INFORMA l Thai Italian Chamber of Commerce Magazine

Vol. April 2010

Teddy Spha Palasthira: Italian at Heart Italian Wine in Thailand TICC Annual General Meeting

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Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce

President's Message

PRESIDENT Mr. Ekkamon Hutasingh - Tesoro Co., Ltd. Tel: +66 2 719 5416-7 Fax: +66 2 719 5415 E-mail: tesoroth@truemail.co.th

Mr. Ekkamon Hutasingh President Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce

VICE PRESIDENTS Mr. Lino Geretto - LGV Engineering Co., Ltd. Tel: +66 2 255 8717-8 Fax: +66 2 255 8716 E-mail: info@lgveng.com Mr. Luca Vianelli - MDA Consulting SEA Co., Ltd. Tel: +66 2 652 2447 Fax: +66 2 652 2448 E-mail: lvianelli@mda.it DIRECTOR & HONORARY TREASURER Mr. Chakrit Benedetti - Italasia Electro Co., Ltd. Tel: +66 2 261 7990-9 Fax: +66 2 261 8700 E-mail: italasia19@hotmail.com DIRECTOR & HONORARY SECRETARY Mr. Yongyudh Teeravithayapinyo - Jewelry Network Co., Ltd. Tel: +66 2 664 8358 Fax: +66 2 664 8373 E-mail: yyudh@koola.com DIRECTORS Mr. Chayaporn Phronprapha - Italsiam Motors Co., Ltd. Tel: +66 2 612 4400 Fax: +66 2 612 4411 E-mail: chayaporn@italsiammotors.com Mr. Gianmaria Zanotti - Zanotti (Thailand) Ltd. Tel: +66 2 636 0002 Fax: +66 2 636 0221 E-mail: zanotti@loxinfo.co.th Mr. Giuseppe Zigrino - K+Z Corporation Ltd. Tel: +66 34 381 313 Fax: +66 34 381 717 E-mail: sales@kzcorp.com Mr. Mario Bracci - Asia Cement Public Co., Ltd. Tel: +66 2 641 5600 Fax: +66 2 641 5680 E-mail: m.bracci@acc.co.th

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ur grateful thanks to all of you whom where able to attend the TICC Annual General Meeting (AGM 2010) on 23rd March 2010, at Centara Grand Hotel, and in addition, on behalf of the TICC, we herein offer our very special gratitude to the Italian Ambassador to Thailand, H.E. Mr. Michelangelo Pipan, whom very kindly, was able to deliver a valuable welcome speech to the AGM audience.

It is also a great pleasure that the Editors of the INFORMA Magazine where able to add to this issue of the Magazine some of the photos which where taken during the AGM.

Mr. Nino Jotikasthira - Turismo Asia Co., Ltd. Tel: +66 2 245 1551 Fax: +66 2 246 3993 E-mail: nino.j@turismoasia.com Mr. Pichai Chirathiwat - Central Trading Co., Ltd. Tel: +66 2 229 7000 Fax: +66 2 367 5445-6 E-mail: pichai@cmg.co.th Mr. Pierre Nicou - EUROFOOD - The Commercial Company of Siam Ltd. Tel: +66 2 261 0245 Fax: +66 2 261 0243 E-mail: pierre@eurofoodthai.com Mr. Rene Okanovic - Berli Jucker Public Co., Ltd. Tel: +66 2 367 1092 Fax: +66 2 381 4541 E-mail: rene.okanovic@bjc.co.th, rene.okanovic@thaiscandic.com Mr. Romeo Romei - Quick Pack Pacific Co., Ltd. Tel: +66 2 998 9101-3 Fax: + 66 2 531 6425 E-mail: romeo@quickpackpacific.com Ms. Tiziana Sucharitkul - Tilleke & Gibbins International Ltd. Tel: +66 2 653 5555 Fax: +66 2 653 5678 E-mail: tiziana.s@tillekeandgibbins.com SECRETARY GENERAL Mr. Sandro Zanello Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce.

1126/2 Vanit Building II, Room 1601B 16th Floor, New Petchburi Rd., Makkasan, Rajdhevee, Bangkok Tel: +66 2 253 9909, +66 2 255 8695 Fax: +66 2 253 9896 E-mail: secretarygeneral@thaitch.org

The Informa is the bi-monthly magazine of the Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce, covering all business activities and social news of interest to the members of the Thai-Italian community and others active in the expanding Thai-Italian bilateral relations.

EDITOR: Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce Tel: +66 2 253 9909 Fax: +66 2 253 9896 E-mail: info@thaitch.org EDITORIAL COMMITTEE: Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce President: Mr. Ekkamon Hutasingh Directors: Mr. Nino Jotikasthira Mr. Romeo Romei Mr. Giuseppe Zigrino Secretary General: Mr. Sandro Zanello Italian Embassy Representative: Ms. Somsri Pobpipugtra Italian Trade Commission Representative: Mr. Vincenzo Calì Dante Alighieri Association Representative: Mr. Giacomo Mauri Scand-Media Representative: Mr. Gregers Moller TICC Staff: Ms. Pawinee Watcharaprasertchai:PR-Manager Ms. Sasikan Phootdee: Marketing Manager Mr. Richard Darren Bartlett: English Editor PUBLISHER: Scand-Media Corp., Ltd. 4/41 Moo 3, Thanyakarn Village, Ramintra Soi 14, BKK 10230 Tel: +66 2 943 7166-8 Fax: +66 2 943 7169 Design: Disraporn Yatprom Email: disraporn@scandmedia.com ADVERTISING CONTACT: Mr. Finn Balslev, Marketing Director Scand-Media Corp., Ltd. Tel: +66 2 943 7166 Ext: 151 Fax: +66 2 943 7169 Mobile: +66 81 866 2577 Email: finn@scandmedia.com - www.scandmedia.com Ms. Sasikan Phootdee, Marketing Manager Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce Tel: +66 2 253 9909, +66 2 255 8695 Ext: 103 Fax: +66 2 253 9896 E-mail: pr@thaitch.org – www.thaitch.org

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Dear Members and Friends,

April 2010

With the alterations which have been carried out at the TICC Offices, on behalf of the TICC Staff, we offer our deepest apologies for any inconvenience which may have been incurred by our Members and Guests visiting the TICC Offices whilst these alterations where being carried out.

The alterations are basically to extend the Meeting Room and the Office Space, by adding some 55 sq. Mts. to the original Office Space, thus increasing the Meeting Room to enable not only to accommodate the 15 TICC Directors, but also the Italian Embassy and the Italian Trade Commissioner Representatives, thus trying to promote closer collaboration with their Offices.

In addition to the Monthly Board Meetings, with the increase of the TICC activities, the additional Space is also required for the additional meetings with guests from the Various different organizations which the TICC is now involved with, enabling the Staff to discuss and organize the forthcoming projects/activities.

With the additional collaborations with the other Europeans Chambers, we are now also required to host meetings with them from time to time in our TICC Offices, thus enabling us to inform our Members of the Negotiations to get a Europeans Chambers Consortium (10 bilateral Chambers) in place.

Additional to the aforesaid, with the number of projects/activities presently under discussion and/or at the preparation stage for the second half of the year 2010, the BOD also envisages that in the near future, the “New” extended Meeting Room at the TICC Office will also be used in organizing Small Seminars and/or Business Matching activities, thus avoiding to spend Large Budgets in arranging the said activities on available Space in Hotel facilities.

Lastly, I hereby wish to express my warmest gratitude to all of our Directors and TICC Members for their supports for our INFORMA Magazine and our “New” Business Directory 2010.

Best wishes

Ekkamon Hutasingh President

CONTENT

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Italian at Heart The only surviving founder of the Thai Italian Chamber of Commerce (TICC), Khun Teddy Spha Palasthira offers a wealth of stories and insights about the Chamber’s early days.

“When the most important Italian in Thailand treats you like a son and comes to you and says ‘Teddy, I want you help me build this new chamber,’ then you do everything you can.”

