrial and the academic sectors, providing unique achievements ranging from optical microscopes and electron microscopes to an X-ray product portfolio. With its strong focus on innovation and reliability, ZEISS equipment has been successfully installed at many well-established institutes such as Siriraj Hospital, Chulalongkorn University, Western Digital and Seagate Technology.

In October 2012, Carl Zeiss Co., Ltd. successfully launched its Vision Care Business Group, which sells markets optical lenses to opticianshops in Thailand.

UPDATE 1/2014


ZEISS: A MAJOR INTERNATIONAL LEADER IN INNOVATIONContributed by: Carl Zeiss Co., Ltd.


PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS IN THE HEALTH-CARE SECTOR

One of the product highlights of ZEISS is ReLEx® SMILE, the new laser technique for the gentle correction of vision defects. It is a minimally invasive treatment method that combines the extensive experience gained from, and superior safety of traditional vision correction techniques; this method provides numerous innovative benefits, high precision levels and perceptibly greater comfor t during the treatment itself. Ninety-eight per cent of patients undergoing this treatment method have stated that their expectations regarding ReLEx® SMILE had either been “exceeded” or “far exceeded”. The latter claim was made by 53.2 per cent of all those treated.

What makes ReLEx® SMILE so special? The need for only a <4 mm incision to create minimally invasive access in ReLEx® SMILE; an approximate 20-mm flap side-cut in LASIK and Femto- LASIK; Approximately 80 per cent less disruption to the upper corneal layer in ReLEx® SMILE treatment compared with other laser surgery methods; Significantly more intact corneal tissue in ReLEx® SMILE treatment than in conventional LASIK and Femto-LASIK.

Another product highlight of ZEISS in the health-care sector is Intrabeam, the new intra-operative radiotherapy (IORT) for breast cancer. Intrabeam enables a more effective and convenient breast-conserving operation as only one session of IORT is needed during surgery compared with the standard six weeks (or 30 sessions) of external radiotherapy following a surgical procedure. Both types of radiotherapy have an equivalent recurrent rate and efficacy.


Contact details: Carl Zeiss Co., Ltd., 90 CyberWorld Tower A, 36th Floor, Unit A3601, Ratchadapisek Road, Huay Khwang, Bangkok 10310. Tel. +66-(0)2-248-8787; fax: +66-(0)2-168-3169; e-mail: [email protected]. Website: www.zeiss.com.sg.

German medical and safety technology company Dräger is turning 125 in 2014. The anniversary motto, “125 years of heartfelt dedication,” sums up what has been driving the family-run company to develop excellent, groundbreaking technology for life since its founding in 1889. For Chairman of the Executive Board Stefan Dräger, the anniversary is also a good reason “to pause and reflect on what makes Dräger special as well as a good reason to celebrate. It gives us an opportunity to reflect on the valuable contribution we make and are so very proud of. This is the reason for our heartfelt dedication.” At the same time, the entrepreneur is looking toward the future. Stefan Dräger: “Together with our customers, employees and business partners, we will go full circle from our past to our future.”

With this goal in mind, the company will host customer events in 15 countries in 2014 - including Thailand.

HOW IT ALL BEGAN: THE LUBECA VALVE

In 1889 Johann Heinrich Dräger founds the company “Dräger und Gerling” in Lübeck with his business partner Carl Adolf Gerling. The business of the company is the sale of equipment and innovations,

such as beer tap systems, which use compressed carbon dioxide. Though it has been possible since the second half of the century to fill steel cylinders with high-pressure gas, the problem of removing the gas in a controlled and safe manner at low pressure remains. The flow of gas – and therefore of beer – is hard to control and uneven, and the valves are often faulty. Dissatisfied with the available technology, Johann Heinrich Dräger and his son Bernhard, who has just qualified as a mechanic, begin working on a new innovation. The result: the Lubeca valve. For the first time, it is possible to precisely control the removal of carbon dioxide from a high-pressure tank. Johann Heinrich Dräger has his invention patented immediately.

FIRSTS IN MEDICAL AND SAFETY TECHNOLOGY: ANAESTHESIA AND RESPIRATORY PROTECTION

The Lubeca valve, which was the first reliable reducing valve for carbonic acid, revolutionised the world of pressurized gases. The technology behind the valve was applied in many different fields where it made what has previously been impossible, possible. The following two examples link the past and the present day.

UPDATE 1/2014


DRÄGER CELEBRATES ITS ANNIVERARYLÜBECK-BASED COMPANY MARKS “125 YEARS OF HEARTFELT DEDICATION” Contributed by: Dräger Medical Thailand Ltd.

Working in close co-operation with surgeon Dr. Otto Roth, Johann Heinrich Dräger developed the Roth-Dräger mixed anesthetic apparatus.



The Courrières mine accident, which claimed over 1,000 lives, makes a deep impression on Bernhard Dräger. He travels to France to experience at first hand the working conditions underground. His aim is to make breathing apparatus safer and improve their performance in practice.

There’s a breakthrough in anesthesia in 1902, when the Roth-Dräger anaesthesia machine makes it possible for the first time for medics to take charge of the anesthesia process by enabling them to reliably control the mix of oxygen and anesthetics administered. It is followed by the Modell A in 1926, the first closed-circuit anesthetic apparatus. When introducing the first integrated anaesthesia workstation in 1988 with Cicero, all functions, such as gas proportioning and ventilation, as well as device and patient monitoring are combined in one device. In 2012, Dräger launches the Perseus A500. The anaesthesia workstation is one of the largest development projects ever from Dräger: Flexible product design, patients in intensive care, and a level of automation that supports the workflow in the OR.

At the beginning of the 20th century, Dräger develops the Model 1904/09 respiratory protective device. From that point on, rescue teams use it to save workers in the mines. The emergency responders in America are so thrilled by the product’s quality that they proudly call themselves “Draegermen”. It is followed by BG 174 in 1966, a much lighter rescue device that holds enough oxygen for up to four hours of use. In 1993, a new generation of breathing apparatuses enters the mining market: The air reserves of BG 4 are electronically monitored for the first time.

DRÄGER. TECHNOLOGY FOR LIFE

Dräger is an international leader in the fields of medical and safety technology. The family-run company was founded in Lübeck, Germany, in 1889. Over the past five generations, Dräger has evolved into a publicly traded, worldwide group. The company’s long-term success is based on the four key strengths of its value-driven culture: customer intimacy, professional employees, continuous innovation and a commitment to outstanding quality. “Technology for Life” is the guiding philosophy. Whether in the operating room, in intensive care or emergency response services, Dräger products protect, support and save lives.

Dräger offers its customers anaesthesia workstations, medical ventilation, patient monitoring as well as neonatal care for premature babies and newborns. With ceiling supply units, IT solutions for the OR, and gas management systems the company is at the customer’s side throughout the entire hospital.

Emergency response services, law and regulatory enforcement and the industry trust in Dräger’s integrated hazard management, in par ticular for personal protection and plant safety. This includes respiratory protection equipment, stationary and por table gas detection systems, professional diving equipment and systems as well as alcohol and drug impairment detection. In collaboration with its customers Dräger develops customised solutions, such as entire fire training systems, training concepts and workshops.

DRÄGER IN THAILAND

Dräger has about 13,500 employees worldwide and is present in more than 190 countries around the globe. The Dräger Group has sales and service organisations in over 50 countries. Its development and production facilities are based in Germany, Great Britain, Sweden, South Africa, the USA, Brazil, the Czech Republic and China. Dräger remains true to its roots with its headquarters in the Hanseatic City of Lübeck.In Thailand Dräger is represented with Dräger Medical Thailand Ltd. for more than 10 and Dräger Safety Thailand Ltd. for more than even 15 years. At the beginning of this year both divisions moved in one modern and joint office in Ample Tower, Bangna-Trad Road. Around 50 employees work in sales, marketing and customer service for the company on the ground. Dräger in Thailand offers its customers products and services for several customer areas and applications in the hospital as well as for industr y, firefighting and rescue services.”

UPDATE 1/2014


Although the basic technology has hardly changed over the decades, the devices themselves continued to evolve in order to make working in a hostile environment easier. The advancements include lower weight and higher performance.

Modern anaesthesia devices as Perseus A500 are designed as workstations.



