Michael Friedl, Commercial Counsellor at the Austrian Embassy, paid a courtesy call on the Chiang Mai Governor, heads of various government agencies, executives of the Chiang Mai Provincial Administrative Organisation and the Chamber of Commerce on 26th August.
During the courtesy call, Friedl discussed and proposed cooperation to support and promote tourism and commerce between Austria and Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai boasts potential and readiness in many areas, offering opportunities to introduce products to Austria. The Austrian Embassy’s commercial division is fully committed to providing support.
Friedl cited an example of an Austrian business closely linked to Thailand: Red Bull (Krating Daeng in Thai). Red Bull originated in Thailand and is currently the most popular energy drink brand in 2020, ranking as the third-highest value carbonated beverage brand after Coca-Cola and Pepsi. Also included is Swarovski, the world’s leading crystal jewelry manufacturer, with a production base in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province. Swarovski chose Thailand as the location of its first overseas jewellery factory because Thailand is a renowned source of craftsmanship, which is part of its heritage, history, people, and culture.
On this occasion, Friedl discussed opportunities for cooperation between Austria and Chiang Mai in the field of tourism, comparing the conditions conducive to sustainable tourism. He also highlighted the similarity in tourist numbers between the two countries, and Thailand’s position as the second-largest destination for Austrian travellers after the United States, further enhancing the tourism environment.
Friedl also stated his support for the cable car project for the Doi Suthep route, which was previously presented to Chiang Mai by representatives of the Austrian manufacturer Dopplermyr Group. The project would significantly boost tourism and reduce emissions from vehicle traffic.
Siwakorn Buaphong, Deputy Governor of Chiang Mai Province, acting on behalf of Governor Thotsapol Phueanudom, expressed his gratitude and congratulations to the delegation. He also urged relevant host agencies to consider various approaches to maximise the benefits of cooperation in tourism and commerce between Austria and Chiang Mai, particularly cultural exchanges and the adoption of innovations and technologies for application in Chiang Mai’s “Smart City” plan.
Somchat Wattanakla, Vice President of the Chiang Mai Provincial Administrative Organisation, expressed his gratitude for the group’s visit and expressed his belief that there will be future cooperation in commerce and tourism, particularly in the development of “carbon-free” urban transportation, which will bring sustainable benefits to the people of Chiang Mai.
Dr. Kobkit Issarachevawat, the Chairman of the Chiang Mai Chamber of Commerce, also thanked the Austrian Embassy representatives for their visit and agreed with the idea of increasing cooperation with Austria in the field of tourism, which will help stimulate the province’s tourism climate and business development in the near future.
Consulate of the Republic of Austria, Chiang Mai
Tel: 081 1168350
Email: austrianconsulate.pr@gmail.com
