As the second largest global economy, China maintains a population of 1.38 billion people with $9 trillion GDP that is expected to double in growth within the next few years. With an expanding and increasingly affluent middle class, China has emerged as a market which is impossible to ignore for any business looking to establish a true global footprint.

This increase in economic reach has affected neighbouring countries, including Thailand through tourism and economic investment. In 2017, China has become Thailand’s number 1 provider of tourism revenue, and has spurred a number of local initiatives aiming to capture the Chinese tourism yuan. Additionally, Chinese investment in Thailand is expected to increase within the coming years in areas such as real estate, resorts, and a recently announced railroad link that will form a key part of the “One Belt One Road”. This project was launched to provide increased connectivity between ASEAN and Europe, aligning with the Thailand 4.0 and the Eastern Economic Corridor strategic initiatives.

The linkages and impacts between the two countries are clear. With it’s purchasing power and reach, China’s economic impact will bring forth significant change to Thailand, and provide opportunities for local based business to capitalise on.

Our special panel at #BIG 19 will discuss the “One Belt One Road” initiative, and share their expertise on how to market to Chinese customers in the latter part of 2017 and beyond. In particular, the panel discussion will cover the following topics:

• How can Thailand and ASEAN based businesses understand Chinese purchasing trends
• How to market products effectively to Chinese consumers
• What the initiative would mean for the local economy in the near term

Apart from participating in the actual panel discussion itself, you will have the opportunity to meet with the speakers individually and build professional connections with the others in attendance.