DECEMBER 2016 | SWISS-THAI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | E-NEWSLETTER #77

TOP NEWS SUPPORTED BY Deutsche Bank: Not following the Fed SEA Helpdesk: Geographical Indications Interview: Joerg Reding School News: Dr. Remo Gysin visited RIS Christmas market and celebration 2016 Legal Update: Thai Legal News Flash from Roedl & Partner

THE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE DEAR FRIENDS AND MEMBERS OF THE STCC

puts a political outsider and as- tute businessman on the top of SERVICE one of the worlds most powerful economies and military forces. STCC CALENDAR It remains to be seen how this Wednesday 14th December 2016: will affect Thailand’s close re- Christmas Market @ Swiss lationship to the United States, School from 15:00 onwards one of Thailand’s major trading partners. Thursday 15th December 2016: STCC Stamm at Amari Boulevard PRESIDENT BRUNO G. ODERMATT What is interesting to note is Hotel, 18:00 with Fondue To “hope for the best and pre- how wrong all the pundits and Sunday 18th December 2016: pare for the worst” is a good political poll forecasters were Swiss Society Bangkok: motto in economics and our in predicting the outcome of Christmas Brunch for Families daily life; it comes to my mind this US election. As I take a and Kids at Moevenpick Hotel, when looking at the recent elec- keen interested in US politics, Sukhumvit 15 @ 11:00 tions we experienced this year. I usually follow the New York Thursday 12th January 2017: In April, the Netherlands, in a Times poll tracker throughout STCC Stamm at Amari Boulevard referendum, rejected a EU part- the election campaigns. A day Hotel, 18:00 nership deal to remove trade before the election, the NYT had Sunday 29th and Monday 30th barriers with the Ukraine. In forecasted an 80% chance of January 2017: June, British voters, in a ref- Hillary Clinton winning, versus Foire Suisse (Details follows) erendum, followed in leaving Donald Trump’s 20%. At 8am on the European Union, which election day, it then indicated Thursday 9th February 2017: STCC Stamm at Amari Boulevard sent shock waves across the a higher than 80% chance win Hotel, 18:00 world. In another big surprise, for Clinton, but then, believe it on Tuesday, November 8th, the or not, at 10am it came below More details for American people voted in Don- even a 40% chance and finally, above events please wait ald Trump as the 45th President at around 12pm, the forecast for the invitation-mail or get of the United States. It is an projected only a 5% chance for it from www.swissthai.com, outcome no one expected as it Clinton winning, while Trump click on “events”.

1 DECEMBER 2016 | SWISS-THAI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | E-NEWSLETTER #77

THE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE SUPPORTED BY was said to have a 95% chance Thailand’s competitiveness” and (see chart below). he provided guidance and assur- ance to the 700 business people I have personally never seen such and diplomats, that Thailand is a thing before; one has to seri- and will remain an attractive place ously question, how hadAdhesive the poll- for foreign &investment. Sealant TechnologiesTRINA ing experts continually gotten it INTERNATIONAL wrong the entire time. One can Last but not least, our Stamm certainly say, there are interest- father Daniel Rainle will again ing times ahead of us. be organizing the tradition- al Fondue Stamm evening on A truly great event last month Thursday, 15th December. I MS Hybrid Polymer was the classic business network hope that many of you will be evening at the Swiss Ambassador’s able to attend this always de- best performing Residence, jointly hosted by the lightful event. window, door Swiss Embassy and STCC. As always it was impeccably organised and, I wish you in advance a blessed and facade given Thailand’s current mourn- Holiday Season and extend to you SERVICE ing period, the turn-out was un- the best wishes and success for sealant. fortunately lower than expected. 2017. MEMBER DETAIL We extend to our Ambassador and SoutheastUPDATES Link Co., Ltd. his team our gratitude for their With my best wishes Dowww.seal-ast.com you have changes among your great support of the Swiss-Thai delegatesT: 0or 2732changes 2092to your business community and already Bruno G. Odermatt e-mail, mobile, telephone, look forward to next year’s net- President or fax numbers? work event. On another positive note, the Prime Minister Prayud *** Please send all updates to Chan-o-cha addressed the foreign Contact the President: [email protected] business community at a luncheon Bruno G. Odermatt organized by the Joint Chamber of President STCC Commerce. His theme was “Open [email protected] MEMBERSHIP for business, the next chapter in Tel: +66 2 652 1911 FEES 2016 Please verify with your accounting that the membership fee is paid and kindly make sure that the copy of the payment is sent to [email protected] , we have received over 20 “blind payments” without identification.

2 DECEMBER 2016 | SWISS-THAI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | E-NEWSLETTER #77

ECONOMY REPORT BY DEUTSCHE BANK NOT FOLLOWING THE FED

• Economic outlook: was driven mainly by a low base. On a seasonal- Royal mourning and accession process will likely ly adjusted basis, tourism decline by 2.1%mom, depress economic activity in the near term, al- reflecting a crackdown on low- budget tourism. though public spending and exports would off- With data showing tours from declining, set most of the drag. Inflation remains uncom- contribution from tourism is likely to be weak in fortably low, and despite a base-effect driven the coming months. revival in commodity price inflation, the metals and agriculture commodity sectors are likely to remain under pressure for the time being.