Italian Wine in Thailand Asian markets represent one of the most important targets for both EU and New World producers, because they have the highest growth rate world wide. The Sixth Asian countries indicated as the most strategically valuable are China, South Korea, Japan, India, Singapore and Thailand.

18 Annual General Meeting The Annual General Meeting 2010 program started with the Italian Ambassador’s speech, which touched particularly upon the strong cooperation between the Italian Embassy, the Italian Trade Commission (ICE) and TICC.

13 Dante Alighieri Visit to Chakrabongse Mansion On February 26, 2010 members and guests of the Dante Alighieri were permitted by the present owner M. R. Narisa Chakrabongse to hold a private cocktail party at the riverside terrace of Chakrabongse Mansion, one of Bangkok’s most remarkable royal residences.

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Aperitivo Italiano Aperitivo Italiano on February 10 was joined. All guests were pleasured by delicious food, Fine Wine and “Monin”-non alcoholic fruity drinks from Italasia Group in this sparkling evening.

April 2010

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Italian at Heart 30 Year Anniversary of the TICC The only surviving founder of the Thai Italian Chamber of Commerce (TICC), Khun Teddy Spha Palasthira offers a wealth of stories and insights about the Chamber’s early days.

By Catherine Monthienvichienchai Photos by Ravan Studio (Photographer: Max)

H

alf way through our interview Khun Teddy Spha Palasthira disappears upstairs. “Italians must wear jackets,” he says reappearing, a pale blue jacket now covering his immaculately pressed shirt in preparation for the photo shoot.

His sense of style is, initially, the only hint of Khun Teddy’s love affair with Italy. Yet as the conversation goes on, and the stories and anecdotes start to flow, it becomes clear that, despite his impeccable British accent, Khun Teddy’s heart lies in one country and one country only.

“I feel British up here,” he says, pointing to his head, “because I think in English, but here, in my heart and my stomach, I’m Italian.”

Along with his father H.E. Somboon Palasthira, former Thai Ambassador to Italy, Khun Teddy was one of the five founding members of the Thai Italian Chamber of Commerce (TICC), which this year celebrates its 30th anniversary.

Recalling their first official meeting, which was held on 12 February 1980, Khun Teddy says the aim of the five founding members – himself, his late father, the late Mr Roberto Jotikasthira, the late Dr Luigi Magherita and the late Mr Giorgio Berlingieri, along with the assistance of the Chargé d’Affaires Mr Massimo Bernardinelli, who has also passed away - was to create a chamber that would help Italian businesses set up in Thailand and Thai businesses achieve success in Italy.

While these five founding members put the work of the TICC in motion, the idea was first formed several years before by Giorgio Berlingieri, owner of the Oriental Hotel and Italthai.

Khun Teddy speaks fondly of Berlingieri, whom he describes as both the ‘godfather’ of Italians in Thailand, as well as his own unofficial godfather.

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April 2010

“My father and Giorgio were very old friends. He knew my father when he was Ambassador in Italy. Giorgio never had a son so I became like a son or a godson to him.

We used to call each other every morning, but the day I didn’t call him – I had this beastly American breakfast meeting – was the day he died,” Khun Teddy recalls.

He says it was a great honour when Berlingieri asked him to help form the TICC. “When the most important Italian in Thailand treats you like a son and comes to you and says ‘Teddy, I want you help me build this new chamber,’ then you do everything you can.”

And while Berlingieri wanted Khun Teddy to serve as Vice President, he says he declined, as he felt it was inappropriate to take on such a role while his father remained Honorary President. It was only when his father stepped down, that Khun Teddy took on the role in 1985.

“I had to wait a long time before they could make me Vice President,” he explains.

“This wasn’t the Berlusconi or the Thaksin era – you couldn’t have two board members with the same name.”

Despite not taking on this role until five years after the TICC first formed, Khun Teddy was committed to ensuring the Chamber was successful from day one. He describes how, in the early days, he worked hard to build up the TICC’s reputation and recruit members. He even designed the TICC’s logo which, he points out proudly, is still used today.

“I used to go to every cocktail party and give out my business card to everyone to try and get members. I would visit friends and get them to become members, even if they had no connection to Italy. We needed the money to generate some income,” Khun Teddy explains.

When the TICC was first formed he says it was less common for smaller countries to have a chamber of commerce. At the time, only Germany, France, Britain, America and Japan had one in Thailand.

“We always felt like the poor cousin,” Khun Teddy recalls. Nevertheless, he says the formation of the TICC was well received by the other chambers, who were more than willing to offer their advice and assistance.

“European chambers always cooperate with each other, while I was already a member of the American Chamber of Commerce, so I got help from them too,” he explains.

Continued on page 10

If you want to get anything done, the first thing you need is a good network of friends. You can never live on your own; you need people to support you.

And the higher you go the more people you need

April 2010

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1980

Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce quarterly magazine, No. 3, 1980, was produced as a supplementary publication of "Business in Thailand".

1981

Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce quarterly magazine, No. 1, 1981, was produced as a supplementary publication of "Business in Thailand".

1992/1993

Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce Business Directory 1992/1993

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April 2010

“At the end of the day you need friends,” Khun Teddy stresses. “If you want to get anything done, the first thing you need is a good network of friends. You can never live on your own; you need people to support you. And the higher you go the more people you need.”

Over time the Chamber, working together with ICE (the Italian Institute for Foreign Trade), built up a reputation and succeeded in attracting a large number of Italian investors to Thailand.

In the early days most of this investment came in the form of the construction industry.

The reason? “Because in those days the Italians built the best roads, bridges and dams,” explains Khun Teddy.

As an example, he refers to some early copies of the TICC’s first publication Bollettino, and the various advertisements from Italian construction companies it contains.

There are also, he says, a number of bad stories of Italian companies that didn’t invest in Thailand, despite the TICC’s very best efforts, however he prefers not to divulge the details.

Khun Teddy’s hard work with the TICC – as well as Dante, the Italian cultural institute in Thailand – earned him the recognition of the Italian President, who awarded him the highest honour you can receive: the Grande Ufficiale. Although he jokes that he’d actually rather have received the second highest award – Commendatore (‘commander’) – because it makes him think of James Bond who, due to his naval background, is often called ‘Commander Bond’ in the 007 films.

“Commendatore sounds good, but Grande Ufficiale sounds like something from the Crusades!” he says.

So why, after so much hard work and commitment, is Khun Teddy no longer involved in the TICC? “If you’re a founder and it gets going then you need to pass it on to the next generation, don’t you,” he explains.

He says the time he spent at the Chamber was “fun”, particularly in the early years, but he has moved on and chooses to focus his efforts on other projects. Nevertheless, he is well aware of the progress that has been made at the TICC, which has grown from 40-50 members in its early days to 150 today.

“It’s such an important link now; it’s so well known,” he comments. Meanwhile, Italian influences in Thailand are everywhere, with an expat community numbering more than 3,000, compared to just 200 when the TICC first formed.

“There are so many Italian products and brands in the market today. In the supermarket you’re overwhelmed with 10 brands of pasta – in Italy you only get two!”

Now, at the age of 71, Khun Teddy is about to embark on his fifth career, which will see him make use of his original training as a barrister.

“I graduated as a Barrister-at-Law from Middle Temple in London, but I never practised law,” he explains.

“Now, however, my friend, who’s a judge in London, has asked me to join his office. I won’t live in London, but whenever there are cases that pass through his office that require assistance from Thailand he will call me and I will get in touch with local lawyers here to help him out.”

With the exception of those who have a gift – such as musicians, artists or architects – he believes everyone should have many careers.

He started his as a civil servant at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, from which he moved into advertising – working for Ogilvy & Mather, before becoming Professor of Marketing Communications at the University of Missouri School of Journalism. Now, in his fourth career, he describes himself as a “consultant and writer”.

The latter has seen him write a book, Addresses, about his life, which is soon to be published by Post Publishing in both Thai and English. With one chapter in the book dedicated to Italy, it is clear that his passion for the country remains as strong as ever.

