Supachai Panitchpakdi

Supachai Panitchpakdi has become the first head of the World Trade Organisation from his region

This week on One on One meet one of Asia’s leading financial minds, Supachai Panitchpakdi.

He likes to think of himself as an ‘Economic Doctor’ and went on to become the first head of the World Trade Organisation from his region.
 
For someone who managed to achieve a high profile international career it’s hard to believe this Bangkok born academic of Chinese descent initially wanted to be a doctor, changing to economics under pressure from his father.
 
As head of the World Trade Organisation between 2002 and 2005 he faced the tricky task of bringing China into the world’s trading community.
 
With his soft touch and intellectual approach, he proved himself to be an able leader at the helm of the organisation.

Much of his calm nature he reveals comes from pursuing his interest as an artist and spending quality time with his family.
 
Continuing his work with the United Nations, he still has a hand in shaping economic policy at a global level.

Watch part one of this episode of One on One

Watch part two of this episode of One on One

 

 

This episode of One on One aired on Saturday, May 24, 2008