• Main risks: The fledgling exports recovery could turn out to be ephemeral. Tourism sector softness could persist. Above all, political uncertainty remains a key risk to Thailand’s near and medium term outlook.

Sub-trend

Expectation of another quarter of around 3% real GDP growth has risen as exports grew by 3.5%yoy in September while public spending rose by 8% during the same period. Coupled with a widening current account surplus (USD2.9bn in September, +80%yoy), an increasing sense of comfort is being communicated by Thai policy makers. Going into Q4 with the royal mourning phase and the King’s acces- sion dominating the headlines, the relative strength of the economy must be a relief to the authorities.

A closer look at the export narrative however does not offer much room for comfort. Despite bottoming a few months ago, agriculture exports remain in deep con- traction territory. Electronics exports are anemic, al- though nearly two years’ of negative growth has end- ed. Auto exports have been strong, but seem to have peaked already.

Tourism is also showing signs of topping out. While the number of inbound tourists jumped in September (+18.3%yoy), the improvement

3 DECEMBER 2016 | SWISS-THAI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | E-NEWSLETTER #77

ECONOMY REPORT BY DEUTSCHE BANK

With the exports picture mixed and tourism ex- and commodity prices would of course help, but pected to soften, we are clearly not on the same as far as domestic drivers are concerned, the Thai page with the government with regards to the economy’s struggles won’t be over anytime soon, economic outlook. We think that public spending in our view. can hold up the economy only so far, and there is only limited upside to private consumption and A case in point is the commodity sector. The chart investment. Indeed, we expect growth to slow below offers room for optimism, showing that materially next year as public spending growth yoy changes in the prices of rice and rubber, two runs out steam. important agriculture commodities, have turned positive. On the margin, this means positive con- With this sober outlook, we continue to find real tribution to exports and farm income. interest rates too high in Thailand. While the Bank of Thailand has been on a prolonged pause, and real rates would indeed decline next year as inflation troughs, we believe that a more com- fortable real growth-real interest rate differen- tial is needed for private investment to return.

We continue to see a number of sources of ten- sion in the economy even as the government tries to turn things around through public investment. From high household debt to depressed farm in- come, as well as weak private investment and lingering political uncertainty, there are a num- ber of difficulties that simply cannot be offset by public spending. A turnaround in global trade

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4 DECEMBER 2016 | SWISS-THAI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | E-NEWSLETTER #77

ECONOMY REPORT BY DEUTSCHE BANK

But this is just a base effect driven phenomenon. The price levels of rice and rubber prices (shown in the following chart) are in fact rather low by historical standards, imposing considerable hardship on Thai farmers. The government’s attempt to boost farm in- come is welcome, but without a meaningful recovery in global prices, the prospect in this area will unfor- tunately remain dim.

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5 DECEMBER 2016 | SWISS-THAI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | E-NEWSLETTER #77

SOUTHEAST ASIA - IPR SME HELPDESK GEOGRAPHICAL INDICATIONS IN THAILAND

Thailand and the EU: Organisation (WTO) Agreement on graphical origin, and possessing a background for SMEs the Trade Related Aspects of Inter- qualities, reputation, or charac- national Property Rights (TRIPs). teristics that are essentially at- Thailand is the second largest In addition, Thailand is currently tributable to products from that economy in south-east Asia after overhauling its major IP laws, with place of origin. Often, in cases , acting as an ‘anchor particular focus on the Trademark where a region has developed ex- economy’ for the neighbouring Act and the Copyright Act. ceptional production methods, developing economies of Laos, or where the local climate or soil Myanmar, and . Heavi- In March 2013 Thailand launched is especially conducive to certain ly export-dependent, with more the National IPR Centre of En- agricultural products, a product’s than two-thirds of GDP generat- forcement (NICE) as a coordinat- quality, reputation or other char- ed by exported products, Thai- ing enforcement body and has had acteristics can be determined by land exports over EUR 93.5 bil- a dedicated Central Intellectual where it comes from. lion worth of goods and services Property and International Trade annually, over EUR 17 billion of Court (CIPITC) since 1997. This Examples of GIs include sparkling which go to EU countries. being said, disturbance caused by wines from the Champagne region the recent military coup in 2014 as ‘Champagne’, Gruyère cheese Thailand is the EU’s third largest has slowed legislative develop- from , or Longjing tea trading partner in the ASEAN re- ment, and enforcement practices from China. gion, and is Thailand’s third larg- are also still somewhat lacking for est trading partner overall (after the time being. Whilst GIs operate in a similar way and China). In March 2013, to trade marks, they differ in that negotiations were launched for an This being said, Thailand’s cur- they may be used by all produc- EU-Thailand Free Trade Agreement rent legislation meets the criteria ers who make their products in (FTA) in order to better facilitate necessary under its international the location designated by the GI trade and regulate intellectual obligations and there is a com- whose products share the speci- property and fair competition. prehensive framework in place fied qualities. for registration of all major IPRs Prominent Thai industrial sectors which EU SMEs should take ad- Geographical include, electric appliances, com- vantage of when seeking to do indications in Thailand ponents, computer components business in the country. and vehicles. GIs have been recognised in Thai- What are geographical land since 2004 and has pioneered Thailand is a signatory to both the indications? the proliferation of GI protection in Paris Convention for the Protection Asia with many national and foreign of Industrial Property, and the Pat- A Geographic Indication (GI) is GIs registered and protected. Many ent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) and a name or sign which identifies EU GIs such as ‘Champagne’ from has acceded to the World Trade goods as having a specific geo- France, ‘Prosciutto di Parma’ from