MEDICAL MALPRACTICEContributed by: DFDL in Thailand

Thailand’s medical industry has become known worldwide for its high quality and relatively inexpensive service; so much so that insurance companies in developed countries have begun to provide coverage for policyholders to have their operations performed in Thailand’s top-notch private hospitals. A visitor to Bumrungrad Hospital, for example, would be forgiven for thinking they were in Dubai, Delaware or Dusseldorf. As with any of those jurisdictions, we expect the majority of patients walk away from Thailand’s hospitals completely satisfied with the medical care received and the procedure’s results. However, on rare occasions a patient i s d i ssat i s f ied , and somet imes that dissatisfaction is merited as the result of negligence on behalf of the doctor.

Medical malpractice can be defined as professional negligence by an act or omission of a health care provider in which the treatment provided falls below the accepted standard of practice in the medical community and causes injury or death of the patient. This includes the failure to correctly diagnose, failure to provide the necessary treatment, as well as the failure to warn the patient of possible health risks.

In Thai law, medical malpractice lawsuits can be brought in both civil and criminal court. Instances of medical malpractice are considered “wrongful acts” under section 420 of the Civil and Commercial Code, and must be brought within one year from the date in which the injury became known to the victim. According to legal provisions that address the medical industry, a doctor must deliver his or her “best practice” to the patient. If the doctor fails to do so, this could be grounds for prosecution. Best practice does not mean the absolute best service or treatment, but instead rests on the best practice available at the time, including the ready accessibility of medications. If the facilities available at the time are unsuitable to provide adequate care, the law requires that the doctor transfer the patient to a more sufficient hospital.

In a criminal case, medical malpractice falls under sections 288-305 of the Thai Penal Code as offences against life and body. The statute of limitations to bring a criminal suit is dependent on the severity of the injury; ranging up to 20 years in the case of a patient’s death. Examples of the relevant sections and their corresponding penalties are listed below:

(1) Section 291: negligent act which has caused death - Imprisonment not more than 10 years and a fine of not more than baht 20,000(2) Section 300: negligent act which has caused grievous bodily harm - Imprisonment not more than 3 years and/or a fine of not more than baht 6,000

(Grievous bodily harm is, inter alia, causing deafness or blindness; cutting of the tongue; loss of genital organs or productive ability; loss of an arm, leg, hand, foot, finger or any other organ; permanent disfiguration of the face; abortion; permanent insanity; infirmity or chronic illness; infirmity or illness causing the victim to be in severe bodily pain for over 20 days or unable to follow the ordinary pursuits for more than 20 days)

(3) Section 390: negligent act which has caused bodily harm, or mental harm - Imprisonment not more than one month and/or a fine of not more than baht 1,000

damages can be quite significant (though still well below what might be obtained in many Western jurisdictions). In a landmark 2012 medical malpractice case involving a mother who died after being left unsupervised under anaesthesia following the birth of her son, the court awarded an unprecedented 8 million baht life-maintenance package to the family of the victim. The sum included compensation for the husband, the son, two brothers, the deceased’s parents, all legal expenses, and the traditional funeral costs with consideration to the deceased’s social status. Although it is uncommon for accusations of medical malpractice to make it all the way through the court system without a settlement being negotiated somewhere along the way, when they do, the awarded damages can be substantial.

The vast majority of medical procedures in Thailand are successful and all parties are satisfied. If this wasn’t the case, Thailand would not be one of the top medical tourism destinations in the world. However, given the sheer number of patients entering hospitals for either necessary or elective medical procedures, mistakes are all but inevitable. Medical malpractice legislation is designed to provide a redress when this does occur; giving the victim (and perhaps his or her family) the compensation they rightfully deserve.

Those who are members of the Thai universal healthcare system under the National Health Security Act B.E. 2545 (2002) who have suffered as a result of potential medical malpractice have the right to file a request for “payment for initial support,” which can also be described as “no-fault compensation” because payment to rectify an alleged incident of medical malpractice can be received without an official admission by the doctor or hospital that any wrongdoing took place. The Sub-Committee on Determining Initial Support Payment does an internal inquiry and awards patients compensation, provided that they received the medical care in question from one of the hospitals within the universal healthcare system. This option is only available to those within the universal healthcare system who qualify for such compensation; all others must pursue rectification through the judicial system or directly with the doctor or hospital. Even after filing for, and receiving “payment for initial support”, patients who think they were the victims of medical malpractice still have the option of seeking additional remedy through the civil and/or criminal courts.

The compensation rates for incidents of medical malpractice that took place from 1 October 2012 onwards are listed below (for prior incidents, rates are 50 per cent of those listed):

Death or Permanent Infirmity: not more than THB 400,000

Disability or loss of organs: not more than THB 240,000

Chronic disease or illness: not more than THB 100,000

The primary oversight body for the medical industry is the Medical Council of Thailand. The Council is comprised of 18 doctors; half of whom are given seats based on their positions in the Ministry of Health, directorships of health in the Navy, Air Force, Army, and Police, as well as those who are deans of prominent medical schools. The other half of the Council is elected from the general membership; consisting of every registered doctor in Thailand as well as practitioners in a number of other medical fields recogniSed by the Council. The medical industry in Thailand is a self-regulating profession, and as such, tends to raise questions of impartiality, which are voiced by the Thai Medical Error Network and other related organiSations.

When a patient claims that they were the victim of medical malpractice, the Council first investigates the claims against the doctor(s) in question in order to determine whether malpractice did occur. The Council can then alert the police to make a possible criminal investigation, and will provide the patient with the information gathered in their inquiry so that the victim can begin the process of pursuing legal recourse. Once a patient’s claim is substantiated by the Medical Council of Thailand, most often the affected party and the doctor or hospital will negotiate a settlement out of court; otherwise at this point, both parties will begin preparing for trial.

If the case proves successful, awards are calculated based on actual quantifiable harm such as lost income both present and future, medical and rehabilitation costs. Unlike their Western counterparts, punitive damages are not awarded by Thai courts for medical malpractice cases. However, the resulting compensation for actual

UPDATE 1/2014


Contact details:Email: Angus Mitchell ([email protected]) Matthew Christensen ([email protected]) Kraisorn Rueangkul ([email protected])


The art exhibition contains 16 paintings, half illustrating the historical background of BNH Hospital and half focusing on its dedication to breast cancer research and treatment.

The art pieces were created by students of Silpakorn University and graciously donated to be auctioned to raise money for breast cancer research by the Queen Sirikit Centre for Breast Cancer.

BNH Hospital identified and supports seven research projects that will create 7 Miracles to improve the lives of people diagnosed with breast cancer. The ongoing research will not only mean a healthy future for patients who are able to survive and thrive but will also help to change the way we treat patients and this acts as a gift for a healthier future.

In the past, the standard of treatment was to surgically remove the tumour with the entire breast, more often than not unnecessarily. Additionally, chemotherapy and radiation though aimed at attacking cancer cells will also kill the good cells as well which results in undesirable side effects such as hair loss and exhaustion. It is because breast cancer is so difficult to treat successfully as well as minimizing pain and distress for the woman, that more effective and long lasting treatment is required. This can only be done with innovative research.

FIRST MIRACLE - OMENTAL GRAFTING

Omental grafting covers chest wall defect after extensive breast surgery.

Large gangrenous tumour in the breast might have drastic effects on the surrounding tissue, and may produce a bad odour and may cause discomfort for the woman affecting her quality of life.

Doctors aim to address this problem by creating new base with a special technique to use abdominal tissue with a skin graft so that the woman is spared the experience of waking up with a fungating tumour on her chest. This special treatment allows the patient to have normal life as well as good quality of life.

SECOND MIRACLE - INTRAOPERATIVE RADIATION

The use of radiation for breast cancer patients in the operating theatre or Radiotherapy in OR research was developed to shorten the operation for breast cancer patients. In the past, it usually took between 5-6 weeks, which inevitably meant extra expenses for patients who would travel from other areas in Thailand.

The new technique of using radiation during the operation means that the doctor, instead of closing the wound after the operation, will use special equipment using high energy beam to damage cancer cells. This process takes about 20-30 minutes. Following this procedure, the doctor will close the wound. The advantage of this radiation therapy is that patients do not have to go through the radiation process after their surgery and can actually go home the next day.


