Dear Member
Although its a quieter time of the year with many families away for school holidays, there have been a few events and announcements that may be of interest to members.
One such event was the recent seminar on Thailands Investment Environment, co-hosted by JFCCT and the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry, and Banking (JSCCIB). There was high level participation from the government with presentations by well informed organisations such as World Bank, ADB, BOT and Federation of Thai Industries. In particular the World Bank presentation clearly outlined the issues that Thailand needs to address to improve its investment climate. In supporting its case the WB explained the changes that have taken place in Thailands economy over the last 25 years, as it transitioned into a middle income society. Key challenges for attracting future investment are productivity, stable macro-economic policies, streamlined regulatory environment, development of skills and knowledge, and public infrastructure investment. Information on the seminar is available on request.
The second key event this month was the consultative meeting held between the BOI and JFCCT. Several initiatives were announced such as confirmation that the MOC will not proceed with any amendments of the Foreign Business Act. We have previously mentioned the one stop service centre to act as a help desk for all foreign investors and not just those with BOI privileges. For BOI promoted companies requiring visas for employees, the ratio of Thai to foreign workers is now relaxed to 1:1 for several approved activities. For non-immigrant B visas, the requirement for shareholder equity of 1 million baht and company revenues not being less than the salaries and benefits of the expats will be abolished.
In February this year the law governing work permits was announced to replace the existing 30 year old law. Although implementation has been delayed it may be of interest to note that when it does come into effect, WPs may be granted for a 2 year period, rather than 1 year at present. Also, penalties for working without a WP will be increased for both employee and employer. Other changes are also included and these seem to be generally more positive and liberal.
A couple of months ago I commented on the planned amendments to the Private Schools Act which would have had ramifications for families with children in international schools. I am now able to advise that any amendments to the PSA have now been postponed for 2 years and this will give the Schools Association more time to liaise and discuss further with the Ministry of Education.
Overall, I think the recent announcements that have been made confirm that behind the scenes, Thailand is making real efforts to improve the climate for foreign investment.
Last month we had a very successful combined networking event with the Irish Thai Chamber of Commerce. Around 120 people attended a very enjoyable evening so another combined event will be held in the near future. This month we are very grateful to Grant Thornton, one of the Chambers long standing sponsors, for supporting this months event at the Sheraton.
We look forward to seeing you all there.
Kind regards
Cris Dunning
President
JULY CORPORATE KNIGHT
Thursday 31st July 2008,
at The Sukhumvit Room,
Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit Hotel from 6:30pm.
Our Red Carpet Treatment
World Class Service With Measurable Value
Grant Thornton Thailand, a member firm of Grant Thornton International, was established in Thailand in 1991 and has enjoyed growth and success since its establishment. We have approximately 150 professional staff providing services in assurance, business consulting, business risk services, corporate finance, executive recruitment, recovery and reorganization and tax consulting, helping clients in a broad range of industries achieve their objectives. We operate with the highest standards of professional integrity with solid principles. Our dedication, teamwork and commitment result in a world-class professional advisory service to our clients in Thailand and across the region. You can visit us at www.grantthornton.co.th
A SUCCESSFUL JOINT NETWORKING NIGHT WITH THE IRISH THAI CHAMBER
Last months very successful meeting was held jointly with the Irish Thai Chamber and evoked a complete range of responses: some happy, some shy and some hungry. Our thanks to Bangkok General Hospital and PCS for their sponsorship. Drop by the website (by clicking on the photos above) and see some of the other photos on show.
NEW RULES FOR NZ PASSPORT HOLDERS TRAVELLING TO THE USA
New Zealanders will be affected by new US entry rules from January 2009. They must register online before arrival in the US, with the electronic information taking the place of written forms filled in during your flight. The rules will apply to passport-holders from countries like New Zealand, which do not require visas to enter the US. Each travel authorisation is expected to last two years. Read more...
IS THIS YOUR WEB IMAGE?
In reviewing the members profiles on our web site we have noticed that several members haven't taken the opportunity to upload a corporate image or photo to enhance their membership profile. Its simple to do, but if you have any difficulties then please email
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who takes care of the Chamber web site or
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our Executive Director, they will be pleased to help.
While you are on the web site, also please check that the other information that's contained in your membership profile is up to date and accurate. Soon the process to build the new Chamber Handbook will start and that needs up to date and accurate information
NEW ZEALAND EDUCATION FAIR
Forty eight New Zealand education institutions travelled to Thailand 12-17 June for the 15th Annual New Zealand Education Fairs. The fairs, organised by NZTE on behalf of Education New Zealand Trust, attracted participants from all New Zealand education sectors; intermediate schools, middle schools, secondary schools, institutes of technology and polytechnics, universities and private education providers.
The New Zealand Education Fair series in Thailand included a one day fair in Chiang Mai, Bangkok and Phuket. We had over 3,000 visitors to the three fairs. NZ participants enjoyed a high quality of potential students and their parents. They also had the opportunity to meet and maintain their relationships with active agents in the market, says NZTEs Thailand, Trade Development Executive Education, Gewalin Lertrasameewong. For more information email Karlene Davis at
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.
NZ RUGBY BALL IN LONDON NOVEMBER
The New Zealand giant inflatable rugby balls installation in London will be timed to coincide with the All Blacks Rugby Tour and a brand new tourism campaign in the UK giving New Zealand a huge boost in profile in November.
Prime Minister Helen Clark today announced that the Rugby Ball Venue would make its second public appearance on Potters Fields Park near Londons Tower Bridge from November 25 to December 2 this year.
Its presence will coincide with the All Blacks Grand Slam Tour and match against England on November 29.
The Ball will also be in London at a crucial time for Tourism New Zealand as it will coincide with the launch of a major tactical campaign in the UK.
The first push for Tourism New Zealands new UK campaign will end in November and the Rugby Ball will be a great PR opportunity and a huge public billboard at just the right time, Tourism New Zealand chief executive George Hickton said.
Chamber News 
