According to Thailand’s “World Journal” report, the director of the Industrial Economic Office of the Ministry of Industry of Thailand revealed that a working meeting on the Thailand-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (JTEPA) will be held in Japan from March 22 to 27, and will lead the Thai textile and Garment industry representatives, relevant government departments, and industry associations participated.
The director said that this meeting will summarize the results achieved since the signing of JTEPA. Since JTEPA officially came into effect at the end of 2007, the two countries have increased cooperation in all aspects and promoted substantial growth in bilateral trade.
In 2008, Thailand’s textile industry exports increased by 31%, and the garment industry increased by 16%. The growth rate in 2009 is expected to be no less than 20%.
The director said that he will discuss with Japan the details of strengthening cooperation and expanding the results of JTEPA. The Japanese government will lead the Thai delegation to visit local textile factories and inspect the Japanese clothing market to understand market demand and learn to add Thai culture to trendy clothing to make products meet market demand and increase commercial value.
At present, about 80% of Japan’s clothing market is occupied by China. Japan hopes to reduce the market share of Chinese goods and turn to imports from other ASEAN countries. Thailand can take this opportunity to join forces with Japanese companies to develop the local market.
