Focus on regional potential

SANAN ANGUBOLKUL President of Srithai Superware

SALES to the United States make up approximately 10 percent of exports by Srithai Superware, the world’s largest manufacturer of 100 percent melamine tableware.

Based in Bangkok, Srithai is the largest company in Thailand for the production of plastic packaging, electrical home appliances, and automotive and motorcycle components.

Fifty-eight percent of total sales come from plastic products and 42 percent from melamine ware. Sales turnover for 2002 was $82 million, and is expected to increase to $87 million this year.

Celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, Srithai exports to 55 countries, with sales throughout Asia. The company entered the North American market 27 years ago and would like to expand sales here. However, its present focus is on markets in Asia.

“We want to increase export sales to countries like Korea, China, Malaysia, the Philippines, Myanmar, and India, since the economy in this region is improving, “ says Sanan Angubolkul, Srithai’s President.

The company’s melamine factory in Indonesia has been very successful, and last year it opened a second factory in China. “Russia will be our next target and we are planning to expand our investments in Vietnam,” says Mr. Sanan.