The Japanese Chamber of Commerce in Bangkok (the JCC) is an organization with a proud history of more than half a century since its establishment in 1954. It is the largest overseas Japanese Chamber of Commerce having 1,307 member companies (as of Apr.2009). The JCC has committed itself to extensive activities in order to promote not only trade, investment or economical development but also cultural exchange and educational support.

It has been an eventful year both politically and economically. Politically, the State of Emergency which was declared twice, the closure of the Suvarnabhumi Airport and turbulence in Patthaya. Economically speaking, there was a rapid global downturn and the economic deterioration of the Thai economy following the bankruptcy of Lehman Brothers on September 15, 2008. I believe that each of the JCC members has been striving against the current economic downturn which they say is the worst in the past 100 years. The JCC will coordinate discussions in each division/ committee on what is needed for Japanese companies to survive under this situation, and to effectively carry out the necessary activities in a timely fashion.

In concrete terms, the JCC will continue to entreat the Thai Government to implement effective and adequate economic policies promptly through lobbying activities. The JCC will also approach the relevant organizations in Japan to solve your concerns including fund-raising for SMEs.

Although the current economic situation is serious, Japanese companies will continue to carry on business as usual in Thailand now and into the future. Based on this, the JCC will also continue to be committed to establish investment infrastructure, as well as JTEPA enhancement, human resources development, liaison with neighboring countries, social contribution activities and many others.

This year, 2009, is the “Mekong-Japan Exchange Year”. Activities based on this liaison with the GMS counties will be our focus. As for our social contribution, the 21st Century Educational Fund established in 2000 has marked its 10th anniversary. To celebrate this and promise continuous support in the future, in 2009 the JCC will promote Japanese language teaching and Japanese study in the north of Thailand, especially Chiang Mai.

The JCC will continuously commit a wide range of activities responding to your expectations. I would appreciate your continuous support and cooperation.