“Italy is still a country of incredible beauty, creative talent and stimulating culture. The art, the fashion and the ‘dolce vita’ are as vibrant as ever,” he writes.

“I return to Rome to find and enjoy the eternally simple Italian pleasures: coffee at Café Greco, the balmy springtime air, pasta and some great wines that are now coming from the new vineyards. And of course, my favourite pleasure of all, the passeggiata,” he continues.

His love of the country also comes through in the stories he tells – of when his father was Ambassador and later, when he returned to Italy once he started working for the TICC. One particularly memorable story involves his accidental meeting with the President of the Republic of Italy, H.E. Sandro Pertini.

“I used to smoke a pipe and I would go and buy pipes in this shop in Rome,” he explains.

“When you buy pipes it’s like a woman buying jewels: you sit at a desk and look at the pipes – the wood and the shape, just like you’d look at diamonds. I was looking at all these pipes

and this old man came to sit next to me. He was a very simple man, very beautifully dressed as all Italians are, and we started talking. We talked for about half an hour, exchanging pipe information and then he left. I said to the shop owner: ‘That was a nice old man, who is he?’

He said: ‘Jesus, he’s the President of Italy!’. He was so simple. You don’t meet people like that any more.”

Having spent eight years in Italy – four in the 1950s and four in the 1960s – it perhaps comes as a surprise to learn that he only learnt to speak Italian fluently after he met his wife, Manuela, in 1966 in Ischia, a volcanic island at the northern end of the Gulf of Naples.

Since then Khun Teddy says he has returned to Italy every year for a holiday. He even lived there briefly after he retired, however says it became too expensive after the Euro was introduced and his income was in Thai baht.

While he seems settled in Thailand – his wife is actively involved in Dante and his daughter works as an architect – Khun Teddy is certainly not your typical Thai. He may, as he says, have Thai legs (because he says he’s lazy), but with his frequent asides in Italian, his intimate knowledge of the country and its politics, and of course the many stories and anecdotes he tells, it is clear that his heart lies in Italy.

The recognition from the President of the Republic of Italy, H.E. Carlo Azeglio Ciampi on 26th July 2004, who awarded Khun Teddy Spha Palasthira the highest honor you could ever receive: the Grande Ufficiale (I Classe).

Instituted by Law 178 on March 3, 1951, the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic is the highest ranking honor and most senior order of the Republic.

It is awarded for “merit acquired by the nation” in the fields of literature, the arts, economy, public service, and social, philanthropic and humanitarian activities and for long and conspicuous service in civilian and military careers.

April 2010

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His Majesty the King's 82nd Birthday Anniversary Reception

O

n Monday 7th December 2009, H.E. Mr. Michelangelo Pipan, the Italian Ambassador to Thailand, and Madame, Delegation from the Embassy of Italy, the President of Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce and Madame, and representatives from governmental and private sectors, attended the reception held by the Royal Thai Government on the occasion of His Majesty the King's 82nd Birthday Anniversary, at the Government House.

From left to right: Mr. Chanapon Noikeang, Inspector, Bioagricert Srl.; Ms. Nalina Sutakul, Assistant to Secretary General and Trade Analyst, TICC; Dr. Riccardo Cozzo, BAC International CEO, Bioagricert Srl.; Mrs. Pajchima Tanasanti, Director-General, Department of Intellectual Property; Mr.Pakapol Akarawanich, Marketing Manager, Doi Chaang Coffee; and Ms. Urawee Ngowroongrueng, Deputy Director-General, Department of Intellectual Property.

TICC submits GI Application to EU on behalf of Doi Chaang Coffee

From left to right: H.E. Mr. Michelangelo Pipan (1st left), the Italian Ambassador to Thailand, Mrs. Ramida Hutasingh (2nd left), Ms. Tiziana Di Molfetta (3rd left), Counsellor & Deputy Head of Mission, the Embassy of Italy, Madame Laila Pipan (4th left), Mr. Ekkamon Hutasingh (6th left), TICC President.

O

n Wednesday 10th March 2010, the Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce (TICC) submitted the application of DOI CHAANG under the project “Pro-GIs: Intellectual Property Right extension & Geographical Indications protection for the benefit of EU-Thailand Trade� on behalf of DOI CHAANG COFFEE to Mrs. Pajchima Tanasanti, Director-General, Department of Intellectual Property.

In this occasion, Ms. Urawee Ngowroongrueng, Deputy DirectorGeneral, Department of Intellectual Property, Mr. Pakapol Akarawanich, Marketing Manager, Doi Chaang Coffee Original Ltd., Mr. Chanapon Noikeang, Inspector, Bioagricert Srl., Dr. Riccardo Cozzo, BAC International CEO, Bioagricert Srl., and Ms. Nalina Sutakul, Assistant to Secretary General and Trade Analyst, TICC, had joined in this event.

CUSTOMS CLINIC The Thai Customs Department has launched the Customs Clinic to handle specific Customs-related problems (e.g. import and export procedures, tax and duty incentives, tariff classification and valuation) and to provide useful information and recommendation to importers and exporters with the key objective to enhance common understanding between importers and exporters.

The Customs Clinic is situated on the 1st Floor of the 120 Year Building, The Customs Department Headquarter 1 Sunthornkosa Road, Klong Toey, Bangkok 10110 Tel : 02-6677880-4, Fax : 02-6677885, E-mail : customs_clinic@customs.go.th Website : www.customsclinic.org [Courtesy of the Customs Department]

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Italian Wine in Thailand The ideal platform for Italian wine producers to increase market share

Asia’s wine consumption has risen sharply in recent years, and the trend looks set to flourish. In Thailand consumption of Italian fine wines is growing as consumers become increasingly knowledgeable and sophisticated.

T

he world wine market is facing a predominantly difficult situation. Both the European Union (EU) and New World (New World wines are those wines produced outside the traditional wine-growing areas of Europe, in particular from Argentina, Australia, Canada, Chile, Mexico, New Zealand, South Africa and the United States) countries are trying to manage this critical state by filling reciprocal gaps in order to increase their competitiveness at a global level and to strengthen their position in key strategic markets.

On the EU side, one of the most important aspects of this changing framework is the evolution of the Common Market Organization (CMO) for the wine sector. The first crucial change is the fact that a parcel of land can not host more than one designation of origin (either Geographical Indication – GI – Denominazione di Origine Controllata – DOC – or Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita – DOCG), thus completely changing the approach to vintage choices, which characterized the Italian production in the last 50 years. A second important variation is the introduction of the possibility to show grape’s varieties and the vintage year on table wines (a strategy often used by New World producers). Conversely, on the New World side, the changes are mainly relative to the increase in the use of European grape varieties and the emphasis on the region-grape combination as an element of excellence.

In this context, Asian markets represent one of the most important targets for both EU and New World producers, because they are seen (and will presumably keep doing so) with the highest growth rate world wide. The Sixth Asian countries that are often indicated as the most strategically valuable are China, South Korea, Japan, India, Singapore and Thailand.

China and Japan alone consume 90% of the wine imported in Asia, while South Korea is

historically the highest alcohol consuming Country in Asia. India continues to grow and is now one of the markets with the highest growth margins, and Singapore is tailoring a role of the ‘Asian Wine Hub’, finally Thailand is the second market for the Italian wine after Japan.

These aspects clearly point out why Italian producers have to analyze and understand the dynamics of these markets in order to improve their position in Asia, and in specifically on Thailand.

Thailand: Market Overview Thailand has a population of 67 million. As estimated 10 percent of the population drinks wine. This accounts for 3 percent of the alcohol beverage market. Even though wine has a much smaller market share compared to beer and spirits, there are strong developments in the level of consumer awareness and appreciation of wines. Wine consumption is increasing and still light red and white wines are often considered and positioned as beverages that are good for your health.

Also Wine is linked to fashionable lifestyles, particularly in urban areas, due to its highquality image.

