Dear AMCHAM Members,
Although tension in Bangkok has subsided, the events of May will be remembered for years to come. The Chamber extended condolences to H.E. Prime Minister Abhisit on behalf of those who lost family and friends during the recent violence. We sympathize with those who have suffered hardship, whether through property destruction or loss of income.
Recent events have been taxing on both the morale of the people and on the economy, with many negative consequences for Thailand. We are hopeful that peace and stability will soon reign in this land once again.
We know that our member companies remain committed to Thailand and still believe that it is an attractive place to do business. In light of the recent instability it is important, now more than ever, to show support for the economy and invest in its future.
We believe that the time is right for the Kingdom to address issues that have negatively impacted Thailand’s reputation and competitiveness in the past. This would include, among others, reform of the customs and exercise tax laws, implementation of the health impact assessment regulations and stronger intellectual property laws and enforcement.
Many of AMCHAM’s members in the Ratchaprasong district and SME companies suffered significant risks to personal safety as well as residential and business disruptions, and may thus face financial hardship. We ask that the Royal Thai Government consider extending to them, without regard to nationality, similar financial assistance as offered to Thai businesses.
We offer our unwavering support in the tough journey of healing and reconciliation ahead. There is much to be gained if Thai citizens commit to resolving their differences in a peaceful and democratic fashion. We believe in the resilience of the Thai people and their desire for economic development and prosperity. AMCHAM will be here to help in any way we can.
As always, we remain committed to providing our support to make Thailand an attractive investment destination.
This edition of the T-AB Magazine focuses on an industry in which I have many years of experience – Energy. With demand for energy increasing in Thailand, traditional sources of energy such as natural gas and oil and nontraditional sources such as renewable energies continue to be important to the country. Inside you will find articles that focus on both types of energy sources. Of course, conserving energy is just as important and Thailand, being the 14th largest automotive exporting country in the world, has already implemented an eco-car program.
Special thanks to those who contributed to this edition of T-AB, especially our AMCHAM interns, Sean Devlin, Erica Harris and Ethan Purdy.
At the beginning of July, AMCHAM announced that nominations are now open for the 2011/2012 Board of Governors. If you have a desire to help represent the American business community in Thailand, consider running. The Board is responsible for setting the strategic direction and providing fiduciary oversight. Each term of office is for two years, with about half the Board up for election each year. There are seven seats to be filled and the election will take place at the Membership luncheon to be held at the end of October. Governors must be the Designate or Alternate of an AMCHAM member company. For more information about running, please contact the Chair of the Nominating Committee, Chuck Kathrein at: Charles.kathrein@mustang technologies.com
Best regards,
Joe Geagea
President