Chairman Soopakij Chearavanont Leads CP Group Executives in Signing International MOU with World-Class Zhejiang University to Advance Human Resource Development, Innovation, and Research for a Sustainable Future

November 16, 2024: Bangkok – Charoen Pokphand Group and Zhejiang University, a leading Chinese institution renowned for its excellence in science and technology, have partnered to advance human resource development, innovation, and research across multiple fields for a sustainable future. This collaboration between business and academia marks an international effort to create global benefits and build a sustainable future for both Thai and Chinese societies.

The signing ceremony for this significant MOU was attended by Zhu Yuan, Chairman of the Council of the School of Management, Zhejiang University, and Pimolrat Repatnavichitkul, Chief Human Resources Officer of CP Group, who served as official representatives. Witnesses from both parties included Wang Huan, First Secretary for Education at the Chinese Embassy in Thailand; CP Group Chairman Soopakij Chearavanont; Prasit Boondoungprasert, CEO of Charoen Pokphand Foods Public Co., Ltd. (CPF); Tanit Chearavanont, CEO of Makro Wholesale Business Thailand; and Manat Manavutiveth, CEO of True Corporation Public Co., Ltd.

Zhu Yuan, Chairman of the Council of the School of Management at Zhejiang University, expressed his delight in partnering with CP Group, a leading Thai business entity. He emphasized that Zhejiang University aims to develop and enhance students' potential to meet global workforce demands. This partnership with CP Group will enable both parties to create work-oriented curricula and training programs, fostering a new generation of high-quality talent for the labor market. Zhu Yuan also highlighted that Zhejiang University is pleased to open its skill development courses to CP Group employees while collaborating on research projects that strengthen both academia and business, creating a positive societal impact.

Chairman Soopakij Chearavanont of CP Group emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating: “This is a significant step for CP Group in driving global transformation. This collaboration strengthens the synergy between international business and education. It not only enhances the capabilities of both organizations but also creates a positive impact on society at large, contributing to balanced and sustainable development at regional and global levels.”

Pimolrat Repatnavichitkul, Chief Human Resources Officer of CP Group, elaborated on the core aspects of the MOU, underscoring its focus on wide-reaching benefits under several key areas of collaboration aimed at sustainable global development:

1. International Human Resource Development: CP Group and Zhejiang University will collaborate to develop students, faculty, and organizational personnel through internship programs, specialized training courses, and knowledge exchange initiatives. These efforts will not only enhance local expertise but also prepare talent to compete on a global scale.
2. Research and Innovation: Combining CP Group's expertise in agriculture and food business with Zhejiang University's academic capabilities, the partnership will develop research projects in areas such as animal feed, breeding, and business management, focusing on innovations with global applications.
3. Global Collaboration Network: The partnership will create opportunities to build an international network for exchanging knowledge, experiences, and new technologies, forming a strong foundation for future success.
4. Sustainable Community Development: Both organizations will promote initiatives that foster sustainable community development, creating tangible positive impacts on society while addressing global development challenges and improving community quality of life.

Pimolrat concluded, “This partnership represents a major milestone in international collaboration for a sustainable future. Under the MOU, CP Group will provide opportunities for Zhejiang University faculty and students to participate in internships and gain real-world experience, while Zhejiang University will support CP Group’s human resource development through modern courses and research projects tailored to global changes.”

About Zhejiang University

Zhejiang University, located in Hangzhou, China, is one of the country’s top academic institutions, excelling in fields such as science, technology, and engineering. It focuses on developing future leaders and is recognized for its robust international collaboration network. The university ranks among the Top 100 universities globally, placing 55th in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024 and 47th in the QS World University Rankings 2025, reflecting its excellence in academics and research on a global scale.