Government seeks cooperation from chambers of commerce

BANGKOK, May 28 (TNA) -- Deputy Prime Minister Somkid Jatusripitak on Saturday urged members of chambers of commerce to help move the country’s economy through business investment and developing new technology. Speaking during an annual meeting of chambers of commerce, Mr Somkid said the government disbursement during the first quarter this year increased 12 per cent, considered highest in the past few years, aimed at bolstering the country’s economy. But investment by the private sector rose slightly during the period and the government-run Board of Investment had to offer investment incentives, hoping that the private sector would help move the economy through increasing investment, he said. If the private sector does not increase investment, machinery and adopting new technology, it would permanently lessen the country’s competitiveness because “investment is the heart of growth and also important weapon,” said Mr Somkid. Meanwhile, Isara Wongkusolkij, Chairman of the board the Thai chamber of commerce said members of chambers of commerce are urged to help economic community through marketing to help achieved the government’s policy. The assistance includes buying rural products, help villagers developing their products and to further develop tourism destinations in the rural area. Mr Isara said businessmen are still worried about public referendum on Thailand’s draft charter due to be held this August and a continued sluggish of domestic economy. (TNA)