with Dr. Chanchai Sirikasemlert

(Executive Director Thailand Textile Institute)

Thailand possesses a comprehensive textile supply chain spanning from upstream to midstream to downstream operations, enabling diverse production capabilities. Thailand's textile exports generate over 200,000 million baht in revenue for the country, with the United States being the number one export market.

Emerging Challenges

• US Import Tariffs and Chinese Competition: Flooding of Chinese products in the market is forcing Thai entrepreneurs to adapt and adjust their strategies.
• Transition from OEM to ODM: Thai entrepreneurs can no longer sustain as OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) contractors and must focus on ODM (Original Design Manufacturer) to access higher-value markets such as Europe and Japan.

Twin Transition

• Sustainability Focus: Global consumers are increasingly interested in sustainability and environmental friendliness, requiring entrepreneurs to adapt by reducing their carbon footprint.
• Digital Technology Integration: Digital technology plays a crucial role in production to meet customer demands more rapidly, with social media marketing becoming increasingly important.

Industry Opportunities

• Thailand Textile Institute (THTI): Plays a vital role in supporting entrepreneurs through consulting services, training programs, and various projects to facilitate adaptation.
• Reskilling and Upskilling: Workforce development and transforming the industry's image to be modern and attractive for talent development and attracting new generation workers.

Innovation & Technology

• Smart Textiles: Integration of textiles with electronic devices for pulse monitoring or health tracking.
• AI in Textile Industry: AI plays a role in production through Smart Machinery, as well as in marketing and sales operations.

Circular Economy

Major brands seek suppliers capable of calculating Carbon Footprint. The use of renewable energy and recycled materials will help reduce carbon footprint while meeting sustainability requirements.

Future Trends

• Sustainability Innovation: Research and development of new materials such as plant-based materials and recycled materials continue to be significant trends.
• Technical Textiles: Textiles related to other industries such as medical, automotive, and disaster response will become increasingly important.