Bangkok, 7 August 2012 – The Department of International Trade Promotion, or DITP, has revealed that a number of Italian-based companies are interested in investing in Thailand’s food and auto-part industries, given Thailand is a door to other ASEAN countries.
According to Director General Department of International Trade Promotion Nuntawan Sakuntanaga, a report from the DITP in Italy has indicated that several Italian companies have expressed interest in setting up their production bases inThailand, as they see Thailand as an important gateway to the Asian region.
The DITP held a meeting in June with Koelnmesse Company, a German exhibition organizer who in 2013 will organize Thailand International Food Exhibition, or Thaifex; which over 100 Italian entrepreneurs are expected to participate in. A lot of food products will be exhibited in the event.
Additionally, the DITP also had a chance pay a visit to Union Trade Company, a major Thai food products importer. The company imports rice, frozen foods, canned foods, dry foods, seasoning sauces, fruit, vegetables, and beverages from Thailand, and distributes them to other European countries. Last year, its import of Thai products accounted for 20.7 percent of all imported goods, valued at 4.47 million Euros. The Union Trade Company also has a plan to introduce Thai products to “Coop”, Italy’s well-known supermarket chain. This is a good opportunity for Thai exporters to expand its market range.
Meanwhile, the DITP has also held a meeting with 2 other Italian giant companies: Brembo and Fiat ( MagnetiMarelli). Brembo is an auto-parts producer, while Fiat is a world-renowned automaker. Ms. Nuntawan said the 2 companies are also interested in setting up manufacturing bases in Thailand for export reason.