BNH HOSPITAL INVITES YOU TO VISIT AND SHARE ‘THE ART OF CARE GALLERY’, OPENED TO CELEBRATE ITS 116th ANNIVERSARYContributed by: BNH Hospital

Dr. Kris Chatamra

THIRD MIRACLE - PROGENITOR CELL INJECTION

Progenitor cell injection improves cosmesis after breast conservative therapy.

The research team is working on how to cosmetically improve the breast after surgery so that they look natural and how to minimize the visible traces of scarring.

A current technique is to use the patient’s own progenitor cells taken from the abdomen and fat cells from the thigh and the combination is injected into the patient’s breast to improve the looks of the breast.

FOURTH MIRACLE - SCALP COOLING

Scalp cooling aims to prevent chemotherapy induced hair loss.

Up until now chemotherapy was a treatment feared by all women due to inevitable hair loss which affects many women not only physically but psychologically. New research means that there is a possible solution for this, using a hat or scalp cooling machine to reduce the effect of the chemicals on the hair roots. As a result hair loss is reduced by a staggering 70 per cent because the low temperature means that the chemicals which normally reach blood vessels of the hair roots are blocked so and therefore only a small amount is able to get through. This undoubtedly is a major breakthrough in treating cancer patients.

FIFTH MIRACLE - SERUM CIRCULATING TUMOUR CELL SCREENING

Blood circulating tumour cell screening aims to predict chances of getting metastases.

As everyone is aware, the most effective way to treat cancer is in the early stages, as soon as possible.

Dr. Kris Chatamra is interested in examining the patient’s blood using a special technique to detect the presence of malignant cells in the blood. It is a viable strategy to allow the doctor to allow the doctor to determine the best possible treatment before the cancer starts to develop further. The abnormality of

malignant cells measured from a blood test will lead to doctors being able to identify those most at risk of cancer in the future.

SIXTH MIRACLE - CHEMO SENSITIVITY TESTING

Chemo sensitivity testing aims at selecting the most effective chemotherapy for each individual patient.

The research team has a keen interest in keeping and preserving patients’ cancer cells for fur ther investigation as well as exper imenting with different kinds of chemotherapy in order to effectively target specific kinds of cancer achieving the best possible outcome in treatment for the patient.

This will certainly have an enormous impact on helping to select the most suitable treatment. Even though this line of research may take time to complete, ultimately, patients will benefit greatly as a result.

SEVENTH MIRACLE - BELLY DANCERCISE

Patients’ post operative care and wellbeing is at the forefront of BNH Hospital’s decision

to introduce dance therapy known as “BellyDancercise” to complement physical rehabilitation. Specifically, the hospital is focusing on belly dancing which has been adapted and modified to benefit patients in a totally holistic way focusing on mind and body The dance has been endorsed by Dr. Kris who said that its benefits are numerous and “go beyond the dance floor”! The dance can help a woman improve range of motion, gain greater flexibility, assists in structural rebalancing for posture, co-ordination, and standing, reduces or prevents lymphedema, enhances lymphatic function and what is more is fun and increases energy! Furthermore “BellyDancercise” helps to keep you fit and healthy and burns fat. Research will be undertaken by Dr. Kris and dance therapist Liz Williams into the benefits of this type of dance and the reduced risk of lymphedema in breast cancer patients.

These seven miracles, however, need constant financial support if they are to be successful and the research team also require volunteers to help make finding a cure for breast cancer a challenge which is not only that is achievable with the help of everyone involved!.

UPDATE 1/2014


SAVE THE DATE: 14th Asia-Pacific Conference of German Business (APK)

The Board of Trade of Thailand hosted the Thai-German Trade and Investment Promotion Dialogue on 18 December 2013, with the objective of promoting growth in trade and investment between the two countries.

In his address to the meeting, German Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Thailand, Mr. Rolf Schulze highlighted the strengths and challenges of Thai-German trade and investment. Subsequently, then-GTCC President, Mr. Karl-Heinz Heckhausen gavean overview of the diplomatic and trade relations between Germany and Thailand, which have spanned more than 150 years.

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THAI-GERMAN TRADE AND INVESTMENT PROMOTION DIALOGUE

They were followed by GTCC Executive Director, Mr. Jörg Buck, who outlined guidelines on trade and investment promotion. Discussions were then held on identifying areas of business interest and collaboration between Germany and Thailand, including small and medium-sized enterprises, innovation, green energy, technology, ICT, food and agricultural products, chemical products and automotive spare parts.

The 14th Asia-Pacific Conference of German Business (APK) will be taking place during 20–22 November 2014 in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. As one of the most important business partners of Germany in the region, Vietnam will host this event for the very first time.

The APK is a great opportunity to strengthen the business relationship between Germany and Vietnam. Like the previous APKs in Singapore and India, the 14th APK is expected to host more than 700 delegates.

Relevant information on the conference can be found by visiting www.asiapacificconference.com.

The Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Vietnam (GIC) offers companies the opportunity to become a sponsor of the event. For further information on the APK or interest in sponsorship, please contact directly Ms. Antje Resech, Head of Operations, GIC, at Email: [email protected] or +84 906 604 077.


During the visit by German Federal President Dr. Joachim Gauck to Myanmar between 9 and 12 February 2014, as part of a business delegation, DIHK, the Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (UMFCCI), and the Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Myanmar (AHK Myanmar) jointly organised the first Myanmar-German Business Forum on 11 February.

A number of company representatives and members of the GTCC accompanied the delegation to Myanmar in order to participate in the Business Forum, which highlighted the economic situation in Myanmar, Germany’s contribution to the country’s sustainable development and German-Myanmar partnership.

Immediately following the Business Forum, the official opening of AHK Myanmar was held. This was the first time in the history of all 126 AHK locations around the world that the President of Germany did the honour of personally opening an AHK. The opening, which marked the growing level of bilateral economic co-operation between Germany and Myanmar, will ensure the presence of German business. It will also highlight the capabilities and performance of German companies as well as their contribution to social partnership for sustainable development in Myanmar.

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FIRST MYANMAR-GERMAN BUSINESS FORUM

ThaiGerTec HOLDS EXPANSION CELEBRATION

Following the expansion of its head office in Bangkok, ThaiGerTec Co., Ltd. hosted an opening party on 20 February 2014. Among the special guests were representatives from BMW (Munich) and their counterpar ts in the automotive industry, Thailand Board of Investment, the German-Thai Chamber of Commerce, universities and private firms whohave an interest in the latest developments in automotive software, fully electric-powered cars, and engine test laboratories. All the guests enjoyed a relaxing evening during which Thai and Bavarian food and drinks were provided, together with jazz music entertainment.

Evonik, the creative industrial group from Germany and a world leader in specialty chemicals, opened its expanded production facilities for precipitated silica in Rayong, Thailand in a ceremony on 14 March 2014. With this latest investment, Evonik has increased its capacity for precipitated silica for the automotive industry, food and animal feed industry as well as the paints and coatings industry.

“Expanding our manufacturing footprint in South-East Asia, Australia and New Zealand highlights our commitment to this region, and allows us to better serve regional markets with state-of-the-art products and optimum solutions,” explained Peter Meinshausen, Regional President, Evonik South-East Asia, Australia and New Zealand.

In the tyre and rubber industry, the use of silica to produce silane (a spontaneously flammable gaseous compound of silicone and hydrogen)enables tyre manufacturers to produce tyres of much lower rolling resistance, thus reducing overall fuel consumption by up to 8 per cent compared with traditional tyres.

“With this expansion, we are strengthening our operations in Thailand,” explained Dr Florian Kirschner, Managing Director and Country, Evonik in Thailand. “This allows us to respond more quickly to changes in market demand and supply high-quality products to our customers.” In Thailand, Evonik has been active for more than 20 years and operates an office in Bangkok as well as manufacturing sites for the production of high- quality precipitated and fumed silica.

Evonik is a leading manufacturer of silica. In addition to precipitated silica, Evonik also produces AEROSIL® fumed silica and silica-based matting agents under the ACEMATT® brand. These products are used in manufacturing tyres with low rolling resistance as well as in the paints and coatings industry as flow additives, carriers in food, cosmetics and drug production and in manufacturing silicon, among others. Overall, Evonik has a global capacity of around 500,000 metric tons per annum for precipitated and fumed silica, and matting agents.

