Public and private sectors have united to create marketing opportunities for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) through a new trade exhibition called Thailand SME Synergy Expo 2024. Showcasing products and services that facilitate business connections, this five-day affair will take place from June 19-23 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok. Collaboratively organized by the Business Development Department (DBD), the Office of SMEs Promotion (Osmep), and various government and private partnerships, the expo aims to boost SME trade activities from inception to international expansion. The ultimate goal is to increase SMEs’ GDP contribution to 40% by 2027, up from the current 35%.
Deputy Commerce Minister Napintorn Srisunpang emphasized the importance of providing support to SMEs through business planning, financial access, and market strategies. Around 19,000 sales locations, encompassing petrol stations, community markets, and department stores across Bangkok and provincial areas, have been allotted for SMEs to showcase their offerings and forge new business relationships.
Moreover, the event highlights the introduction of the SME Clinic, a collaborative effort by the Commerce Ministry with industry experts, to offer guidance on marketing, productivity, and quality control. This initiative aims to enhance SMEs’ competitiveness and expand their financial opportunities by minimizing loan risks for financial institutions.
Over 60 franchises will participate in the event, representing sectors such as food and beverage, education, services, spa and beauty products, and retail. Partnering with key agencies like the Thai Board of Trade, the Federation of Thai Industries, and Moc Biz Club Thailand, the ministry will aid SMEs in finding prime sales locations at special rates.
A tailored loan package, totaling 45 billion baht from 18 banks and insurance firms, will be available, with exclusive rates starting from 0.25% for the first year for SMEs and a fixed interest rate of 1% per month for self-employed individuals. Anticipated to create value of 140 million baht, the event presents SMEs with a platform to explore new business opportunities and elevate their market presence.