6 DECEMBER 2016 | SWISS-THAI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | E-NEWSLETTER #77

SOUTHEAST ASIA - IPR SME HELPDESK

Italy, ‘Scotch Whiskey’ from Scot- ic indication that “suggests that tions, or other state organisations land, and ‘Cognac’ from France are the good in question originates in with responsibilities covering the already protected and Thai author- a geographic area other than the geographical origin of goods. Nat- ities are open to new registrations. true place of origin.” Under Article ural persons, groups of persons or In general, GIs for wines, spirits, 23, a country shall provide a legal juristic persons engaging in trade and rice have stronger protection means to prohibit the inaccurate which is related to the goods using than those on agri-food products. use of a geographic indication for GI, who are domiciled in the geo- In addition, GIs on handy crafts are wines and spirits regardless of graphical origin of the goods, and also protectable under Thai law. whether the use of the indication groups of consumers or organisa- on a similar product would be mis- tions of consumers of the goods us- For a GI of an EU member state leading. This provision applies also ing the GI are also eligible to apply to be protected in Thailand there in cases where the geographic indi- for GI registration. must be explicit evidence that cation is “used in translation or ac- the GI is already protected in the companied by expressions such as Applications must be made in law of that country, and has been ‘kind’, ‘type’, ‘style’ or ‘imitation’ or Thai, or be accompanied by a Thai used continuously until the dare the like.” According to this princi- translation and are submitted to of filing an application for regis- ple, the use of an expression, such the Department of Intellectual tration in Thailand. as “Scotch-type Whisky”, shall be Property (DIP) at the Thai Minis- prohibited. Meanwhile, only regis- try of Commerce. Once obtained, GI rights in Thai- tered Geographical Indications are land last indefinitely, with no need protected in Thailand, whilst indi- Enforcement to renew the registration. cating or suggesting that a good originates from a GI-protected ge- There are three main avenues for IP It should be noted however that ographical area is not. enforcement available in China, as there have been some concern well as a system of customs control amongst EU companies however Registration of GIs in Thailand which we will discuss in more de- regarding non-compliance in re- tail in a future Helpdesk article. In spect of Article 22(2) and 23 of Registrations for GIs in Thailand many cases however, private medi- WTO TRIPS. Article 22(2) requires can be made by government agen- ation via legal professionals can countries to provide a legal means cies, public bodies, state enterpris- be an effective first line of defence to prevent the use of a geograph- es, local administration organisa- and should be considered as a via-

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7 DECEMBER 2016 | SWISS-THAI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | E-NEWSLETTER #77

SOUTHEAST ASIA - IPR SME HELPDESK ble option. In the event of infringe- and the delays common in prose- dium sized enterprises (SMEs) ment SMEs are encouraged to seek cuting cases. In addition, the Thai from European Union (EU) mem- advice and support from legal pro- judiciary is still inexperienced in ber states to protect and enforce fessionals as to the current domes- dealing with IP issues and case out- their Intellectual Property Rights tic administrative/judicial policy comes can be unpredictable. (IPR) in or relating to South-East and the chances of success of dif- Asian countries, through the pro- ferent actions. SMEs are of course Civil courts can in theory grant in- vision of free information and also welcome to contact the Help- junctions and awards of damages, services. The Helpdesk provides desk for free advice on how best to however, difficulties in proving jargon-free, first-line, confiden- react to infringements and find the ‘emergency’ make injunctions rare tial advice on intellectual prop- right lawyer to deal with your case. and damages are still very low by erty and related issues, along international standards, often not with training events, materials Administrative actions covering the costs of bringing the and online resources. Individual action to court in the first place. SMEs and SME intermediaries can Due to a lack of resources and prop- submit their IPR queries via email er training in administrative en- Criminal prosecution (question@southeastasia-ip- forcement agencies, coupled with rhelpdesk.eu) and gain access weak punishments imposed on Criminal prosecution is generally to a panel of experts, in order to confirmed infringers, administra- considered to be the most cost-ef- receive free and confidential first- tive measures are generally seen to fective enforcement mechanism line advice within 3 working days. be ineffective in Thailand. The sys- available to IP rights holders in tem also suffers from leaks and cor- Thailand. However, search warrants The South-East Asia IPR SME ruption which undermines raid ac- are difficult to obtain and, as with Helpdesk is co-funded by the Eu- tions and investigative procedures. administrative actions, leaks and ropean Union. This being said, the Thai govern- corruption in the police force can ment has committed to improve its render them fruitless. To learn more about the South-East administrative enforcement agen- Asia IPR SME Helpdesk and any as- cies with a focus on large-scale The Thai judiciary has also been re- pect of intellectual property rights infringers and dangerous goods, luctant to impose harsh penalties in South-East Asia, please visit our primarily in ‘priority areas’, such as on infringers, and as such there is online portal at www.ipr-hub.eu. MBK and Panthip Plaza in Bangkok, little deterrent provided by even Patong, Kata, and Karon beaches in high profile criminal actions. Pen- Phuket, Walking Street in Pattaya, alties for trade mark infringement etc. As yet it is unclear where exact- for example can include a maxi- ly improvements will be made and mum fine of approximately EUR how this will affect the system as a 10,000 and/or a prison sentence whole however. of up to 4 years. Fines rarely reach the maximum threshold however, Civil litigation and most sentences are reduced or suspended, especially for first- Civil litigation is rarely used for IP time offenders. cases in Thailand due to difficulties in proving ‘actual damages’, the The South-East Asia IPR SME lack of a formal discovery process, Helpdesk supports small and me-