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EVONIK OPENS EXPANDED THAI PRODUCTION FACILITIESContributed by: Evonik (Thailand) Ltd.


On 27 March 2014 a seminar was organised by the Mission of Thailand to the European Union and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to present investment opportunities for Thai companies in the European Union. The location was the Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel and Tower in Bangkok.

A large number of representatives from European countries attended the event, during which they detailed the possibilities and advantages of investing not only in their individual countries but also in Europe in general. The German-Thai Chamber of Commerce was invited to represent Germany in this regard as well as to explain the Chamber’s function as the link between Thailand and German.

In addition to the presentations and panel discussions, the par ticipants were given the oppor tunity to make direct connections for potential future business ventures.

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SEMINAR PROMOTES THAI-EUROPEAN UNION BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

On 19 March, Neuman & Esser South-East Asia Ltd’s NEAC Compressor Service held a Compressor Day NEA Group at its premises in Rayong, Thailand.

Under the theme “Exposition of cutting edge innovations in reciprocating compressor design, modernisation and service”, the Compressor Day offered presentations and shop tours to provide comprehensive and in-depth knowledge about reciprocating compressors.

The event, which was well-attended by customers from South-East Asia, also provided an opportunity for guests to meet experts from various areas of application in the energy sector.

NEAC GROUP COMPRESSOR DAY

regulation as far as moveable property is concerned and thus provide for the application of Thai law in this regard. On the other hand, in the case of immoveable property they refer back to the law of the country where the property is located. Hence, in a case where the estate of the deceased includes immoveable property located in Germany and where the last domicile of the deceased was Thailand, a German court would apply both German and Thai law.

The regulation does not specify when residence in a given countr y is to be considered “habitual”. Since there is no minimum period required to establish habitual residence, taking up residence in a new country may immediately lead to a change of the place of habitual residence and to the applicability of the law of this new country.

LEGAL CONSEQUENCES FOR EXPATRIATES

If the possible application of Thai law of succession has not been considered by the

of these laws is applicable is governed by the conflict-of-laws rule. So far, German courts have generally applied German law if the deceased has been a German national. However, this has been changed by the European Union regulation; for all successions of European Union citizens occurring from 17 August 2015 onwards the applicable law will be that of their habitual residence.

THAI LAW TO BE APPLICABLE

The new conflict-of-laws rule of habitual residence is not limited to the European Union member States. Rather, it is universally applicable. Hence, if the last domicile of the deceased was Thailand, the Thai law of succession will be applied by European Union courts as well as by the courts of the Kingdom of Thailand, irrespective of the location of the estate.

Nevertheless, if the law of a third country refers the case back to European jurisdiction, such counter-referral is accepted. Thus, with regard to Thailand, the Thai conflict-of-laws rule conforms to the European Union

UPDATE 1/2014

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EUROPEAN UNION RESIDENTS IN THAILAND AFFECTED BY NEW LAW OF SUCCESSIONContributed by: Robert Stancke, lawyer and senior manager, KPMG Law (KPMG Rechtsanwaltsgesellschaft mbH), Berlin.

As a result of the European Union regulation, “Brussels IV”, the succession of European Union nationals will no longer be governed by the law of their respective home countries but by the ]law of their habitual residence instead. Therefore, European Union expatriates in Thailand have to take into consideration that the Thai succession law will be applicable in the event of their death. However European Union nationals may opt in a will for their respective national law to remain applicable.

Ten per cent of the successions of European Union nationals, comprising some 450,000 deaths annually and including executives, employees and retired persons living in Thailand, involve cross-border aspects,. Such persons should review the effects that the European Union regulation and Thai law may have on their succession and revise their wills accordingly.

There is no common succession law in the European Union, just a patchwork of different laws in the respective member States. Which


deceased, unforeseen consequences for heirs, spouses and family members might ensue.

A major issue in the legal practice of international successions is the varying approach to joint wills of the spouses (Ehegattentestamente) and to the agreements as to succession (Erbverträge). While these legal arrangements are common, especially in Germany, their binding effect is void under the Thai law of succession. Thus, it is possible for a so-called “Berlin Testament” to be denied recognition in Thailand according to the contrary provision in Section 1706 (1) CCC THA, which also has to be respected by German courts. According to “Brussels IV”, such a disposition may remain effective if Germany was the country of habitual residence at the time of the drafting. Nonetheless, the approach to the agreements as to succession and the joint wills of the spouses is not yet entirely clear. Thai law will – if found applicable under “Brussels IV” – continue to assume the invalidity of such agreements and declarations of the will.

The rules on a compulsory portion, and of the rights of the mandatory heirs, are similarly inconsistent. The Thai law of succession does not provide for a right to a compulsory portion at all. Instead, it states unlimited freedom of testation. While on the one hand this might lead to unintended consequences, it also opens up new possibilities for the testator to exclude relatives otherwise entitled to a compulsory portion.

Finally, national legal systems feature mutually compatible provisions of succession law and family law regarding the surviving spouse’s share of the estate. An example of such compatibility in German law is the mechanism of § 1371 BGB (German Civil Code). This provision allows for the family law arrangement of Zugewinngemeinschaft (equalisation of gain accrued over the course of a marriage) to be implemented, in the event of the death of one of the spouses, by means of increasing the other spouse’s share of the estate. In contrast, “Brussels IV” governs solely the application of succession law. Hence, the application of respective varying legal systems in the areas of succession and family law may now bring about inconsistent and unjust results.

These implications of “Brussels IV” make it necessary to re-examine previously drafted succession arrangements.

CHOICE-OF-LAW OPTION AND ARRANGEMENTS IN WILLS

The regulation gives European Union citizens living in Thailand the option of choosing the succession law of their respective home countries as being applicable. Such a choice-of-law needs to be made in the form of a disposition of property upon death. The choice-of-law option can – and definitely should – be exercised as soon as possible, also before 17 August 2015.

In any case, there is a need for action by European Union citizens living abroad. They should either explicitly opt for the continued application of their national law – in order to avoid endangering the previously-made succession arrangements – or re-adjust the disposition of property upon death, taking into consideration Thai law that becomes applicable in the future. In any case, where there are cross-border implications, well-considered and individually arranged testamentary provisions are indispensable. According to German law, the testament can be handwritten or witnessed by a notary. Witnessing by a notary can be undertaken by a notary in Germany or, alternatively, in Thailand at the German Embassy. It may be advisable to pay additional attention to compliance with formal provisions of any other countries bearing a relationship to the case, in particular the formal provision in Thai law requiring the presence of two additional witnesses.

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KPMG Law (KPMG Rechtsanwaltsgesellschaft mbH), Berlin, can be contacted at: www.kpmg-law.com; [email protected]. The international KPMG network serves its clients through about 152,000 professionals in 156 countries. KPMG International Co-operative (“KPMG International") is a Swiss legal entity, consisting of independent member firms, with which KPMG Law is affiliated through its co-operation par tner KPMG AG Wirtschaftsprüfungsgesellschaft.

field-proven, operator-friendly technology accessible to the smaller and mid-tier breweries as well.

CombiCube B – THE COMPACT BREWHOUSE

The compact brewhouse covers an output range of 40 to 100 hectolitres of hot cast wort with up to 10 brews a day and original gravities of up to 15 degrees Plato with 98.5 per cent extract yield. Combinations can be put together from the following vessels: mash tun, mash copper/cereal cooker, lauter tun/mash lauter tun, wort copper/mash wort copper and whirlpool.

CombiCube C – MANUAL WORK NOW AUTOMATED

The CombiCube C is the perfect choice for breweries who are operating a classical fermentation cellar, with the tanks linked up by means of hoses, but who still want to reap the advantages of a process control system and are therefore planning to refurbish their cold area. The newly developed concept combines the freedoms of a hose-type cellar with a perfect overview of what’s happening throughout the fermentation cellar.

