PUBLISHED : 15 Jan 2024 at 04:30
The government is focusing on economic diplomacy policies, with negotiations on more free trade agreements (FTA) the main mission, according to its spokesman Chai Wacharonke.
Citing information from the Commerce Ministry’s Department of Trade Negotiations, Mr Chai on Sunday said that Thailand has concluded 14 FTA contracts with 18 countries, while 11 contracts are currently undergoing negotiations.
Sri Lanka is the latest nation to have successfully negotiated an FTA, he said, adding a signing ceremony is expected to be held next month.
FTA-related policies will strengthen the country’s economy and bring in extra income, he said.
The government acknowledges that free trade agreements’ importance to the country’s export efficiency in the global market, he said.
So, the government is looking forward to expanding the country’s economy through investments, he said.
“The government is now looking forward to negotiating free trade agreements with new business partners while sustaining [existing] partners,” he said.
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin wants the government to use “proactive economic diplomacy” policies to benefit the people, he said.
The prime minister is also keen on focusing on expanding trade opportunities and attracting more investors to strengthen the country’s efficiency in the global market, Mr Chai said.