GTS 2008 Bangkok

THAILAND INVITES YOU

Thailand"s economy continues to move forwards. In 2006, the country"s gross domestic product amounted to more than US$ 240 billion. Thus, Thailand ranks among the top 30 economies worldwide. For 2007, economic growth is projected to be 4.5 per cent, while for 2008 a growth figure of between 5 per cent and 5.5 per cent is expected.

However, in order to stay competitive in an ever-changing world, Thailand"s industrial sector has to purchase modern machinery and plant as well as acquire the latest technologies. Large public infrastructure projects are inviting German plant manufacturers to participate, so that local industry can expand.

Thailand"s well-known admiration of German technology and products and its friendly approach towards Germany is the best basis for new and expanded business. In 2007, Thai-German trade will, for the first time, exceed the Euro 5 billion mark. Germany is Thailand"s preferred trade partner in Europe and ranks number one in size.

With a population of 65 million, Thailand"s domestic market has become even more attractive through the various free trade agreements (FTAs) recently concluded by the Thai Government (such as those with Australia and China). In addition, FTAs with India and the United States of America are under negotiation. FTAs lead to considerable market expansion for any product manufactured in Thailand a real incentive for investing here.

GTS08: A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY TO TEST
THE MARKET
The German Technology Symposium and Exhibition (GTS), a tri-ennial event, is well known in Thailand and especially the country"s capital, Bangkok. Thousands of Thai engineers, many of whom have studied in Germany, scientists, technicians and business leaders have attended the previous eight GTS events (held since 1985). They are eagerly awaiting the next GTS in November 2008 in the brand-new Centara Grand Hotel and Bangkok Convention Centre at CentralWorld.

Senior members of the Thai Government and the Royal Family are also regular visitors to the symposium and exhibition. However, the main of the visitors are engineers, senior technical staff, managers and owners of companies. At no other event can German companies meet, in just a few days at one place, so many potential clients and partners for co-operative ventures.

GTS08 AT A GLANCE
The symposium and exhibition focus on specific sectors in which Thailand"s needs are most prominent and German companies" inputs most welcome:
Energy
Environment
Packaging
Material science
Transport
Construction
Services
As at the previous GTS events, education and training will once again be a highlight of the show studying in Germany. (Where? What? In what conditions?) German technical and management-oriented universities are invited to participate as well as the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD).
Participating German companies can enjoy the GTS matchmaking service provided by the organiser, which will enable them to easily find partners, agents or distributors or even direct buyers of their products.

GTS08 SECTORWISE
Symposium/Exhibition
Machine building and plant
Electrical and electronics
Information and communications
Energy and power
Automobile and automobile supplies
Traffic and transport
Chemicals and plastics
Construction
Environment
Services (banking, insurance, legal etc.)
Research and development
Professional education and training
Studying in Germany
Company matchmaking
Packaging Show