It offers an output range for filling and draining operations of up to 110 hectolitres an hour, a yeast harvesting capability of six hectolitres an hour, and is thus appropriately dimensioned for the CombiCube series or breweries with up to 250,000 hectolitres of sales-quality

The trend towards craft beers shows how many consumers are quite ready to reward individualised product concepts. So flexibility in the production process is an imperative. Learning the lessons from “big” brewing technology and using them for making specialty beers in small batches: Krones AG has achieved this balancing act with the CombiCube system. The principle of “combinable cubes” is this: “Think big, act flexible, and produce small”. CombiCube is predestined for the smaller specialty breweries with up to 250,000 hectolitres of sales-quality beer, ones that handle a diverse range of types and seasonal products. Large industrial-scale breweries can use the CombiCube system to brew small batches for their specialty beers, or as a pilot installation or a mobile brewery. The system is modularised in construction, permits a customised design configuration, and can be easily expanded. The type and number of vessels can be selected to suit the requirements involved. With CombiCube, breweries have an option for making top-quality products using different brewing processes and high volume variance.

THREE COMPONENTS FOR BREWHOUSE, FILTRATION AND CELLARAGE

The three “cubes” are the CombiCube B brewhouse, the CombiCube C cellerage unit and the CombiCube F filter. Role models from the large installations, like ShakesBeer, Twin- Flow System or TwinPro have been used: their functionalities are retained, the construction simplified, and the advantages of the “small” size exploited. This renders

UPDATE 1/2014

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BIG TECHNOLOGY ON A SMALL SCALE: THE MODULARISED CombiCube FAMILY Contributed by: Krones (Thailand) Co., Ltd.


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beer. The CombiCube C handles the following functions: “Fill fermentation tank”, “Hose young beer”, “Yeast harvest”, “Transfer to filtration”, “Fill bright-beer tank”, and “Transfer to the filler”.

CombiCube F – MODULARISED FILTRATION

Five functionally defined modules are optimally synergised in the CombiCube F, and can be appropriately combined with each other to suit the client’s needs: the filtration module, the buffer module, the carbonation module, the disposal module and the CIP module. Subsequent expansions present no difficulties, thanks to the modularised construction. The wide regulation options for the filtration output, made possible by the twin-flow principle, offer simple solutions for complex job profiles. The CombiCube F operates in a nominal output range from 26 to 104 hectolitres an hour, with continuous running times of up to 14 hours. It is available in six sizes.

POSITIVE ASPECTS FOR THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT

In terms of minimised environmental impact, the CombiCube system scores well in terms of high energy-efficiency, thanks not least to the use of frequency-controlled motors and of Evoguard valves for minimised compressed-air consumption. A high level of media-efficiency is assured, due to low consumption of primary energy and water, plus reduced cleaning consumption levels and times. Eco-compatibility is guaranteed by the use of ecological cleaning agents and minimised lubricant consumption.

However, I always wanted to return to Asia and I wanted to trade. I went to Shanghai for a while, where I worked for Boehringer-Ingelheim. In 2003, I finally returned to Thailand to gain new experience and later to revitalise my father’s company, which had been inactive for more than 10 years.

GTCC: You were born in Thailand and own both a German and a Thai passport. Does this make trading between Thailand and Germany easier for you?

Mr. Deckert: Being both Thai and German is a big advantage. Because I grew up in Thailand and lived for some time in Germany as well, I am able to understand both cultures. Karisma is registered as a Thai company but under “German management”. I can communicate with my German SME partners easily and understand what they wish to have and what they need me to do for them in ASEAN.

GTCC: Are those the only reasons why you decided to stay in Thailand for your business?

Mr. Deckert: No, there are also other big advantages in having Thailand as a location for trading. Working is basically easy here, plus Bangkok is a place from which you can easily travel. For me, it’s like the “spider in the web” of South-East Asia. It has a proven central position within the ASEAN countries.

GTCC: Talking about ASEAN, how will the AEC affect your business?

Mr. Deckert: The ASEAN Economic Community will be a great opportunity for Karisma and our German small and medium-sized enterprise customers as it will make trading simpler. If medical products or other products have the required local content or more, they are a “Product of Thailand” and can be exported more easily from Thailand to other ASEAN countries. Our customers could therefore gain a great opportunity to benefit from the amount of Thai components used in their products, and not only pricewise.

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34 BUSINESS BRIEFS

‘THAILAND IS THE SPIDER IN THE WEB OF SOUTH-EAST ASIA’Being born and spending his younger years in Thailand has made Mr. Karsten Deckert are a striking example of the second generation of GTCC’s founding members. Although his father came to South-East Asia as a foreigner, Mr. Deckert experienced Thai culture during his childhood and holds both a German and a Thai passport. Later, after spending some time abroad, he returned and revitalised his father’s trading company in 2003 Given his long-standing connection with the Chamber as well as his experience in Thailand, GTCC was very interested in getting Mr. Deckert to share with us his perspective on the past, present and future of Karisma (Asia-Pacific) Co. Ltd., particularly in view of the forthcoming establishment of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) in 2015.

GTCC: Mr. Deckert, more than 50 years ago your father founded the import-export company, WHD. In 2008 you took over and rebranded the company as “Karisma”. Apart from the new name, what else was changed?

Mr. Deckert: When my father started the company in 1956, he traded many different things and had some major clients such as Beiersdorf, Krupp and “Jena-Schott Mainz Ruhrglass”. However, that type of business isn’t possible anymore in this form. Beiersdorf, for example, has its own location here now; other clients, such as Krupp, not only lost some market share to the Chinese competition, but also established their own offices in Thailand. Nowadays, our customers are mainly smaller companies hat focus on one industry, i.e., medical technology.

GTCC: Did you always know that one day you would take over your father’s company?

Mr. Deckert: Actually, I did a range of other things in-between. After I graduated from the International School Bangkok, I worked in Germany for some time and got my foreman qualification in chemistry.

On 30 January, the GTCC organised a German Business Community Information Exchange session at the Hilton Sukhumvit Bangkok Hotel. Given the current political tension in Thailand, the session was aimed at providing a platform for the German-Thai business community to meet and pool information that would be useful for in planning and operating businesses during the development of the political situation.

German Ambassador to Thailand Mr. Rolf Schulze and the business and safety-related team from the German Embassy in Bangkok also gave an overview presentation on the ongoing demonstrations and the “Emergency Law“. More 100 members participated in the event, during which they shared relevant information.

With the generous support of the Oriental Residence Bangkok, on 12 February the GTCC hosted its latest Ice-Breaker Networking Event, in collaboration with the Thai-Canadian Chamber of Commerce. The event provided the more than 50 guests from the German and Canadian business communities with delicious finger food as well as free beer and soft drinks during the happy hour to ensure a relaxed evening.

Another highlight of the event was the first “sneak peek” of the Chamber’s GTCC Gala Night 2014, which will be organised on 30 May at the Shangri-La Hotel, Bangkok.

UPDATE 1/2014

36 CHAMBER ACTIVITIES

GERMAN BUSINESS COMMUNITY INFORMATION EXCHANGE

ICE-BREAKERS MEET CANADA NETWORKING EVENT

On 24 February 2014, the German-Thai Chamber of Commerce (GTCC) welcomed a group of more than 20 students from the Univer sity of Applied Sciences Mainz (FH Mainz) who were on a study tour in Thailand. The tour started in Bangkok as the capital is the centre of the country’s business and finance sectors. In order to get an overview of Thailand’s economy as well as GTCC activities, the students visited the Chamber offices. Head of Consultancy Services Depar tment, Marius Mehner, provided a presentation on significant key facts about Thailand’s economy and GTCC activities in Thailand plus other useful information and insights. The presentation was concluded with a question and answer session.


GTCC WELCOMES UNIVERSITY OF APPLIED SCIENCES MAINZ STUDENTS

CHAMBER ACTIVITIES 37

the Mercedes-Benz Competence Centre by Mercedes-Benz (Thailand) Ltd. and the German-Thai Chamber of Commerce (GTCC) with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the development of Thai vocational students based on German’s highest standards for the automotive industry.

After the MoU signing, Mr. Michael Grewe, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz (Thailand) Ltd., explained that “this ‘New Milestone of Mercedes-Benz Technical Apprenticeship under German-Thai Dual Excellence Education’ initiative is a great advancement for the company in backing the dual education system for vocational students under the German-Thai Dual Excellence Education (GTDEE) project. It will yield tremendous benefits for Thai vocational education and Thai industry at large, especially in an expanding automotive segment in which skilled labour is needed, as well as play a vital role in helping to ensure readiness for the implementation of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) in 2015.”

