Thailand invites South Korean companies to make their presence in Thailand

BANGKOK, May 18 (TNA) -- Thailand invites South Korean companies to make their presence in Thailand and gives assurance of business-friendly environment and privileges, Deputy Prime Minister Somkid Jatusripitak told a conference on Thursday. Over 150 leading South Korean businessmen from 70 companies attended the seminar Korea-Thailand 60th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations: Maekyung Thailand Forum. They were led by South Korean Minister of Trade, Economy and Energy Paik Un-gyu. Mr Somkid said in his keynote speech that South Korean businesses could enjoy supports for their presence in Thailand and expand their business operations into other countries in the region. With political stability and a planned election next year, now was the best time for South Korean investors to enter Thailand, Somkid said. Thailand viewed South Korean as a leading industrialized country which possessed strengths in various industries from automotive, telecommunication, steel to digital technology, Mr Somkid said. Mr Paik said around 400 Korean companies had already made a presence in the kingdom, creating over 30,000 jobs mainly in the electronics industries. With similar interest such as agro-industry, he believed the two countries would be able to work together for sustainable economic development. The discussions will encompass future industries, including electric cars and biotechnology, according to the government. (TNA)