Program Management Unit for Competitiveness (PMUC), led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chaleeda Bromphichaichatikul, Deputy Director of PMUC, along with Assoc. Prof. Dr. Watcharapol Chaiyaprasert, Director of the Logistics and Rail Systems Research Group at PMUC, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sompong Sirisophonsil, Chairman of the Logistics and Rail Systems Research Subcommittee at PMUC, organized a seminar titled ‘The Logistics Systems of the Future: Sustainable Efficiency Through Research’ to disseminate research results supported by PMUC under the Logistics and Rail Systems Research Program and discuss the future of logistics development through research. The seminar took place at Tilog Logistix 2023 in NILE 1 Hall, Bangna, Bangkok, on August 18, 2566.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chalida mentioned that the development of logistics and rail systems is crucial for the country’s economic growth. An efficient logistics system helps reduce production and transportation costs, making the country’s products more competitive and promoting international trade. A well-functioning logistics system also facilitates the export of goods to other countries rapidly and securely, leading to the growth of Thailand’s international trade, job creation, and increased income. Developing the logistics system in various sectors, such as transportation, warehousing, and data management, creates jobs and increases income for the population, enhancing the country’s competitiveness on a global scale. Furthermore, an efficient logistics system attracts foreign investors to Thailand, contributing to the country’s economic growth. Therefore, research funding plays a significant role in stimulating researchers and the private sector to create new innovations for the management and development of the country’s logistics and rail systems. Collaborative research funding with the private sector ensures that research outcomes are more likely to be utilized in business.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Watcharapol mentioned the work accomplished in the past year. In the fiscal year 2023, the Logistics and Rail Systems Research Program secured contracts for over 13 research projects, with a total budget of 47,224,909 Baht, proposed for approval by PMUC. In addition, there was cooperation with the private sector in co-investment. The focus of these research projects is on developing research outcomes for practical use through collaboration across various sectors, including government agencies, the private sector, and educational institutions. This approach aims to provide access to new technologies and innovations for entrepreneurs to meet business needs, reduce logistics costs, and increase freight transport by rail while ensuring sustainable development in both societal and environmental aspects.
The seminar, organized by the Logistics and Rail Systems Program of PMUC, in collaboration with the Thai Logistics Association, aimed to disseminate research findings and discuss the future of logistics development through research. The seminar consisted of two main activities: the first part included a research showcase by researchers who received research funding from PMUC through the Logistics and Rail Systems Research Program. The second part was a seminar titled ‘The Future of Logistics Systems: Sustainable Efficiency Through Research.’ The panelists for this seminar included Mr. Nopporn Thepsitha, Honorary Dean of the Faculty of Logistics and Supply Chain, Sripatum University, former Chairman of the Board of the Thai Shipper’s Council, and former Chairman of the Export-Import Bank of Thailand, Mr. Ban Kasemsap, Co-CEO of SCGJWD Logistics Co., Ltd. (SCGJWD), and Mr. Surarat Niemklang, Director of the Logistics Development Strategy Division at the National Economic and Social Development Council. The seminar was hosted by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sompong Srisophonsil, Chairman of the Logistics and Rail Systems Program at PMUC.