Thailand has fewer than ten local wine producers and retail price ranges starting from 5 euro’s per bottle. However, the price of the better Thai wines, which are viewed locally as competitive with imported wines, will be over 16 euro’s per bottle, which is almost the same range that the consumers can shop for good imported wines. Most of the wines consumed in Thailand are imported from France, Australia, Italy, Chile, and the USA. In 2008, the total import value of wines was $33 million, a 31 percent increase from the previous year. Even though good performance is expected this year for wine, it is still likely to be affected by the economic downturn and a slight decline in purchasing power among some consumers.

Even though the consumption of Old World wine has a long history in Thailand, there is a strong saturation by New World wines due to price competition, and product availability and product variety. Popular Old World wines in the Thai market are from Italy and France.

Furthermore Italian wine is counted less than 10% of the imported wine in Thailand with an overall market of 2.78 million US Dollars if we consider the latest available data regarding 2008. The average value of 1 liter of imported Italian wine is 1 US Dollar instead the aver-

Quotes of foreign wine imported in Thailand Source: Comtrade 2009

Cotinued on page 14 April 2010

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age value of French which is more than 8 US Dollars. The quantity of Italian Wine imported in ‘the land of smiles’ grown more than 60% between 2005 and 2007 and during the 2008 the growth was close to zero, and this trend could be confirmed negative, due to the worldwide financial crisis in 2009.

Consumption Trends As is the same as for drinkers in other nations, the Thais also consume other alcoholic beverages. The most popular types of alcoholic drinks in Thailand are beer, whisky, and wine.

Due to the economic slowdown, a number of Thai consumers are increasingly pricesensitive and price is a major determinant in their buying decision. As a result, economical alcohol beverages continue to enjoy the strongest expansion in each product category, across beer, wine and spirits. For instance, New World wines retail at a 20-30 percent discount to Old World wines and have gained tremendous ground along with beer. Wine appears to compete mostly with beer as a drink of choice for the vast majority of Thai alcohol beverage drinkers.

Wine drinkers in Thailand are between 2555 years of age. In Thailand, red wine dominates and holds a 70 percent market share in the retail market. The most popular varietals for red wines are Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Merlot, and Pinot Noir respectively. Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc are well known in the white wine category. Wine consumption is still limited to expatriates, tourists and Thais with medium to high-incomes. Even though consumers now enjoy a greater variety of wine availability on the shelves in supermarkets and wine shops, price is still a key determining factor for consumers purchasing a bottle of wine.

A significant number of wine drinkers in Thailand lack a thorough knowledge of wines, so low to medium-priced level wines (below 35 euro) retail hold the biggest market share of about 70 percent. This price level targets middle-income classes who possess higher education levels and higher spending power.

Another factor persuading consumers to purchase wines are attractive packaging and labeling because it adds value to wine as a gift item. Wine is now becoming a popular Thai gift for special occasions and festivals.

With limited purchasing power for some consumers, Thai consumers typically are willing to pay an average of 16-20 Euro (Baht 800 – 1,000) per bottle of wine. Most Thai people view a 10 Euro (Baht 500) as the minimum price for good taste and good quality both for red and white wine.

Market Size and Structure The health benefits of wine consumption have increasingly been the focus of the popular media, which has prompted Thai consumers to shift their drink choices from other alcohol beverages to wine. Wines are now more accessible to consumers and are not just limited to wine shops, exclusive restaurants,

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April 2010

Wine Project Presentation at Unioncamere Headquarter in Rome, February 2010.

and 5 stars hotels. Consumers in Bangkok and upcountry are offered more varieties of wines via extended distribution channels, particularly with the dynamic expansion of retail markets.

At present about 40 percent of all wines are sold via retail while the rest is sold in the HRI sector. Stringent alcohol control laws limit retail sale of alcohol beverages by limiting sales times, and sale promotions. As a result, wine sales in the retail channel have declined significantly. It is estimated that the proportion of retail sales would reach 60 percent, especially during this stagnant tourism situation. An increased number of fine-dining restaurants have contributed to the increase of wine sales in the HRI sectors.

Main Obstacles: Wine Duties and Taxes In Thailand, taxation on imported wines consists of customs duty, excise tax, local tax or municipality tax, health tax and value added tax (VAT). Tax on sales of wine is calculated based on either the ad valorem rate or the specific rate. The decision on which method is to be used is made by the Excise Tax Department, whichever is higher.

Ad valorem taxes on locally manufactured products, mainly sales taxes, are calculated based on cost prices. Ad valorem taxes applied on alcoholic imported products are calculated based on the sum of import tax, cost insurance freight (CIF) value and other appropriate charges. Apart from the excise tax, sales of wine face municipal and health taxes, including VAT. These same taxes are applied to locally made wines excluding the import tariff.

For CIF value, the Thai Customs Department will compare the declared price of imported wine with a reference price. If the declared price is lower, a reference price will be applied.

The following is a description of the taxes applied: Import tariff: The current import tariff rate is 54 percent on CIF value or 18 baht/liter, whichever is higher. However, under the Thai – Australia FTA agreement, Thai tariffs on Australian wine have fallen gradually from 54 percent to 24 percent on entry in 2009.

The import duty will reach zero percent by 2015.

Excise tax: In principle, the Thai Government places an excise tax on certain products, which are considered “luxury goods” (such as cars, air conditioners, gasoline, soft drinks, perfumes, etc.) and health-affected goods (i.e., liquors and tobacco products), in order to control their consumption. In reality, the Government manipulates this tax as a device to generate revenue. The excise tax has been accordingly increased from time to time when the Government needs more money.

The excise tax rate for wine is 60 percent.

However, in addition to a high rate of excise tax, the current calculation methodology creates a much higher tax burden than the rate reveals. The calculation is discussed in the next section.

Municipal tax: This tax is collected by the Ministry of Interior as a revenue source for provincial administration. The tax covers most of products which are subject to excise tax, including wine. The current municipal tax is 10 percent on the amount of excise tax.

Health tax: The health tax is 2 percent of the amount of the excise tax.

VAT: The value added tax is currently 7 percent on the value of the product, plus all of the other taxes (i.e.; CIF value + import duty + excise tax + municipal tax + health tax in the case of wine).

Wine Project DVD This DVD has been jointly produced by Italian Chambers of Commerce in Asia.

In the DVD, there are many interviews of key persons involving in wine industry: producer, importer, distributor, retailer, freight forwarders, restaurant, and sommelier.

All interviewers are involved in the wine industry in Thailand, China, Singapore, India, Hong Kong and South Africa. This DVD is now commercially available at TICC office.

Wine Project: a support for Italian Wine producers The Wine Project’s is proposed by the Chambers of Commerce of Vicenza and Udine with the collaboration of the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Thailand, China, India, Singapore, Hong Kong and South Africa.

The project intends to comprehend local Asian and South African wine markets and consequently fill the gap between the positive perception of “Made in Italy” products and the relatively low imports of Italian wines.

A DVD has been produced included of several interviews of freight forwarder, distributor, retailer, importer of Italian wine, wine producer, and restaurant manager, sommelier involved in the wine industry in China, Singapore, India, and Hong Kong, South Africa and of course Thailand and it is available now at TICC office for sale. The Wine Project DVD is very easy to use, it has been divided into 6 chapters (each for every country involved in the project) and each chapter contains 14 precious video interviews, key figures of each wine markets, to which we are grateful for their opinions that will help us complete

the picture of the wine situation in our own country, moreover the country profile, economic trend figures and useful contacts are included too.

The target audience of this project is the Italian SMEs and the professionals specialized in offering export related support services to the SMEs so this project has been presented in Italy all through 2 road-shows in cooperation with the Italian Chambers structures and the subjects dealing with internationalization in order to be connected directly with the Italian operator of the Italian wine business willing to monitor the operation and open new markets in Asia and South Africa. The First Road-show was scheduled from the 29th October to the 8th of November 2009, in Udine, Padova, and Merano, meanwhile the second one was organized in Napoli, Pescara, Rome, Alba and Treviso from the 17th to 23rd of February 2010. Both road shows were quite successful with a high participation in Pescara and Alba of almost 60 people, each one of the several local news journalists reported this road show in their news.

