Bangkok Bank sets sights on China

Bangkok Bank will continue to explore opportunities in China as the country's economy recovers.

It has a strong network in China with four branches.

"China's gross domestic product should be able to grow 7 percent this year. However, there is still a yawning gap between the wealthy and the poor," said Bangkok Bank chairman Chatri Sophonpanich.

Beijing is improving its administration to ease the high cost of living.

Bangkok Bank's future in China lies in supporting Thai companies' trade and investment rather than local businesses.

The rebound in China should drive demand for Thai merchandise. Exports in the second half of 2012 expanded nicely by 18 percent. The shipment momentum along with the rosy outlook for agricultural and industrial products will help push up GDP in 2013 by 6 per cent, Chatri said.

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