SME Webinar: Enhancing Digital Skills for Thailand SMEs in COVID-19

Thailand SMEs have a vital role to drive forward the Thai economy. According to the Office of SMEs Promotion (OSMEP), SMEs accounted for 42,4% of the national gross domestic product (GDP) with a value of 6,5 trillion baht in 2018. SMEs also created more than 12,1 million jobs position in 2017. In total, Thailand has around 3 million SMEs. However, SMEs also one of the most affected actors during the Covid-19. It is vital to help SMEs cope with the disruption. As the government increase the restricted movement and limiting outdoor activities, the consumers in Thailand now are moving to digital commerce. The number of e-commerce users has increased to 30% since March 2020.

Digital commerce has gained popularity and mastering digital skills to overcome challenges in this situation has never been as important as it is now. SMEs are required to be flexible and ready in different circumstances they encounter. However, only 592,000 has online merchants, and 382,000 have their own websites. It is important to improve Thai SMEs’ digital competence and have the ability to identify the right digital tools to support their business.

Opening Remarks: 

• Amb. Michael W. Michalak, Senior Vice President & Regional Managing Director, US-ASEAN Business Council
• Mr. Veerapong Malai, Director General of Office of SMEs Promotion of Thailand (OSMEP)
• Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ruth Banomyong, Dean of Thammasat Business School 

• Dr. Wimonkan Kosumas, Deputy of Director General of Office of SMEs Promotion of Thailand (OSMEP)
• Natsicha Voraprukpisut, Head of Market Development, Mastercard
• Boonthida Ratanavilaikul, Marketing Manager, FedEx