Kobe–Thailand Business Connect 2026 Strengthens Ties Across Business, Government and Academia

Commissioned by Kobe City, Sasin Japan Center, part of Sasin Management Consulting, organized KOBE × THAILAND BUSINESS CONNECT 2026 to connect seven Kobe-based companies with potential business partners in Thailand. The event marked the second edition of the initiative, following its inaugural edition in 2024. It was organized in cooperation with the Kobe Chamber of Commerce and Industry, with support from JETRO Bangkok and TPA (Technology Promotion Association (Thailand-Japan)). The program began on October 27 with a briefing on Thailand’s economy by Mr. Yuki Kamiesu, Director of the General Affairs Department at JETRO Bangkok, followed by a visit to the Japanese zone at CentralWorld. At Mitsukoshi Depachika in One Bangkok, the delegation received a briefing from Mr. Masato Ohno, Store Manager, on the purchasing behavior of affluent Thai consumers. The day concluded with a visit to an SCG HEIM model home, providing further insights into Thai lifestyles and housing preferences. These visits helped participants better understand the local market and identify potential opportunities for their products. On October 28, more than 50 pre-arranged one-on-one business meetings took place at Sasin, connecting the seven Kobe companies with potential buyers and business partners. Their products ranged from food and beverages to stationery and household goods. Participating organizations included B.J. Express from the Carabao Group, Food Selection Group from the Central Group, and major Japanese companies such as JALUX and Umios. Several participating companies also had Sasin alumni in management positions. The meetings provided opportunities to introduce products, understand potential partners’ needs, and explore distribution and collaboration opportunities. Following the business meetings, Professor Dr. Takamasa Fujioka, Advisor to Sasin Japan Center, delivered a special talk on doing business in emerging markets. He shared perspectives on the mindset and commitment required of business leaders entering these markets, encouraging participants to reflect on how to develop business opportunities and build lasting relationships with local partners. The evening networking reception brought together 100 participants from business, government and academia in Japan and Thailand. The program featured opening remarks by Ms. Motoko Tsujii, Director of Kobe Overseas Business Center, and guest remarks by Ms. Pathratorn Javanaguru from the Board of Investment (BOI). Mr. Kazuyuki Yokohata, Chairperson of the Kobe City Assembly, proposed the Kampai toast, while closing remarks were delivered by Ms. Yumi Nishida of the Kobe Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Other participants included representatives from Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI) and Ministry of Industry, Thammasat Business School, Chulalongkorn Business School, Siam University, Japan’s Organization for Small & Medium Enterprises and Regional Innovation (SMRJ), NEDO (New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization), the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), Nomura Trading, and Isetan Mitsukoshi. The reception provided further opportunities to exchange ideas and build connections beyond the individual business meetings. October 29 was dedicated to additional meetings and follow-up activities based on participants’ interests. For example, one of the seven Kobe companies held a business meeting with Moshi Moshi Co., Ltd. Through market visits, business discussions, Professor Fujioka’s special talk and networking opportunities, KOBE × THAILAND BUSINESS CONNECT 2026 deepened mutual understanding and strengthened the foundation for continued business collaboration between Kobe and Thailand.