BANGKOK, Aug 7, 2009/ FW/ — The textile, garment and leather industries have long been the key to Thailand’s economic growth. And despite the global economic slowdown, their strong foundations have enabled them to grow steadily to retain the leading position in the ASEAN region.
Together, they will display their industry strengths and their joint determination to stay one step ahead at the Bangkok International Fashion Fair & Bangkok International Leather Fair 2009 (BIFF & BIL 2009 & ASEAN FASHION PLUS) during August 13-16.
The annual international trade fair is the partnership between the Department of Export Promotion, Ministry of Commerce, the private sectors, and other state agencies to showcase innovative products, cutting-edge technologies, and quality services to make Thailand the hub of textile, garment and leather industries.
According to Mr Suchai Pornsirikul, chairman of Thai Textile Merchants Association, the strength of Thailand’s textile and garment industries lies in the fully integrated manufacturing systems backed by upstream sectors such as fiber production, midstream operations such as spinning, weaving, dyeing and printing, and downstream industry such as clothing and garment.
“This is why Thailand has become the biggest sourcing centre in ASEAN and South Asia,” he said. “We have a rich range of quality products. We are ready to deliver the goods upon orders. And we are known for our fast and efficient services in the borderless economies.”
ASEAN Buyers are heading for Thailand for sourcing, he said. “Our textiles and garments are not geared for mass markets. We focus on quality and design. We are also a trend setter, with a wide range of products to suit everyone’s needs.
“More and more buyers from Singapore, the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia and other countries in the region come here to get the materials. But while we have to keep our old base of customers, we have to explore new markets in South Asia such as India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Pakistan,” he added.
According Mr.Sukij Kongpiyacharn, vice president of Thai Garment Manufacturing Association, the upcoming BIFF & BIL 2009 will significantly help the textile and garment industries expand their business ventures.
Apart from encouraging its 400 members to take part, his association has also invited companies abroad, particularly commercial brands and department store groups, to do their sourcing in Thailand.
“We have received quick, positive feedback, which is very encouraging,” he said.
Apart from improving fabric quality and exercising tighter cost-cutting measures in the manufacturing process, the textile and garment industries are also focusing on cutting down on chemical use by substituting it with green and clean technologies.
BIFF & BIL 2009 will be held in Bangkok, Thailand during 13-16 August at Challenger Hall 2-3, Impact Muang Thong Thani. Trade days are August 13-14. Public days are August 15-16.
For fair information, please contact the Department of Export Promotion, Office of Export Service 2. Tel. +662-512-0093 to 104 ext 465, 475, 527. Alternatively, visit www.biffandbil.com
