In conversation with
Mr. Taveesilpa Chinapatthanawong

FDI Spotlight: Thailand has changed in the last 20 years and so did the ship building industry, incorporating high technology and becoming more competitive. Considering your expertise, how has the shipping industry changed over the years?

Mr. Taveesilpa: The Thai shipping industry has grown larger over the years, but still if we compare it with our ASEAN competitors, Thailandís shipping industry still has to catch up. We have to be positive, listen to the people that inspire us and let the bad things go. Because the government has changed so much within the years, the ship building sector hasnít seen any substantial support from the government. So the private ship building sector had to develop on its own, otherwise Thailand would have had only foreign investors sustaining the sector. We are first company in Thailand to be using a unique paint for the vessels that is very resistant and does not pollute the water and also first company to be using the retrofit system that doesnít harm the environment. That is why for us it is important that our ships are approved and certified with international quality standards and to meet the demands of our clients in the oil and gas sector such as:Esso, Shell, Chevron, PTT and Bangchak Petroleum.

Can you elaborate on your strategy to make V.L. Enterprises grow, not only regarding the profit of the company but also regarding the human capital?

Mr. Taveesilpa: I see this mission as a long term mission. With the AEC coming into place I think it will be easier because it will allow a free movement of labour, know-how and capital. I want people to know that shipping business is a long-term business and that V. L Enterprises is a part of it. That is why we want to list the company to the stock exchange next year. My vision is to make V.L.  Enterprises to be effective performing tanker fleet locally and Asian regionally.

What is your message of confidence for the international investor community that now is the time to be looking at Thailand?

Mr. Taveesilpa: Thailand is the paradise that has the best position at the centre of the ASEAN region. We are looking forward to having more investors so I would like to invite all the international partners to come here and help us move forward.