Bangkok: The public has voiced criticism against Anutin for allegedly placing Thailand at a disadvantage by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on rare earths with the United States. Concerns have been raised that the agreement was finalized in haste without Cabinet approval.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Phattarapong Leelaphat, a Member of Parliament from Chiang Mai representing the People’s Party, expressed his concerns through a Facebook post regarding the Rare Earth MOU. He questioned the relevance of signing such an agreement with the United States, especially when it followed a peace agreement, suggesting there was no necessity for the MOU.

Mr. Leelaphat also highlighted the lack of expertise within Thailand’s Department of Mining regarding rare earth issues. He pointed out that during a Subcommittee on Transboundary Water Pollution meeting, the department was unable to explain the methods of rare earth mining used in neighboring countries. He had to elucidate the in situ leeching method, which involves drilling and injecting chemicals into the soil. He criticized the Thai government for not being prepared and questioned how they could agree to an MOU that could potentially disadvantage the country.

Additionally, Mr. Leelaphat noted that the MOU lacked any mention of environmentally friendly mining practices, which is a significant concern given the serious water pollution problems in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. He expressed that the government has positioned Thailand as a pawn in the rare earth conflict between China and the United States.