Dominic W. Pongboriboon, Managing Director of Khaolaor Laboratories, tells DITP Think Thailand how his herbal medicine has achieved international acclaim in Geneva, Switzerland.
Could you tell us something about your company?
We are a family business that has been operating for 90 years. Our first generation created herbal medicine based on traditional Thai medicines used by families and communities. Then, the second generation expanded our business across the country. The third generation used research, technology and medical science to access overseas markets. At present, our business is managed between the third and the fourth generations, combining modern medical science with traditional Thai herbal knowledge to develop quality and reliable herbal products.
How does Khaolaor Laboratories stand out from your competitors?
Our key is to be morally upright and honest to customers with the aim of being safe, reliable and sustainable in the market. With the support of scientific studies and research, our brand and products are developed from traditional Thai medicinal formulas, which adds value to our products.
Could you tell us about the prize you received in Switzerland?
Khaolaor Mouth Gel is a herbal extract product derived from our herbal mouth care power, which
has been accepted on the market for more than 80 years. Its properties help heal wounds quickly, are anti-inflammatory and very safe for children of all ages. It’s made from natural herbs that do not contain steroids. And the development has been supported with four research papers. Therefore due to its safe and practical healing, we received the Gold Medal and the Special Prize on Stage from the Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation at the 47th International Exhibition of Invention, held in Geneva, Switzerland in April this year.
Who are your key customers?
As we want our business to be sustainable, we focus more on the domestic market (90%), with only 10% of our customers from international markets. Our business plan focuses on expanding product lines and the age of our target group instead of penetrating various countries. We focus on the elderly and their carers. In the past five to six years, we have penetrated the ASEAN market. In particular, current ASEAN regulations are more favourable. Now, our products have already been registered in Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam.
How is the Government supporting the Thai herbal medicine industry?
It’s good that the government has pushed Thailand to be the medical hub of Asia. Thai herbs represent a complete value chain from cultivation, through processing to being used in various forms. The more studies and research carried out on its commercial use, the more it helps add value.
For more information, please visit www.khaolaor.com
Words by Natthinee Ratanaprasidhi
