Alibaba launching specialised training programme for SME entrepreneurs
Alibaba.com, a leading business-to-business (B2B) platform for global trade, today (February 11) announced the launch of the first training programme of its kind in Thailand – the Star Supplier Incubation Programme (SSIP).
Designed to build export success among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the programme is an exhaustive take on B2B e-commerce for manufacturers contemplating taking their operations to the next level.
According to the platform, SSIP is part of Alibaba.com’s efforts "to foster in-depth understanding of B2B e-commerce among SMEs which are eager to settle smoothly into an increasingly competitive and digitised global trade environment".
Organised in collaboration with the platform’s local channel partner Feyverly, the three-month programme is scheduled to begin mid-year and will be held in Bangkok by Alibaba experts and other industry practitioners.
The integrated training approach of SSIP aims to equip current and aspiring Thai exporters with fundamental knowledge, practical skills as well as a mindset change required for success in online global trade, the platform said.
Through a combination of lectures and interactive sessions, the course will cover topics including the ins and outs of establishing a presence and operating a supplier store on Alibaba.com; platform analytics for understanding customer demand and the wider industry trends; global trade processes, from business matching to payment and logistics terms; as well as the key to sustainable business growth amid competition.
“Thai suppliers are highly competitive in terms of product variety and quality, but many of them have not yet capitalised on opportunities presented by the current digital era to reach their full potential,” said Samantha Suriwon Tng, head of Strategy and Operations at Alibaba.com in Thailand.
“Our objective is to develop suppliers with both practical knowledge essential to navigating the world of global trade freely, and an appreciation of e-commerce as a powerful global marketing and distribution channel that is crucial for the future of SMEs. With this programme, we look forward to cultivating a batch of stellar exporters who will be an inspiration to other SMEs,” she added.
The programme is open to SMEs from any export sector for enrollment from now until March 31. The enrollment fee covers the full SSIP training and a one-year Alibaba.com basic supplier membership.
