Govt agencies to work on economy as integrated unit
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ALL economy-related ministries will work in an integrated manner, while planning an inspection of product prices following declines in oil prices, a likely examination of palm oil smuggling and incentives for investment in special economic zones.
In the first informal meeting of economic ministers, the discussion revolved around the acceleration of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha’s policies on various issues.
Deputy Prime Minister Somkid Jatusripitak said yesterday that despite drops in oil prices, products remained expensive, so the Commerce Ministry would set up teams to inspect product prices. In regard to agricultural products, the Commerce and Agriculture ministries have been asked to monitor their situations closely. Inspections would be discussed with Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwan, who chairs the National Oil Palm Committee, for palm oil smuggling.
The Finance Ministry was tasked with finding investment incentives for small and large enterprises in special economic zones and, after that, a series of measures are expected.
Industry Minister Atchaka Sibunruang said industrial clusters and special economic zones would be driven for development. Her ministry would coordinate with the Board of Investment and National Economic and Social Development Board on this. “Now, additional privileges could not be specified to specific groups. We have to discuss with the BoI first,” she said
Agriculture Minister Chatchai Sarikalya said this informal meeting was good for the economic team with a policy of working together.
The ministry has rice development issues that need joint development with other units, he said.
The Science and Technology Ministry was a variable for integration, particularly for efficient management in the agricultural, water and trade sectors, its head Pichet Durongkaveroj said.
Information and Communications Technology Minister Uttama Savanayana said the ministry’s digital economic policy was continuing, while 4G bidding was still going on.
On the external front, Thailand has diplomats stationed in countries across the world and their economic roles would be raised to 80-90 per cent from 60 per cent, Foreign Minister Don Pramudwinai said.
“The key for this discussion is work integration for growth. Foreign affairs are very essential. If we gain confidence from inside and outside of the country, that will bring back confidence. And we’re involved in both tourism and investment,” he said.