Given the current tax structure, the import tariff rate is 54 percent, excise tax 60 percent, municipal tax 10 percent, health tax 2 percent and VAT 7 percent. Here are the following steps that are used in calculating all the duties levied on imported wine: A

CIF Invoice Value of Imported Wine

Euro 100.00

B

Tariff (Import Duty): A x 54%

Euro 54.00

C

Excise Tax Paid: Excise Tax Rate x (CIF value+import duty+excise tax paid+municipal tax) or 1.7647059 (A+B)

Euro 271.76

E

Municipal Tax: C x 10%

Euro 27.17

F

Health Tax: C x 2%

Euro 5.44

G

Value Added Tax: (A+B+C+D+E) x 7%

Euro 32.09

H

Total Cost (A+B+C+D+E+F)

Euro 490.46

Effective Duty and Tax Burden

390.46%

Effective Duty and Tax Burden for Wine by Exporting Countries Countries

Tariff Rates

Effective Duty and Tax Burden

ITALY, France, USA, Chile and other countries under the WTO agreement

54%

390.46%

Australia

24%

294.92%

New Zealand

18%

275.81%

Red Line: 1st scheduled road-show, October 2009 Blue Line: 2nd scheduled road-show, February 2010

Entry and Marketing Strategies The best method for Italian wine exporters to sell to HRIs, supermarkets, hypermarkets or cash, restaurant and hotels is to contact local wine importers directly. Local wine importers have expertise in developing appropriate marketing and sale strategies that match the target markets and they also possess excellent distribution channels nationwide. Another suggestion is to be pro-active with the Thai importers offering some wine Italian varieties not available in Thailand, yet with a good value rates, aggressive packaging and easy label to read, providing additional services e.g. wine tasting courses and wine & food pair organized by Italian sommelier can be something interesting for the local importers. Finally, only in Bangkok there are about 150 Italian restaurants, to focalize 3 o 4 of them as an ambassador of own Italian wine and nominate some private room with own brands, which can be an interesting and effective marketing operation.

Italian exporters interested in exporting Italian wines to Thailand or seeking additional details about the Thai market should contact trade@thaitch.org

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Trade news Vicenza Oro 2010 - The Top Jewelry Exhibitions in Italy. Fruitful visit of Thai delegation Thailand has emerged in the last years as a major international player in the production, processing and trade of gems and jewelry. The gems and jewelry sector is an important component of Thailand's export basket and contributed in 2009 to 6.4% of the country's total exports, to reach 9.8 billion US$. Gems and jewelry was also the first entry of Italian import from Thailand in 2009, valued at US$ 155.3 million, representing 11.8% of the total.

It also seems that Thai gem, jewelry business sector is not affected by political tension according to Thailand's Ministry of Commerce who believes the gem and jewelry business in Thailand will not be greatly affected by the ongoing political tensions.

Presiding over the 45th bi-annual Bangkok Gems and Jewelry Fair, scheduled Friday until March 2 at Muang Thong Thani’s IMPACT Challenger trade fair venue, Commerce Minister ‘Porntiva Nakasai’ said fairs have often been held when the country has faced significant political tensions, but the gems and jewelry sector will be little affected, for all business contacts and agreements were already made prior to the fair.

Meanwhile, the Thai Gem and Jewelry Traders Association is eyeing 18 percent annual growth in exporting gems, jewelry and gold this year with a value around Bt390 billion.

Association chairman Vichai Assarasakorn said the gem and jewelry sector is unworried about possible political turbulence as long as the airports stay open.

Also, emphasized by Mrs. Srirat Rastapana, Director General of Department of Export Promotion, Ministry of Commerce, that “Thailand earned US17.628 billion from fashion exports in 2009, a moderate increase of 2.24% from 2008. These include US6.443 billion from the textile sector, which experienced a 10.5% negative growth rate; US2.961 billion from garments, down 15.53 from the previous year; US1.422 billion from leather goods, travel kits and shoes, down 19.7%; while gems and jewelry jumped 18% to US9,761 billion.”

“Despite export slowdown in 2009 due to global economic uncertainties, Thai fashion exports in 2010 appear to be very promising indeed as the world’s economy is showing signs of recovery.

The fashion export projection for 2010 is US20.315 – US20.999 billion, or 9-13% growth. Export of gems and jewelry is expected to increase by 10-15% to US11.826-US12.364 billion.”

She said that, with a real commitment to gaining the regional leadership in fashion in areas of textile, garment, gems and jewelry,

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and leather, the Government had worked closely with related industry associations to identify proactive strategies in order to achieve the export target. Strategic approaches for the gems and jewelry sector include, for instance, building trade relationship with neighboring countries to benefit the development of new sources of materials, promoting the Gem and Jewelry Institute of Thailand (Public Organization) or GIT as the center for testing and certification for Asia under CIBJO standards, and establishing the country’s first Gems Bank.

(Sources: www.mcot.net, www.thaipr.net )

Italy has one of the most significant trading relationships with Thailand in jewelry sector. Italian machinery for the jewelry sector has an undisputed leading position in the world.

Italian firms offer a complete range of equipment: cleaning machines for chains, induction ovens, hot presses, laminating machines, automatic welding machines, cleaning systems. There are chain machines that can produce 600 chain mails a minute, weld chains in parallel with 6,000 beats every hour, that can measure, cut, weld the finishing rings and at the same time it can brand them, shear them and bend them at high speed. Made in Italy machinery is indisputably recognized as number one in the world.

Italian Style is also a defining characteristic of top-end jewelry products. Italian firms have acquired a commanding position also in this niche both as a result and as a condition of their leadership in the finished product sector: by constantly updating the technological content of their offerings, producers of jewelry machinery have responded effectively to the progresses in every aspect of the jewelry industry, from those in large firms to those in small craft goldsmith shops.

Due to the importance of this sector, the Italian Trade Commission (ICE) in collaboration with the Association of Italian Jewelry machinery Manufacturers and Exporters (AFEMO) had invited 3 Thai jewelry manufacturers and jewelry supplies importers to visit ‘Vicenza Oro 2010/T-Gold’ the top jewelry exhibitions in Italy during 16-21 January 2010 in Vicenza, Italy. ‘T-Gold’ Pavilion was dedicated to technologies for gold and silver jewelry production. The Thai delegates are from Tanya Collection Co., Ltd, Big Silver Manufacturing Co.,Ltd. and TET Jewelry Supplies Co.,Ltd.

Vicenzaoro - The first international gold and jewelry show in the annual fair calendar, now at its sixty-second edition.

The Vicenza Fair looks to the future after a total makeover, involving not just its organization, but also image and contents. From excellent generalist Trade Fair to protagonist in a sector with strong leadership ambitions. This is the area where gold and jewelry represent a deeply rooted core business that truly stood out. This is the challenge for the next few years. A challenge that aims to highlight the role of the Vicenza Fair as leading actor with a new structure and repositioning of its gold jewelry fairs.

There are three shows in Vicenzaoro Exhibitions; Vicenzaoro First, Vicenzaoro Charm and Vicenzaoro Choice.

Vicenzaoro First, from 16-21 January 2010. Its name says it all: the first international gold jewelry fair of the year, first in the wide range of merchandise, first for business importance. Targeting the world's top purchasing groups, international buyers and large wholesale trade groups, ‘First’ provided a setting of excellence for showcasing previews and new collections, the trends for 2010 and the forecasts for 2011 for jewelry with the seminars of the TJF Group and the events of the World Gold Council (WGC). It was composed by the 1700 exhibitors taking part from over 55 Italian provinces and 31 foreign countries.

Held concurrently with Vicenzaoro First was Vicenzaoro T-Gold, the show dedicated to applied technologies for working precious metals, the most important showcase in the world where it was possible to find all the latest machinery and gemological instruments for the gold and silver sector which was explored by our three Thai delegates.

Vicenzaoro first 2010 closed with signs of confidence for the future The figures for the flow of visitors to Vicenzaoro First fully confirmed its centrality and importance for the sector. The presences of accredited operators at the end of the sixth day numbered 17,969 compared with 13,154 in 2009.