Mr. Jörg Buck, GTCC Executive Director, added that “students in this programme will be trained to be ready for industrial competition following the establishment of the AEC. Available curricula are co-developed by participating companies and customised to match their demands.”

UPDATE 1/2014


EASTERN SEABOARD NETWORKING EVENT This year, the GTCC has officially joined the Eastern Seaboard

Networking Group as one of its rotating hosts, in collaboration with the American Chamber of Commerce in Thailand (AMCHAM), the Australian-Thai Chamber of Commerce (AustCham) and the British Chamber of Commerce Thailand (BCCT).

On 28 February, an Eastern Seaboard Networking Event was hosted by AMCHAM at Cape Dara Resort, Pattaya. Prior to the Cocktail networking session, Khun Supawan Teerarat, Vice-President, Strategic and Business Development, Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau, gave a presentation and held a discussion on expanding Thailand's MICE segment and tourism business, with emphasis on the Eastern Seaboard region.

The event welcomed some 120 guests from all the partnering Chambers of Commerce.

GTDEE, MERCEDES-BENZ JOIN HANDS IN DUAL EDUCATION PROGRAMME Contributed by: Mercedes-Benz (Thailand) Ltd.

A new dual education programme was recently initiated for vocational students majoring in mechanical engineering through the “New Milestone of Mercedes-Benz Technical Apprenticeship under German-Thai Dual Excellence Education”. The new programme was initiated on 24 February at

With growing community and interests in our activities in the Eastern Seaboard (ESB), GTCC has officially boarded on the ESB Networking group as one of the rotating hosts, in collaboration with American Chamber of Commerce in Tha i land (AMCHAM), Australian-Thai Chamber of Commerce (AustCham) and the British Chamber of Commerce Thailand (BCCT).

We will be hosting three events altogether this year under our own brand ‘The Eastern Seaboard Stammtisch’ so join us for a laid-back evening and good company!

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to meet and establish new contacts at one of the ESB networking events!

GTCC, in close collaboration with iba, the world’s leading trade fair for bakery, confectionary and snacks, hosted an exclusive press conference and luncheon on 17 March at the Shangri-La Hotel, Bangkok.

The press conference welcomed 15 representatives from selected media sources and provided them with an insight into iba 2015, which will take place from 12 to 17 September 2015 in Munich. The President of the German Bakers' Confederation, Mr. Peter Becker and Vice-President of the German Baker’s Confederation, Mr. Michael Wippler participated in the event by giving presentations on iba 2015

and subsequently answering queries from members of the press.

The press conference also benefited from the experience of Dr. Yingsak Jongler tjesdawong, Managing Director of the Thai & International Food Technological College (TIFTEC) and a leading figure in the Thai culinary arena, who highlighted the potential and competitiveness of the Thai culinary sector in the context of international cuisine. He pointed out that the iba trade fair was therefore an ideal opportunity for Thai bakery and confectionary businesses to make contacts and find new markets.


CHAMBER ACTIVITIES 39

EASTERN SEABOARD STAMMTISCH AND NETWORKING

EXCLUSIVE IBA PRESS CONFERENCE AND LUNCHEON

Eastern SeaboardNetworking Event

TheStammtisch.

by GTCC

Date* Host

16 May 2014 Eastern Seaboard Stammtisch by GTCC

20 June 2014 Eastern Seaboard Sundowners Event by AustCham

18 July 2014 Eastern Seaboard Networking Event by BCCT

15 August 2014 Eastern Seaboard Stammtisch by GTCC

19 September 2014 Eastern Seaboard Networking Event by AmCham

17 October 2014 Eastern Seaboard Stammtisch by GTCC

21 November 2014 Eastern Seaboard Networking Event hosted by BCCT

12 December 2014 Eastern Seaboard Sundowners Event by AustCham

*Please note that the dates may be subject to change. Updated information can be found on GTCC online calendar at Thailand.ahk.de

UPDATE 1/2014


ORDINARY GENERAL MEETING 2014WELCOMES NEW GTCC PRESIDENT

The German-Thai Chamber of Commerce (GTCC) held its Ordinary General Meeting 2014 on 13 March at the Hilton Sukhumvit Bangkok Hotel. The meeting welcomed more than 120 representatives from leading German and Thai companies in various industries who are members and counterparts of the Chamber.

During the meeting, an election for new board members was conducted successfully. The GTCC had the pleasure of congratulating Mr. Phongsakdi Chakshuvej, Executive Vice-President of B. Grimm and Co., Ltd., on his election as the new GTCC President, and Dr. Florian Kirschner, Country Head and Managing Director of Evonik (Thailand) Ltd, as the new GTCC Vice-President.

The Chamber expressed its sincere gratitude for the strong commitment and consistent contributions of three outgoing directors: Celina Chew, Bayer Thai Co., Ltd. Andreas Richter, Blumenthal Richter & Sumet Thomas Chambers, Continental Automotive (Thailand) Co., Ltd.

The GTCC also distributed its new Annual Repor t 2013 to the meeting’s participants. The Annual Report is also available at the Chamber, free-of-charge, to interested individuals.

(front row, from left) Karl-Heinz Heckhausen, K. H. H. Consulting Co., Ltd.; Michael Grewe, Mercedes-Benz (Thailand) Ltd.; Pracha Chivapornthip, VIV Interchem Co., Ltd.; Phongsakdi Chakshuvej (GTCC President), B. Grimm & Co Ltd.; Jörg Buck, German-Thai Chamber of Commerce; Dr. Florian Kirschner, Evonik (Thailand) Ltd. and Anthony Chay, Siemens Ltd.

(back row, from left)Helmut Beste, Thaivivat Insurance Public Co., Ltd.; Volker Hellstern, Häfele (Thailand) Limited; Phit Simahawong, Schaeffler (Thailand) Co.,Ltd.; Harald Link (honorable guest speaker), B. Grimm & Co Ltd.; Michael Berger, InterGest (Thailand) Ltd.; Mark Sonntag, Brandworx Asia Co.,Ltd.; Dirk Grossmann, Lufthansa German Airlines and Martin Klose, Rödl & Partner, Ltd.

Name Last Name

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MEET THE GTCC

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The list of participating outlets and services is available on our webpage, thailand.ahk.de, together with corresponding benefits and discounts for members to explore! For more information or submission of your offer/discount, please call 02 670 0600, ext. 2008.

As a GTCC Member, we offer you the GTCC Membership Card to enjoy special discounts at GTCC’s events and consultancy services as well as a number of special discounts from participating GTCC members.

Whether it is for your lunch/dinner business meeting or other services, we want to ensure that you, as our valuable member, enjoy

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MEMBERS’ CORNER 41

UPDATE 1/2014

42 MEMBERS’ CORNER

NEW GTCC MEMBERSBetween 1 January and 31 March 2014, the Chamber welcomed 18 new members.

Chesada Thamavit1010/1 Thamavit Building, 4th Floor, Soi Saladaeng 1, Rama IV Road, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500, ThailandTel: +66 (0)2 237 7856 to 8, Fax: +66 (0)2 237 7859

AD Asia Consulting Co., Ltd.

9/252, UM Tower, 25th Floor, B1, Ramkhamhaeng Road, Suanluang, Bangkok 10250, ThailandTel: +66(2) 719 9746, Fax: +66(2) 719 9747Website: www.adasiaconsulting.com, Email: [email protected]: Construction, interior, project management, consultant and real estateChamber representatives: Andrea Dolcemascolo, Jarmo Janne Juhani Takala

Assyce Fotovoltaica (Thailand) Ltd.Iyara Tower Level 5, Unit 505, 2/22 Chan Road, Sathorn, Bangkok 10120, ThailandTel: +66 (0)2 286 3201 to 2, Fax: +66 (0)2 286 3203Website: www.assyce.comActivities: Solar power EPC & operation; photovoltaic supply and engineeringChamber representative: Tobias Deissler

Ata Services Co., Ltd.2/51 Soi Bang Na Trad 25, Khaew Bang Na, Khet Bang Na, Bangkok 10260, ThailandTel: +66 (0)2 744 3177, Fax: +66 (0)2 744 3177Website: www.ata-services.comActivities: We are a serviced office company with more than 600 m2 office, located near central bangnaChamber representative: Siriporn Chiwaraphan

BBV Systems Co., Ltd.

