The ASEAN Economic Community aims to increase regional competitiveness by reducing the cost of cross-border trade, thereby increasing the flow of both people and goods through the 11 (10 full time) member states. It achieves this with simplified visa processes, equitable economic development, low import duties and the development of a single market. All of these things are positive contributors to a growing number of regional travellers for both business and leisure purposes, and greater integration between companies who operate internationally.
As the effects of ASEAN integration will impact a broad spectrum of companies in Thailand, it is important that organisations are ready to not only cope but also capitalise on the growth effects of the impending liberalisation brought about by full ASEAN Economic Community integration.