The presence was recorded of buyers from the most important department stores and luxury retailers at international level, people of the calibre of Scott Martin from Saks Fifth Avenue (USA), Mehul Choksi from the Gitanjali Group (India), Anna Avakian from Mercury (Armenia), Alex Popov from Moscow Diamon Bourse (Russia) and Alon Torjeman from Padani (Israel).

The noticeable increase in the presence of operators can also be interpreted as greater interest in gold and jewelry products and purchases from the end customers too.

The sector is coming from a very long and deep recession. The demand for gold and jewelry in 2009 recorded a steep fall of about 18% at world level with very marked downturns in the United States (-17%), in the Arab countries and in Europe. The sole sign of solidity came from the Chinese market where there was a 12% increase in the demand for gold and 8% growth in jewelry.

The forecasts indicate a market recovery for 2010, the scale of which will however be linked to the performance of the economy in the various parts of the world.

Now we invited Ms. Mallika Phuyodying, from TET Jewelry Supplies Co.,Ltd., one of the three Thai delegates whom we brought to ‘Vicenza Oro 2010/T-Gold’ to talk about her experience of the exhibition. Let’s hear what she has to say about it.

How was the exhibition in general in your opinion?

In my opinion, the exhibition was absolutely perfected because there were so many kinds of jewelry’s machines that match customer need.

They also have good quality and good price. The T-Gold pavilion that showcased mainly the machineries and related equipments for jewelry manufacturers was a must-visit. The visitors could experience lots of trends, materials, and innovative technology to fulfill jewel designer imagination. It was a great opportunity to discuss and exchange experience with the experts in the whole production line, starting from golden/silver chain production, findings, color decoration, etc. The exhibitors were kind and willing to assist you to find the exact suppliers that suit your needs; for example one exhibitor indicated me to other booths to help me find out the manufacturer of chain machinery.

What do you think of market trend in jewelry sector between Thailand and Italy now and in the future?

I think the market trend in jewelry sector between Thailand and Italy now will be a lot of mechanic use for the machinery and findings and also will continue in the future. Thailand has become a home of significant jewelry producers and exporters in the world arena. The jewelry sector in Thailand is mature. We have many advantages to facilitate our competitiveness in jewelry industry; for example we have specific industrial zone for Jewelry called ‘Gemopolis’ and there are many institutions and associations to support the industry (i.e.

The Gem and Jewelry Institute www.git.or.th, Thai Gem and Jewelry Trader Association www.thaigemjewelry.or.th ). Moreover, we have the renowned international trade fair in Jewelry sector (Bangkok Gems) that has become the meeting point of professionals all over the globe. Italy is world-famous for its superb design and advance yet sophisticated machineries manufacturers for Jewelry Sector. There are lots of opportunities to foster trade between Thailand and Italy in this sector, including the joint-venture supported by Thai skilled labors with Italian technology.

What do you think of Italian jewelry market?

I think Italian jewelry market is popular for spring, chain, and machine. Italian Jewelry market is very challenging and dynamic. It is supported by various industries especially fashion (clothes, watches, shoes, handbags, fashion accessories). There are many trade fairs and the Fashion Weeks in various Italian cities providing the great opportunities to be attracting stages for end-customers and media to showcase and enhance the movement of the trends and maybe increase the demands. The supported associations are also very helpful in terms of trying to attract new customers and being the developing trade/information center for members. The demands in Jewelry sectors come both from domestic and international marketing. Moreover, the people in the industry have all creative ambient for the development of their products. How could it be any better for one industry once the country has in hand; design, technology, production that serve both supplies and demands side?

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Chakrabongse Mansion Dante Alighieri Visit

P

erched on the edge of the Chao Phraya River just across from the entrance to Klong Bangkok Yai and Wat Arun is the Chakrabongse Mansion, one of Bangkok’s most remarkable royal residences. The four-storey wooden building with its distinctive tower is passed daily by thousands people who travel on the boats and water taxis up and down the river, yet few have had the opportunity to visit this important historical compound.

On February 26, 2010 members and guests of the Dante Alighieri were permitted by the present owner M. R. Narisa Chakrabongse to hold a private cocktail party at the mansion’s riverside terrace. Enjoying magnificent views of Wat Arun and other monuments along the river which are lit up at night, guests were given the opportunity to tour this fascinating home that has a surprising Italian connection.

The mansion was originally built by HRH Prince Chakrabongse, the second son born to King Chulalongkorn and Queen Saowapha.

While King Chulalongkorn had 33 sons by many Queens and consorts, his sons by Queen Saowapha were chosen to succeed to the throne. Prince Chakrabongse’s older brother Prince Vajiravudh became Rama VI upon the death of their father in 1910. Tragically, Prince Chakrabongse died at the young age of 37 in 1920, five years before his younger brother Prince Prajadhipok became Rama VII.

The Chakrabongse Mansion bears witness to unusual history of a remarkable family.

King Chulalongkorn sent most of his sons to be educated Europe. Prince Chakrabongse travelled first to England to study, but then at the invitation of the Tsar he was sent to live in Russia. An excellent student, he was well liked by the Tsar and treated like a member of

the imperial family. There he met and married Catherine Desnitsky in 1906. Unfortunately King Chulalongkorn and the Queen were very upset that their son had married a foreigner, and upon their return to Siam declined to meet his new wife. In fact, Catherine failed to ever meet her royal father-in-law who refused to accept her until he died in 1910.

Nonetheless, the newly-weds settled into life in Bangkok and the couple lived in the Paruskavan Palace. It was here that their son Prince Chula Chakrabongse was born in 1908. The young prince did eventually meet his grandmother Queen Saowapha and became her great favorite. In 1908 the couple also completed the building of a villa on a one acre parcel of land at Ta Tien on the Chao Phraya River. The Chakrabongse Mansion was built to be used as a simple retreat for boat excursions and a place to change clothes for state ceremonies held at the nearby Grand Palace.

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April 2010

Old records indicate that the Chakrabongse Mansion was constructed with the assistance of the Italian architect Mario Tomagno (18771941), but little else is known. After Prince Chakrabonge’s untimely death, the house was inherited by his 12 year-old son Prince Chula Chakrabongse. The main family residence the Paruskavan Palace was taken over by the Thai government in 1938 after the revolution.

Prince Chula was sent to study in England finishing his degree at Cambridge. In 1938 he married Elizabeth Hunter in England. The couple lived in England most of the time, but after World War II visited to Thailand every

year. Prince Chula Chakrabongse was a historian and writer and most notably the author of Lords of Life – A History of the Kings of Thailand. He also became very involved in car racing when a favorite cousin Prince Bira became famous as the first Thai to participate in European car races.

The Prince’s only daughter M. R. Narisa Chakrabongse who lives in London much of the year is the present owner of the century-old home. Although both her parents died when she was still a young student in England, she returns to Thailand often and has devoted much time and energy to rediscovering her important heritage. Under her careful attention the mansion has been lovingly restored. One important change to the building was her decision to enclose an open terrace which faces the river. This light, airy “Green Room” is where the family and intimate guests often spend a good deal of their time.

Old paintings, porcelain, family photos and memorabilia decorate the mansion’s elegant drawing room and dining room. A highlight of the collection is a painting of King Chulalongkorn by the Italian artist Carlo Rigoli.

There are also portraits of Prince Chakrabongse and Queen Saowapha. The dining room

contains a very fine collection of Benjarong porcelain which was produced in China for the Thai market. The study contains hundreds of books including first editions of Prince Chula’s works.

The tower on the top of the house which is such a distinctive landmark from the river has a “widow’s walk” which is an architectural feature found on houses near the sea coast in England and America where they were originally used by the wives of sea captains as a look out for returning ships. A Buddha image and royal relics are housed in the small room at the top of the tower.

