Abstract:
This research analyzes the factors that influence the decision of Japanese investors to invest in Thailand. The study is (1) to analyze the key factors that influence their investment decisions, (2) to establish a working model to expound compelling factors for Japan to invest in Thailand, and (3) to apply the model to predict investment outcome. The research can then be perused as a preliminary step toward assessing the investments.
This research collected data by means of distributing questionnaire and enquiry, both by post and by in person, to 162 enterprises randomly selected from an alphabetically ordered list of all Japanese enterprises operating in Thailand. From the responses received came an analysis of the reliability of the data, and complete descriptive statistics, analysis survey, analysis and structural equation model approach, and the theoretical analysis of Kano.
Research Findings: Of all 162 questionnaires to the investors response. When the response were analyzed for reliability, it was found that in the first set, the model for the structure, the Cronbach's Alpha Coefficient was 0.91 and the second set, theory of Kano, which consisted of functional mode and questions of dysfunctional mode the Cronbach 's alpha coefficient was 0.89 and 0.91. Thus, the response was acceptable.
On analyzing data from the first set on the survey, analysis and structural equation models, it was found that the developed model was consistent with empirical data basis as = 146.275, DF = 89, P-value = 0.00, RMSR = 0.07, RMSEA = 0.06, GFI = 0.92, NFI = 0.94, CFI = 0.98, with 4 intrinsic factors which had direct positive effect to Japanese investment and other 15 distinguishing variables. The analysis can be summarized as follows:
1. Based on structural equation model, critical factor to the investment of Japan in Thailand is the political and economic potential factor. Its score at 0.67 was the highest among others. The second best at 0.09 is the factor of Learning growth and long-term protection. Factors that have indirect effect on investment of Japan in Thailand are law, Regulation and Practicing factor and infrastructure factor.
2. This study also shows that Human Resource is an important factor for Japanese investors in Thailand, where it yields direct effect of 0.09, and indirect effect through the political and economic potential as well.
3. This study adopts Kano theory and structural equation analysis to find Performance and Attractive factors. Performance factors which directly stimulate FDI increase are reasonable wages, economic and exchange rate stability, political stability, efficient logistic systems, development and protection of natural disasters. Attractive factors which make Thailand more attractive to Japanese investors than other developing countries, are Modern Tax System, capacity to compete, transparent management and improving Education Standards.
In order to enhance the ability of countries to support foreign investment, government organizations, including related organizations should be developed in the common goal of enhancing economic reliance on domestic and expanding economies within the ASEAN. increased to reduce the uncertainty and volatility of the global economy. A focus on human resource development, especially for the standard of education. And operate together to find ways to prevent natural disasters, such as the threat of a flood occurring. Effectively to prevent and reduce the loss of the potential long-term.