8 DECEMBER 2016 | SWISS-THAI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | E-NEWSLETTER #77

INTERVIEW JOERG AL REDING AMBASSADOR RET

On the beautiful sunny Nov 30, I ering the fact like here in Thailand had the privilege to visit retired that it is run on a voluntary base. Ambassador Joerg Alois Reding In Thailand I have many fond mem- at his house in eastern Bangkok. ories which have started 42 years We sat together for 2 hours and ago through my family ties with the chit chatted about Life, Thai- Meyer family (Niti Meyer used to be land, Switzerland, retirement, president of the chamber) and also politics and more…. as a trade diplomat I came here in the past also with Swiss Presi- Here it is, in compact form, for dent Deiss and Federal Councillor your reading pleasure. Couchepin. Because of my story with Thailand and my interest to Joerg, it is great meeting and keep in touch, I have been on the getting to know you. You have mailing list of the Swiss chamber’ just settled in Thailand and one newsletter already for many years. It has been a rewarding career in- of your first actions was to sign deed! Moreover I dare to say that up at the Swiss Thai Chamber of Your CV is extensive. For our out of the 35 years in the public Commerce. Thank You! readers I quote liberaly out of service I had probably 33 years the short version from a “korea. where I would say at the end of Well this is no accident. In my 35 net” interview back in 2013. every working day: “Wau, that was years as a trade diplomat I do ap- an interesting day!” This is a strong preciate the function of the cham- “Ambassador Reding received a statement. I really loved what I was bers. They are the contact points Master’s degree in economics from doing, especially also in the field to real life in a country. Whenever I the University of St. Gallen and of economic development, where I have traveled with Swiss Presidents Simon Fraser University in Van- worked in the mid 1980 in the divi- or Ministers or in my own missions couver, Canada, and worked as an sion which financed energy projects as Delegate of the Federal Council economic editor of the LNN Daily also in Thailand and much later as for Trade Agreements and privately in Lucerne, Switzerland. Later, he Governor of the Asian development - all in all about 150 missions in 140 joined the Federal Office for For- bank and Executive director of the countries worldwide -, the cham- eign Economic Affairs in Bern. He African development bank. bers were here to make the local was assigned as Ambassador to connections and organize meetings Korea in 2012.” In addition be- A successful diplomat, retiring and events. The role of the cham- fore Korea he was Ambassador to in Thailand. Can you tell us why bers are indeed important and me Singapore and and helt the you choose Thailand as your new and all my colleagues in Swiss Em- Ambassador title since 1999. At home? bassies and in Bern appreciate the the beginning of his career he was close and informal contacts with Consul for economic affairs in Sao As already mentioned I have many our Chambers, especially consid- Paulo, Brazil. good memories of Thailand. Even

9 DECEMBER 2016 | SWISS-THAI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | E-NEWSLETTER #77

INTERVIEW before my public assignments I had cious food served in their canteen. in the school activities and will con- the privilege to get to know Thai- Of course fond memories are not tribute as a member in the board of land. It started with AISEC (www. the only rationale to select a new the Swiss Education Association and aisec.org), a non for profit student home. In fact I had and Tai- in the Matura commission for the organization to foster and devel- wan shortlisted too. And it was not university entry exams. op young leaders. Through this only my decision, I am here alone platform (I was its president at St. with my 14 year old son Cyrill, who The friendliness of the people and Gallen from 1973-1974) I landed a had to agree too. One of the strong quality of life you can have in Thai- long-term internship at the famous arguments was the Swiss School in land for a still modest budget is just Berli&Jucker company. Back then Minburi. It is an outstanding school much better than in many other Thailand was a different place but with small classes which allow flexi- places. Look at the real estate mar- has kept the most pleasant charac- bility and together with the adjacent ket. Although prices are raising as teristics and I have always felt good big international school RIS offers in all the big cities, but it is afforda- here and welcomed. I fondly re- plenty of sports facilities for Cyrill. ble to live a comfortable life here. member my work and the long trips In particular the tennis program is Summing up all pros and cons and to the Rubia soap and sugus compa- a highlight. He is competing on a if you like to live in a tropical hot ny in a songtheaw where you hardly high level with other international country like I do, Thailand is the could sit. But it was worthwhile and schools and has become a valued place also for semi-retirement for also Niti’s sister enjoyed the deli- member of the team. I participate my particular situation.