While the main villa is reserved for family use, a few other pavilions on the Chakrabongse compound have been turned into exclusive guests suites. Thus the Chakrabongse Villa is now operated as an exclusive boutique hotel with four distinctive suites (www.chakrabongsevillas.com/). Upon request private dinners or special functions can also be arranged at the historic home.

April 2010

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Dante Alighieri Trip:

The Footsteps of King Rama V April 28 - May 8, 2010

His Majesty King Chulalongkorn

H

is Majesty King Chulalongkorn (1853-1910) who came to the Siamese throne in 1868 made two extended visits to Europe.

Both of these trips were of enormous political, cultural and social importance for Siam. The King Rama V’s first visit to Europe took place in 1897 when he toured many European countries, starting with Italy.

During this trip he visited Venice, Florence, Rome, and Naples. Information about his visit and his experiences was recorded in letters he sent to family members and official documents. Part of this information has been published in Italian in the book “Il Primo Viaggio in Europa di Re Chulalongkorn nel 1897” published by Chulalongkorn University in 2003.

Portofino

The King made a second extended visit to Europe in 1907 for health reasons. Information about this trip is recorded in a book he wrote entitled “Klai Baan” (Far from Home).

During this second trip the King’s visited Naples, Genoa, San Remo, Turin, Venice, Milan, Rome, Tivoli and Palermo.

The Dante Alighieri Association is planning a trip to Italy focused on places visited by King Rama V. Open to both members and non-members, the trip emphasizes cultural and historical aspects as King Rama V’s experience in Italy had a very significant impact on the cultural, architectural, and artistic development of Siam in the early 20th century. Dante Alighieri Association experts will participate in the trip. They will help explain the social and cultural background of Italy in the 19th and early 20th century and the effect of King Rama V’s travels on the development of Siam into modern Thailand.

Venice The trip will include visits to Venice, Turin, Lake Como, Florence and Rome.

For more information call 0818-666-8184 or email dantebangkok@hotmail.com *The cost of the trip including airfare, hotels, transportation and most meals.

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April 2010

April 2010

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Annual General Meeting 2010 (On the right) H.E. Mr. Michelangelo Pipan, Italian Ambassador to Thailand, gave the opening remark.

T

he evening of March 23, 2010 was marked by one of the most important events of the year of the Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce (TICC) – the Annual General Meeting 2010 (AGM 2010). It took place at Centara Grand Hotel, the World Ballroom, in the heart of Bangkok.

His Excellency Mr. Michelangelo Pipan, the Ambassador of Italy to Thailand, presided over the event which was attended by more than 50 people including TICC Directors, members, and guests. Amongst the distinguished participants of the occasion are Mr. Marco Midolo, the Counsellor of the Embassy of Italy, Mr. Vincenzo Calì, the Italian Trade Commissioner, and Mr. Giacomo Mauri, the President of the Dante Alighieri Association Bangkok.

The program started with the Italian Ambassador’s speech, which touched particularly upon the strong cooperation between the Italian Embassy, the Italian Trade Commission (ICE) and TICC.

The Ambassador also stressed the importance of this collaboration, which would help to support and further strengthen the Italian business community in Thailand. After that, the President of TICC, Mr. Ekkamon Hutasingh, gave the President’s report.

The program then proceeded with the financial statement reported by the Honorary Treasurer, Mr. Chakrit Benedetti, followed by a report of TICC activities in 2009 presented by the Secretary General, Mr. Sandro Zanello.

The formal part of the program closed with the appointment of the auditor for the year 2010, Mr. Viroj Chalermratana from VAS Consultant Limited.

The guests were then served a sumptuous 3-course dinner and fine Italian wine accompanied by light jazz music from the Ganesha band on stage.

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April 2010

TICC would like to thank all members of the Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce and guests and the TICC’s directors who helped to make this event memorable. In addition, the Chamber wishes to thank the Centara Grand Hotel and Italasia for their generous supports on venue and fine wines. Special thanks also go to Mr. Pichai Chirathiwat for the entertainment contribution.

See you in the next AGM! Mr. Ekkamon Hutasingh, TICC President, giving the President’s report.

(Above) From left to right: Mr. Chakrit Benedetti, Mr. Luca Vianelli, Mr. Giuseppe Zigrino, Mr. Rene Okanovic, Ms. Tiziana Sucharitkul, H.E. Mr. Michelangelo Pipan, the Italian Ambassador to Thailand, Mr. Mario Bracci, Mr. Vincenzo CalĂŹ, Mr. Romeo Romei, Mr. Ekkamon Hutasingh, Mr. Pierre Nicou, Mr. Marco Midolo, Mr. Lino Geretto and Mr. Yeung Yuk Fai.

Mr. Sandro Zanello, TICC Secretary General, reporting last year activities.

April 2010

23

1 2 4

3

Get-Together:

5

Aperitivo Italiano 6

10th February 2010, Terrace 49, Sukhumvit 49

7

I

8

n collaboration with the Malaysian –Thai Chamber of Commerce (MTCC), the ThaiItalian Chamber of Commerce (TICC) held the get-together networking evening at the cozy atmosphere of la Bottega di Luca, one of the most renowned Italian restaurants located at Terrace 49, Sukhumvit 49.

All guests were pleasured by delicious food, Fine Wine and “Monin”-non alcoholic fruity drinks from Italasia Group in this sparkling evening.

We would like to thank all directors, members, friends and guests of the TICC and the MTCC, including Mr. Marco Midolo, the Counselor (Commercial) of the Italian Embassy, Ms. Susan Lim, the director of MTCC, and Mr. Ron Livingston, the president of the Thai-Canadian Chamber of Commerce (TCCC) joining this wonderful evening.

10

9

1. From left to right: Ms. Susan Lim, MTCC Director, Mr. Ekkamon Hutasingh, TICC President, Mr. Ron Livingston, TCCC President, and TCCC guest, joining this wonderful evening.

2. Mr. Pierre Nicou (Right), EUROFOOD - The Commercial Company of Siam Ltd., TICC Director, greeting with guest at the entrance.

3. From left to right: Mr. Romeo Romei, Quick Pack Pacific Co., Ltd., TICC Director; Mr. Angelo Cucchi, the former Secretary General of TICC; Mr. Luca Vianelli, MDA Consulting SEA Co., Ltd., TICC Vice President; Mr. Sandro Zanello Secretary General of TICC; Mr. Chakrit Benedetti, Italasia Group, TICC Director & Honorary Treasurer; and Mr. Giuseppe Zigrino, K+Z Corporation Ltd., TICC Director.

24

April 2010

4. Mr. Sandro Zanello (left), Secretary General of TICC, and Mr. Luca Vianelli (right), MDA Consulting SEA Co., Ltd., TICC Vice President.

5. Mr. Giuseppe Zigrino, K+Z Corporation Ltd., TICC Director, and wife.

6. Mr. Ekkamon Hutasingh (left), Tesoro Co., Ltd., TICC President, and Mr. Chakrit Benedetti (right), Italasia Group, TICC Director & Honorary Treasurer.

7. From left to right: Mr. Ekkamon Hutasingh (1st left), Tesoro Co., Ltd., TICC President; Mr. Marco Midolo (2nd left), the Counselor (Commercial), the Italian Embassy; Mr. Roberto Zentilin (3rd left), OMI Asia Co., Ltd., TICC Member; Avv. Enzo Massimo Chiappa (4th left), Sundex South East Asia Co., Ltd., TICC Member; and Mr. Augusto Scaglione (7th left), INTESA SANPAOLO S.P.A., TICC Member.

8. TICC and MTCC members and guests packed the restaurant on this networking evening.

9. “Monin”-non alcoholic fruity drinks from Italasia Group.

10. Ms. Pornsarin Maethivacharanondh (center), Managing Director of Ferma Motor Co., Ltd., TICC Member, and Mr. Sandro Zanello (right), Secretary General of TICC.

Up Close and Personal with the BOI Khun Duangjai Asawachintachit, Assistant Secretary General

O

n Wednesday 3rd March 2010, the Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with the Belgian-Luxembourg, Netherlands, and Swiss chambers in Thailand organized a luncheon presentation and discussion with Khun Duangjai Asawachintachit, Assistant Secretary General of the BOI, at the Conrad Hotel Bangkok. The event ended successfully with more than 80 participants and we would like to thank all friends and guests for joining us.

