On this occasion, His Excellency Mr. Oba Yuichi, Charges d'affaires ad interim, Embassy of Japan in Thailand, presided over the ceremony and gave the opening speech. In his address, he said that supporting startups is one of the key areas the Japanese Government is promoting under the collaboration between Japan's "Green Transformation (GX) strategy" and Thailand's "BCG Economy" and the key to our collective success lies in fostering Co-creation practices. Today's event stands as a crucial initiative that the Japanese government is fully committed to supporting, alongside the Thai government and private sectors both in Thailand and ASEAN. Together, we aim to create business opportunities and support economic growth between ASEAN and Japan, as this year marks the 50th anniversary of friendship and cooperation. In addition, the Japan government is ready to work closely with the Thai government and business sectors to further strengthening the relationship in the future.
Also, Mr. Anucha Nakasai, Minister Attached to the Prime Minister's Office, emphasized the event's importance in supporting and strengthening business opportunities, aligning with the government's policy of promoting startups and fostering regional relationships. In addition, this will drive economic growth and support the adoption of the BCG Model to stimulate innovation economics that benefit communities, which is considered the foundation of the country's economy.
While Asst. Prof. Dr. Nuttapon Nimmanphatcharin, President and CEO of depa, highlighted the opportunity for new collaborations between Japan and ASEAN through digital startups, which have been instrumental in driving economic growth. Fresh ideas and innovative approaches to solving problems will allow startups to expand market opportunities, attract investment, and create jobs. Additionally, these solutions will improve people's livelihoods especially on the environment and social aspects which can be a catalyst for driving change and promoting sustainable development in the country.
Mr. Kenichi Yamato, Krungsri President and Chief Executive Officer said, "We extend our gratitude to all our partners for their continuous support in organising today's activities. Together, we share a common vision of fostering an ecosystem that empowers startups through financial backing, technological expertise, and business insights. Our aim is to enable continuous innovation and technological advancements, addressing global challenges across various sectors. In doing so, we contribute to the Thai economy's growth and foster sustainable development in the broader regional economy. Leveraging our experience in organizing business matching events, a notable aspect of Krungsri's services, we are committed to facilitating meaningful connections within the business community. With great confidence, we anticipate the business matchmaking of more than 360 pairs."
The Japan-ASEAN Startup Business Matching Fair 2023 is a platform for over 60 entrepreneurs and startups in diverse industries such as health tech, marketplace, fintech, logistics, and carbon credit, from Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, Cambodia, Lao PDR, Indonesia, Singapore, Japan, and Finland to negotiate and showcase their business plans to investors from over 160 companies across six countries. Participating startups, include Zeroboard Inc., a Japanese startup specializing in cloud technology for computing and visualizing business greenhouse gas emissions, DoctorTool, an Indonesian health tech group focused on telemedicine and medical equipment, and Nham24, a leading e-commerce, food delivery, and taxi service from Cambodia.
The event included startup pitching sessions, business matching activities and exhibition booths from more than 60 entrepreneurs and startups. Using its expertise and extensive network in Japan and across ASEAN as part of MUFG, Krungsri has played a vital role in supporting and investing in innovative technology and startups. This event encourages entrepreneurs and startups to demonstrate their potential and creativity through business initiatives that align with changing global trends. Additionally, it serves as a platform for startups to connect with potential investors eager to foster startup growth beyond ASEAN. It is also a platform to exchange knowledge about financial management, technical knowledge, and essential innovation for business success.
"This event is another milestone for Krungsri as it showcases our unwavering dedication to 'Be the Preferred Thai Bank Connecting Customers' Needs across ASEAN'. Moreover, it underscores Krungsri's strategic business vision of establishing strong networks and partnerships across ASEAN (ASEAN-Linked Business), emphasizing our focus on sustainable business practices (ESG-Linked Business), and our drive to innovate and deliver cutting-edge yet humanized digital products and services (Digital & Innovation) to benefit customers in Thailand and ASEAN, while forging a path towards a sustainable future for all," Mr. Yamato concluded.
Source: Spark Communications
