Bangkok--6 Nov--TCELS TCELS opens the door for collaboration in life sciences between Thailand and Korea. A convincing business future lies ahead. Director of TCELS aims to equip Thai researchers with Korean technology; while President of KHIDI flags full support for Thai entrepreneurs to invest in Korean health industry. Dr. Thongchai Thavichachart, Director of Thailand Center of Excellence for Life Sciences (TCELS) had signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Dr. Yong-Heung Rhie, President of Korea Health Industry Development Institute (KHIDI). Chaired by Dr. Prat Boonyavongvirot, Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Public Health, the ceremony took place at office of TCELS, Vibhavadi Rangsit Road Dr. Thongchai said that KHIDI and TCELS, as the main focal point assigned from the APEC Life Sciences Innovation Forum, has been actively networking with various organizations in search for outstanding innovation in life sciences. Korea, with high potential in various aspects, has always been in our attention. We had discussed how the collaboration could come about so that life sciences, which the whole world is having an eye for, could prosper in this region. The collaboration today will lead to the development of life sciences research and manufacturing industry e.g. drug development, vaccine production, diagnostic kits manufacturing, related instrument and machine, as well as IT equipments. All of these will bring about the higher quality of living for the people. Since KHIDI and TCELS are both government organization and have similar scope of work, this is a perfect opportunity to link up the two countries with life science research and business collaboration. Several collaborative projects are expected to come live within 2 years. “Korea has several strong points in life sciences especially in technology management. Therefore, if Thai researchers would have gained this expertise, more innovative concepts will definitely be able to become industrialized and commercialized,” Dr. Thongchai said. Dr. Yong-Heung Rhie said that KHIDI has been established for 7 years. Several projects have successfully reached the market in both industrial and service sectors. This collaboration with TCELS is a good start for both countries as it will encourage life sciences investment in both Thailand and Korea, and eventually in the whole region. Moreover, if any Thai investors are interested to invest in food, cosmetics, medical equipment, or even beauty industry which is booming in Korea, KHIDI would be very happy to be the link with Korean FDA for proper registration.