(Below) From left to right: Mr. Stefano Ortolina, TICC Fellowship Researcher; Mr. Ekkamon Hutasingh, Tesoro Co., Ltd., TICC President; Mr. Luca Vianelli, MDA Consulting SEA Co., Ltd, TICC Vice President; and Mr. Sandro Zanello, TICC Secretary General.

(Above) Mr. Ekkamon Hutasingh (left), Tesoro Co., Ltd., TICC President, and Mr. Pierre Nicou (right), EUROFOOD - The Commercial Company of Siam Ltd., TICC Director.

A slice of Thailand at

The World Pizza Championship 2010

I

Mr. Alessandro Cisaria

Mr. Matteo Barletta

n January 2008, Thailand entered the circuit of the major culinary competitions, bringing to The World Pizza Championship a recipe that honors and celebrates what is sacred to the Thai people’s heart throughout the ages, namely the King, who is the living symbol of the country’s balanced mixture of conservatism and evolution. This presence was warmly supported by the Thai community in Italy who attended the event with a delegation of Thai dancers, giving the project an even more added strength and credibility as well as creating a perfect mix between the ancient Thai tradition and the Italian tradition.

Biggi Co., Ltd., in collaboration with Simone Barla, an award-winning pizza maker and official instructor of pizza making who trained at the school “Scuola Italiana Pizzaioli” (Italian school of pizza making), together have trained Mrs. Keo, a young Thai pizza maker, in Italy. (Mr. Barla was himself a pupil of four-time world champion pizza maker Mr. D’Angelo.) Mrs. Keo’s enrolment in the World Pizza Championship in Salsomaggiore Terme (Italy) marked a historic milestone for Thailand, giving us a new image of an oriental woman who is now, more than ever, on the route to independence and emancipation.

The World Pizza Championship 2010, now in its 19th year, will take place April 19-21 in Salsomaggiore Terme (Italy). And as always, it will include the participation of several Italian media stations such as RAI and Mediaset. The latter one, in particular, always presents frequent reports on TG5’s news, in their regular culinary section.

As planned, the young Thai pizza maker, Mrs. Keo, will represent the “First Italian School for Professional Pizza Makers in Thailand.” She will be the voice and image of the emerging new generation of Thais who are attentive to the new Western trends and the gradual spread of Made in Italy. This market trend is well illustrated by events such as the Italian National

Day (June 2, 2009), Italian Espresso Culture (June 12, 2009), and our partnership with Xioba Co., Ltd., coffee wholesalers in Phuket. More support has also come to us from successful Italian brands in entertainment, such as Hollywood Patong Beach (a nightclub entertainment complex in Phuket) and from the various Italian companies active in the food & beverage industry. The sponsorship logo which will be put on the T-shirt to be worn by our charming Thai pizza maker at the event is now being discussed.

All of these initiatives by Biggi Co., Ltd., together with Mr. Barla – official instructor of The First Italian School for Professional Pizza Makers in Thailand, and Mrs. Keo – the Thai representative all come together to help in the development of courses and the dissemination of the “First Pictorial Step-by-Step Guide to Pizza Making” outside of Asia, now in the process of being finalized.

Beside all these interesting projects, Biggi Co., Ltd is setting up the first Italian stylish magazine. This project aims to be the first Italian concept magazine ever offered in Phuket. Free distribution of more than 5,000 copies per month. www.biggitradeservice.com Info@biggitradeservice.com

About Biggi Co., Ltd. Biggi Co., Ltd., co-founded by Matteo Barletta and Alessandro Cisaria, is an Italian company, Italian capital, established in Thailand. The company currently owns the first Italian stylish wine bar “La Bella Vita” located in Rawai, Phuket. Moreover, the company owns multilingual editorial licenses and the following trademarks: “First Italian School for Professional Pizza Makers in Thailand” and “First Pizza Festival in Asia”.

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April 2010

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TRADE SHOW International Trade Fairs in Italy (April 2010 - May 2010) Exhibitions In Italy

Detail

Date

Venue/Website

VINITALY

International Wines and Spirits Exhibition

8-12 Apr 2010

Veronafiere www.vinitaly.it

CIBUS

International Food Exhibition

10-13 May 2010

Parma Exhibition Centre www.cibus.it

CHIBIDUE

International Exhibition of Costume Jewellery, Fashion Accessories, Hair Accessories

21-24 May 2010

Fiera Milano City www.chibidue.biz

International Trade Fairs in Thailand (April 2010 - June 2010) Exhibitions In Thailand

Detail

Date

Venue/Website

BIG+BIH April 2010

Bangkok International Gift Fair and Bangkok International Houseware Fair

20 - 25 Apr 2010

BITEC Bangkok www.thaitradefair.com

TAPA 2010

Thailand Auto Parts & Accessories

28 Apr - 2 May 2010

BITEC Bangkok www.thailandautopartsfair.com

Intermach 2010

International Metalworking Automation and Industrial Machinery Exhibition

13 - 16 May 2010

BITEC Bangkok www.intermachshow.com

Entech Pollutec Asia 2010

The 20th International Exhibition of Environmental Protection and Pollution Control Technology

2 - 5 Jun 2010

BITEC Bangkok www.entechpollutec-asia.com

Welcome New Members Biggi Co., Ltd. Mr. Matteo Barletta 26/2 Moo.6, Viset Road, Rawai, Phuket, Thailand 83130 Tel. 66 87 629 5357 Fax. 66 76 296 944 E-mail: gustonelmondo@gmail.com info@biggitradeservice.com Website: www.biggitradeservice.com Sector: Catering and Multi Services

Leafy Co., Ltd. Mr. Badipol Chutrakul Indosuez House 152 Wireless Road Lumpini Pathumwan Bangkok Thailand 10330 Tel. 66 2 255 9088 Fax. 66 2 255 9089 E-mail: badipol.ch@yipjacks.com Website: www.yipintsoi.com www.bebitalia.com Sector: Importer of Italian Furniture- B&B Italia and Boffi

Bioagricert (Thailand) Co., Ltd. Mr. Kongkiat Jongsathitwattana 31 Phayathai Building, Room No. 716 Floor 7th, Phayathai Rd. Kwaeng Phayathai Rd., Ratchathewi Bangkok 10400 Tel. 66 2 640 1568 Fax. 66 2 640 1568 E-mail: bioagricert_thailand@yahoo.com Website: www.bioagricert-thai.org Sector: Certification Body

BECOME A MEMBER OF THE THAI- ITALIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Company Name: Contact Name: Address:

Telephone: E-mail: Website:

Fill in this coupon and fax or mail to Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce to receive further information and a full application form for membership.

Fax:

Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce 16th Fl, Vanit II Bldg., Room 1601B 1126/1 New Petchburi Road, Makkasan Bangkok 10400 Thailand Tel: (662) 253 9909, 255 8695 Fax: (662) 253 9896 E-mail: info@thaitch.org

April 2010

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Apply now for scholarships, deadline May 4, 2010, open to all nationalities

30

April 2010

V I C E N Z A I T A L Y w w w . p a l a k i s s t o r e . c o m

MEET THE IDEAL CENTRE FOR GOLDEN BUSINESS DELIVERY SHOW s (!,,3 s 315!2% -%4%23 s "59%23 s 3(/0 /. ,).% #/.4!#43 ! -/.4( s /. ,).% #!4!,/'5%

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WINTER

SPRING

SUMMER

FALL

16th - 21st January 2010

22nd - 26th May 2010

10th - 14th September 2010

6th - 8th November 2010

Via dell’Oreficeria, 37 - 36100 Vicenza - Italy - Tel. +39 0444-348003/341847 - Fax +39 0444-279968/341848 info@palakisstore.com

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April 2010

Department of Export Promotion Ministry of Commerce Royal Thai Government Thai Trade Centre Milan