Bangkok--24 Jan--Bangkok Bank Worldwide automotive trends, the competitiveness of Thailand’s automotive components industry and increasing competition from China, India and Vietnam will be among the key topics at the World Class Auto Parts Seminar being held by Bangkok Bank at its head office on Wednesday, January 30. Bangkok Bank Executive Vice President and Provincial Commercial Banking Director Piya Sosothikul said the aim of the World Class Auto Parts Seminar was to improve the competitiveness of Thailand’s automotive components industry. “Despite strong growth in exports of vehicles and components from Thailand, the automotive components industry faces significant challenges from the strong baht, growing competition from China, India and Vietnam and a shortage of capital to fund growth,” said Mr. Piya. “By bringing together competitors, suppliers, industry associations and leading experts within the automotive components industry, the World Class Auto Parts Seminar aims to support the industry’s competitiveness by sharing knowledge and strengthening networks.” Mr. Piya said the previous World Class seminars held for the hotel and food industries had been overwhelming successful. Following the seminars, Bangkok Bank had also expanded its lending to businesses within the hotel and food sectors by Baht 5 billion, fueling further growth in these industries. The World Class Seminars are part of Bangkok Bank’s strategy to provide a tailored approach to key industries. “Bangkok Bank recognizes that each industry has different needs. By tailoring our services, we are able to offer products and services that better meet the needs of our business customers,” said Mr. Piya. The World Class Auto Parts Seminar will be held on Wednesday, January 30, 2008, from 8:30am to 2:45pm on the 30th floor of Bangkok Bank’s head office on Silom Road. The keynote speech will be delivered by Deputy Prime Minister and Industry Minister Kosit Panpiemras, with other presentations to be delivered by industry leaders including the president of the Thailand Automotive Institute, the president of Ford ASEAN and the president of Toyota Motor Thailand. Bangkok Bank staff will also be on hand to provide advice about loan products and special offers for customers. The seminar is free of charge. For further information on the World Class Auto Parts Seminar, please call 0-2353-5134-5.