Readiness of Thai Banking Employees for English Email Correspondence in International Trade Finance: Opportunities and Challenges

As Thailand’s banking sector becomes increasingly integrated into the global economy, English proficiency has emerged as a vital skill for effective communication especially in international trade finance. This study investigated the readiness of Thai banking employees to use English for email communication in trade finance operations. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research incorporated questionnaires, competency tests, and semi-structured interviews to assess language proficiency, challenges in written correspondence, and the impact of English skills on professional performance. The study involved 35 purposively selected banking employees. The findings indicated that while employees recognized the importance of English in their roles, they faced persistent difficulties with grammar, technical vocabulary, and complex sentence structures. Statistical analyses showed differences in language proficiency based on demographic factors, work experience, and exposure to international transactions. Despite these challenges, participants affirmed that email was the primary mode of workplace communication, highlighting the urgent need for improved writing skills to enhance clarity and professionalism. The study recommends the implementation of targeted English training programs, with a focus on writing and specialized vocabulary relevant to banking operations. Enhancing employees’ English proficiency can boost operational efficiency and support Thailand’s competitiveness in the global financial landscape. Addressing language barriers is therefore essential for ensuring smooth and internationally compliant trade finance transactions.