6th Floor, MD Tower, No. 1 Soi Bangna Trad 25, Bangna, Bangna District, Bangkok 10260, ThailandTel: +66(0)2 769 5699, Fax: +66 (0)2 769 5690Website: www.bbv-systems.co.thActivities: Construction industry sector, supply and installation of post-tensioning and geotechnical systemsChamber representatives: Ingo Stroehler, Michael Eskridge

Centasia Co., Ltd.Bangna Thani Tower 10th Floor, Suite A1-A2, 1/20 Soi Bangna-Trad 34, Bangna-Trad Hwy Km. 3, Bangna, Bangkok 10260, ThailandTel: +66 (0)2 361 3730, Fax: +66 (0)2 361 3771 to 2Website: www.centasiathai.comActivities: Distribution of industrial chemicals, industrial instruments and industrial equipmentChamber representatives: Mark Sonntag, Suwit Duangpichakul

DanThai Machinery Co., Ltd.Free Zone 2, Laemchabang Industiral Estate, 213/17 Moo 3, Thungsukla, Sriracha, Chonburi 20230, ThailandTel: +66 (0)38 495 108 to 9, Fax: +66 (0)38 495 110Website: www.danthai-machinery.com Activities: High precision CNC machined metal partsChamber representatives: Frank Henriksen, Karsten Brammer

Find Your Way In The World (Thailand) Co., Ltd.65/213 Chamnan Phenjati Business Center Building, 25th Floor, Rama 9 Road, Huay Kwang, Bangkok 10310, ThailandTel: +66 (0)89 505 7430, Fax: +66 (0)2 641 1995Website: www.findyourwayintheworld.comActivities: Online video marketingChamber representative: Jean Charles Salvin

Heidelberg Graphics (Thailand) Ltd.163 Ocean Insurance Building, 19th Floor, Surawongse Road, Suriyawingse, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500, ThailandTel: +66(2) 610 6100, Fax: +66(2) 610 6299Website: www.th.heidelberg.comActivities: Solution provider in term of equipment supply, services, spare parts using in the printing industry including press, pre-press, post-press, consumables and services and partsChamber representative: Rene Ludvigsen,

Knauf Gypsum (Thailand) Co., Ltd.598 Q House Ploenjit Building, 18-19th Floors, Room No. 18BC and 19B, Ploenjit Road, Lumpini, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330, ThailandTel: +66(0)2 689 6077, Fax: +66(0)2 689 6001Website: www.knauf.co.thActivities: Manufacturer, selling, export and importChamber representative: Wayne William Studdon


MEMBERS’ CORNER 43

L&S Raiway Maintenance Co., Ltd.138 Boonmitr Building, 9th Floor, Room A2, Silom Road, Suriyawong, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500, ThailandTel: +66(0)89 615 7960, Fax: +66 (0)2 634 3319Website: www.l-und-s.comActivities: Production of machinery; training centre; sales andconsultingChamber representatives: Alexander Schlegel

LawPlus Ltd.Unit 1401, 14th Floor, Abdulrahim Place, 990 Rama IV Road, Bangkok 10500, ThailandTel: +66(0)2 636 0662, Fax: +66(0)2 636 0663Website: www.lawplusltd.comActivities: Our specialised practice areas include banking and finance, corporate and commercial, mergers and acquisition, intellectual property, securities, information technology, telecommunications, joint venture, employment, foreign direct investment, real property, debt restructuring, insolvency and dispute resolutionChamber representatives: Kowit Somwaiya, Prasantaya Bantadtan

M+W (Thailand) Ltd.219/39 Asoke Towers, 11th Floor, Soi Asoke, Sukhumvit 21Road, North Klongtoey, Wattana, Bangkok 10110, ThailandTel: +66(2) 640 8017 to 22, Fax: +66(2) 693 3225Website: www.mwgroup.netActivities: Service for integrated solutions for high technology industrialChamber representatives: Brian Doyle, Dirk Kriechel

Mann and Hummel (Thailand) Ltd.247 Lumpini Tower 2, Room 101, 1st Floor, Ratchadamri Road, Lumpini, Bangkok 10330, Pathumwan, Thailand Tel: +66(0)2 651 8790, Fax: +66(0)2 651 8792Website: www.mann-hummel.comActivities: Automotive and industrials filterationChamber representatives: Claude Mathieu, Tinnakorn Phanon

Master Group Corporation (Asia) Limited2222/9 Ladprao Road, Phlapphla, Wangthonglang, Bangkok 10310, ThailandTel: +66(0)2 793 2222, Fax: +66(0)2 793 2233Website: www.mgc-asia.com, Email: [email protected]: Automotive retailerChamber representatives: Sunhavut Thamchuanviriya, Jerdnapang Thamchuanviriya

N.S.L. Construction Co., Ltd.1447 Soi Ladprao 94 (Panjamitr), Ladprao Road, Plubpla, Wangtonglang, Bangkok 10310, ThailandTel: +66(0)2 559 2680 to 2, Fax: +66(0) 934 7217Website: www.nslcon.com, Email: [email protected]: Construction, design and build factories, warehouses and show rooms for foreign investorsChamber representatives: Surapong Loukulsant, Jin Hyun Park

NIEDAX (Thailand) Ltd.62/10 Moo 6, Samnaktorn, Banchang , Rayong 21130, ThailandTel: +66(0)38 963 258, Fax: +66 (0)38 963 595Website: www.niedax.co.thActivities: We have manufactured and traded in Thailand since 1996 we supply a large range of ORIGINALSTRUT® products to the global market with a huge variety of applications that include construction, mining, industrial, offshore and petrochemicalChamber representatives: Kenneth Brookes, Tassanai Bumnannophawong

Noventa (Thailand) Co., Ltd.304 Industrial Park, 447 Moo 7, Tha-toom Sub-District, Sri Maha-phote, Prachinburi 25140, ThailandTel: +66 (0)37 481 100, Fax: +66 (0)37 481 101Website: www.noventa.comActivities: Plastics injection moulding, assembly, component sourcing, distribution and logisticsChamber representatives: Klaus Hawelka, Anis Rifai

efficiency, the efficiency of processing equipment to increase hereby industrial energy efficiency and find par tners for commercial agreements and for research & technology cooperation.

With the experience of more than 50 years, the event was attended by more than 210,000 visitors. Approximately 6,150 exhibitors attended this 5 days Hannover Messe 2014 event.

More details are available on the internet at http://www.hannovermesse.de

For fur ther information, please contact GTCC’s official representative for DeutscheMesse for Thailand, Ms. Kamolchanok Nantaburom at Tel: +66 (0)2 670 0600 ext. 4004

The world’s leading showcase for industrial technology is staged annually in Hannover, Germany. The recent HANNOVER MESSE took place from 7 to 11 April 2014. HANNOVER MESSE 2014 comprised seven flagship fairs: Industrial Automation, Energy, MobiliTec, Digital Factory, Industrial Supply, IndustrialGreenTec, Research and Technology. The event placed a strong emphasis on industrial automation and IT, energy and environmental technologies, industrial subcontracting, production engineering and services, and research and development.

Hannover Messe is also the initiator of important investments in technology and automation. The industry deals especially with global trends such as sustainability, mobility, urbanization and the lack of resources. It is the place to acquire new technologies, concepts and solutions forindustrial measurement applications to minimize processing steps, increase the material

44 TRADE FAIRS

UPDATE 1/2014

HANNOVER MESSE 2014 ‘THE WORLD’S LEADING TRADE FAIR FOR INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY’ 7-11 APRIL 2014, Hannover

CeMAT events are organised by Deutsche Messe AG and offer outstanding trade fair platforms where the intralogistics industry in the world’s key markets can showcase products and innovations to a professional audience in the respective countries and regions. All the events are offshoots of CeMAT in Hannover, the World’s Leading Fair for Intralogistics. With around 1,100 exhibitors occupying an exhibition floor space of more than 140,000 square metres, as well as some 55,000 trade visitors from all over the world, CeMAT is by far the largest intralogistics fair. More than 45 per cent of the exhibitors are from outside Germany, while the corresponding figure for visitors is in excess of 35 per cent. The next CeMAT will take place from 19 to 23 May 2014 in Hannover.

