Chula Leads Dialogue on Thai Business Resilience in Logistics Amidst Global Trade Disruptions 

The Transportation Institute of Chulalongkorn University, in collaboration with the Interdisciplinary Program in Logistics and Supply Chain Management, the Institute of Asian Studies, and the Environmental Research Institute for Sustainability, organized a seminar titled “Thai Transport and Logistics in the Era of Trade Wars” on April 28, 2025, at Room 802, Chaloem Rajakumari 60 Building (Chamchuri 10). The seminar was officially opened by Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, with Professor Dr. Saksith Chalermpong, Director of the Transportation Institute, presenting the opening report. 

The seminar featured a panel discussion on Thai logistics during the trade war era, with distinguished speakers from both the private sector and academia. Panelists included: 

• Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sompong Sirisoponsilp, a special lecturer in the Interdisciplinary Logistics and Supply Chain Management Program and former Director of the Transportation Institute, Chulalongkorn University  
• Mr. Phakin Kamphiranon, independent logistics and supply chain consultant   
• Mr. Borvornsint Tanthuwanit, CEO of Ngow Hock Co., Ltd., and board member of the Transportation Institute   
• Mr. Kannkarat Traithananuban, CEO of Sai Global Express Co., Ltd.   
• Dr. Surat Chanthongpan, Vice President of the Thai Logistics and Production Society (TLAPS) and Business Development Advisor of SCG JWD Logistics PCL   

The discussion was moderated by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Danupon Ariyasajjakorn from the Faculty of Economics, Chulalongkorn University, who also serves on the logistics and supply chain program committee. 

Objectives and Highlights of the Seminar 

This academic forum aims at analyzing and exchanging ideas on the impact of the trade war on Thailand’s transport and logistics systems—both at the policy level and in practical business operations. The seminar sought to present a multi-sectoral perspective on how Thai businesses can adapt amid global economic instability. Additionally, policy recommendations were proposed to strengthen, sustain, and increase the resilience of Thailand’s logistics industry and overall economy to face the ongoing crisis. 

The seminar also featured a deep dive into how U.S. import tariff policies are affecting Thailand’s logistics sector and international trade. This analysis was intended to help Thai entrepreneurs shift their strategic perspectives and better prepare for potential disruptions. 

Key Remarks from University Leaders 

Prof. Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, stressed on the fact that collaboration between various university institutes is a powerful force. He highlighted that the insights shared by the speakers could spark transformative ideas, turning trade wars into opportunities for trade peace. According to the president, logistics and transportation are crucial mechanisms that integrate costs and commercial opportunities from local to global scales. He noted that the seminar would help shape future government policies and reaffirmed that the university’s honor lies not just in education, but in its contributions to national policy and strategic direction. 

Prof. Dr. Saksith Chalermpong, Director of the Transportation Institute, noted that the ongoing trade war between global superpowers is creating widespread uncertainty in the global economy, especially regarding trade policies and import tariffs from countries like the U.S. and China. He stressed that Thailand, with its open economy heavily reliant on international trade, is inevitably affected when global trade volumes decline. He pointed out that transport and logistics businesses—whether maritime, trucking, rail, or air—are all vulnerable, but those that can assess and manage risk appropriately will be better equipped to adapt and mitigate severe impacts. 

Dr. Saksith added that the government plays a crucial role in supporting the business sector during such crises, especially through trade negotiations and measures that stabilize private enterprise operations. He urged government bodies to listen to business concerns and integrate those into trade talks. At the same time, he encouraged logistics operators to conduct internal risk assessments and implement adaptive strategies to maintain operations through prolonged trade disruptions. 

 “The voices and concerns of entrepreneurs shared in this seminar will serve as valuable input for the government in crafting appropriate trade negotiation strategies. These strategies will not only benefit the private sector but also contribute positively to Thai society and the economy as a whole,” Dr. Saksith concluded. 

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