10 DECEMBER 2016 | SWISS-THAI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | E-NEWSLETTER #77

INTERVIEW

One could argue that Switzerland at the German school in Seoul last There is a large group of countries is the pensioners paradise. Clean year and studies now in the 3rd se- where still only a small part of so- air, public transport, safety, na- mester Informatics in the youngest ciety can profit from the develop- ture, democracy etc. Swiss university in beautiful Lugano. ment. They are somehow stuck in I will be, here and there, involved in this middle, averaging in terms of I know where you’re going. Of course some activities but these will be lim- GDP but still have many disadvan- there are many positive features of ited. An example is my “mini adviso- taged and citizens who can hardly our country of birth and we can all ry engagement” with the University survive with their income. be proud of Switzerland. Somehow of St.Gallen for their international I have been infected with this virus studies program. Last month I have I do not have a solution but invest- of exotic places, warm weather and also been made a honorary citizen ment in good basic education and diverse cultures. In addition I am of Seoul which requires some en- quality vocational training for all still hungry for Asia, not yet saturat- gagement also. are essential pathways for improve- ed. It’s such a dynamic place to be, ment. Very successful countries can never boring. These arguments may The last, traditional question: give some guidance, I call them the not be very rationale, they are emo- What do you think is Thailand’s successful threeS countries which I tional, hard to explain. Look at my major problem and what would know best: Singapore, South Korea two cats which my son brought from you suggest to correct it. and Switzerland, but each country Korea. They are lazy 20 hrs a day and has its very specific challenges to seem to enjoy life. I am looking to Well, this is a tough question. Let me overcome and external advice are ‘cool down’ also, enjoy every day think…..The core of the less pleas- much too narrow to understand the differently from the past, no need ant sides of Thailand is the contin- full local context. for the next deadline or meeting. ued big gap between the Bangkok I exercise to the art of doing much glamor and the life outside the cap- Ambassador Reding, Thank You less. We Swiss feel bad if we are not ital. The differences in income, ed- very much for your time! It has busy every minute. Look at my cats. ucation, social status are real and been a pleasure meeting you! They are my teachers now. in my opinion unhealthy and not sustainable. However this is not The interview has been conducted Of course my sons will keep me busy an isolated problem for Thailand. I by Peter Sprenger on Nov 30 2016 at with my parental duties - I have an- have seen this in Brazil, South Af- Joerg Reding’s Home in Bangkok. other 19 yrs old, who did his Abitur rica and many other countries too,

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11 DECEMBER 2016 | SWISS-THAI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | E-NEWSLETTER #77

RIS SWISS SECTION DEUTSCHSPRACHIGE SCHULE BANGKOK DR. REMO GYSIN, PRESIDENT OF THE ORGANISATION OF THE SWISS ABROAD (OSA) VISITED RIS SWISS SECTION – DEUTSCHSPRACHIGE SCHULE BANGKOK

On November 10th, 2016 the Executive Director of the Swiss- tour, the guests visited several president of the Organisation Thai Chamber of Commerce classrooms and experienced the of the Swiss Abroad (OSA), Dr. (STCC), Mr. Thomas Gerber. Af- school life first-hand. Dr. Gysin Remo Gysin and his wife Do- ter a short meeting with the was seemingly surprised about ris Gysin visited RIS Swiss Sec- school leadership team, the the atmosphere and said: “This tion – Deutschsprachige Schule guests were taken on a tour is the school I wished I went to Bangkok in company with the through the campus. During the when I was young. We were im-

12 DECEMBER 2016 | SWISS-THAI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | E-NEWSLETTER #77

RIS SWISS SECTION DEUTSCHSPRACHIGE SCHULE BANGKOK

pressed of the warm welcome, of the school community.” Dr. the delicious food during a brief the friendly atmosphere, the Remo Gysin highlighted the im- networking luncheon. Here the insight in different parts of the portance of our school for Swit- teachers had a chance to get school life, the creative displays zerland. After the visit of the to know Dr. Gysin and to learn by the Matura Alumni and the classrooms the high-ranking about the latest developments open discussions and conver- guests had the chance to inter- in Swiss politics and its effects sations with different members act with teachers and enjoyed on life abroad.

