Released on = July 22, 2006, 8:01 pm

Press Release Author = Note: A 1,600-word feature article is available on request
from BFC International PR at bfcinterpr@yahoo.com Contact: Supamat "May"
Korsuwansukul (66 2) 654 3394.

Industry =

Press Release Summary = Private sector to take BFC wheel
BANGKOK - The Thai government is making a tactical retreat from the controversial
Bangkok Fashion City project. The BFC project believes it is time the industry stood
on its own. The industry's major players have welcomed the change of change of
course.


Press Release Body = Thailand sets fashion industry free

Private sector to take BFC wheel
BANGKOK - The Thai government is making a tactical retreat from the controversial
Bangkok Fashion City project. The BFC project believes it is time the industry stood
on its own. The industry's major players have welcomed the change of change of
course.

We're going to "fade out", says Pramode Vidtayasuk, chairman of the BFC management
committee. "We aren't simply ending all support, but it is now time for the private
sector to take the lead."

BFC leaders say the government will take a back seat and leave it up to the sector
to run the show. "It was always the intention to hand this over to the private
sector," Pramode adds. "I think it's ready."

The country's fashion industry will be represented by private-sector leaders at the
fourth Asian Fashion Federation summit next year at Bangkok.

Designer Chanita "Lee" Preechawitayakul of Senada Theory explains that the Thai
fashion industry knows what it wants and needs. The government should concentrate on
finding new markets for the products it makes."

The BFC working committee's Decha Akkarasriawad says the ambitious project has
achieved its goals. "We have groomed a crop of promising designers and worked hard
to improve product quality," he says.

BFC assistant director Bunchua Wonggasem says BFC's efforts have tangibly increased
the "image and capability of Thai designers and producers." As well, it has
"generated unprecedented brand awareness internationally, and boosted the value of
Thai-made products".

What is needed now is a "clear and uncompromising understanding of how we continue
to meet international standards," Chanita concludes.

Note: A 1,600-word feature article is available on request from BFC International PR
at bfcinterpr@yahoo.com Contact: Supamat "May" Korsuwansukul (66 2) 654 3394.

BFC: 66 2) 202 4524.

Author: Glen Nicol glen.nicol@yahoo.co.uk


Web Site = http://www.bangkokfashioncity.com

Contact Details = Note: A 1,600-word feature article is available on request from
BFC International PR at bfcinterpr@yahoo.com Contact: Supamat "May" Korsuwansukul
(66 2) 654 3394.

BFC: 66 2) 202 4524.