Exhibitors at CeMAT 2014 will showcase their products on a gross exhibition floor area which break down into five categories of technology: Move and Lift, Store and Load, Pick and Pack, Logistics IT, and Manage and Service. CeMAT is now enjoying international growth. The displays will include extensive national group presentations from Italy, France, the United Kingdom, Netherlands, Sweden and Spain, thus giving European manufacturers the opportunity to profile their intralogistics competence alongside German companies.

As a leading trade fair, CeMAT offers the industry a platform that is internationally unique. This is where all the major intralogistics trends are presented and discussed. Indeed, the increase in digitisation will be much in evidence at CeMAT 2014. ‘Smart – Integrated – Efficient’ describes the intelligent management of integrated logistics chains across the entire value-added process and reflects the trend towards an increasingly networked world.

More details are available at http://www.cemat.de

For visitor tickets or further information, please contact GTCC’s official representative for Deutsche Messe for Thailand, Ms. Kamolchanok Nantaburom at Tel: +66 (0)2 670 0600 ext. 4004


TRADE FAIRS 45

CeMAT 2014: ‘THE WORLD’S LEADING FAIR FOR INTRALOGISTICS’The intralogistics industry is on the move – right across the world.19-23 MAY 2014, Hannover

The world’s largest environmental technology trade show, IFAT ENTSORGA, which takes place in Munich from May 5 to 9, is setting new standards. In 2014 the event will be even bigger than before, covering 230,000 square meters of exhibition space – that’s 15,000 square meters more than in 2012. Despite this expansion, there are still waiting lists for exhibitors in some segments. In terms of exhibitor numbers, too, new heights are being reached: a new record is expected, with around 3,000 companies from 50 countries coming to exhibit. A total of 56 joint stands from 13 countries will also be taking part. Silvia Fritscher, Exhibition Director of IFAT ENTSORGA, is optimistic, predicting that "in this context the proportion of international exhibitors as compared to the previous events will expand still further. The response from the exhibitors, including in particular from international exhibitors, is tremendous." At IFAT 2012, the fair attracted 2,939 exhibitors from 54 countries and 124,200 visitors from 182 countries.

The German-Thai Chamber of Commerce also organises business delegations to Germany for anyone who would like to travel with our representative. For visitor tickets or further information, please contact GTCC’s official representative for Messe München GmbH, Ms. Suvichanee Panpeng at Tel: +66 (0)2 670 0600 ext.4006

46 TRADE FAIRS

UPDATE 1/2014

IFAT ‘WORLD’S LEADING TRADE FAIR FOR WATER, SEWAGE, WASTE AND RAW MATERIALS MANAGEMENT’ 5-9 May 2014, München

Interzoo is the world’s biggest trade fair for the international pet supplies industry. The world-leading exhibition has grown again and shows the latest products and the major trends for pets on 100,000 m² from 29 May to 1 June 2014 on the site of NürnbergMesse: with everything from A to Z. This varied spectrum of products makes Interzoo the top event for pet professional decision makers from the pet supply trade just as veterinarians or proprietors of grooming salons source information here.

In 2012, more than 36,000 trade visitors sourced information on the latest pet food, accessories, grooming aids and technical innovations in the aquaria, garden pond and terraria segments from more than 1,500 exhibitors from more than 50 countries. Virtually all visitors (97 per cent) were satisfied or very satisfied with the products on display at the last Interzoo in 2012. The information and contact opportunities also met the expectations of 97 per cent of the visitors.

Interzoo 2014 will again be the global event for the pet industry and continue the successful growth trend. “The number of registrations is up 21 per cent over the comparable period before Interzoo 2012,” says a delighted Hans-Jochen Büngener, Chairman of the Interzoo Exhibition Committee. Herbert Bollhöfer, Managing Director of the exhibition promoter Wirtschaftsgemeinschaft Zoologischer Fachbetriebe GmbH, is also confident: “Interzoo has gained new exhibitors, but many of the around 1,500 companies at the event in 2012 have also registered again and booked larger stand spaces.”

Experience the whole variety of pet supplies – presented by more than 1,500 international exhibitors at Interzoo 2014! More information about the trade fair can be found online at http://www.interzoo.com/

For visitor tickets or further information, please contact GTCC’s Official representative for Nürnberg Messe GmbH for Thailand, Ms. Tidarat Singsuphan at tel: +66 (0)2 670 0600 ext. 3003


TRADE FAIRS 47

INTERZOO 29 May-1 June 2014, Nürnberg

Taking place for the 79th time, the International Green Week Berlin 2014 (IGW) again emphasised its function as the leading trade fair for every aspect of agribusiness. With 1,650 exhibitors from 70 countries, the presence of 70 ministers of agriculture from every continent, and a significant increase in the number of foreign delegations representing agriculture and business policy, the world’s largest exhibition for agriculture, food and horticulture recorded the largest number of foreign participants since its debut in 1926. Despite the onset of winter weather more than 410,000 visitors flocked to the exhibition grounds to attend the event. At 114 euros per capita expenditure was slightly above last year’s level and provided exhibitors with sales totaling some 47 million euros. Attendance by trade visitors remained steady at around 100,000, the same high level as at last year’s IGW. Between 17 and 26 January IGW 2014 provided a wide-ranging overview of the food industry all over the world and presented the products and capabilities of agriculture and horticulture on a display area in the halls measuring 124,000 square meters.

On 17 January Dr. Hans-Peter Friedrich - Federal Minister of Agriculture of Germany, Mr. Klaus Wowereit - Berlin’s Governing Mayor and Dr. Christian Göke - Chief Executive Officer of Messe Ber l in GmbH were welcomed by Ambassador Nongnuth Phetcharatana as guest of honour at the opening ceremony of the Thai Pavilion. There were also numerous honourable guests from Germany and Thailand including Ambassadors from Asian countries in Berlin, Deputy Permanent Secretar y of Ministr y of Agriculture and Cooperatives - Mr. Chalit Damrongsak and Dr. Jirawan Yamprayoon, Director-General of Department of International Economic Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Mr. Chutintorn Gongsakdi as well as numerous representatives from both the government and the private sectors.

More than 30 firms and co-operatives from Thailand were represented on a combined stand at the Green Week for the first time. “We want to increase people’s awareness of our products in Europe”, said Ambassador Nongnuth Phetcharatana.

The Royal Thai Embassy in Berlin invited Thai representatives from both the government and private sectors to participate in IGW 2014 to showcase their products under the theme “Thai Food to World” as well as provide information on the safety and standards of Thai food in order to support policies to promote Thai agricultural products in Germany and Europe.

The par ticipants at the Thai Pavilion were from Depar tment of International Economic Affairs - Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Agriculture and Co-operatives (Rice Department, The Queen Sirikit Department of Sericulture, Department of Livestock Development, Department of Agriculture and National Bureau of Agricultural Commodity and Food Standards), Depar tment of Industrial Promotion, Royal Project of Thailand, Phufa - Occupational Incentive Project Under Initiation of HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, The Chaipattana Foundation, Charoen Pokphand Group (CP), Singha Beer, Halal Science Center of Chualongkorn University, Thai Restaurants in Berlin and various private enterprises.

The Thai Pavilion was one of the most interesting pavilions at IGW 2014 due to its large area and variety of products. In addition, there were various fresh fruits for tasting as well as several cultural performances and cooking shows throughout the day which attracted many spectators passing by.

The 80th International Green Week will take place on the Berlin Exhibition Grounds from 16 to 25 January 2015. More details are available at http://www.gruenewoche.de/en/

For further information, please contact GTCC’s Official representative for Messe Berlin GmbH for Thailand, Ms. Patamaporn Wasuwat at tel: +66 (0)2 670 0600 ext. 4010

48 TRADE FAIRS48 TRADE FAIRS

UPDATE 1/2014

INTERNATIONAL GREEN WEEK BERLIN 2014 (IGW)17-26 January 2014, Berlin

Imported by : Danmark Co., Ltd.Distributed by : Flow Inter Co., Ltd.

22 Chalermprakiat Rama 9 Soi 23 Nongbon, Prawet, Bangkok 10250 Tel. 02 361 6257-60, Fax. 02 747 2021

www.paulaner-thailand, E-mail : [email protected]

Warning: Please drink responsibly

update q1/2014

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