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Published on October 30, 2007

The fair will be aimed at helping relieve tough export conditions brought about by the stronger baht and assisting Thai manufacturers wanting to expand into global markets.

Thai Auto-Parts Manufacturers' Association director of foreign affairs Sookjai Leungmekul said the country's exports of auto parts and accessories grew 29 per cent last year to become Thailand's No-2 export earner after the electronic-products sector.

"However, the local industry has been affected by the appreciation of the baht, giving Vietnam and China a significant production-cost advantage. Thai manufacturers must therefore adapt to the conditions by exploring new markets and developing new products that generate higher margins," he said.

Sookjai hopes Tapa 2008 will play a key role in helping foreign buyers meet local manufacturers. It will provide an ideal platform for exchanges of ideas and offer opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprise manufacturers to explore markets and innovations to develop their products and services.

"I would like to invite everyone in

this industry to take part in this fair, because it will help generate know-

ledge exchange and promote our industries in the global market place," Sookjai said.

The department is organising the fair in conjunction with public and private organisations to persuade foreign buyers to meet and trade with Thai manufacturers. It is hoped it will help Thai auto-parts and -accessories exporters achieve an export value of Bt400 billion by 2010.

The organisers expect strong participation from at least 400 companies from Thailand, South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, China, Malaysia, India, Australia, New Zealand, Germany, Italy, the US and Canada. Traders and buyers from around the world are expected to be among an estimated 17,000 visitors.

The event will also feature an exhibition of eco-cars and Thai-manufactured agricultural vehicles, such as harvesters and tractors. Other highlights will include a series of seminars on industry hot topics and an auto-accessory design contest.

Tapa 2008 will be held from next April 23-27 at the Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Centre in Bang Na district. The deadline for applications from exhibitors is November 15.

The Nation