13 DECEMBER 2016 | SWISS-THAI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | E-NEWSLETTER #77

RIS SWISS SECTION DEUTSCHSPRACHIGE SCHULE BANGKOK CHRISTMAS MARKET AND CELEBRATION

Christmas market and celebra- the various activities during 17.00 tion at RIS Swiss Section – Ger- the Christmas workshops in the Christmas man-speaking School Bangkok afternoon. In the evening a de- Performances and Songs We cordially invite everyone licious Christmas buffet will be to celebrate Christmas on the presented and various Christmas 18.00 campus of the RIS Swiss Sec- performances and shows will de- Christmas Dinner tion – German-speaking School lightfully entertain our guests. Bangkok on Wednesday, Decem- 19.00 ber 14th. Our Christmas market Our Christmas program: Christmas Music offers a great opportunity to and Entertainment buy lovely gifts or to enjoy some 15.00 homemade cookies or Glühwein. Christmas market 20.00 Children of all ages can enjoy and Workshops Christmas Tree Auction

14 DECEMBER 2016 | SWISS-THAI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | E-NEWSLETTER #77

Shop! Wednesday, December 14, 2016 Homemade Baked Goods, Handcrafted from 3 pm onwards Gift Items, Holiday Decor, Jewellery… Ramkamhaeng 184 Road, Bangkok Eat! Come join us for a festive Homemade Christmas family day with Christmas Cookies, Cake, Glühwein and other shopping, crafts, food and Swiss and German entertainment. delicacies Fun! Santa Claus, Christmas Sponsored by Tree Auction, Kids Crafts, Performances & Much Much More!

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15 DECEMBER 2016 | SWISS-THAI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | E-NEWSLETTER #77

RIS SWISS SECTION DEUTSCHSPRACHIGE SCHULE BANGKOK LOY KRATHONG CEREMONY / KRATHONG WORKSHOPS 2016

On November 14th, 2016, RIS Swiss So every year RIS Swiss Section of Loy Krathong, and explained Section - Deutschsprachige Schule invites the school community to the meaning of this festival for Bangkok celebrated Loy Krathong, a special assembly to celebrate Thai people. one of the most important and Loy Krathong. However this year, beautiful festivals of Thailand. It is Thailand is in a mourning peri- Later all students joined the ac- an event when the people of Thai- od following the passing away tivities in mixed age groups and land pay respect to the goddess of of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, practiced how to make and dec- water by floating Krathongs on any so the Loy Krathong program orate the Krathong. At noon all and all waterways around the king- was altered. Students, parents, students proudly presented their dom. The sight of thousands of Kra- teachers, administration staff, Krathongs to the guests in the in- thongs (floating banana leaf ves- and other guests were greeted ner school yard. sels) is a really magical sight, and with welcoming words from Prin- there are many places in Bangkok cipal Simon Dörig. Afterwards, Thanks to our Thai Language and and all over Thailand where you can students of grades 7 and 8 pre- Culture Department for organising get involved with the festivities. sented the history and customs this event.

16 DECEMBER 2016 | SWISS-THAI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | E-NEWSLETTER #77

RIS SWISS SECTION DEUTSCHSPRACHIGE SCHULE BANGKOK FIRST OPEN HOUSE DAY AT RIS SWISS SECTION – DEUTSCHSPRACHIGE SCHULE BANGKOK IN THE ACADEMIC YEAR 2016-2017

On November 17th, 2016 RIS prospective and current, to get We hope to see all visitors again Swiss Section – Deutschspra- first-hand experience of our at our second Open House Day chige Schule Bangkok wel- school. on March 1st, 2017. comed many parents and vis- itors to the first Open House Day of this school year. It was a great opportunity to gain an in- sight into our everyday school life. From 7.30 am guests were visiting our classes, taking part in school tours or meeting and chatting with staff and stu- dents over coffee in the court- yard.

The visitors’ questions about our teaching and learning en- vironment, school facilities, our various school programmes and many other topics were answered by our school repre- sentatives. It was a welcome opportunity for parents, both

Important public events in the school year 2015-16: 20.01.2017 Sports Day (7:30 – 12:00) 28.01.2017 Thai.Ger Supporters Charity Tournament 01.03.2017 Open House Day (07:30 - 14:40) 13.05.2017​ Open House Info Session (13:00 – 15:00) 02.06.2017 Flea Market for Primary School (11:00 - 12:00) 09.06.2017 Graduation Ceremony (10:00) 10.06.2017 Matura Ball Please visit our website - www.ris-swiss-section.org - and get more information about our upcoming events.

17 DECEMBER 2016 | SWISS-THAI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | E-NEWSLETTER #77

MEMBER CONTRIBUTION WHAT ABOUT ACCIDENTS?

Accidents do happen, unfortu- Half asleep he went to the bath- nately. As bad as they are, some- room. In order not to splash on times we still have to smile, at the toilet seat, he decided to least afterwards. The following sit and therefore put down the are some real examples which toilet seat. The modern toilet have made us smile after the seat had a special mechanism, said events. descending slowly and fix- ing without a noise. Since he • wished to get back to sleep as fast as possible, he sat down A young school boy was enjoy- before the seat was complete- ing himself on a swing, when ly in place. Big mistake! With suddenly he turned, slipped his full weight he sat down but, and fell hard on the ground. Big unfortunately, his private part pain, loud scream. His left arm was squeezed between the seat was broken; luckily, the fracture and the toilet bowl. Now he was was not too complicated. entirely awake.

