Bangkok: The Prime Minister convened a meeting with the Ministry of Defense, Ministry of Finance, and Ministry of Commerce to address challenges related to exporting goods across borders. This initiative follows discussions with entrepreneurs from seven border provinces who revealed issues concerning the export of products and fruits to neighboring countries like Laos, Vietnam, and China. The meeting aimed to establish quotas and customs measures to prevent agricultural smuggling, which has been impacting local prices, while also addressing labor procurement from other countries.

According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra shared on social media that she had invited General Nattapol Nakphanit, Deputy Minister of Defense, Mr. Chulaphan Amornvivat, Deputy Minister of Finance, and Mr. Wutthikrai Leewiraphan, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, for a discussion at the Thai Khu Fah Building. The goal was to find tangible solutions to alleviate the impact on entrepreneurs in Sa Kaeo Province and six other border provinces facing export challenges.

The Ministry of Commerce and the Ministry of Finance reported that no products or fruits are currently left at the border. Efforts are underway to find additional domestic markets and alternate export routes to Laos, Vietnam, and China. Additionally, labor supply from other countries has been confirmed as sufficient to support the agricultural sector and other businesses.

To address the potential issue of agricultural product prices being affected by smuggling, the Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Commerce, and Ministry of Finance will collaborate to set clear quotas and customs measures. This strategy aims to mitigate the impact on Thai farmers and ensure the stability of product prices.