Bangkok: Pichai listened to the proposals of the Thai Chamber of Commerce and discussed with relevant agencies to implement measures to assist entrepreneurs in seven border provinces. Mr. Jirayu Huangsap, Government Spokesperson, revealed that Mr. Poj Aramwattananon, Chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce and the Board of Trade of Thailand, and his delegation met to submit a proposal for relief measures to address the impact of the unrest on the Thai-Cambodian border.
According to Thai News Agency, the Deputy Prime Minister stated that labor is an urgent issue that requires a systematic and urgent solution. The government will organize a small workshop, inviting officials from the Ministry of Labor and relevant agencies to discuss and establish clear guidelines. This includes ensuring that workers with permits are legally allowed to reside and work. Meanwhile, the government will expedite inspections and integrate unregistered workers into the system to ensure they can work legally. Furthermore, there are plans to recruit additional workers to meet labor demand in various sectors.
On this occasion, the Deputy Prime Minister listened to the group’s proposals, including labor and employment assistance measures. The proposal calls for a reduction in social security contributions, support for replacement workers from neighboring countries such as the Lao People’s Democratic Republic and Myanmar, as well as other countries such as Bangladesh, the Philippines, and Indonesia. The proposal also includes the establishment of provincial labor coordination centers to alleviate the burden on employers, provide care for both Thai and foreign workers, and ensure a fair, transparent, and sustainable employment system.
Economic and tourism stimulus measures were also discussed, requesting the government to consider support measures or budgets for government agencies and private sector partners for organizing seminars and study tours in seven provinces to promote and stimulate tourism.
Additionally, tax and fee measures were proposed, which include considering tax reduction measures for local taxes (land and building taxes, signboard taxes, etc.) and implementing specific tax measures for entrepreneurs in the seven border provinces.
The Deputy Prime Minister addressed tourism by stating that he will discuss with the Minister of Tourism and Sports the development of proactive measures to promote tourism, particularly supporting seminars and key events in seven target provinces. This aims to create a lively atmosphere, stimulate the local economy, and increase community income. Regarding tax measures, the government will consider each measure individually to ensure appropriate adjustments consistent with the current economic climate, adhering to the principle of balancing state revenue and public burden relief.
The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that he will carefully discuss the proposal with relevant agencies to ensure mutual understanding at all levels, reduce operational discrepancies, and reassure the public that the government is ready to address these issues and implement various measures.