Potential Competitiveness of Rubber Glove Industry in Thailand

Abstract

This research aims to analyze the potential competitiveness of the rubber glove industry in Thailand. The data were analyzed from various source, and primary data that was gathered from the comments and suggestions of 17 experts using the Diamond Model. The results showed that the rubber glove industry in Thailand still ahs a competitive advantage in the market because of the availability of concentrate, which allows Thailand to produce the most latex in the world. The rubber glove industry is consistently supported by government funding. Moreover, the domestic demand has increased from the public’s steadily increasing recognition of the importance of safety and hygiene in disease prevention. It also offers related and supporting industry, namely the concentrated latex companies which screen and utilize quality control of raw materials entering the factories. This facilities quality materials and sufficient quantities to produce throughout the year which increases potential competiveness. The primary problems of the rubber glove industry in Thailand are the high cost of production and labor shortages. Entrepreneurs should find ways to reduce production costs by using materials that are cheaper, to reduce or replace materials currently used, and to increase machine efficiency thereby reducing redundant or inefficient manual labor.