Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said today that Thailand will not, for now, consider reopening border checkpoints with Cambodia, even though the closure is having some negative impacts on the industrial sector.
Anutin was speaking after a meeting with the chairman and committee members of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).
Although he and the senior FTI members are already familiar with one another, Anutin said he used this opportunity to introduce himself in his new role and to listen to the needs and problems of industry.
The discussion covered the country’s potential, the transformation of industrial structures, increasing trade competitiveness, border issues with Cambodia, efforts to strengthen ASEAN cooperation and positioning Thailand as a centre for economic and industrial expansion.
Asked whether the border issues have become an obstacle for the industrial sector, Anutin admitted, “They have to some extent,” but explained that border checkpoints will definitely not be reopened at this time.
On the strengthening baht, Anutin said that the issue must be addressed urgently, adding that incoming finance minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas will have discussions with the FTI today.
