Nong Khai, August 7-8, 2024 — In a significant stride toward empowering SMEs and enhancing cross-border trade capabilities, the Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies at Khon Kaen University, in collaboration with key regional stakeholders, has officially launched the Cross Border E-Commerce Knowledge Transfer Center (CBEC). The center aims to provide vital resources and training for businesses seeking to tap into the lucrative Chinese market.
The launch event, held at the Panlan Boutique Resort in Nong Khai, brought together an impressive roster of partners, including the Program Management Unit on Area Based Development (PMU), the China Intelligence Center (CIC) at Chiang Mai University, the Thailand-Laos Business Council, and the Chambers of Commerce from Nong Khai, Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, Mukdahan, and Ubon Ratchathani.
Pioneering the Future of SME Growth
The CBEC Knowledge Transfer Center is set to play a pivotal role in enhancing the capabilities of SMEs, enabling them to develop and market products effectively in the expansive and rapidly evolving Chinese market. With the global economy increasingly leaning towards online trade, the center’s focus on Cross Border E-Commerce positions regional businesses at the forefront of this growing trend.
The event was marked by insightful discussions and workshops, where entrepreneurs gained in-depth knowledge about the nuances of the Chinese market, particularly in the context of online trade through CBEC. The program was inaugurated by Mr. Rattasart Chidchoo, Vice-Governor of Nong Khai Province, who emphasized the importance of this initiative in driving regional economic growth.
Asst. Prof. Dr. Kiat Sangaroon, Dean of the Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies, delivered the welcome address, setting the tone for a series of productive sessions. The highlight of the event was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) among the partners, symbolizing their shared commitment to advancing SME capabilities through this groundbreaking center.
Strategic Lectures on Cross-Border Trade
The event featured special lectures from industry experts, including Assoc. Prof. Dr. Poon Thiengburanathum, Deputy Director of PMU, who discussed the strategic role of PMU in supporting the Thai-Laos-China economic corridor through the CBEC mechanism. Dr. Jaturong Bunnag, Chair of the Thailand-Laos Business Council, provided valuable insights into the opportunities that Cross Border E-Commerce offers to entrepreneurs, particularly in the rapidly growing Chinese market.
Aligning with Educational and Economic Goals
The establishment of the CBEC Knowledge Transfer Center aligns with Khon Kaen University’s broader mission of producing well-rounded graduates and advancing research and academic services. It also supports the university’s strategic objectives and KPIs, as outlined by the Office of Nation Education Standards and Quality Assessment (ONESQA) and the Office of The Higher Education Commission (OHEC). By integrating this initiative into its educational framework, Khon Kaen University is not only enhancing its academic offerings but also creating valuable networks with other educational institutions and industry stakeholders.
A Collaborative Path Forward
The event underscored the importance of cross-sector collaboration, with experts from the Thailand-Laos Business Council, the CIC at Chiang Mai University, and various regional Chambers of Commerce leading discussions. This collaborative approach is expected to foster new opportunities for academic research and practical application, ultimately contributing to the sustainable growth of SMEs in the region. As the CBEC Knowledge Transfer Center begins its journey, it stands as a beacon of innovation and collaboration, ready to equip entrepreneurs with the tools they need to succeed in the ever-expanding global marketplace.
