NEWS

Jorakay Corporation Marks Major Success with “Crocodile Tiler X” — Southeast Asia’s First Regional Tiling Championship

Thai global brand reinforces tiling innovation leadership while elevating tilers to international standards and expanding regional market presence

Jorakay Corporation Co., Ltd. has marked a major milestone with the successful conclusion of the inaugural “Crocodile Tiler X” competition in Southeast Asia, followed by an upskilling program for winning tilers from Myanmar, Laos, and Vietnam. Conducted under standards equivalent to international certification (WorldSkills), this first-of-its-kind ASEAN tiling competition underscores Jorakay Corporation’s commitment to elevating regional tiling standards through concrete skilled labor development. The initiative raised awareness about proper tile adhesive use, shared technical knowledge to enhance tilers’ professional capabilities, and showcased comprehensive, high-performance innovations that are safe and environmentally friendly, embodying the company’s “Build Today, Beyond Tomorrow” philosophy.

The success of the “Crocodile Tiler X” competition reflects Jorakay Corporation’s recognition of opportunities in the CLMV region’s (Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Vietnam) construction materials market, which is expected to expand 5-7% in 2025. The broader Southeast Asian construction industry is projected to achieve a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 6% during 2024-2028.

Mr. Pongphun Prateepmanowong, Vice President — International Business, Jorakay Corporation Co., Ltd., stated, “Vietnam’s real estate market is the region’s standout performer, expected to reach approximately USD 33.19 billion in 2025 and USD 57.08 billion by 2030 — a CAGR of 11.45% — driven by urbanization and investments in industrial and logistics infrastructure. Myanmar’s real estate market also shows steady growth, with the market expected to expand by USD 233.2 million during 2024-2029 at a CAGR of approximately 4.7%, fueled by demand in major cities. This presents significant opportunities, as Myanmar contractors and customers particularly favor quality products from Thailand.

Laos has established a macroeconomic development framework focused on upgrading infrastructure and tourism, targeting average annual growth of approximately 5% during 2026-2030. Key drivers include expansion in the industrial and logistics sectors, government infrastructure construction, and demand for residential and modern retail spaces. Recognizing the growing real estate demand across these markets, Jorakay Corporation understands that skilled labor meeting international standards is critically important for quality construction projects throughout the region. This strategic insight led to the creation of the ‘Crocodile Tiler X’ competition.”

The ‘Crocodile Tiler X’ competition aims to develop high-quality tiling professionals aligned with international construction industry standards. These professionals must possess deep understanding of material properties, proficiency in selecting appropriate tools, knowledge of tile adhesive applications, and the ability to meet safety and quality control standards for durable, aesthetically excellent results. The competition selected tiling representatives from Myanmar, Vietnam, and Laos using criteria equivalent to international professional standards, evaluating technique, speed, precision, and workplace safety. Winners from each country received cash prizes and participated in an upskilling program on international-standard tiling innovations at Jorakay Corporation headquarters, including visits to the factory and distribution center in Saraburi Province, the Crocodile Museum, Jorakay retail outlets and partner sites, as well as cultural experiences showcasing Thai heritage. Through this initiative, the competition raised awareness among tilers about the proper use of quality tile adhesives to meet the demands of today’s construction industry, which increasingly values professional expertise. Participants received certificates recognizing their tiling skills under international standards, paving the way for career advancement.

Jorakay Corporation reinforces its position as Thailand’s tile adhesive market leader through building a strong ecosystem for regional tilers, offering over 150 international-standard products, and advancing long-term workforce development programs that recognize skilled labor as the industry’s vital force — all under the “Build Today, Beyond Tomorrow” concept.

Beyond delivering quality products, Jorakay Corporation has consistently supported skilled labor development. This includes supporting Thailand’s representatives in international WorldSkills competitions and developing professionals through Jorakay Academy Training Center and Jorakay Academy Skill Standard Testing Center in collaboration with the Department of Skill Development. These initiatives create next-generation skilled workers and elevate Thai construction standards. Now, through regional workforce development via the “Crocodile Tiler X” project — Southeast Asia’s first regional tiling championship — the company reinforces its leadership role that extends beyond product sales to developing the labor force and construction industry ecosystem.

Jorakay products currently reach 17 countries. The company has set a target for international markets to contribute 16% of its overall growth, representing approximately one-fifth of Jorakay Corporation Co., Ltd.’s expansion. The “Crocodile Tiler X” competition strengthens regional partnership networks and supports this strategic growth. Jorakay Corporation is committed to establishing “Crocodile Tiler X” as an annual competition while expanding to additional countries, ensuring business growth goes together with sustainable societal development.