As export is a vital engine driving the Thai economy, it is essentialto lay down strategies to enable local entrepreneurs and exporters access to potential foreign opportunities. Because Thai businessmen and manufacturers run their business in different regions across the country, the Department of Export Promotion, Ministry of Commerce has established 5 Regional Trade Promotion Centers. They are located in the North, the Northeast, the East and the South and serve as links to local manufacturers and exporters with international traders. These 5 regional centers work closely with 56 DEP offices worldwide. Under this trade networking strategy, Thailand is expected to gain advantage in trade competition if its export is driven to full potential. Hence, an expansion in export value will continue to fuel national economic growth as it has occurred in past decades. Such high growth was evident between 2004-2006, during which average export growth rate was at 17.4%. By the end of 2007, it is estimated that the annual growth will be at 12.5%. This achievement could be attributed to quality Thai products such as agricultural and food products, electronics, auto parts and accessories, electrical equipment and textiles. The main markets for Thai exports include the USA, Japan, EU and ASEAN countries. New markets with potential are China, South Asia, Africa and Indochina.

By providing access to trade information and connections for Thai exporters and manufacturers across the country, the 5 Regional Trade Promotion Centers will enhance their business potential by matching their needs with foreign buyers and traders, whose contacts are channeled through the DEP Worldwide Network. 

Dedicated Services
Aiming to cater to local exporters and manufacturers as a one-stop service, the 5 Regional Trade Promotion Centers will offer an up-to-date useful information service that covers

Export Development and Coordination
The 5 Regional Trade Promotion Centers have set up a wide range of business development services for Thai entrepreneurs that include advisory services on international trade and marketing strategies for export, workshops and seminars.
Furthermore, these 5 regional centers also welcome Thai applicants who are interested in participating in local and international trade fairs, Thailand Exhibiton and trade mission. With such exposure to export business development skills and experiences, these activities help prepare local entrepreneurs to better compete in the world market.

For foreign traders, the 5 Regional Trade Promotion Centers also offer a network channel to interested foreign traders by linking them with local manufacturers and exporters that match their business acquisitions in all regions of the country.