Hong Kong firms are expressing interest in collaborating with Thai manufacturers and logistics companies, stated Thai trade representative Nalinee Taveesin.
After her discussion with Ronald Ho, the head of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council’s Southeast Asia and South Asia divisions in Bangkok on Sunday, Ms. Nalinee said Hong Kong has long been a significant ally to Thailand in trade, investment, and tourism.
This conversation was a continuation of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s earlier visit to Hong Kong at the start of the month, where he engaged with potential investors. The meeting was centered on sharing insights and fortifying trade ties, she mentioned.
Post the Covid-19 pandemic, Hong Kong showed interest in widening its reach to the Asean region, including Thailand. Around 30 companies from Hong Kong are exploring opportunities to establish their manufacturing and logistics base in Thailand, she stated.
This partnership is poised to benefit Thai enterprises, especially smaller businesses and emerging start-ups, by providing them avenues for product distribution and insights across sectors, including e-commerce.
During the meeting, Mr. Ho extended an invitation to Mr. Srettha to join the Asian Financial Forum taking place in Beijing this coming January.
Ms. Nalinee also had a conversation with Kevin Yang, the head of the Hong Kong Fashion Designers Association, exploring ways to amplify the global presence of Thai silk.
Mr. Yang proposed that Thailand should narrate its silk heritage to the global audience, emphasizing its versatility in fashion, decor, and furnishings showcased through exhibits.
He also recommended that Thai silk attire designs should adopt a more casual approach to appeal to younger audiences.
“Hong Kong is a bridge connecting China with the rest of the world,” Ms Nalinee remarked. “Hong Kong is also known as a financial and investment hub and a centre of international trade, goods and human resources.”
She further noted that the trade volume between Thailand and Hong Kong last year stood at an impressive US$11.8 billion.
Furthermore, Hong Kong ranks as Thailand’s 13th primary trading ally, with Thailand’s chief exports including computers, components, jewellery and electrical circuit boards.
