Charoen Sirivadhanabhakdi Thailand's wealthiest businessman Country: Thailand

1. Biography of Charoen Sirivadhanabhakdi
2. The Success of Chang Beer
3. Expansion into Agriculture
4. Future Plans
5. Joint Ventures and Investments

Biography of Charoen Sirivadhanabhakdi

Charoen Sirivadhanabhakdi is the wealthiest businessman in Thailand and the owner of the Charoen Corporation Group (TCC). Born as the son of a street trader, he has now become the owner of a large conglomerate. TCC currently manages various sectors, including beverages, consumer goods, real estate, investments, insurance, and leasing.

The Success of Chang Beer

Charoen Sirivadhanabhakdi gained recognition when he introduced Chang beer to the market. His beer has now become a national symbol and a globally renowned brand. With his own capital estimated to be around $3.2 billion, according to Forbes in 2007, Charoen Sirivadhanabhakdi has achieved remarkable success in the business world.

Expansion into Agriculture

The TCC group has recently expanded its interests into the agricultural sector. They plan to engage in agricultural activities in Thailand and neighboring countries, primarily focusing on export-oriented agricultural products and grain crops. Charoen Sirivadhanabhakdi currently owns more than 100,000 rai (a Thai unit of land measurement) of land in over 50 different areas, including Bangkok.

Future Plans

TCC aims to increase its plantations by an additional 20,000 rai by 2010, particularly in the regions of Nong Khai, Kanchanaburi, Chachoengsao, Rayong, Prachin Buri, and Loei. The conglomerate plans to expand the territories for cultivating sugarcane, tapioca, and palms, as the demand for these crops continues to grow. Currently, they operate sugar mills in Lampang, Uttaradit, Suphan Buri, and Chonburi.

Joint Ventures and Investments

TCC has formed joint ventures with local partners in Cambodia, investing in more than 52,500 rai of sugarcane plantations. The conglomerate has already invested over two billion baht in Cambodia. Charoen Sirivadhanabhakdi claims that his company has spent over five billion baht on agricultural projects and trading agricultural products. However, the conglomerate plans to invest even more in the future, aiming for further growth and success.