BANGKOK, August 14, 2024 – DHL Express, the world’s leading international express service provider, has launched a trade facilitation program in Thailand to enable SMEs to access the global markets. As part of DHL Group's 'GoTrade' initiative, the program includes a series of 'Trade & Grow Beyond Borders' workshops and trainings. These seek to enhance SMEs’ understanding of global trade practices and customs regulations and processes. In collaboration with key partners, including the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), the Office of Small and Medium Enterprises Promotion (OSMEP), Export-Import Bank of Thailand (EXIM BANK), and the Thai Customs Department, DHL Express Thailand will organize a series of weekly workshops and trainings throughout August 2024.
Forty local business owners will participate in the ‘Trade & Grow Beyond Borders’ workshops and trainings. They will learn from DHL’s certified GoTrade facilitators best practices on exporting goods to global markets, leveraging DHL’s international network covering 220 countries and territories.
This initiative aims to unlock global opportunities for the SMEs by harnessing partner organizations’ expertise in five critical areas: international trade and shipments, customs and compliance, e-commerce, customer management, and business skills.
SMEs account for 99.54% of all enterprises in Thailand, making up more than 3.1 million businesses. These SMEs employ over 12.7 million people, representing 71.70% of the country's total employment, and contribute 34.2% to the national GDP1. Strengthening SMEs is crucial for sustainable economic growth. The 'Trade & Grow Beyond Borders’ workshops aim to positively impact the Thai economy.
Herbert Vongpusanachai, Managing Director, DHL Express Thailand and Head of Indochina, says, "International trade is a key driver of a country's economic development. However, SMEs often face challenges in expanding overseas due to limited knowledge of international trade and logistics, as well as customs and regulatory barriers. GoTrade embodies our commitment to minimizing these hurdles. We are thankful for the support from public-private sector companies and look forward to lending our industry expertise to help SMEs access global markets. Through these efforts, we contribute to the success of the communities we serve, aligning with our purpose of connecting people, improving lives, and growing together."
Vutthisak Kanchanaporn, Director of the Office of Digital Commerce Market, Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), says, "DITP's mandate is to seek international markets and business growth opportunities for Thai SMEs. While opportunities extend beyond the domestic market, SMEs often face challenges in competitiveness and cross-border trade barriers. This collaboration with DHL Express and three other key organizations leverages each’s collective expertise will help SMEs overcome these obstacles and successfully access new global markets."
Wittawat Lamsam, Director of the International Cooperation Department, The Office of SMEs Promotion (OSMEP) under the Office of the Prime Minister, says, "We are committed to fostering sustainable growth opportunities for Thai SMEs and elevating their global competitiveness, which in turn drives our country’s economy. As we enter the post-pandemic recovery phase, export businesses stand to benefit from expanding markets, creating new global opportunities for SMEs. This strategic GoTrade partnership will empower SMEs to develop robust competitive capabilities, positioning them for success in the international marketplace."
Prasertjit Srinilta, Senior Vice President, EXIM Excellence Academy, EXIM BANK, says, "As a key driver of Thailand's trade strategy for sustainable global growth, we've consistently supported both funding and development of SMEs. Our approach aligns seamlessly with DHL Express's initiative to strengthen Thai SMEs' presence in global trade markets, culminating in this strategic partnership program. We are confident that this collaboration with four industry leaders will significantly boost Thai SMEs' export capabilities and unlock their full potential in the international marketplace."
Vishnu Wacharawanich, Director of Suvarnabhumi Airport Cargo Clearance Customs Office, said, "Enhancing knowledge of the export process, particularly customs procedures, will empower SMEs to strategically plan, effectively prepare for exports, and comprehensively assess costs, including navigating the diverse regulations of various countries. This expertise will be crucial for success in the global market. We are confident that the 'Trade & Grow Beyond Borders' program, a collaborative effort of five industry-leading partners, will significantly boost SMEs' potential to gain a stronger competitive edge in international trade."
GoTrade is one of DHL Group’s social impact programs, in addition to GoGreen, GoHelp and GoTeach. By leveraging DHL Group’s core logistics competencies and working with governments and international organizations to remove red tape at the border, GoTrade seeks to expand cross-border trade by helping more SMEs in emerging markets trade internationally. This approach is designed to help countries implement best-in-class trade and customs procedures and achieve sustainable and inclusive economic growth.
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