Bangkok: Many agencies have united to bolster the economy at a seminar titled 'Unlocking Thailand's Future, Fighting the Global Crisis' organized by MCOT Public Company Limited. Mr. Suchart Tancharoen, Minister Attached to the Prime Minister's Office, addressed the seminar, acknowledging that global economic issues, notably US tariffs, have impacted Thailand's economy, affecting citizens, producers, and small SMEs. He emphasized the importance of collaboration among the government, private sector, and the public to overcome these challenges and secure a prosperous future for the country. The seminar provided a platform for policymakers and private sector representatives to exchange views on economic strategies.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Paopum Rojanasakul, Deputy Minister of Finance, discussed measures to restore domestic purchasing power and the economic implications of the US trade war and import tariffs. He highlighted that Team Thailand, led by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Mr. Pichai Chunhavajira, is set to negotiate with the US Trade Representative. The negotiations will address the impact on exporters and domestic producers across industrial and agricultural sectors, aiming to achieve mutual benefits despite potential costs.
Ms. Manoporn Charoensri, Deputy Minister of Transport, spoke about the policy of implementing a 20 baht flat rate for electric train fares to reduce inequality. After testing two routes, passenger numbers rose by 30%. The parliament is reviewing a bill to support this project, aiming to alleviate the cost of living in Bangkok, which generates 49% of the country's tax revenue. She assured that alternative policies would address the needs of provincial residents.
Tourism and Sports Minister Surawong Thienthong reported that the goal of attracting 39 million foreign tourists, generating 3.5 trillion baht, was nearly achieved last year. Plans to stimulate tourism both domestically and internationally will be unveiled on Monday, with a focus on promoting secondary cities to sustain tourism growth throughout the year.
Dr. Chanin Chalisaraphong, Vice Chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, addressed the negotiation of import tariffs with the US, advocating for the protection of SMEs by prioritizing domestic raw materials. The Thai Chamber of Commerce is optimistic about negotiating tariff rates, which currently stand at around 20% for ASEAN, believing that the new tariff structure will enhance Thailand's export potential to the US, particularly in food and agricultural sectors.