• •

A few days later he was back Some people have the habit of safely in her hand again. in school with his left arm in a playing with their tools instead plaster and a sling around the of working with them. For in- Once, while preparing lunch for shoulder. All his friends bom- stance, a technician throws his her family she tossed the knife barded him with questions. The screw driver in the air, it turns in the air and, exactly at that boy was eager to tell his story. and lands in his hand again. I moment, the telephone rung. So he sat on the famous swing have seen a plumber doing the again and tried to demonstrate same thing with a wrench. Noth- For a fraction of a second she his past misfortune. Oops, sud- ing against this, but beware! was disturbed and the knife denly he turned, slipped and fell landed, no, no, not in her hand, hard on the ground. Big pain, A mother and housewife did but on her foot. More precisely loud scream. His arm was bro- the same, no, not with a screw it struck solidly vertically in her ken. No, not his left arm, this driver or a wrench, but with a right foot. time he fractured his right arm. big, sharp kitchen knife. She was precisely like a professional Friedrich Kuster, • knife-thrower. Whenever she cut Swiss-Sure. Co. Ltd., the vegetable, she tossed the [email protected] A man had to answer nature’s knife in the air; it turned and call in the middle of the night. the handle of the knife landed

18 DECEMBER 2016 | SWISS-THAI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | E-NEWSLETTER #77

CHURCH NEWS ÖKUMENISCHER GOTTESDIENST UND NIKOLAUSFEIER AM 10. DEZEMBER 2016 „NIKOLAUS – DAS ORIGINAL“

Unter dieser Überschrift laden auch Gottesdienst) sowie in der Swiss Evangelische Gemeinde in diesem Jahr die Evangelische School erhältlich, eine Voranmel- deutscher Sprache in Thailand Gemeinde und die Katholische Ge- dung wird dringend erbeten! meinde ein zu einem ökumenischen German Protestant Church Gottesdienst mit anschließender Der Eintritt (THB 300, für Er- in Thailand Nikolausfeier am Samstag, 10. wachsene, THB 150, für Kinder) Dezember 2016 um 15.00 Uhr im beinhaltet das adventliche Kaf- 125/1 Soi Sitthi Prasat, Garten des evangelischen Gemein- feetrinken und Nikolaustüten Rama IV Road Thung Mahamaek, dehauses, 125/1 Soi Sitthi Prasat, für die Kinder. Sathorn, Bangkok 10120 Rama IV Road, Thung Mahamaek, Sathorn, Bangkok 10120 Weitere Informationen bei E-Mail: [email protected] Pastor Ulrich Holste Helmer, Internet: www.die-bruecke.net Eintrittskarten für die Nikolausfeier sind bei der Evangelischen und der E-Mail: [email protected], Katholischen Gemeinde (nach dem Mobil: 08 1815 9140

19 DECEMBER 2016 | SWISS-THAI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | E-NEWSLETTER #77

LEGAL UPDATE THAI LEGAL NEWS FLASH 10-year anniversary of law practice of Martin Klose and Rödl & Partner in Thailand Arnuparp Tishyadatta and other Partners which transformed into We begin this months’ News Flash an own office of Rödl & Partner with an update on our own behalf: in the year 2006 - and has since Rödl & Partner celebrates its 10- grown to a successful one-stop year anniversary in Thailand! consultancy and first point of con- tact for many German and On the 6th of October 2016, more other international Clients. Today than 100 Guests, Clients and Busi- our Bangkok office has around 50 ness Partners followed our invita- employees with numerous profes- tion to join us to celebrate this hap- sionals in our three service lines, py occasion in the L’Appart Rooftop Legal and Tax Advisory, Business Bar at the Sofitel Bangkok Sukhum- Process Outsourcing and Audit vit. Guests of Honour included H.E. Services. Prof. Rödl’s speech fur- Mr. Peter Prügel, German Ambassa- ther highlighted and ex- plored dor to Thailand, as well as the for- the role of Industry 4.0 and the mer Thai Ambassador to Germany, digital economy. H.E. Ms. Nongnuth Phetcharatan. H.E. Mr. Peter Prügel followed with an H.E. Mrs. Nongnuth Phetcharatana The event was opened by Prof. Dr. address highlighting - among other was the final speaker giving inter- Christian Rödl, with an introduc- topics - the significance of support esting insights from her time as tion of the history of Rödl & Part- from professional consulting compa- the Thai Am- bassador to Germany ner in Germany, Asia and Bangkok nies in the interesting, yet also chal- about German-Thai Businesses re- in particular: From the individual lenging market of Thailand. lationships, cross-border cooper-

