GE Thailand eyes high growth

General Electric Thailand has set a double-digit growth target for its business this year, with a focus on energy, aviation, healthcare and lighting, president and chief executive officer Kovit Kantapasara said yesterday.

GE's Asean sales last year were US$3 billion (Bt93 billion), with Thailand's contribution among the top three in the region with 40-per-cent growth year on year, he said.

In Thailand, the US giant's GE Energy business, comprising GE Power and Water, GE Energy Management and GE Oil & Gas, will still be the main revenue contributor, at 50 per cent of overall income. Its main customer targets include small power producers.

Its healthcare business, which achieved double-digit growth in 2011, is also expected to expand this year, Kovit said.

GE Thailand recently signed a partnership deal with Burma's Sea Lion, which will distribute its medical equipment in the neighbouring country. The deal marks its first entry into Burma.

The company sees a great business opportunity in Burma, he said. Once the United States lifts its economic sanctions, GE Thailand is ready to step in and bring its products to help many Thai corporates to expand theri business there.