Japan is the largest foreign investor in Thailand and still growing, according to BOI, net applications for investment by Japanese companies in 2012 is 872 projects with value worth 12.03 billion baht up from 560 projects in 2011 which valued at 6.4 billion baht. There are 1,400 Japanese companies and 50,000 Japanese living in Thailand. Most Japanese investment in Thailand is in the automotives, metal processing, and electrical appliances and electronics (E&E) industries. Other major areas of investment by Japanese companies include services, chemicals and petrochemicals. More than 1,000 medium sized Japanese companies are planning to expand their business and invest in Thailand this year according to Kasikorn Bank.

 

In Southeast Asia Region, Thailand plays an active role in moving toward ASEAN economic integration in 2015. Japanese companies view its economic relation with Thailand as one of the important factors in its effort to foster and strengthening its tie with ASEAN region. This seminar underlines the new direction of investment in Thailand, in particular a move into high value-added industry which aims to enhance the competitiveness and create sustainable growth in Thai economy. This new direction would bring about closer economic collaboration between Thailand and Japan especially on human resources and technological development. Discussed in this seminar are the key to success of collaboration between Japan and Thailand, the role of local supporting industries, challenge and solution for doing business in Thailand, Thailand as business hub in Greater Mekong Sub-Region, and Global Talent Training Program for ASEAN business.