The Thai representative was Arin Jira, Deputy Secretary-General of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI). Government Spokesman Capt. Yongyuth Mayalarp gave a briefing on the meeting as follows:
Prime Minister Gen. Prayut Chan-o-cha expressed appreciation towards the report on ABAC’s activities and performances, and said implementation of measures leading to the establishment of ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) was almost completed. Thailand supported the private sector to benefit fully from the AEC privileges. The private sector could seek government’s support on trade and investment as it was the Government’s duty to provide facilitation.
The Prime Minister also expressed his opinions on expansion of cooperation with ASEAN private-sector:
Firstly, Thailand realized the importance of minimizing non-tariff barriers, improving standards, and facilitating trade. Close collaboration between the Government and private sector would be one way to boost trade and attract investment to the region.
Secondly, Thailand supported enhancement of SME competitiveness, and designated SME development as a national agenda, which is in line with ABAC’s priority. SME competitiveness could be improved by supporting research and development, providing funding sources, educating SMEs on marketing, rules and regulations and innovation, and promoting new entrepreneurs. SMEs should be supported to create networks and get familiar with one another.
Thirdly, Thailand focused on negotiation of the regional Economic Partnership Agreement, and agreed that completing negotiation by the end of 2015 would enable businesses to benefit from a modern, comprehensive and reliable agreement in a timely manner.
To build trust among the business sector and promote the ASEAN image, PM Prayut proposed that ABAC consider development of ASEAN Brand products in areas that ASEAN has expertise. The Government would stand ready to support the private sector where necessary.
ASEAN Vision 2025 would mark an important milestone for the ASEAN coalition. ASEAN’s business sector has a key role in providing opinions/suggestions on how to amplify the voice of ASEAN and expand ASEAN’s global participation.
In the end, the Prime Minister confirmed that the Thai government would remain committed to international obligations. Thailand would focus on promoting establishment of ASEAN Community as well as trade under multilateral and bilateral free trade agreements. All ASEAN member states would be treated equally as a family and none would be left behind.
On economic policy, Thailand supported trade facilitations such as establishment of border special economic zones, renovation of border crossing points and streamlining of customs formalities. Infrastructure should be developed to provide connection with neighboring countries through, for example, new road constructions and development of a double-track or high-speed train, which would reinforce economic opportunities for all sectors.
Source: Royal Thai Government
