TNSC also plays a major role in developing regional supply chain processes and the ASEAN logistics hub. Serving a second term as Chairman of the Thai National Shippers’ Council, Mr. Paiboon Ponsuwanna confirmed that these policies would be maintained, with a special focus on logistics management.

“A logistics system involves the entire supply chain management - from upstream through to mid-stream and downstream processes. We aim to improve logistics know-how in all sectors that relate to production and exports.”

Thanks to technical support from the Japanese Institute of Logistics System (JILS) and the Japanese External Trade Organization (JETRO) for the past six years, TNSC has organized four Logistics Qualification System Programs (LQSP) for mid-level personnel in the industrial sector. Capitalizing on Capacity Building strength and improved understanding of logistics management, from top level executives through to operational staff in both public and private sectors, will help to drive GDP growth, 70% of which derives from exports.

Responding to global concerns, TNSC will identify scarce energy sources and environmental protection measures to be implemented by local industries.

Benefiting from Japanese technical assistance for the Creative Economy, the TNSC will seek budget allocations for R&D programs and promote local implementation of Japanese accuracy, quality and production standards.

“In addition to quality and low prices, world markets now demand value-added products that are accurate and delivered quickly,” said Mr. Paiboon.

Helping hands

To solve container shortage problems during the export season, TNSC organizes meetings for shipping companies and exporters from 25 industrial groups. Joint activities such as Service Contract also ensure container availability and fixed freight rates.

“We collect relevant facts and propose solutions whenever members experience export difficulty. Issues that are constrained by rules and regulations take time to resolve, but TNSC draws attention to these problems and possible solutions whenever an opportunity arises. As the TNSC is represented on the National Logistics Committee and the Chairman and Vice Chairman are active FTI members, we can access people who can solve various problems.”

Constrained by a lack of funds, IT knowledge and divergent ministerial procedures, National Single Window requires fully integrated IT systems and single entry of customs data via the same channel, using the same format.

Aiming to become an ASEAN Logistics Hub, Thailand has signed numerous Free Trade agreements but delayed cargo inspection and divergent cross border procedures continue to hinder trade expansion. Single Window can eliminate delayed or evasive payments of tax and commissions, speed up transportation and financial settlements, while assuming close collaboration between public and private sector organizations to review obstacles and agree effective solutions.

New route will boost China exports

About 90% of Laos’ imports come from Thailand. Laos is currently constructing seven dams on the Mekong River to generate electrical power. Route R3E linking Thailand-Laos-China is highly significant for industrial exports but poor road conditions hinder transportation via Chiang Saen and Chiang Khong. Trucks arriving in Laos from Thailand change motors before proceeding to China, delaying shipments of fresh products. Cargo transported by river barges from China to Thai ports is delivered in two days but the upstream journey takes 2.5 days. In 2010, empty barges from China made 1,200 trips to pick up cargo from Thai ports while barges carrying goods from Thailand made 966 trips.

Although cargo transported by trucks to China is more expensive than river barges, road transportation is preferred. The fourth bridge at Chiang Khong-Huay Srai should be completed in 2012 and will speed up transportation of Thai fruits and vegetables to Yunnan.