Thai private sector to discuss impacts of EU's decision

BANGKOK, June 24 (TNA) - Thailand's Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking will discuss impacts of the European Union (EU)'s decision on suspending cooperation with Thailand. Suphan Mongkolsuthee, Chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), told journalists on Tuesday that the joint standing committee will discuss the impacts early next month. Suphan admitted that there are now some psychological impacts, but there has not been any impact on trade, as the Thai and EU private sectors can proceed with their trade. Suphan noted that the possible postponement of free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations between the EU and Thailand affects both sides' interest, expressing his hope that the Thai army-led National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) will develop understanding with the EU, as the coup council has capable advisers on foreign affairs. Poj Aramwattananot, Chairman of the Thai Fishery Producers Coalition, insisted, in the meantime, that the Thai fishery is free of child and illegal labor, vowing to dismiss membership of business operators if they violate labor law. Without the membership business operators in the Thai fishing sector cannot sell their products to overseas markets. Meanwhile, Thai and NCPO Chief General Prayuth Chan-ocha told Tuesday's NCPO meeting that he understands the opposition of the EU and the United States against the NCPO's move to take control of the national administrative power since May 22, 2014, but suggesting that Thailand's dignity is to be also respected. (TNA)