20 DECEMBER 2016 | SWISS-THAI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | E-NEWSLETTER #77

LEGAL UPDATE ation, past achievements and the due to under- statement of prices, workgroup to standardize taxation outlook and chances ahead. it could mean a severe rise on the in this field. total tax amount. It remains to be Following the official part our seen whether tax rates will be ad- World Bank raises Thailand’s Guests and Colleagues enjoyed the justed accordingly in order to coun- Gross Domestic Product culinary highlights of the French ter this effect. inspired buffet, drinks and music The World Bank raised Thailand’s late into the night. It was a joyful Secondly, certain products may full-year economic growth forecast evening and we hope to see many also be subjected to changed cal- up to 3.1% while stating some mi- of you back for our next anniversa- culation based on both value and nor concerns about the main eco- ries to come. quantity. Such a calculation is to- nomic engine and the government day already applied for the sale of spending habits. Higher Excise Duties alcoholic drinks. expected for Luxury Goods Even though lagging behind in New Tax planned terms of growth, Thailand still is the The Government is eying to in- for Online based businesses major hub in Southeast Asia – with crease the collection of Excise Tax a strong economy compared to oth- on luxury and other goods by a Overseas businesses active in Thai- er ASEAN member states. Kiatipong change in the way that excise tax is land through Online Channels could Ariyapruchya, World Bank’s sen- calculated. Excise tax is a tax levied be taxed on cross-border transac- ior economist in Thailand stated on specific products for example tions soon as Thailand is seeking to that there is a strong growth in the including perfume, petrol and oil, further increase its tax base. This tour- ism sector as well as in the certain electrical appliances, al- could for example affect Online private consumption area, which coholic beverages and soft drinks, Travel Agencies or Hotel Reserva- compensates the decline of exports tobacco as well as cars and certain tion portals as well as increasingly and private investments in the first enter- tainment activities. popular online payment systems. half of 2016 and overall Thailand’s economy grew more than expected. Currently, the excise tax base for According to an announcement of most products is tied to ex-factory the Revenue Department, the De- The World Bank earlier estimated its price (ad valorem rate) or by unit partment is studying possibilities to growth around 2.5%. Mr. Kiatipong (specific rate) meaning that the tax is tax these business with a transac- however also said that the current calculated as either a percentage on tion based tax as only few of those growth of the economy largely re- top of the price or a certain amount overseas operators without a physi- lies on governmental expenditures per unit of quantity – whichever leads cal presence in Thailand have regis- and it will be questionable how to the higher tax amount. tered in the formal tax system. The long the government can keep the Government is however aware of upward trend running. Proposed amendments focus on the growing importance of this par- the following issues. Firstly, the ticular business sector and promised Approval of the EEC draft law tax rate shall be applied on the a fair taxation when compared to state recommended retail price of traditional forms business. The Thai cabinet approved the draft the products instead of ex-facto- law regarding the Eastern Eco- ry prices for all commodity items. Thailand is eying other countries nomic Corridor (EEC) on the 4th of While this could improve transpar- efforts in this respect and plans to October 2016. The corridor which ency and reduce potential tax fraud join and work with an international connects the provinces of Chon-

21 DECEMBER 2016 | SWISS-THAI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | E-NEWSLETTER #77

LEGAL UPDATE buri, Rayong and Chachoengsao. and wellness tourism, agriculture and boost trade value along bor- has been designated for the de- and biotechnology, food, robotics der areas. The proposal to use local velopment of a high-tech industry for industry, logistics and aviation, currencies and other co- operative cluster in order to become ASEAN’s biofuels and biochemical, digital measures, that are expected to be leading economic zone for indus- and medical services. arranged via bilateral agreement, trial, infrastructure and urban de- aims to facilitate trade and invest- velopment and shall be sup- ported Border trade issues discussed at ment via the Southern Economic by the Government with a minimum Acmecs Summit Corridor for goods transports being of 300 billion Baht. routed through Thailand, Cambo- Stakeholders of various business dia and . The investment shall include logis- sectors from Thailand, Cambodia, tic connections from Suvarnabhu- Laos, Myanmar and Vietnam pro- Other issues raised at the summit mi Airport, Don Muang Airport and posed their governments to use include environment protection, U-Tapao Airport to the region, aim- local currencies instead of the US food security, HR development, ing to improve cost effectiveness in dollar for trading activities along transport links and tourism. It was transporting goods. borders to facilitate business and further announced that the Thai cut costs. The issue was raised in government plans to establish its Further development of the trans- late October at the seventh Ay- first BOI office in Vietnam next port infrastructure, also including eyawady-Chao Phraya-Mekong Eco- year, envisaging to expand trade land, rail and water links are planned nomic Cooperation Strategy (Ac- and investment volumes between to link the Dawei deep-sea port in mecs) summit in Vietnam. Accord- Thailand and Vietnam. Myanmar with Sihanoukville in Cam- ing to Sanan Angubolkul, president bodia and Vung Tau port in Vietnam. of the Thai- land-Vietnam Business Rödl & Partner Ltd. Council, the use of local currencies 18th Floor Empire Tower The target of the EEC is focused on would benefit business operators 1 South Sathorn Road, 10 major industries to be accommo- by reducing risks in- curred by vol- 10120 Bangkok, Thailand dated in the area: next-generation atile exchange rates against the cars, smart electronics, medical USD, shorten the trading process [email protected]

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